Ash Kalra, the first Indian American elected to the California State Assembly, has been designated as the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Judiciary by Speaker Robert Rivas. Expressing gratitude for the appointment on Nov 22, Kalra emphasized the importance of safeguarding civil rights and ensuring a just legal system. Having served on the committee for seven years, he commended the leadership of Chairs Stone and Maienschein, expressing readiness to contribute further.
Speaker Rivas praised Kalra’s commitment to justice, highlighting the foundational role of the justice system in ensuring public safety and holding offenders accountable. Kalra’s new role involves primary jurisdictions over family law, product liability, tort liability, Civil Code, and Evidence Code (excluding criminal procedure).
Previously chairing the Assembly Labor and Employment Committee for five years, Kalra, first elected in 2016, secured his fourth term in 2022. Recognized for legislative efforts promoting secure communities and protecting civil rights, he is dedicated to equity and social justice.
Representing California’s 25th Assembly District, covering most of San José, Kalra’s legal background from Georgetown University and 11 years as a Deputy Public Defender in Santa Clara County contribute to his advocacy for justice and civil liberties.
