Nick Shirley and California Republicans vow to fight new anti-harassment law

Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2624, which bars the online sharing of images or personal details of immigrant-services providers for harassment or violent intent, and permits victims to seek at least $4,000 in damages. Opponents, including YouTuber Nick Shirley and a coalition of California Republicans, labeled the legislation the “Stop Nick Shirley Act” and warned it infringes the First Amendment. At a rally on the west steps of the state capitol in Sacramento, Shirley declared the law a direct violation of constitutional rights.

Attorney Brad Dacus of the Pacific Justice Institute pledged to file lawsuits if the state attempts to enforce the statute against Shirley or other investigators. The bill, championed by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, was introduced after reports of heightened threats toward immigration service providers. While Bonta says the law does not target journalists, critics fear it will deter scrutiny of alleged fraud. Republican candidates at the event promised to challenge the law if elected.