California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 73 (SB 73) into law, significantly strengthening the state's election protections against interference and intimidation, particularly in response to ongoing threats from President Donald Trump and his allies. The legislation aims to safeguard voters, election workers, and ballot security ahead of the June 2 statewide primary.
SB 73 enacts several key measures, including prohibiting unauthorized access, disruption, modification, or seizure of voter rolls, lists, or certified voting technology by law enforcement, including federal agents, without a court order or specific election law investigation. It also restricts peace officers from interfering with election administration or disrupting workers, except in urgent public safety emergencies. Furthermore, the law mandates the California Department of Justice to issue guidance to county election officials on handling law enforcement requests for access to ballot processing areas and increases protections against illegal removal or seizure of voted ballots, establishing criminal penalties for such actions.
Governor Newsom emphasized the state's resolve, saying, "California will not allow our elections to be commandeered by political intimidation, abuse of power, or chaotic interference from extremists chasing conspiracy theories." Senator Sabrina Cervantes, a co-author, added that SB 73 is "a direct response to efforts by officials in the Trump Administration and local elected leaders to undermine our democracy piece by piece." Senator Tom Umberg, also a co-author, expressed concern, stating, "When the President says he is going to disrupt an election, I believe him."
Dora Rose, Deputy Director of the League of Women Voters of California, applauded the move, noting, "California is fighting back and protecting our democracy." She highlighted the law's role in "erecting essential barriers against unauthorized federal access to voting systems, voter rolls, and polling places," which she described as "more vital now than ever."
The signing comes amidst continued concerns over President Trump's past actions, including his efforts to challenge the 2020 election results and promote claims of voter fraud. California has consistently taken steps to protect voting rights, expanding voter access, strengthening cybersecurity, and safeguarding election workers since 2019.