Huntington Beach Voter ID Law Approved, Begins 2026

In Orange County, California, Superior Court Judge Nico Dourbetas ruled in favor of Huntington Beach's voter ID law, despite opposition from state officials including Attorney General Rob Bonta. The local law, passed by referendum, allows the city to implement voter ID requirements beginning in 2026, challenging a state-level ban on voter ID. The ruling allows the city to proceed with the law amid ongoing state objections and the likelihood of an appeal. California Secretary of State Shirley Weber expressed concern that this decision might disenfranchise voters, while Bonta remains confident the law will ultimately be struck down in higher courts. The voter ID requirement will necessitate separate ballots for local and state elections, raising logistical concerns. The case is expected to proceed through the state appellate system, with potential escalation to the U.S. Supreme Court.