Newsom Signs Laws Limiting ICE Agents, Including Ban on Shock Gloves

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a series of new laws aimed at increasing oversight of federal immigration enforcement within the state, including a ban on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents using "wearable electroshock devices" and a prohibition on agents accused of serious misconduct from being employed as California peace officers or state employees.

Newsom, who has portrayed the legislation as necessary to curb perceived overreach by federal immigration operations, also signed bills designed to protect immigrants under ICE scrutiny and safeguard their eligibility for public benefits. A broader bill that would have banned all immigration enforcement agents from obtaining state jobs for being "immoral individuals" remains unsigned.

The new laws have ignited a debate over state authority to regulate federal agencies. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated that California lacks the jurisdiction to regulate federal agents and advised them to disregard the shock-glove ban. "Governor, we’ve been through this already. If you want to regulate federal agents, you have to win a federal election. Until then, you have no jurisdiction," Essayli said.

Republicans have also criticized the measures, with some arguing they represent petty politics rather than effective policy. State Sen. Kelly Seyarto called the job blacklist unfair to individuals who are "just doing their job." He added, "It is pigeonholing people that have no reason for us to be pigeonholing them and keeping them from employment."

Newsom's office issued a statement asserting the state's commitment to protecting its residents and holding federal authorities accountable. "Trump has put his political interests above the health, safety and livelihood of American families," the statement read. "We will continue protecting our people, upholding the rule of law, and making clear that if the federal government operates in California, we will hold them accountable."

This is not the first time Newsom has faced legal challenges in his attempts to regulate federal agents. A federal judge previously blocked a California law that would have required federal law enforcement officers to wear identification. Legislative analyses suggest that some of the latest measures may also face similar legal scrutiny.

In addition to the laws targeting agent conduct, Newsom has also enacted measures affecting private detention facilities. A new 25% tax has been imposed on the revenue of these facilities, with proceeds allocated to immigration-related services. Separately, legislation has granted the state attorney general enhanced oversight authority over these facilities.

Another new law allows Californians to sue federal officials accused of violating their constitutional rights, with claims dating back to March 2025. Democratic state Sen. Scott Wiener, the bill's author, stated the law is intended to empower "victims" of ICE raids to seek recourse. "ICE and Border Patrol have terrorized California communities with impunity. That ends today," Wiener said.