Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued a statement following the Orange County Superior Court's decision on Huntington Beach's voter identification law, Measure A. The measure sought to amend the city's charter to enforce voter ID requirements for municipal elections starting in 2026.

Attorney General Bonta expressed his disagreement with the court's decision, stating, "Under both existing law and Senate Bill 1174, all local governments — including charter cities like Huntington Beach — are prohibited from disenfranchising voters at the polls by implementing voter ID requirements." He emphasized that this legal stance remains unchanged despite the court ruling it premature to pursue their lawsuit. Bonta affirmed confidence in their case.

The lawsuit was filed by Attorney General Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., on April 15, 2024. It argues that Measure A conflicts with state law and is preempted by it. According to the California Constitution, while charter cities can manage "municipal affairs," they cannot contravene state laws concerning issues of "statewide concern." The state maintains that election integrity and voting rights fall under such concerns.

Senate Bill 1174, authored by Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine) and recently passed by the Legislature, strengthens existing bans on local voter ID laws.

The court's decision allows for an amended petition to be filed within 20 days by the Attorney General and Secretary of State.