California Assemblymember Carl DeMaio is raising concerns over a proposed bill he says could limit the ability of independent journalists to report on publicly funded programs.
The legislation, known as AB 2624, recently advanced through the State Assembly with support from Democratic lawmakers. Supporters say the bill is aimed at protecting organizations that serve immigrant communities from potential threats or harassment. Critics, however, argue the language could have broader implications for transparency and public oversight.
DeMaio, a Republican representing San Diego, has been especially vocal, warning that the bill could discourage citizen journalists from documenting and sharing footage tied to taxpayer-funded programs. He has referred to the proposal as the “Stop Nick Shirley Act,” referencing online journalist Nick Shirley, whose viral videos have drawn attention to alleged issues within public services.
During a recent Assembly committee hearing, DeMaio pressed the bill’s author, Mia Bonta, over provisions that would allow individuals affiliated with certain organizations to request the removal of video recordings — even if those recordings were taken in public spaces. He also raised concerns about potential financial penalties for those who publish such content online.
According to DeMaio, those measures could be used to discourage investigative reporting by journalists, watchdog groups and members of the public documenting potential misconduct.
Supporters of AB 2624 maintain that the legislation is intended to improve safety for vulnerable communities and prevent harassment or intimidation. The debate over the bill’s impact on free speech and transparency is expected to continue as it moves forward.
DeMaio’s full statement on AB 2624 is as follows:
“California Democrats are trying to intimidate citizen watchdog journalists and protect waste and fraud happening in far-left-wing NGOs. AB 2624 can only be described as the ‘Stop Nick Shirley Act’ — a bill designed to silence citizen journalists exposing fraud and abuse of taxpayer dollars.
Instead of fixing the fraud problems being uncovered, Sacramento politicians are trying to shut down the people exposing them.
AB 2624 would allow activists and taxpayer-funded organizations to demand the removal of video evidence — even if it captures misconduct in plain view — and threatens journalists with massive financial penalties.
That’s not about public safety — it’s about protecting powerful interests.
If this bill becomes law, the message is clear to every journalist in California: expose corruption, and you will be punished. AB 2624 is an unconstitutional direct attack on transparency and the First Amendment – and it needs to be defeated.”
