CA AB331

Adds a one-semester ethnic studies course requirement for high school graduation, effective for pupils graduating in the 2029–30 school year and later.

Requires local educational agencies and charter schools to offer at least a one-semester ethnic studies course beginning in the 2025–26 school year.

Allows pupils to satisfy the ethnic studies requirement through four options: a course based on the state model curriculum, an existing ethnic studies course, an ethnic studies course within an A-G approved course (where ethnic studies is primary content), or a locally developed course approved by the school district or charter school governing body.

Permits local educational agencies to require a full-year ethnic studies course at their discretion instead of the one-semester minimum.

Requires ethnic studies instruction to be culturally inclusive, free from bias and discrimination, and not promote religious doctrine; students must receive credit for both the ethnic studies course and the subject area in which it is offered.