Independent journalist Nick Shirley has voiced strong opposition to California’s proposed legislation, AB 2624, which he believes could limit transparency regarding taxpayer-funded organizations. The bill, which has been dubbed the ‘Stop Nick Shirley Act,’ aims to protect immigration service providers from harassment and threats. However, Shirley contends that it would also discourage investigations into these organizations, which receive public funds.
Concerns Over Transparency
Shirley expressed his concerns during an appearance on ‘Fox News @ Night’ with Trace Gallagher, stating, ‘These are organizations and groups that receive our tax dollars, yet they want to make it so we can’t find out what they’re doing with our tax dollars.’ He argued that the bill would place journalists at risk of civil penalties if they investigate fraud involving immigration support services, nonprofits, and health care facilities.
The bill, authored by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, D-Oakland, seeks to create privacy and address-confidentiality protections for immigration service providers who have faced documented threats or harassment. Bonta’s husband, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, has not commented on the matter.
Allegations of Fraud
Shirley referenced past instances of alleged fraud in Minnesota and California to support his claims. He cited cases involving Minnesota nonprofits and California hospice operators, suggesting that fraudsters have been emboldened by a lack of accountability. ‘The fraud has been going on for so long. These fraudsters thought they could get away with it for so long that so many people started committing this fraud,’ Shirley remarked.
Shirley’s concerns have resonated with some political figures. Republican New Hampshire congressional candidate Lily Tang Williams expressed outrage over the bill, urging the federal government to intervene if it becomes law. Similarly, Rep. Tim Burchett criticized the legislation as indicative of Democrat leadership.
AB 2624 has passed the California Assembly and is now headed to the Senate. The debate continues as stakeholders weigh the balance between protecting service providers and ensuring transparency in the use of public funds.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
