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Bill Requiring Public Notices to Be Published in Newspapers’ Print Editions Heads to Gov. Newsom’s Desk

August 10, 2026

California Assembly Bill 2323, authored by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor, has passed the state legislature with bipartisan support and now awaits Governor Gavin Newsom's signature. The legislation modernizes California's public notice system by requiring legally mandated notices—such as foreclosure announcements, estate notices, and government ordinances—to appear in both print newspapers and online formats. While newspapers cannot charge readers separate fees for online access to these notices or charge advertisers extra for dual publication, they can maintain paywalls for other content.

Who is affected

  • California residents seeking access to public notices and legal advertisements
  • Independent newspapers and ethnic media outlets across California's 58 counties
  • Local governments and special districts required to publish legal notices
  • California Special Districts Association members
  • Advertisers required to publish legally mandated notices
  • Governor Gavin Newsom (decision-maker)
  • Assemblymember Tina McKinnor and Assemblymember Diane Dixon (bill authors)

What action is being taken

  • AB 2323 is currently awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom's consideration for signature or veto
  • The bill requires public notices to appear in both print editions and online formats
  • The legislation prohibits newspapers from charging separate fees for online access to public notices
  • The legislation prohibits publishers from charging advertisers additional fees specifically for posting legally required notices online

Why it matters

  • This legislation is significant because it modernizes California's public notice system to reflect changing media consumption patterns while preserving independent verification of government actions. As more Californians access information online, the bill ensures transparency and public access to critical information about government activities, foreclosures, and legal matters that directly affect communities. The measure helps sustain the struggling newspaper industry by maintaining a mandated revenue stream while newspapers face declining print readership and financial pressures. Additionally, it protects constitutional principles of press freedom and due process by maintaining independent, third-party records outside direct government control, which supporters argue is essential for combating misinformation and preserving verifiable facts.

What's next

  • Governor Gavin Newsom must decide whether to sign or veto AB 2323.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint