The California Attorney General's Office has granted permission for a quo warranto action against Jaclyn LaBarbera, a trustee on the Anderson Union High School District Board. This decision raises questions about LaBarbera's eligibility to serve on the board while holding another public office and whether she meets the residency requirements necessary for her position. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for public office holders in California.
The ruling, issued on September 22, 2026, under docket number 26-802, allows proposed relator Tamara Pellow to challenge LaBarbera's dual roles and residency status. The Attorney General's opinion indicates that the public interest will be served by allowing this legal challenge to proceed.
Background
Jaclyn LaBarbera currently serves on both the Anderson Union High School District Board of Trustees and the Shasta County Board of Education. She was elected to the School District Board in November 2022 and is expected to serve until December 2026. In November 2024, while still serving on the School District Board, she was elected to a four-year term on the County Board of Education.
The issue of LaBarbera's eligibility first arose earlier this year when another proposed relator sought to sue her for holding two incompatible public offices. The Attorney General granted leave to sue in a prior opinion (Opinion No. 26-401), but no lawsuit was filed. Instead, LaBarbera reportedly entered into an agreement with the former relator, promising to resign from the School District Board in November 2026.
In her recent application, Tamara Pellow raises two main issues. First, she argues that LaBarbera is holding incompatible offices, which violates Government Code section 1099. Second, Pellow claims that LaBarbera moved out of the Anderson Union High School District in 2025, which would violate the residency requirement for her position on the School District Board.
The Ruling
The California Attorney General, Rob Bonta, ruled that there are substantial legal issues regarding LaBarbera's eligibility to serve on the School District Board. The opinion states, "There is a substantial issue of fact or law regarding whether LaBarbera has satisfied the residence requirements to serve on the Anderson Union High School District Board of Trustees."
The ruling also reiterates a previous conclusion that LaBarbera may be holding incompatible offices. The Attorney General's office determined that allowing Pellow's quo warranto action to proceed serves the public interest. The opinion grants Pellow permission to sue LaBarbera based on both claims.
Impact
This ruling could set a significant precedent regarding the eligibility of public officials in California. If the courts ultimately determine that LaBarbera's dual roles are indeed incompatible, it could lead to further scrutiny of other public officials holding multiple offices. Additionally, the outcome of this case could clarify the residency requirements for school board trustees, impacting how future elections and appointments are managed.
The decision to allow the quo warranto action to proceed emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear standards for public office eligibility. It highlights the Attorney General's commitment to ensuring that public officials adhere to legal requirements and serve the interests of their constituents.
What's Next
The case may proceed to court where further legal arguments will be made regarding LaBarbera's eligibility and residency status. If the court rules in favor of Pellow, LaBarbera could be removed from her position on the School District Board. Details regarding any potential appeals or related cases were not available in the court filing.