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Bill

Bill

SB 1019

California Cargo Theft Task Force.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shannon Grove

SB 1019 establishes criminal penalties for destroying or damaging railroad infrastructure in California to protect transportation systems and public safety.

Set for hearing April 21.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1019

Legislative bill overview

SB 1019 proposes to establish or modify criminal penalties related to the destruction or damage of railroad infrastructure in California. The bill is currently in early stages of legislative processing, having just been introduced and referred to the Rules Committee for assignment to substantive committees.

Why is this important

Railroad infrastructure damage affects freight and passenger transportation systems, emergency response capabilities, and public safety. Criminal statutes addressing such destruction help protect critical transportation infrastructure from sabotage, vandalism, or reckless conduct that could endanger lives and disrupt commerce.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "destruction" definition – Unclear whether the bill targets minor vandalism, negligent damage, or only intentional sabotage, which affects who could be prosecuted
  • Penalty severity – Questions about whether proposed penalties are proportionate and consistent with similar infrastructure protection laws in other states
  • Intersection with existing law – Potential overlap or conflict with current California penal codes addressing trespassing, vandalism, and property crimes on railroad property

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

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