SB 965: Public libraries: library cards.

Official summary

Legislative Counsel’s Digest (official, as of the latest version). Written by nonpartisan legislative staff; reproduced verbatim.

Existing law declares that it is in the interest of the people and of the state to ensure that all people have free and convenient access to all library resources and services that might enrich their lives regardless of where they live or of the tax base of their local government.

This bill would, beginning January 1, 2028, prohibit a public library from requiring the presence of a parent or guardian for the issuance of a library card to a California resident who is 16 or 17 years of age. The bill would authorize a public library to require a parent’s or guardian’s consent or signature for the issuance of a library card to a California resident who is 16 or 17 years of age unless the minor is emancipated. To the extent this bill would add to the duties of public libraries, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Democratic 3

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. September 28, 2026Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 737, Statutes of 2026.
2. September 28, 2026Approved by the Governor.
3. September 2, 2026Enrolled and presented to the Governor at 3 p.m.
4. August 27, 2026Assembly amendments concurred in. (Ayes 39. Noes 0.) Ordered to engrossing and enrolling.
5. August 25, 2026Ordered to special consent calendar.
6. August 13, 2026In Senate. Concurrence in Assembly amendments pending.
7. August 13, 2026Read third time. Passed. (Ayes 68. Noes 2. Page 6150.) Ordered to the Senate.
8. August 6, 2026Read second time. Ordered to third reading.
9. August 5, 2026From committee: Do pass. (Ayes 15. Noes 0.) (August 5).
10. August 5, 2026Coauthors revised.
11. June 22, 2026Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
12. June 18, 2026From committee: Do pass as amended and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 8. Noes 0.) (June 17).