California Restricts Use Of Rap Lyrics As Evidence In Court

Some people close to the hip-hop scene say this move will help decriminalize artistic expression and hopefully deemphasize lyrics about crime.

California prosecutors will no longer be able to use musical artist's lyrics in criminal trials against them unless they meet specific parameters.

It's a change with huge implications for racial equity. 

It's important to artists like Todd "Speech" Thomas, a rapper and member of the hip-hop group Arrested Development.