Eight members of Congress have called on the Department of Justice to intervene in California's recently enacted "Stop Nick Shirley Act," asserting that the law obstructs efforts to expose fraud in immigration services. The lawmakers, led by California Rep. James Gallagher, expressed their concerns in a letter to U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed the law, which is set to take effect in October 2027. Critics contend that the legislation shields individuals accused of fraud from public scrutiny and could have a chilling effect on investigations. The law prohibits posting personal information or photos of an immigrant services provider online if done for purposes of harassment or violence. It also allows providers to sue for at least $4,000 in damages for violations.
Republicans have specifically named the law after YouTuber Nick Shirley, who has gained attention for confronting and documenting alleged fraud by immigrant services providers. Critics argue the law appears tailored to hinder work like Shirley's, with Rep. Vince Fong stating, "Nick Shirley’s reporting raised serious questions about alleged fraud. Instead of making it easier to investigate those allegations, Newsom signed a law that creates new legal risks around reporting and publishing information about the people involved."
Gallagher echoed these sentiments, calling the law "completely backwards" and asserting that Californians should know where their tax dollars are allocated. He argued that journalists should be able to pursue facts without interference from the state government.
The congressional Republicans' letter referenced priorities from the Trump administration regarding tackling fraud and suggested that challenging California's law aligns with that mission. "We must close every loophole exploited by fraudsters and supported by Governor Newsom," the letter stated.
The New York Post reached out to the Department of Justice for comment regarding the request. Meanwhile, Nick Shirley and state Republicans are reportedly considering their own legal challenges. At a rally in Sacramento, allies of Shirley pledged to defend individuals who face legal action under the new law, with attorney Brad Dacus of the Pacific Justice Institute vowing to oppose attempts to prosecute those who investigate alleged wrongdoing.
Assemblymember Mia Bonta, the law's author, has defended the legislation, stating it aims to protect the privacy of immigrant service workers. She has dismissed criticisms as "lies and outrage" and asserted that the law does not target journalists. Bonta stated, "I welcome protest. I welcome a free press holding this state accountable. What I don’t welcome is violence against people whose only guilt is trying to serve their neighbors."
