AB 766, described by Assemblymember Sharp Collins as a priority of the California Legislative Black Caucus, would enshrine and expand existing executive‑order requirements that state departments undertake equity reviews of programs and strategic plans and seek community input, including from historically disenfranchised groups.

The author framed the measure as building on the governor’s 2020/2022 executive orders and said DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion, and access) programs cover race, gender, disability, language, veterans, caregivers and other groups. Erin Evans, representing Santa Clara County, said the county had worked for years to develop racial equity roadmaps and stands ready to assist state agencies with implementation.

Committee members asked whether the bill could conflict with federal executive actions and with California’s Proposition 209 (article I, section 31), which limits use of race in public employment and contracting. Sharp Collins responded the bill is broad and not limited to race alone and that conversations had not identified a constitutional conflict; he said the bill is intended to protect access for many groups beyond race.

The committee recorded a roll call and advanced AB 766 to Appropriations, noting continued stakeholder engagement would be needed as the bill moves through the process.