Assemblymember Nell Soto (D-Pomona) has introduced Assembly Bill 301 which creates the position of a statewide Gang Prevention Coordinator within the California Attorney General’s Office. The proposal comes in response to recent increases in gang related crimes throughout the Inland Empire and California.

“Small California cities have been overrun by a surge in gang activity,” said Assemblymember Soto. “AB 301 will strengthen local efforts and help communities prioritize scarce funds. Cities will be better informed of their options moving forward.”

AB 301 seeks to monitor statewide gang activity, coordinate effectively gang prevention efforts and provide the Legislature with an annual report on gang activity and prevention efforts. Current gang intervention and suppression efforts in this state involves a number of independent and largely disconnected state agencies, local community groups, city and county law enforcement agencies, and school districts, and has been largely inadequate and ineffective. This bill addresses the compelling need for the development of a coordinated interdisciplinary, interagency, state and local approach to gang intervention and has as its focus education, rehabilitation, and prevention.

The cities of Pomona and San Bernardino have recently experienced high profile gang crimes, and the local governments have embarked upon intensive efforts to change the nature of social problems in their city. AB 301 would save valuable time and money by providing a “one-stop shop” where local governments could receive guidance and assistance. And since gang problems tend to not be confined to city boundaries, this bill would create a state authority to help facilitate regional solutions.

The bill is similar to the 1997 bill authored by Congresswoman Diane Watson while in the California Senate and was vetoed by Governor Pete Wilson. Since then, gang violence has risen.

“This bill will make the state more accountable for prevention of gang violence, a problem that requires the focus of our best minds to keep our kids safe,” said Assemblymember Soto.