Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh announced on Apr. 3 that she will host a press conference on Wednesday, April 8 to discuss Senate Bill 1071, which seeks to provide a legal process for families to amend death certificates when a court determines the cause of death was homicide.
The proposed legislation aims to ensure that California’s public records accurately reflect legal findings in cases where homicide has been established by the courts. This is significant for families seeking official recognition of the circumstances surrounding their loved one’s deaths and for maintaining accurate state records.
The press conference will take place near the West Steps by 10th & N Streets at 8:30 a.m. Among those joining Senator Ochoa Bogh are Ivy Fitzpatrick from the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, Matt Capelouto and Candace Lightner—co-founders of Not an Accident—as well as Senator Shannon Grove, Senator Tony Strickland, Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez, and other state legislators. A livestream will be available via YouTube for those unable to attend in person.
According to the announcement, members of the media who wish to attend should RSVP by contacting Ivette Burch at Ivette.Burch@sen.ca.gov.
As lawmakers continue efforts to address gaps in how deaths are recorded following legal proceedings, SB 1071 could have implications for both affected families and broader public record-keeping practices.
