BILL NUMBER: AB 1444 VETOED DATE: 09/28/2014 To the Members of the California State Assembly: I am returning Assembly Bill 1444 without my signature. This measure makes kindergarten compulsory by requiring all students to attend one year of kindergarten before entering first grade. Most children already attend kindergarten, and those that don't may be enrolled in other educational or developmental programs that are deemed more appropriate for them by their families. I would prefer to let parents determine what is best for their children, rather than mandate an entirely new grade level. Sincerely, Edmund G. Brown Jr.