California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., have responded to a recent order by the California Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three. The appellate court issued a unanimous decision on a petition for writ of mandate filed by the state regarding Huntington Beach's Measure A. This measure sought to amend the city's charter to allow additional voting restrictions in municipal elections starting in 2026, which are prohibited by state law.
The appellate court found issues with the lower court's conclusion that the matter was not ready for decision and with Huntington Beach's claim of having a constitutional right to regulate its municipal elections without state interference.
Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed appreciation for the court's swift action, stating, "We are grateful for, and encouraged by, the appellate court’s prompt action. Our priority remains the same: making sure that Huntington Beach’s Measure A is struck down as quickly as possible."
Secretary of State Shirley Weber also commented positively on the direction of the case, saying, "We are pleased with the court’s order and direction this case is headed. I look forward to a resolution that protects California voters."
The appellate court has instructed the Orange County Superior Court to inform them by February 28, 2025, whether it plans to modify its previous order dismissing the case. If no modification occurs, parties involved may submit briefs responding to the appellate court's tentative analysis by March 10, 2025.
In light of these developments, a hearing has been scheduled in Orange County Superior Court for February 25, 2025.
A copy of the appellate court’s order is available online.