The Promise of a New Year Renews Assemblymember Holden’s Commitment to Upward Mobility

Sacramento, CA – Assemblymember Chris Holden hit the ground running in 2022 and recommitted to improving upward mobility for people of color by introducing AB 1604, after Governor Newsom’s veto of his Upward Mobility Act of 2021, AB 105. This legislation will be reintroduced and is the first of its kind in the nation – to promote upward mobility for people of color in California’s civil services system and require diversity on state boards and commissions.

“California has led the nation on other social justice and equity issues and now is another chance to continue that legacy,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden. “My goal is to promote transparency and accountability with this bill – both in government and private workplaces as we saw with AB 979. I am hopeful for what we can accomplish together this year.”

AB 1604 gives the Reparations Task Force more accurate data to utilize in its deliberations. Additionally, the bill requires that SPB establish a process that includes diversity and best practices in each aspect of the design, announcement, and administration of examinations for the establishment of employment lists.

By July 1, 2023, the Department of Human Resources shall develop model upward mobility goals to include race, gender, and LGBTQ as factors to the extent permissible under state and federal equal protection laws. The goals will be based on department workforce analysis and shall post the model goals on its internet website.

“I will work with my colleagues in the Legislature to improve California leadership and uphold equal opportunities for workplace growth,” said Holden.  “The promise of doing the right thing remains, and I am more committed than ever to creating more inclusive workplace environments and remove barriers that hinder qualified individuals to move up within their department simply based on the color of their skin.”