Would add sexual assault and human trafficking to California's list of felony convictions that disqualify a person from running for or holding any elected office in the state. This applies not just to California convictions, but also to equivalent convictions from other states and foreign countries, unless the person has received a pardon. Unfortunately, this bill was amended on June 24, 2026. The amendment's definition of "sexual assault" deliberately excludes certain sex offenses involving minors under 18. Specifically, cases involving sodomy, oral copulation, or sexual penetration with someone under 18 where no force, fear, or violence was used are carved out and would not disqualify a person from running for office. In plain terms, someone convicted of a sexual offense against a child could still legally run for and hold elected office in California under this bill.
Would add sexual assault and human trafficking to California's list of felony convictions that disqualify a person from running for or holding any elected office in the state. This applies not just to California convictions, but also to equivalent convictions from other states and foreign countries, unless the person has received a pardon. Unfortunately, this bill was amended on June 24, 2026. The amendment's definition of "sexual assault" deliberately excludes certain sex offenses involving minors under 18. Specifically, cases involving sodomy, oral copulation, or sexual penetration with someone under 18 where no force, fear, or violence was used are carved out and would not disqualify a person from running for office. In plain terms, someone convicted of a sexual offense against a child could still legally run for and hold elected office in California under this bill.
