WeVote
Log In

Bill

JB

Bill

AB 1269

County and city jails: incarcerated person contacts.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jasmeet Bains and 2 co-sponsors

AB 1269 mandates jails notify families within 24 hours of an inmate's death, enhancing communication and transparency for loved ones during a critical time.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 726, Statutes of 2025.
#countyandcityjails #incarceratedpersoncontacts
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 1269

Summary of AB 1269: Wakiesha’s Law

Bill Number: AB 1269
Introduced: February 21, 2025
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 726, Statutes of 2025
Author: Assemblymember Bryan
Subject: County and city jails; incarcerated person contacts

Purpose and Intent

AB 1269, also known as Wakiesha’s Law, aims to enhance communication regarding the deaths of incarcerated individuals in county and city jails. The bill mandates that jails notify designated contacts within 24 hours of an inmate's death, addressing public concerns about timely communication with family members and loved ones.

Key Provisions

  • Notification Requirement:

    • County and city jails are required to notify all individuals listed on the medical release of information form and next of kin forms within 24 hours of the death of an incarcerated person.

  • Creation of a Local Program:

    • The bill imposes new duties on county and city jails, thereby establishing a state-mandated local program.

  • Reimbursement for Costs:

    • If the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill incurs costs for local agencies, the state will reimburse these costs according to established statutory procedures.

  • Urgency Clause:

    • The bill is classified as an urgency statute, allowing it to take effect immediately to ensure prompt notification of deaths in custody, which is deemed necessary for public peace, health, and safety.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • This legislation primarily affects county and city jails, as well as the families and loved ones of incarcerated individuals who may experience the death of a family member while in custody.

  • Administrative Changes:

    • Jails will need to implement procedures to ensure compliance with the notification requirement, potentially leading to changes in administrative practices and protocols.

Procedural Aspects

  • Vote Requirement: The bill required a 2/3 majority to pass.
  • Fiscal Committee: The bill was reviewed by a fiscal committee, indicating potential financial implications for local agencies.
  • Immediate Effect: The urgency clause allows the bill to be enacted without delay, reflecting the pressing nature of the issues it addresses.

Conclusion

AB 1269 represents a significant step towards improving communication and transparency regarding the treatment of incarcerated individuals in California's jails. By ensuring that families are promptly informed of a loved one's death, the bill seeks to address longstanding concerns about the treatment of inmates and the responsibilities of correctional facilities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.