Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber have announced that the Orange County Superior Court has vacated its previous decisions regarding Huntington Beach's Measure A. This measure sought to amend the city's charter to potentially allow additional voting restrictions, which are prohibited by state law, for municipal elections starting in 2026.

Initially, on November 15, 2024, the court determined that the state's lawsuit against Huntington Beach was "not ripe for adjudication" because Measure A was considered "permissive and discretionary in character," presenting no immediate conflict with state election laws. Consequently, the lawsuit was dismissed on December 16, 2024. However, the court has now reversed its earlier orders and recognized "a ripe justiciable controversy," scheduling a hearing on April 3, 2025.

Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed satisfaction with this development: “Today is a good day. Our lawsuit against Huntington Beach can officially continue.” He emphasized that both he and Secretary of State Weber had maintained it was not premature to pursue their legal action. Bonta noted that earlier this month, the California Fourth District Court of Appeal suggested agreement with their position and prompted the Orange County Superior Court to reconsider its stance.

Secretary of State Shirley Weber also commented on the court's order: “With today’s order, we are one step closer in our effort to protect each eligible Californian’s right to vote.”

The upcoming hearing will address the merits of the state's petition for a writ of mandate concerning Measure A.