Assemblymember Jackson’s AB 422 Raises the Bar for Civic Engagement in California Schools

December 31, 2025

California's Assembly Bill 422, authored by Assemblymember Corey Jackson and signed by Governor Newsom, becomes effective January 1st and modifies requirements for the State Seal of Civic Engagement awarded to high school students. The legislation mandates that the Superintendent of Public Instruction propose revised criteria by 2027, which the State Board of Education must act upon by 2028, emphasizing students' understanding of democratic institutions including a free press and library access. While district participation remains voluntary, the program has expanded significantly from 103 schools issuing 5,359 seals in 2020-21 to 345 schools awarding 15,627 seals in 2023-24.

Who is affected

High school students in California seeking the State Seal of Civic Engagement
The Superintendent of Public Instruction
The State Board of Education
School districts and local educational agencies (voluntary participants)
California's most underserved students
Black students in California (specifically noted as actively engaged in civic life)
Young voters ages 16-17 (nearly 1.4 million have preregistered since 2016)

What action is being taken

Assembly Bill 422 is taking effect on January 1
School districts are voluntarily participating in the SSCE program
Local educational agencies are collaborating with local and statewide organizations to develop criteria and implement civic engagement programs
The State Seal of Civic Engagement is being affixed to students' transcripts, diplomas, or certificates of completion

Why it matters

This legislation is significant because it strengthens democracy education for California's youth by requiring students to understand essential democratic institutions like a free press and library access. The updated criteria help combat misinformation and foster informed, active citizens who understand their rights and responsibilities. Early civic engagement leads to lifelong civic involvement, as evidenced by California's high voter registration rate of 85% of eligible residents and over 1.1 million newly eligible voters from youth preregistration. The program particularly aims to support underserved communities and ensure accessibility regardless of students' backgrounds, helping build a more equitable future while setting a national standard for civic participation.

What's next

By January 1, 2027, the Superintendent of Public Instruction must propose updated SSCE criteria to the State Board of Education
By January 1, 2028, the State Board of Education must act on those recommendations

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint