California State University: claim eligibility: genealogy and descendancy.

Senator Weber Pierson's legislation directs the California State University system to establish processes for verifying genealogical claims related to descendants of persons enslaved in the United States, allocating $6 million to conduct research aligned with recommendations from the state's former Task Force on Reparations.

The California State University would develop methods to verify descendant status and create protocols for conducting genealogical research to confirm eligibility for reparative claims, with this work beginning by the 2026-27 academic year. The university may partner with other academic institutions and nonprofit organizations to carry out this research. The funding allows for student participation in these efforts.

The bill requires annual consultation between CSU and the California Legislative Black Caucus to determine research priorities. CSU must submit yearly progress reports to the Legislature and Governor by October 1, detailing ongoing and completed research projects. Upon exhausting the allocated funds, a final report would present research findings, recommendations, implementation options, timelines, and associated costs for potential statewide implementation.