Non-Citizens Could Be Jurors Under Calif. Bill

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Legislation heading to Gov. Jerry Brown's desk would make California the first state to allow non-citizens who are in the country legally to serve on a jury.

Democratic Assemblyman Bob Wieckowski of Fremont says AB1401 would help California widen the pool of prospective jurors and help integrate immigrants into their community.

If signed into law, the legislation would make immigrants who are legal permanent residents eligible for jury duty. It would not change other requirements for jurors, such as being at least 18 years old and having English proficiency. They also must live in the county making the summons.

The Assembly passed AB1401 Thursday on a largely party-line vote of 41-26.

Republican Assemblyman Rocky Chavez of Oceanside voted against it, saying there is no shortage of potential jurors.

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