Controversy Over California’s “Stop Nick Shirley Act”
Independent journalist Nick Shirley has raised concerns about a recently introduced bill in California, known as AB 2624 or the “Stop Nick Shirley Act.” He suggests the legislation aims to shield taxpayer-funded organizations from scrutiny. The authors of the bill argue it’s designed to protect immigration service providers from harassment and intimidation.
During an appearance on “Fox News @ Night,” Shirley remarked, “Obviously it hit a nerve.” He went on to say, “The bill protects NGOs and nonprofits that take our tax dollars, yet they don’t want us to know how that money is being spent.” He believes the proposal would hinder investigations into organizations receiving public funds.
This discussion followed host Trace Gallagher sharing a statement from the bill’s author, Rep. Mia Bonta (D-Oakland), who asserted that immigration service providers face harassment and intimidation.
Shirley countered the claims that his reporting constitutes harassment. “My response is, stop using these communities to commit fraud, and no one will ever speculate about fraud,” he said, referring to allegations of misconduct involving a Minnesota nonprofit and a California hospice provider. He mentioned, “The Somalis in Minnesota stole hundreds of millions, if not billions. And yet, her husband tried to take credit for exposing hospice fraud after I brought it to light.”
This issue has garnered attention from various conservative figures, including Congressman Tim Burchett and actor Dean Cain, who have expressed their support for Shirley’s perspective.
Shirley also pointed out that the bill could expose journalists and investigators to legal risks when looking into publicly funded organizations. He asserted that if targeted organizations cite safety concerns, it could lead to injunctions and attorney fees for those investigating.
Shirley’s critiques have resonated with several political commentators. New Hampshire Congressional candidate Lily Tan Williams voiced her concern, saying, “California taxpayers should be furious about this. If the state signs this bill to protect fraudsters, the federal government will have to respond.”
AB 2624, termed “Privacy for Immigrant Support Service Providers,” has passed through Congress and is now awaiting consideration in the California Senate. The measure aims to institute privacy protections for immigration service providers facing documented harassment.
Fox News Digital reached out for comments from Rep. Mia Bonta but did not receive an immediate response.
