California Code, Education Code - EDC § 32400

(a) The Legislature finds that as many as one million seven hundred thousand people could be granted amnesty and would seek permanent residency in California under the federal Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-603). 1 Under the act, eligible individuals would be required to demonstrate an understanding of ordinary English and a knowledge and understanding of the history and government of the United States.

(b) Further, it is the intent of the Legislature to establish a state test for use by eligible individuals that would attest to their understanding of English and understanding of the history and government of the United States to meet the requirements of Section 312 of the federal Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. Sec. 1423) and the federal Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-603).