AB 715 is a dangerous bill that threatens free speech and curriculum in California classrooms. Championed by Jewish Legislative Caucus members Senator Scott Wiener and Assemblymembers Jesse Gabriel and Rick Zbur, this bill is a coordinated effort to stifle any criticism of Israel and censor Palestine within California public education under the guise of combating antisemitism.
AB 715 ignores anti-Palestinian racism, was drafted without any input from Arab or Muslim communities, and is backed by racist, anti-Palestinian organizations.
Dangers of AB 715
AB 715 aims to expand the state’s authority to ban the use of instructional material that could be seen as discriminatory based on subjective and vague standards, and gives the state superintendent sweeping authority to act on complaints without evidence.
It expands the definition of “nationality” to include an individual’s actual or perceived shared ancestry, ethnic characteristics, or residency in a country (such as Israel) with a dominant religion or distinct religious identity. This opens the door to categorizing the criticism of a foreign government as discrimination and punishing educators who teach about Palestine, colonialism, or human rights.
It also fails to define antisemitism, making it easier to falsely conflate legitimate criticism of Israel and its actions with antisemitism.
Assembly Support for AB 715
Last month, the California Assembly passed AB 715 despite opposition from educators, students, and civil rights advocates. All 68 assemblymembers present for the hearing, both Democrats and Republicans, voted in favor of the bill. There were 11 assemblymembers who were absent from the vote.
Next Steps for AB 715
AB 715 is now headed to the state senate, where it will be heard by the Judiciary and Education committees in the coming weeks.
If passed, this bill would silence Muslim, Arab, Jewish, and other critical voices in our schools.
Take Action
Tell your state senators to reject AB 715 and stand up for academic freedom and Palestinian voices.
