Satnam Singh Chahal, Executive Director of the North American Punjabi Association (NAPA), has strongly condemned the decision by the Governor of California to veto Senate Bill 509, a legislative proposal aimed at tackling transnational repression. The bill was seen as a critical step toward protecting the rights and freedoms of diaspora communities in the United States.
Chahal noted that SB 509 was modeled on Assembly Bill 3027, introduced by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains, and marked a landmark initiative in countering efforts by foreign governments to harass, intimidate, or silence individuals beyond their borders.
“The rejection of SB 509 is not a welcome move. This action by the Governor must be strongly condemned,” said Chahal. “The bill represented an essential step in acknowledging and addressing the growing threat of transnational repression. It would have provided protections for activists, journalists, and community leaders who are being targeted for exercising their basic rights on American soil.”
Chahal emphasized that transnational repression undermines the democratic values of the United States and has a chilling effect on freedom of speech and civil liberties.
He further added, “This veto sends the wrong message to those who engage in intimidation tactics across borders and discourages communities from speaking out against injustices. We urge lawmakers and civil society to continue pushing for legislation that upholds the safety and rights of all Californians, regardless of their country of origin.”
NAPA calls on the Governor to reconsider this position in future legislative sessions and encourages further bipartisan efforts to pass protective laws addressing foreign interference and repression on U.S. soil.