CA AB1538

Creates a new crime prohibiting any elected or appointed official from retaliating, punishing, or exerting political retribution against any person for exercising a constitutionally protected right while acting under color of authority

Violation results in mandatory forfeiture of office and permanent disqualification from holding any public office in California or its political subdivisions

Adds Section 177 to the Penal Code as a new anti-corruption measure targeting government officials who abuse their power

No state reimbursement to local agencies required because costs stem solely from creating a new crime