More Artists Join California Governor Gavin Newsom For Signing Of Bill Restricting Use Of Rap Lyrics In Court

It’s official, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed The Decriminalizing Artistic Expression Act, which restricts the use of rap lyrics as evidence in court in California. During a virtual bill signing ceremony, Newsom was joined by Killer Mike, Tyga, and Meek Mill. Too $hort, YG, E-40, as well as Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. and leaders from the Black Music Action Coalition and others.

Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, Co-Founder/Co-Chair of Black Music Action Coalition, stated: “The Black Music Action Coalition applauds Governor Newsom for his willingness to stand with Artists and defend our First Amendment right to freedom of speech…For too long, prosecutors in California have used rap lyrics as a convenient way to inject racial bias and confusion into the criminal justice process. This legislation sets up important guardrails that will help courts hold prosecutors accountable and prevent them from criminalizing Black and Brown artistic expression. Thank you, Gov. Newsom, for setting the standard. We hope Congress will pass similar legislation, as this is a nationwide problem.”

Source: BET