The California STEP Act: Racialized Policy, Policing, and Health Effects

Juan Flores critically examines the consequences of the 1988 California Street Terrorism Enforcement and Prevention (STEP) Act on gang policing, community well-being, and poverty. Through an overview of the STEP Act’s history, provisions, and effects, this article analyzes how repealing the law, eliminating discriminatory “gang” databases, and investing in community-based and restorative justice programs would help promote racial equity and accountability in law enforcement.