On September 29, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom of California signed a series of bills aiming to counteract the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement strategies within the state. These legislative actions include prohibitions on electric shock gloves and modifications to a previous ban on law enforcement face coverings that had been blocked by a federal judge.
The over 20 bills endorsed by Newsom are designed to obstruct tactics employed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, such as the use of facial coverings and making arrests near immigration hearings. Other legislative measures target increased state oversight of federal detention centers located in California.
Newsom emphasized that the measures respond to perceived failures by the federal government. He stated, “California is taking action to strengthen transparency, accountability, and oversight around immigration enforcement in our state.” He expressed commitment to safeguarding the rights of Californians and ensuring federal accountability.
Bans and New Oversight Measures
Among the new laws, a particular bill bans the use of electric shock gloves by law enforcement within the state. This came after the Department of Homeland Security was reportedly preparing to allocate $20 million to equip agents with these gloves.
This legislation aligns with state efforts to provide greater public safety and to curtail certain enforcement methods considered excessive.
The “No Kings Act,” authored by Sen. Scott Wiener, is another significant bill. It facilitates the process for residents to bring lawsuits against federal agents for alleged civil rights infringements, such as racial profiling and unlawful searches. Previously, state and local officials were subject to similar lawsuits, but federal agents were exempt due to a loophole now closed by this legislation.
Addressing Face Coverings and Detention Center Oversight
Wiener also proposed a bill banning ICE agents and other law enforcement from wearing face masks or coverings while performing their duties. This legislation follows a judicial block on an earlier version and now extends to both state and federal law enforcement.
Efforts to enhance oversight of immigration detention centers have led to several legislative measures. AB 1801 stipulates that municipalities must observe a 180-day pause and conduct public hearings before developing or converting any new detention facilities. This seeks to curb rapid expansion of such centers without thorough local consideration.
Newsom additionally signed a tax increase of 25% on companies operating immigration detention centers, affecting mainly private prison firms like GEO Group and CoreCivic. Revenue from this tax, under AB 1633 by Assemblymember Matt Haney, is projected to reach $177 million.
In response to investigative findings on detention centers, another law mandates that local agencies disclose all 911 calls originating from within detention facilities. This arose after investigations revealed alleged misconducts at facilities were being managed internally by operators rather than through local authorities.
Sen. Lena Gonzalez, advocating for detainee rights, stated, “Our communities deserve safety, and no person in detention should have to resort to throwing notes over the walls of a detention facility to have their needs met and their voice heard.”
Ongoing Concerns in Detention Facilities
Continuing concerns include a rise in in-custody deaths and poor living conditions within ICE facilities. Reports indicate 57 deaths during Trump’s second term, compared to 26 during the prior four years.
State Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office reported subpar conditions in centers, such as overcrowding and inadequate medical care, during inspections. Detainees often faced cold temperatures without proper clothing, illustrating a pervasive care deficit.
In response, legislation was enacted to extend the attorney general’s oversight of private detention centers indefinitely, ensuring persistent scrutiny and accountability for these institutions.
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