The Legislative Advocacy Team, February 16, 2026
California State PTA has taken a support position on California Senate Bill 747 authored by State Senator Scott Wiener (San Francisco), and has signed on as a co-sponsor. Here’s what PTA members need to know.
What Does SB 747 Do?
Right now, if a state or local police officer violates your constitutional rights — through an unlawful search or excessive force, for example — you can take them to court and seek damages. But if a federal agent does the same thing, it’s much harder to hold them accountable. Recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions have narrowed the legal options available to people harmed by federal officers, leaving a significant gap in protections.
SB 747 closes that gap. It creates a clear pathway under California state law for individuals to sue any government official — federal, state, or local — who violates their constitutional rights. The bill does not create new rights. It simply ensures there is a meaningful way to enforce the rights we already have, including protections for free speech and peaceful assembly. It also protects us from unreasonable search and seizure, and for equal protection under the law.
The bill passed the State Senate on January 27, 2026 on a 30-10 vote and now heads to the Assembly.
Why Is California State PTA Supporting This Bill?
Our position is grounded in our Democracy in Practice: Constitutional Principles, Human Rights and Civic Integrity position statement, adopted in August 2025, which states:
To preserve and protect our democracy, elected officials, government agencies, and the public must understand, honor, and uphold the established principles embedded in the U.S. Constitution.
That statement also calls on PTA to speak out to protect fundamental constitutional rights — rights that belong to young people and adults, citizens and immigrants alike. SB 747 directly advances these values. When constitutional rights can be violated without consequence, those rights exist only on paper. This bill ensures that Californians — including the children, youth, and families we serve — have a real path to accountability.
What About Concerns?
Some law enforcement organizations argue that SB 747 overlaps with California’s existing Tom Bane Civil Rights Act. However, the Bane Act requires showing that a violation involved “threats, intimidation, or coercion,” a higher bar that can make claims difficult to pursue. SB 747 provides a more straightforward cause of action while maintaining the same legal immunities that already protect government officials from frivolous suits.
What Can PTA Members Do?
As SB 747 moves to the Assembly, PTA members can help by spreading the word within their local units and councils. Share this blog post, SB747 (Weiner) bill language, and California State PTA’s Democracy Position Statement. Sign up for advocacy information and take action alerts. When we understand our constitutional rights and the tools available to protect them, we are stronger advocates for every child and every family.
California State PTA’s Legislative Advocacy Commission voted to support and co-sponsor SB 747 on February 12, 2026. For more information on California State PTA legislative positions, visit capta.org.