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CA SB1173
Bill
Status
Introduced
2/18/2026
Primary Sponsor
Anna Caballero
Click for details
AI Summary
- Requires California courts to instruct juries on "lesser related offenses" when requested by a defendant, if the defense theory is consistent with the lesser offense, the evidence is relevant to the charged crime, and a basis exists for finding a lesser charge
- Allows juries (or judges in bench trials) to convict defendants of closely related lesser offenses, not just offenses "necessarily included" in the charged crime
- Restores defendant rights established in People v. Geiger (1984) 35 Cal.3d 510, a California Supreme Court decision that was later overturned
- Amends Penal Code Section 1159 to expand the options available to finders of fact beyond necessarily included offenses and attempt charges
- Introduced by Senator Caballero on February 18, 2026, and amended March 23, 2026
Legislative Description
Jury instructions: lesser related offenses.
Last Action
Read second time. Ordered to third reading.
4/15/2026
Committee Referrals
Public Safety4/8/2026
Rules2/18/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available