Topline:
Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill prohibiting local governments from requiring voter identification at polling places, a new law that is squarely aimed at Huntington Beach.
Here's the backstory: Huntington Beach voters approved a measure in March requiring people to show ID when casting a ballot. But now there's a state law on the books — SB 1174 by state Sen. Dave Min — that says cities can't enact or enforce voter ID requirements that go beyond state and federal law. Min, who is currently running for congress, said “an overwhelming body of evidence proves our elections are safe, secure, and above board.”
Why it matters: Critics of voter ID laws say there is ample evidence that ID requirements disproportionately affect low-income people and non-white voters. Supporters, however, say such measures ensure that only registered voters are casting ballots and work to restore voters' trust in the election process.
What's next: This all means a legal showdown is likely between Huntington Beach and Sacramento.