20250SB__096595AMD INTRODUCED 2026-02-03 AMENDED_SENATE 2026-03-25 AMENDED_SENATE 2026-04-22 AMENDED_ASSEMBLY 2026-05-26 AMENDED_ASSEMBLY 2026-06-22 2025 SB AMD Introduced by Senator Blakespear LEAD_AUTHOR SENATE Blakespear

An act to add

Section to the Education Code, relating to libraries. libraries Public libraries: library cards. Existing law declares that it is in the interest of the people and of the state to ensure that all people have free and convenient access to all library resources and services that might enrich their lives regardless of where they live or of the tax base of their local government. This bill would, beginning January 1, 2028, prohibit a public library from requiring the presence of a parent or guardian for the issuance of a library card to a California resident who is or 17 years of age.

The bill would authorize a public library to require a parent’s or guardian’s consent or signature for the issuance of a library card to a California resident who is or 17 years of age unless the minor is emancipated. To the extent this bill would add to the duties of public libraries, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above. MAJORITY NO YES YES NO NO NO NO NO NO NO The people of the State of California do enact as follows:

SECTION 1.

Section is added to the Education Code , immediately following

Section 18731 , to read: 18732. Beginning January 1, 2028, a public library shall not require the presence of a parent or guardian for the issuance of a library card to a California resident who is or 17 years of age, however, a public library may require a parent’s or guardian’s consent or signature for the issuance of a library card to a California resident who is or 17 years of age unless the minor is emancipated.

SEC. 2. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that this act contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement to local agencies and school districts for those costs shall be made pursuant to

Part 7 (commencing with

Section 17500) of Division of Title of the Government Code.