California Assembly Bill AR30

California 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/19/23
• Refer: 4/27/23
• Passed: 6/8/23

Caption

Relative to Middle Eastern or North African data.

Impact

This resolution seeks to advocate for the inclusion of a MENA category in federal data collection methods such as the decennial census. By pushing for such changes, the bill aims to ensure that MENA communities can adequately identify and address inequalities related to health, education, and employment. This could lead to enhanced representation and provision of resources, as demographic data is essential for targeting services and protections that benefit diverse populations.

Summary

House Resolution No. 30 (AR30), introduced by Assembly Member Essayli, aims to address the lack of data collection on Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) populations by the federal government. The legislation emphasizes the need for updated federal standards regarding race and ethnicity data collection, highlighting that the current practices have not been revised since 1997. The exclusion of MENA individuals from specific categories in federal data significantly hampers their access to equal protections and opportunities that exist under various federal programs.

Contention

However, the bill does not appear to lack opposition. Some critics may argue that the addition of new racial categories in federal data might complicate existing data collection efforts, while others may question the implications of identifying specific ethnic groups, particularly in light of broader discussions about race in America. Nevertheless, the bill is supported by various advocacy groups like the Arab American Civic Council, which sees the necessity of such data for ensuring equitable treatment and services for MENA populations.