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California Lawmakers to Vote on Bill Requiring Black Demographic Data Be Broken Down by Ethnic Groups

July 16, 2025

Senate Bill 515, introduced by Senator Laura Richardson (D-Inglewood), would require California local governments to disaggregate demographic data for Black or African American populations by distinguishing between African Americans descended from U.S. slavery, Black individuals not descended from U.S. slavery, and those who don't know or choose not to identify their ethnicity. The bill, which passed the Assembly Local Government Committee on July 2 with an 8-2 vote, aims to address the current practice of grouping all Black communities under one category on government forms. If enacted, SB 515 would take effect January 1, 2027, requiring cities and counties to collect more detailed demographic data to better understand the unique needs of different Black subgroups.

Who is affected

  • Black communities in California, particularly African Americans descended from U.S. slavery, African immigrants, and Afro-Caribbean populations
  • California local governments (cities and counties) that will need to change their data collection practices
  • Historically marginalized communities that have remained "invisible in the decision-making process" according to Senator Richardson
  • Over 2 million California residents who are descendants of persons enslaved in the United States

What action is being taken

  • Senate Bill 515 is moving through the legislative process and is currently up for a key vote in the Assembly Committee on Appropriations
  • The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) members are supporting and voting to advance the measure
  • Organizations including the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC), American Redress Coalition of California, and California Black Lineage Society are actively supporting the bill
  • Some groups like the Carlsbad Citizens for Community Oversight are formally opposing the bill

Why it matters

  • The bill addresses a "critical gap" in how local governments collect and report demographic data about Black communities
  • Current practices group all Black communities under one category, making it difficult to analyze data for specific subgroups
  • Without specific data, the "contributions of our communities remain overlooked," according to Senator Richardson
  • More detailed demographic data would provide "a clearer understanding of the specific needs and challenges" faced by different Black communities
  • The bill would enable more visibility for historically marginalized communities in governmental decision-making processes

What's next

  • The bill will be heard by the Assembly Committee on Appropriations for a key vote
  • If passed and enacted, the bill would go into effect on January 1, 2027

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