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CA Educators Urge Newsom to Veto What They Call “Classroom Censorship Bill”

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A controversial California bill that would appoint an “Antisemitism Coordinator” is heading to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk.

Teachers’ unions and civil rights groups warn that the legislation, which is purported to combat antisemitism, will stifle criticisms of Israel and its genocidal assault on Gaza.

AB 715 was introduced by Assembly members Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood) and Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay). The legislation would require lawmakers to appoint an “Antisemitism Coordinator” for the state. That coordinator would be able to review the curriculum, and threaten schools with fines and dismissals for refusing to remove material deemed “factually inaccurate.”

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The bill would also allow Israel supporters to file unsupported complaints of antisemitism with the California Department of Education.

The bill was recently passed in both chambers, but the process was fast-tracked, as there were only three days left in the legislative session. Multiple lawmakers said they weren’t given adequate time to assess it.

The Assembly Education Committee’s hearing on AB 715 was only........

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