Criminal procedure: discrimination.

Senator Caballero's criminal procedure legislation establishes new protections for public safety officers while refining California's framework for addressing racial discrimination in the justice system. The bill prohibits agencies from taking punitive employment actions against officers based solely on court findings under the California Racial Justice Act, while preserving their ability to discipline officers for underlying misconduct through proper procedures.

The legislation expands legal remedies for individuals alleging racial discrimination in criminal proceedings by integrating Racial Justice Act violations into habeas corpus petitions and motions to vacate convictions. When filing these challenges based on law enforcement conduct, attorneys must notify the relevant agencies. The bill also clarifies that the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training cannot revoke officer certifications based only on discriminatory judicial findings, though it maintains authority to act on the underlying conduct with due process.

Through amendments to multiple code sections, the measure implements a phased timeline starting January 1, 2023, gradually extending relief options through 2026 based on case circumstances and judgment dates. The provisions aim to balance procedural protections for officers with mechanisms to address discrimination claims, while ensuring proper notification to law enforcement agencies when their personnel are implicated in legal challenges.