California Assembly Bill AB 2624 Sparks Debate Over Citizen Journalism and Fraud Reporting

Independent journalist Nick Shirley is leading a wave of criticism against a proposed California bill that he claims is designed to suppress citizen reporting on government-funded fraud.

Assembly Bill 2624, authored by Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D), has been dubbed the "Stop Nick Shirley Act" by Republican lawmakers and online activists.

The legislation seeks to enhance privacy protections for "designated immigration support services providers" by criminalizing the sharing of personal information or images that could lead to harassment.

Critics, including Assemblymember Carl DeMaio (R), argue the bill contains loopholes that would allow organizations to demand the removal of investigative footage.

Shirley, who recently gained national attention for exposing alleged multi-million dollar fraud in California, stated on social media that the bill is an attack on transparency.

"California is trying to pass a bill that would criminalize investigative journalism with misdemeanors, $10,000 fines, and content takedowns," Shirley said in a recent post on X.

The dispute follows Shirley’s latest series, which alleges a $170 million fraud scheme involving hospice and daycare centers in Los Angeles.

In his videos, Shirley claims that many government-funded facilities are largely vacant while continuing to collect taxpayer-funded subsidies.

Supporters of AB 2624 maintain the bill is necessary to protect vulnerable workers from doxxing and threats of violence in a heightened political climate.

Assemblymember Bonta stated that the measure strengthens protections for those delivering legal and humanitarian services to immigrant communities.

The legislative battle comes as President Donald Trump’s administration intensifies its focus on state-level fiscal oversight.

President Trump recently signed an executive order establishing a national task force to eliminate fraud, specifically targeting waste and abuse in federally funded programs.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has dismissed Shirley’s allegations, pointing to existing state moratoriums on new hospice licenses as evidence of California’s proactive enforcement.

If AB 2624 passes, individuals found violating the privacy rules could face fines of up to $50,000 if their actions lead to bodily harm.

The bill recently advanced through the Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee and is currently awaiting further hearings in Sacramento.