Bill to Allow Diacritical Marks on Vital Records Signed Into Law

SACRAMENTO, CA – Californians whose names include accents, tildes, and other diacritical marks will be able to have their names recorded accurately on their vital records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates under a law signed Sunday by Governor Gavin Newsom. 

The signing of the Name Accuracy Act, AB 64, authored by Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco (D-Downey), marks the culmination of a multi-year effort. Assemblywoman Pacheco persevered after carrying earlier versions of the measure in 2023 and 2024, which were held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

"After nearly 40 years, I’m thrilled that Californians again will be able to have their names recorded accurately on their most important documents," said Assemblywoman Pacheco. “Recording people’s names correctly sends the message that their identity matters and they belong here. Our names represent our culture, our family, and our dignity.”

Excluding diacritical marks began in 1986 with a policy developed by the Department of Health that banned the marks after English was declared the state’s official language, disrespecting the multicultural heritage of California residents. 

Many states, including Texas, Illinois, Kansas, Hawaii, North Carolina, Oregon, Alaska, Utah, Arkansas, Delaware, and Maryland show respect for cultural identity by including diacritical marks on vital records. California, as the most populous and diverse state in the nation, rejoins that expanding list.