"Justin Sullivan / Getty Images Honest, paywall-free news is rare. Please support our boldly independent journalism with a donation A controversial California bill that would appoint an "Antisemitism Coordinator" is heading to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk. Teachers' unions and civil rights groups warn that the legislation, which is purported to combat antisemitism, will stifle criticisms of Israel and its genocidal assault on Gaza."
"AB 715 was introduced by Assembly members Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood) and Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay). The legislation would require lawmakers to appoint an "Antisemitism Coordinator" for the state. That coordinator would be able to review the curriculum, and threaten schools with fines and dismissals for refusing to remove material deemed "factually inaccurate." Stay in the loop Never miss the news and analysis you care about."
"The bill would also allow Israel supporters to file unsupported complaints of antisemitism with the California Department of Education. The bill was recently passed in both chambers, but the process was fast-tracked, as there were only three days left in the legislative session. Multiple lawmakers said they weren't given adequate time to assess it. Related Story A coalition of University of California faculty, students, staff, and labor unions is suing the Trump administration."
AB 715 would require appointment of an Antisemitism Coordinator to review K–12 curriculum and handle antisemitism complaints. The coordinator could recommend removal of material judged "factually inaccurate" and schools could face fines or dismissals for noncompliance. The bill permits supporters of Israel to file complaints with the California Department of Education. The measure advanced rapidly in the final days of the legislative session after an informational Education Committee hearing and a last-minute waiver, prompting lawmakers to say they lacked adequate time to assess it. Teachers' unions, civil rights groups, and education advocates warn the law could suppress criticism of Israel and chill classroom speech.
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