Sacramento, California, USA: The California Assembly has given the green light to SB 509, a bill designed to ensure law enforcement officers receive training to recognize and address acts of “transnational repression” — intimidation and harassment carried out by foreign governments targeting immigrant and diaspora communities.
The Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF), which played a central role in rallying support for the proposal, welcomed the decision, calling it a significant step forward for civil rights.
“This isn’t just another piece of legislation — it’s a turning point for fairness and justice,” said Kiran Kaur Gill, executive director of SALDEF. “We are proud to have brought together Sikh Americans, allied organizations, and impacted Californians to back this cause.”
The bill was introduced by Sen. Anna Caballero (D-Merced), who emphasized that its purpose is to safeguard fundamental rights. “At its heart, SB 509 is about protecting the freedoms, security, and self-expression of diaspora communities,” Caballero noted in a prior statement.
She added, “This legislation strengthens our responsibility to protect vulnerable individuals and their loved ones, ensuring justice, safety, and freedom of speech for everyone, no matter their heritage or origin.”
According to the bill, transnational repression can take many forms, including “surveillance, intimidation, abductions, unlawful killings, digital harassment, spyware, cyberattacks, or threats against family members.” It directs the Office of Emergency Services and peace officer training programs to design a curriculum by January 1, 2027, which will address issues such as misuse of INTERPOL, cyber threats, and culturally sensitive outreach.
SALDEF also expressed gratitude to Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains for her strong backing, which it said played a vital role in the Assembly’s approval.
Looking ahead, SALDEF urged the State Senate to act quickly and called on Governor Gavin Newsom to sign the measure once it reaches his desk.
“Protecting our communities from international threats requires urgent action,” Gill added. “California must continue leading the nation in advancing civil rights protections.”
