Senate Bill 73 Signed by Governor to Protect CA Elections from Interference
Dear Neighbor,
On Wednesday, Governor Gavin Newsom signed my Senate Bill 73 into law to provide California elections with improved defenses against interference. As SB 73 had an urgency clause, it takes effect immediately, ensuring the defenses it provides are in place for the June 2nd statewide primary election.
These additional protections are essential to safeguarding democracy and in response to recent local incidents, which underscore the importance of guarding the integrity of California’s election systems. To read the full press release, click here.
“Senate Bill 73 is a direct response to efforts by the Trump Administration and local electeds to dismantle our democracy piece by piece,” said Senator Cervantes. “The enactment of SB 73 protects Californians’ sacred right to vote free from fear of intimidation or interference and safeguards the essential integrity of elections in California. I want to thank Governor Newsom and my Democratic colleagues in the Legislature, especially Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón, for their partnership in defending democracy in our Golden State.”
What Leadership is Saying:
“California will not allow our elections to be commandeered by political intimidation, abuse of power, or chaotic interference from extremists chasing conspiracy theories. This law protects voters, election workers, and the integrity of the democratic process from election-deniers who want to undermine democracy.”
- Governor Gavin Newsom
“In California, we remain committed to upholding fair, inclusive, and accessible elections for all eligible voters in our state to ensure they can participate in our democratic process. This bill protects California eligible voters from deliberate and inappropriate intimidation by any entity as eligible voters exercise their right to vote and ensures all ballots are counted fairly and transparently. The California Legislature is dedicated to defend our democracy and Senate Bill 73 advances that commitment,” said Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón.
“The Legislature will continue to do everything in our power to protect California’s democratic process,” said Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas. “We will always defend the rights of voters, reject every attempt at intimidation or suppression, and uphold the integrity of our elections. The Assembly and Senate stand united, because safeguarding democracy isn’t optional. It’s our oath.”
Featured In the News:
CBS News: Newsom signs bill restricting law enforcement access to California ballots
SF Chronicle: Newsom signs bill blocking ballot seizures ahead of California primary
