Statement on the Veto of AB 884

We are deeply disappointed by Governor Newsom’s decision to veto AB 884, a landmark bill that would have expanded language services for California voters who use languages other than English. This veto represents a significant setback in the fight to ensure that every Californian, regardless of the language they speak, can fully participate in our democracy.

"Language should never be a barrier to participation in our democracy. AB 884 was a step toward making California’s elections truly accessible for all communities, especially those that have been marginalized for decades," said Deanna Kitamura, voting rights managing attorney with the Asian Law Caucus. "We are disappointed by this outcome, but we will not stop working to ensure every Californian has the right to be heard at the ballot box, regardless of the language they speak."

AB 884 aimed to extend essential translated voting materials and other supports to many communities that are still excluded under current language access laws. Immigrant communities, voting rights advocates, and civil rights organizations rallied behind this bill, which overwhelmingly passed the California legislature with bipartisan support.

"As an immigrant and advocate for underrepresented communities, I know firsthand how language access can empower people and give them a voice," said Rahmo Abdi, Director of Organizing and Campaigns at the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA). "The veto of AB 884 is a missed opportunity for justice, but we won’t give up. Our communities deserve to be seen and heard, and we will continue to work toward breaking down the barriers that prevent full participation in our democracy."

California has an urgent need for stronger language support in elections, and the coalition of supporters behind AB 884 remains dedicated to continuing the fight for language access and voter inclusion.

"This veto is a disappointment, but it’s not the end of the road," said Pedro Hernandez, Legal and Policy Director with California Common Cause. "We’ve built a broad coalition of supporters, and our work has elevated the voices of those too often left out of the process. We remain committed to ensuring that California’s elections are fair and accessible to every voter, regardless of language, and we will keep on this path to make sure that happens."

The movement for inclusive elections doesn’t stop here. Advocates plan to regroup, strategize, and push forward, with plans to reintroduce AB 884 or similar legislation next year, continuing the effort to close critical gaps in language access for California’s voters. Our work to build an inclusive, multiracial democracy continues.