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AB 64

Vital records.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Patrick Ahrens and 24 co-sponsors

AB 64 ensures California vital records accurately reflect names with diacritical marks, enhancing cultural representation and allowing corrections for previously misrecorded names.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 662, Statutes of 2025.
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Bill Summary · AB 64

Summary of Assembly Bill 64 (AB 64) - Vital Records

Overview

Assembly Bill 64 (AB 64), introduced by Representative Pacheco, aims to update the regulations surrounding vital records in California. The bill was chaptered by the Secretary of State as Chapter 662 of the Statutes of 2025, and it focuses on the inclusion of diacritical marks in vital records documentation.

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of AB 64 is to ensure that names recorded on vital records—such as birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses—can accurately reflect the use of diacritical marks (e.g., accents, tildes, umlauts). This change is intended to enhance the accuracy and cultural representation of individuals' names in official documents.

Key Provisions

  1. Diacritical Marks Requirement:

    • Beginning no earlier than two years after the Legislature appropriates funds, the State Registrar will require the use of diacritical marks on English letters within name fields on vital records.
    • The absence or presence of these marks will not invalidate the documents or affect any constructive notice.

  2. Affidavit Process for Corrections:

    • Starting July 1, 2026, individuals can submit an affidavit to correct names on already registered vital records if they were not accurately recorded due to missing diacritical marks.
    • The affidavit must be supported by another person’s affidavit and filed with the State Registrar.

  3. Fee Adjustments:

    • The bill increases the additional fee for certified copies of vital records from $3 to $5.

  4. State Mandates:

    • The bill imposes new duties on county clerks and expands the definition of perjury by requiring affidavits to be under oath, thus creating a state-mandated local program.

  5. Development of Acceptable Marks:

    • The State Registrar is authorized to create a list of acceptable diacritical marks without further regulatory actions.

Impact

  • Individuals: The bill will benefit individuals with names that include diacritical marks, ensuring their names are accurately represented in vital records.
  • Local Agencies: County clerks will face increased responsibilities and potential costs associated with processing affidavits and amendments.
  • State Revenue: The increase in fees for certified copies of vital records is expected to generate additional revenue for the state.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 24, 2025, and underwent several legislative processes, including committee reviews and amendments, before being approved by the Governor on October 12, 2025.
  • The implementation of the diacritical marks requirement is contingent upon future appropriations by the Legislature.

Conclusion

AB 64 represents a significant step towards modernizing California's vital records system by acknowledging and accommodating the diverse naming conventions of its residents. By allowing for the accurate representation of names with diacritical marks, the bill aims to promote inclusivity and respect for cultural identities within official documentation.

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

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