California courts rule on voter ID and election measures

California courts have issued rulings regarding two separate election-related measures.

A Sacramento Superior Court judge upheld the ballot language for Proposition 39, a measure that would require voters to prove U.S. citizenship during registration. Attorney General Rob Bonta successfully defended the title and summary, which states the measure “prohibits citizens from voting unless they present government-issued identification.” Judge Jennifer Rockwell ruled that the description accurately reflects the policy's effect and constitutes a reasonable exercise of the Attorney General’s discretion.

In a separate matter, a Shasta County Superior Court judge issued a preliminary injunction to block Measure B, a local initiative passed by voters in June. The measure sought to eliminate mail-in and early voting, mandate hand-counting of ballots, and establish a separate voter registration system. Judge Benjamin Hanna ruled that the measure violates state law, noting that the county’s status as a charter county does not allow it to enact legislation that conflicts with statewide electoral regulations. The ruling ensures the November general election will proceed under established California election laws.