Sabrina Cervantes

A California Senate committee gutted a substantial DUI reform bill despite widespread support from lawmakers and families of drunk driving victims. The proposed bill would have required in-car breathalyzers for anyone convicted of a DUI, aligning the state with most others. Currently, state law only mandates these devices, called ignition interlock devices, following repeat offenses or injury crashes.

California lawmakers and police departments debate the use of automated license plate reader technology, with Democrats proposing stricter data retention and access limits to address privacy concerns. Critics highlight misuse cases, including unauthorized sharing with federal authorities and a Texas officer's search for an abortion-related suspect, while law enforcement opposes new restrictions.

California lawmakers debate restricting automated license plate readers (ALPRs), which assist in solving crimes but face privacy concerns. A bill by Sen. Sabrina Cervantes would limit data retention to 30 days and restrict access, opposed by police agencies. Critics cite misuse cases, including data sharing with federal authorities and tracking individuals related to abortion issues.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed State Senate Bill 73 to protect California’s elections by making it illegal to seize ballots or interfere with voting processes. The bill, introduced by Senators Tom Umberg and Sabrina Cervantes, targets potential voter intimidation linked to the Trump administration and prohibits unauthorized law enforcement presence at polling stations.