Republicans and Journalist Protest California's New Doxxing Law

Republican lawmakers and independent journalist Nick Shirley held a rally and press conference at the California State Capitol to protest Assembly Bill 2624. Signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on August 22, the legislation expands protections for domestic violence victims to include immigration support service providers, making it illegal to distribute their personal information or images with the intent to harass or dox them. Violators face minimum fines of $4,000 or potential jail time.

Opponents have nicknamed the legislation the "Stop Nick Shirley Act," arguing that its vague language threatens First Amendment rights and intimidates investigators. Shirley alleges the bill was fast-tracked to prevent the exposure of taxpayer fraud involving non-profits and NGOs, claiming the state has created a "protected class" of providers. In response, Assemblymember Mia Bonta defended the law as a necessary measure to ensure workers do not fear being doxxed for serving their community.

Governor Newsom's office dismissed the controversy as "fake conspiracy theories," while Attorney General Rob Bonta denied claims that the state ignores fraud. Despite these denials, Republican Assemblyman Carl DeMaio has requested that the U.S. Department of Justice intervene to block the law. The Pacific Justice Institute has pledged to defend individuals fined under the statute, which takes effect October 1, 2027.