GOP Lawmaker Demands DOJ Kill New Protections for Immigration Nonprofit Workers
California’s New Law Protects Immigration Workers — But Some Say It Goes Too Far
What Happened?
California Governor Gavin Newsom just signed a new bill into law that aims to protect people who work with immigrants from harassment and threats. But not everyone is happy about it. A Republican lawmaker is asking the federal government to stop the law before it even starts.
The Basics: What Is Assembly Bill 2624?
Important Point: This law was created because immigration service providers — like nonprofit workers, case managers, and community organizers — have been facing real threats and harassment just for doing their jobs.
Assembly Bill 2624 (AB 2624) does a few key things:
- Lets workers in immigration nonprofits keep their home addresses private
- Allows them to demand in writing that their personal info (like address or photo) not be shared publicly
- If someone ignores that request on purpose to scare or harm them, they can be fined thousands of dollars
- The law takes effect on October 1, 2027
Who’s Involved?
| Person | Role | Stance |
|---|---|---|
| Mia Bonta | Democratic Assemblymember (Alameda) | Wrote the bill; says it protects workers from hate |
| Gavin Newsom | Governor of California | Signed the bill into law |
| Carl DeMaio | Republican Assemblymember (San Diego) | Wants the U.S. Department of Justice to block it |
| Nick Shirley | Conservative social media influencer | Inspired the nickname “Stop Nick Shirley Act” |
Why Is There a Fight Over This Law?
DeMaio’s Argument: “It Violates Free Speech”
DeMaio says the law could stop people like Nick Shirley — who posts videos claiming to expose fraud in immigrant-run daycares — from doing their work. He calls it the “Stop Nick Shirley Act” and claims it breaks the First Amendment (freedom of speech).
“Instead of fixing rampant waste, fraud, and abuse, they’re trying to punish the people exposing it,” DeMaio said.
Bonta’s Response: “It’s About Safety, Not Silencing”
Bonta says DeMaio is twisting the law. She explains:
- The fines only apply if someone shares private info on purpose to threaten or scare a worker
- It does not stop journalists, whistleblowers, or anyone reporting real crimes
- The real problem: immigrant service providers are being harassed and threatened
“The amount of hate and harassment… is really at the heart of this bill,” Bonta told KQED.
Real-World Examples of the Problem
- Somali daycare workers in Southern California were harassed by people trying to “expose fraud” — similar to what happened in Minnesota
- Angelica Salas, head of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, said her group got violent threats — some naming her personally
- These aren’t just online arguments — they’re real safety concerns
How the Law Works (Step by Step)
- A protected worker or organization sends a written request asking not to share their personal info or image
- If someone ignores that request…
- AND they did it on purpose to incite harm or create fear…
- Then they can be fined thousands of dollars
- The law starts on October 1, 2027
Important Point: Just sharing public info or reporting on public events is not punished. The law only targets targeted, intentional harassment.
What Happens Next?
- The U.S. Department of Justice has been asked to intervene — but hasn’t responded yet
- DeMaio’s office didn’t comment for this story
- The law is set to go into effect in 2027, unless a court stops it
Summary
California passed AB 2624 to protect immigration nonprofit workers from harassment by letting them keep addresses private and penalizing those who intentionally share personal info to threaten them. Governor Newsom signed it. But Republican Assemblymember Carl DeMaio says it violates free speech and wants the federal DOJ to block it. Supporters say it’s about safety — not censorship. The law takes effect October 1, 2027.
FAQ
Does this law stop journalists from reporting on fraud?
No. The law only applies when someone shares private info on purpose to threaten or scare a worker. Legitimate reporting is not affected.
Who counts as an “immigration service provider”?
People who work for nonprofits or organizations helping immigrants — like caseworkers, legal aides, community navigators, and shelter staff.
What is the “Stop Nick Shirley Act”?
A nickname DeMaio gave the bill. Nick Shirley is a conservative influencer who posts videos claiming to expose fraud in immigrant-run daycares. DeMaio says the law targets people like him.
Can anyone just say “don’t share my info” and get protection?
Only if they’re part of a protected group under the law (immigration service providers) and make a written demand. Random people can’t use it.
When does this law start?
October 1, 2027 — unless a court blocks it first.