State and local agencies must count Middle Eastern and North African groups separately
State and local agencies that collect data on Californians' ancestry or ethnic origin must use separate categories for major Middle Eastern and North African groups. Most of their demographic reports must then include that data, and the totals must be public.
Who it affects
State and local agencies that collect ancestry or ethnicity data
When
This law took effect on January 1, 2026, but the changes described here start on January 1, 2028.
- : Signed into law
- : Law took effect
- : The changes described here start to apply
- : Agency demographic reports must include the new categories
Official text
California AB 91: State and local agencies: demographic data.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.