Huntington Beach’s voter ID law prevails as California Supreme Court dismisses state lawsuit, paving the way for implementation in 2026 city elections.
At a Glance
- Orange County judge rules Huntington Beach’s voter ID law legal, despite state opposition
- California Supreme Court dismisses state lawsuit, deeming the case not ripe for adjudication
- Voter ID requirements set to begin in 2026 for Huntington Beach city elections
- City officials celebrate victory, while state plans continued legal challenges
Court Ruling Favors Huntington Beach’s Voter ID Law
In a significant legal victory for Huntington Beach, an Orange County judge has ruled that the city’s new voter ID law is legal, despite strong opposition from the California Attorney General’s office. This decision, coupled with the California Supreme Court’s dismissal of the state’s lawsuit, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over local election security measures and state authority.
The voter ID requirement, approved by Huntington Beach voters on March 5, is set to take effect for city elections starting in 2026. This measure, part of the city’s charter, defines eligible voters as U.S. citizens, residents of Huntington Beach, and at least 18 years old. It also includes provisions for increased in-person voting locations and ballot drop box monitoring.
Under both existing law &
SB 1174, voter ID is illegal in CA, including in Huntington BeachThat has not changed
We disagree with the court’s decision that it’s too early to address the merits of this issue
When the court does rule on the merits, we’re confident we’ll prevail https://t.co/iKYmVlOp3M
— Rob Bonta (@RobBonta) November 17, 2024
State Opposition and Legal Challenges
The state of California, led by Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weber, sued the city in April, claiming the voter ID law is unlawful and undermines voting rights. However, the California Supreme Court dismissed the lawsuit on November 15, ruling that the case was not ripe for adjudication.
“The Court finds that this matter is not ripe for adjudication, as … the City’s Charter is permissive and discretionary in character, and thus currently presents no conflict with state elections law” – state Supreme Court justices
Despite this setback, Attorney General Bonta remains firm in his opposition to the law. His office stated that they continue to believe Huntington Beach’s voter ID policy clearly conflicts with state law and will respond appropriately in court. This stance is supported by Senate Bill 1174, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, which bans local voter ID requirements effective next year.
Local Authority and Charter City Status
Huntington Beach officials view the court’s decision as a vindication of their constitutional right to manage municipal elections. The city, which became a charter city in 1937 to prevent state interference in local affairs, argues that its charter status provides the legal foundation for implementing such measures.
“Honestly, it’s a great victory for Huntington Beach, and as I’ve said, I think it’s a black eye to the state” – City Attorney Michael Gates
The newly elected conservative city council, led by Mayor Gracey Van Der Mark, has been at the forefront of pushing for this voter ID law. Councilmember Tony Strickland, who introduced the initiative, aims to use this as a stepping stone towards advocating for a statewide voter ID law.
California judge rules Huntington Beach can proceed with voter ID law https://t.co/dt9iFOV6fm
— Michael R. Blood (@MichaelRBloodAP) November 15, 2024
Implications and Future Challenges
While supporters of the law claim it enhances election security, critics argue it could disenfranchise voters, particularly those without IDs. Notably, no instances of voter fraud in Huntington Beach have been cited by proponents of the measure. The implementation of this law could potentially influence other California cities considering similar election security measures.
“We will not back down and will continue to fight for the City.” – Huntington Beach Mayor Gracey Van Der Mark
As Huntington Beach moves forward with its voter ID law, the state’s opposition remains strong. The full impact of the new state law banning local voter ID requirements on this local measure is yet to be determined. This ongoing legal battle highlights the tension between local governance and state authority in California, particularly in cities with a political makeup different from the state’s overall leanings.
Sources:
- Court Dismisses California’s Lawsuit Against City’s Voter ID Law
- Huntington Beach voter ID law is legal, judge rules
- OC judge rules Huntington Beach can proceed with voter ID law
