California Bans Shock Gloves, Expands Oversight of Federal Immigration Agents

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a package of immigration bills Tuesday aimed at curbing federal deportation operations in the state. The most notable measure bans local, state, and federal law enforcement officers from using gloves that deliver electric shocks to gain compliance. The ban takes effect next year and remains in force until 2030.

The legislation follows a move by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to equip its officers with the shock gloves. Last month, the agency awarded a nearly $17 million contract to purchase 6,000 pairs. Newsom framed the laws as a response to the Trump administration's escalating deportation campaign.

“We will keep protecting our people, defending the rule of law and making clear that if the federal government operates in California, we will hold it accountable.”

Another key provision allows individuals to sue federal agents in state court for constitutional rights violations, bypassing the narrow federal "Bivens" remedy. Supporters call it the "Anti-Kings Act." The package also creates a detainee bill of rights and expands state authority to inspect detention facilities.

Since February 2025, more than 38,000 people have been detained in California under the federal deportation program, according to CalMatters. The federal government has acquired detention centers partly to avoid local scrutiny, sparking protests that police dispersed with flash-bang grenades.

Newsom stated California would continue holding the federal government accountable if it operates in the state. Legal challenges to the new laws in federal court are considered likely.