Discussion Around California’s Proposed AB 2624 Bill

Independent journalist Nick Shirley has raised concerns about a new California bill, labeled AB 2624 or the “Stop Nick Shirley Act.” The legislation, which has advanced through the state Assembly, aims to provide immigration service providers with protection from harassment and threats. Shirley suggests the bill’s true intention is to shield taxpayer-funded organizations from public scrutiny.

In a discussion on “Fox News @ Night,” Shirley stated, “I obviously hit a nerve.” He highlighted that the bill aims to protect NGOs and nonprofits, arguing that these groups receive taxpayers’ money but restrict the public from knowing how these funds are used.

Assemblymember Mia Bonta, the bill’s author, stated that immigrant service providers have faced significant harassment and threats. However, Shirley countered this, claiming the legislation would deter journalists and investigators from delving into the activities of organizations benefiting from public financing, potentially involving legal risks.

Shirley argued that dismissing his reporting as harassment ignores real fraud cases he has covered. He referenced previous investigations into alleged fraud involving Minnesota nonprofits and California hospice operators to support his point.

Conservative figures like Rep. Tim Burchett, actor Dean Cain, and activist Lily Tang Williams have voiced their opinions online, backing Shirley’s criticism of the California legislation. Williams stated that taxpayers should be angry about this bill, suggesting federal intervention if the bill becomes law.

The bill, AB 2624, titled “Privacy for Immigration Support Services Providers,” has passed the Assembly and is now headed to the California Senate. If enacted, it will provide privacy and address protections for immigration service providers facing documented threats due to their work.

Fox News contacted Assemblymember Mia Bonta for comments but has yet to receive a response.