Bonta and Newsom unveil online tool aimed at documenting abuses tied to federal enforcement actions

Sacramento, California – California lawmakers have released a new online tool that makes it easy for residents to report alleged wrongdoing by federal agents. Attorney General Rob Bonta and Governor Gavin Newsom introduced the portal this week. It is meant to collect recordings, images, and firsthand experiences from the public when they think federal officials may have broken the law or the Constitution.

State officials said that federal agents have a lot of power to enforce federal law, especially when it comes to immigration enforcement. But if you have that power, you have to use it in a legal way. The California Department of Justice wants the new reporting tool to help them keep track of potential abuses, such using too much force, and figure out if more needs to be done to protect residents’ rights and safety.

Bonta said the decision to launch the tool comes at a time when many communities feel unsettled by recent federal activity.

“The Trump Administration is engaging in a campaign of terror and fear that has left some California communities scared to go about their daily lives. From unmarked military-style vehicles to detainments that more closely resemble kidnappings, Californians are rightly concerned that federal agents may be crossing the line and abusing their authority. The President’s actions these past 10 months only lend support to this conclusion,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta.

“Let me be clear: Federal agents can enforce federal laws, and no one should interfere with them doing their job. But federal agents must also do so lawfully and in compliance with the Constitution. If you believe a federal agent is acting unlawfully, you can report it to my office at oag.ca.gov/ReportMisconduct.”

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Governor Newsom echoed that message, noting that the state intends to ensure that no one — including federal personnel — is immune from accountability.

“We’re not going to stand by while anyone — including federal agents — abuses their authority in California,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “This new portal gives Californians an easy and safe way to speak up, share what they see, and help us hold people accountable. No one is above the law.”

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However, officials warned that sending information through the portal does not guarantee any specific outcome for those who complain. The Attorney General’s office can’t provide clients with legal advice or represent them in court, and it can’t get involved in private legal concerns or immigration cases. People who need legal help should get in touch with accredited referral agencies, legal aid groups, or local lawyers. Also, the portal is not a replacement for emergency services; anyone who sees a crime happening should call 911 or the police in their area.

Bonta is working to stop what he calls illegal actions by the Trump Administration, and the site is part of that effort. Since January 2025, his office has filed scores of lawsuits to safeguard state programs, federal funds, and constitutional rights. Courts have already stopped the federal government from trying to put immigration-related conditions on grants, hold back school funding, or get personal information from public benefit programs. California has also gotten rulings that stop the federal government from moving the state’s National Guard to another state.

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California’s dedication to protecting its people is shown by these legal achievements and the state’s increasing spending on protecting due process during deportation procedures. Officials believe that the new reporting portal is the most recent step in that endeavor. It gives people a simpler way to report and voice concerns about federal actions that may be against the law.