California’s newest privacy law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, threatens to curb citizen journalists probing taxpayer‑funded fraud.
DeMaio Calls the Measure Unconstitutional
Republican Assemblyman Carl DeMaio warned that the “Privacy for immigration support services providers” statute effectively criminalizes the documentation of fraud and shields taxpayer‑funded NGOs from public scrutiny.
DeMaio said the law, set to take effect on October 1, targets videos and posts that expose misuse of public money, calling it an “open‑and‑shut infringement on First Amendment rights.”
He announced a coalition will file a lawsuit challenging the statute and urged the U.S. Department of Justice to intervene, arguing the measure violates constitutional free‑speech protections.
Newsom Defends the Bill
Governor Newsom’s spokesperson, Diana Crofts‑Pelayo, dismissed DeMaio’s claims, stating the law has nothing to do with journalist Nick Shirley and accusing Republicans of fabricating conspiracy theories.
Crofts‑Pelayo said the legislation does not restrict Shirley’s reporting and does not hide fraud, countering the narrative that it silences watchdog activity.
Legal Battle Looms
DeMaio confirmed his team is preparing legal briefs and expects a judge to hear the case before the law’s implementation.
He added that the Justice Department’s Office for Civil Rights has been consulted and that a formal intervention request may follow.
DeMaio argued California’s fraud problem far exceeds the “garden‑variety” mismanagement seen in other states, citing alleged abuses by NGOs that organize rallies, harvest ballots and endorse candidates.
He warned that the law could punish anyone who posts evidence of fraud online, effectively chilling investigative reporting.
Newsom’s office declined to comment further, reiterating that the real controversy stems from “MAGA Republicans” spreading falsehoods.
Peter Pinedo, politics writer for Fox News Digital, reported the story.
