Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber have filed a petition for writ of mandate with the California Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three in Santa Ana. The petition addresses Huntington Beach's voter identification law, Measure A, which amended the city's charter to allow voter ID requirements at municipal elections starting in 2026. The Orange County Superior Court previously ruled that the state's lawsuit against Huntington Beach was "not ripe for adjudication" because Measure A is "permissive and discretionary," presenting no current conflict with state election laws.

Attorney General Bonta and Secretary Weber appealed this decision on January 14, 2025. They are urging the appellate court to resolve the case on its merits rather than wait for a decision on ripeness. Bonta stated, “Secretary Weber and I continue to believe that Huntington Beach’s Measure A is unlawful...The right to vote is sacred, and we will not allow Huntington Beach to disenfranchise Californians at the polls."

Secretary Weber emphasized her commitment to challenging local government actions that violate state law: “I will continue to advocate for an inclusive democracy and the voices of voters."

The petition argues that there is no adequate remedy at law due to Huntington Beach's intent to enforce voter ID rules as election preparations begin for 2026. It highlights the statewide importance of resolving this issue promptly due to its implications for upcoming elections and constitutional powers between charter cities and the state.

The lawsuit filed by Bonta and Weber claims Measure A conflicts with state law under the California Constitution, which reserves governance over "statewide concerns" like election integrity. If the appellate court does not grant their petition, it may still decide on ripeness grounds.