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