CA SB1403

Establishes the California American Freedmen Affairs Agency in state government under a Secretary appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.

Requires the agency to implement recommendations of the former Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans, as approved by the Legislature and Governor.

Agency must determine how individuals prove descendant status (descendants of enslaved African Americans or free Black persons prior to end of 19th century) and make such proof a qualifying criterion for state reparations benefits.

Agency shall include a Genealogy Office to conduct or verify genealogical research for reparations eligibility and an Office of Legal Affairs to provide legal counsel and services.

Authorizes the agency to employ in-house counsel and exempts it from the prohibition on state agencies hiring legal counsel, and requires the agency to oversee and monitor other state agencies implementing reparations-related policies.