BILL NUMBER:  SB 242
  VETOED	DATE: 10/11/2009




To the Members of the California State Senate:

I am returning Senate Bill 242 without my signature.

This bill would make it a violation of the Unruh Civil Rights Act for
a business establishment to require, limit, or prohibit the use of
any language by a client, patron or customer unless the language
restriction is necessary for the safe and efficient operation of the
business and a less discriminatory alternative does not exist.

While no one should be treated differently based on their race or
national origin, no single business can accommodate every language
spoken in California.  Unfortunately, under this measure, any
business that treats customers differently because the business may
not be able to effectively communicate with the customer could then
be required to justify such disparate treatment in a court of law.

Since this measure would have the unintended effect of increasing
frivolous lawsuits against businesses, I am unable to sign this bill.


Sincerely,



Arnold Schwarzenegger