Legislative Advocacy

California State Sheriffs’ Association advocates for legislation and policies that strengthen public safety, support California sheriffs, and protect their communities

Legislative Platform & Priority Issues

The California State Sheriffs’ Association (CSSA), founded in 1894, provides a unified voice for the 58 county sheriffs in matters of mutual interest and concern.

Community Engagement and Trust / Peace Officer Training

CSSA promotes integrity, ethics, and professionalism among sheriffs and seeks sustainable funding for POST training.

Public Safety Resources / Crime Reduction

CSSA works to protect funding for local programs, support victims, assist critical investigations, and oppose unfunded mandates.

Fentanyl

CSSA supports updating statutes to strengthen penalties and increase accountability for fentanyl traffickers.

Inmate Rehabilitation, Care, and Re-Entry

Focus on facility resources, programming, education, treatment, and continuity of care post-release.

Homelessness / Mental Illness

CSSA calls for a multi-element approach addressing policy gaps, accountability, mental health services, and substance use disorder.

Court Security Funding

Rising costs require sustainable funding for court security and staffing new courthouse facilities.

Federal Legislative Positions

CSSA takes formal positions on federal legislation that impacts public safety, training, and law enforcement operations.

Opposition to HR 1525 – Asset Forfeiture

CSSA opposes eliminating the equitable sharing program, which supports training, equipment, technology, community programs, and participation in federal task forces.

Support for S.1305 – School Guardian Act

CSSA supports federal funding to place armed law enforcement personnel in all K–12 schools.

Legislative Committee Policy

The Legislative Committee reviews legislation impacting the criminal justice system and recommends positions to the Board of Directors.

CSSA takes no position when supporting one sheriff would negatively impact another.

CSSA may oppose legislation harmful to law enforcement operations or public safety.

CSSA may oppose legislation adverse to efficient operations regardless of its origin.

The Board of Directors makes final approval on all legislative positions.

Political Action Committee (PAC) Policy

The PAC evaluates candidates, governor appointments, and ballot measures, recommending support, oppose, or no position.