Sacramento, California — Independent journalist Nick Shirley is suing California officials over a new law expanding privacy protections for immigration support workers, arguing the measure could punish lawful investigative reporting.
The lawsuit, filed Friday in federal court against Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weber, challenges Assembly Bill 2624. Critics have dubbed it the “Stop Nick Shirley Act,” though that is not its official title.
Signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the law adds qualifying immigration support providers, employees and volunteers to California’s Safe at Home address-confidentiality program. Applicants must show credible safety concerns, and approved participants can use substitute addresses in public records.
Shirley argues the law goes further by allowing participants to demand removal of certain personal information and potentially seek civil damages when protected information is published. His complaint says that creates a chilling effect because journalists could face liability even for information obtained lawfully.
Supporters say the measure is intended to protect immigration-service workers who have faced threats, harassment and doxxing, not to prevent legitimate reporting.
Shirley is seeking a court order blocking enforcement and a declaration that portions of the statute violate the First and 14th Amendments. Bonta’s office said it is aware of the lawsuit and will respond in court.
The law is scheduled to take effect Oct. 1, 2027.
Sources
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