California Governor signs AB 2624 privacy law amid Sacramento protests

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 2624 into law, a measure that expands California’s Safe at Home program. The legislation is designed to shield the home addresses of employees, volunteers, and workers associated with immigration support services.

Republican Assemblyman Carl DeMaio has labeled the legislation the “Stop Nick Shirley Act,” referencing independent journalist Nick Shirley. Critics of the bill argue that by restricting access to public information such as addresses and names, the law may hinder the ability to investigate potential fraud within taxpayer-funded nonprofits. The law, authored by Assemblywoman Mia Bonta, carries penalties including fines between $10,000 and $50,000, potential jail time, and civil damages of at least $4,000.

A rally held in front of the California Capitol in Sacramento drew hundreds of participants and counterprotesters. The demonstration resulted in limited clashes, leading to three people being detained and one person arrested by the California Highway Patrol. The law is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2027.