GOVERNOR VETOES BILL THAT WOULD HAVE ALLOWED LEGAL RESIDENTS WHO ARE NOT CITIZENS TO SERVE ON JURIES

By Miriam Raftery

October 7, 2013 (Sacramento) – Governor Jerry Brown today vetoed Assembly Bill 1401, which would have allowed permanent lawful residents who are not citizens to serve on juries. 

“Jury service, like voting, is quintessentially a prerogative and responsibility of citizenship,” Brown wrote in his veto message. “This bill would permit lawful permanent residents who are not citizens to serve on a jury. I don’t think that’s right.”

Assemblyman Brian Jones (R-Santee) said in a press statement that he is pleased that the Governor vetoed AB 1401 and “understands that serving on a jury is a responsibility best left up to the citizens who have pledged allegiance to the United States." AB 1401 was the topic of Assemblyman Jones’ May 28, 2013 “Are You Kidding Me" video.

Assemblyman Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont), said he was disappointed that the governor vetoed the measure.  "Lawful permanent immigrants are part of the fabric of our communities, and they benefit from the protections of our laws, so it is fair and just that they be asked to share in the obligation to do jury duty, just as they serve in our courts, schools, police departments and armed forces," he said, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Governor Brown recently approved other bills benefitting immigrants including measures to provide driver’s licenses for immigrants and to allow legal immigrants to practice law in California.

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