Committee advances bill to bar out‑of‑state military operations without governor’s permission

A senator introduced SB 1354, which would prohibit military personnel from another state, territory, or district from entering California to perform military or law enforcement functions without express permission from the governor.

Rebecca Marcus of the California Public Defenders Association testified in support, saying the measure affirms the governor's constitutional authority as commander in chief of the state militia and protects residents from unauthorized incursions that could threaten civil rights. Supporters emphasized that the bill would not affect Title 10 activations, mutual aid compacts such as the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, or out‑of‑state personnel attending training assigned to California.

The committee moved SB 1354 to the committee on public safety and recorded votes; testimony emphasized constitutional safeguards and civil‑rights protection as primary rationales. No recorded public opposition appeared in the hearing transcript.

Why it matters: Proponents said the bill prevents unapproved military deployments to the state and protects constitutional authority and civil liberties, while preserving mutual‑aid and federally authorized activations.

Next steps: Referred to the public safety committee for further consideration and drafting of enforcement and scope language.