Last week, California Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 272 which will immediately update gender-specific references in various state code sections to reflect gender-inclusive language.

The introduction of the bill was inspired by the historic appointment and confirmation of California Highway Patrol Commissioner Amanda Ray, the first woman and second African American to lead the agency in its almost 100-year history. The bill was introduced to reflect the current and future leaders of the agency and the values of California.

References in California Code pertaining to the Highway Patrol Commissioner, CALFIRE firefighters, insurance licensing, and California Conservation Corps members will now be gender-neutral. Senate Bill 272 takes effect immediately.