(KMJ) The nickname “Redskins” is closer to extinction in California public schools.
Assembly Bill 30, The “California Racial Mascots Act”, passed through the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday. The lone “no” vote came from Hanford Republican Sen. Andy Vidak.
The legislation, which has sparked a lively debate in the Golden State, is authored by Assemblyman Luis Alejo (D-Watsonville). If signed into law, the act would phase out the “R Word” by Jan. 1, 2017.
Valley schools currently using the Redskins mascot are: Tulare Union, Chowchilla Union and Gustine High. Tulare Union representatives spoke in favor of keeping the nickname at the hearing, but their stance fell flat in front of the heavily democratic panel. It will next be heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee.
It’s unclear if Gov. Brown will sign the bill into law, should it reach his desk. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed similar legislation in 2004.
