California Bill Aims to Shield Immigrant Groups from Scrutiny

AB 2624 would make it illegal to publish personal information of 'immigration support services providers'

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:09am

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A dynamic, fragmented painting depicting a California state capitol building in motion, rendered in shades of blue, gray, and red, conveying a sense of political tension and change.A proposed California bill aims to shield immigrant-serving organizations from public scrutiny, raising concerns over press freedoms.Today in Sacramento

A proposed California bill, AB 2624, would establish an address confidentiality program for 'designated immigration support services providers' and prohibit the publication of their personal information online. The bill is seen as a direct attempt to shield organizations like fraudulent daycare centers and healthcare agencies from investigative reporting, particularly by independent journalist Nick Shirley who has exposed millions in taxpayer fraud.

Why it matters

The bill raises concerns about protecting free speech and press freedoms, as it could be used to block journalists and watchdog groups from reporting on potential wrongdoing by organizations that claim to serve immigrant communities. Critics argue it is an attempt by California Democrats to shield illegal activities and fraud from public scrutiny.

The details

AB 2624, proposed by California Assemblywoman Mia Bonta, would make it illegal to publish the personal information or images of 'designated immigration support services providers, employees, or volunteers' online if done with the intent to 'threaten violence or harassment.' The bill's language is broad enough that it could apply to a wide range of left-leaning groups that provide services to legal or illegal immigrants, including organizations that have been accused of fraud.

  • AB 2624 was introduced in the California State Assembly in April 2026.

The players

Mia Bonta

California Assemblywoman and the author of AB 2624.

Rob Bonta

California Attorney General and the husband of Assemblywoman Mia Bonta.

Nick Shirley

A 20-something independent journalist who has exposed millions in taxpayer fraud by organizations claiming to serve immigrant communities.

Carl DeMaio

California Assemblyman who has criticized AB 2624 as the 'Stop Nick Shirley Act' and warned it would be used to block investigative reporting.

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What they’re saying

“AB2624 claims to be about protecting immigrant organizations from 'threats of violence,' when in fact the legislation would apply to any left-wing group that claims to provide any services to legal or illegal immigrants.”

— Carl DeMaio, California Assemblyman

“The enemy truly is within. When our politicians would rather protect fraudsters and illegal migrants, it's time for us to stand up or face mass oppression from the traitors who 'rule' over us.”

— Nick Shirley, Independent Journalist

What’s next

The California State Assembly will continue to debate and consider AB 2624 in the coming months. Critics have vowed to fight the bill, arguing it poses a threat to press freedoms and transparency.

The takeaway

This proposed legislation highlights the ongoing tensions between protecting vulnerable communities and preserving the public's right to information and government accountability. The bill's broad language raises concerns that it could be used to shield fraud and wrongdoing from scrutiny, undermining the role of a free press.