A new California bill aims to use grants to help illegal immigrants convicted of violent crimes with legal assistance in the United States.
The bill was introduced in February by Democratic Assemblyman Reggie Jones-Sawyer, who sought to “enhance California’s immigration services program for all.”
“For as long as I have been in state office, I have worked towards ensuring people are given a second chance and have championed efforts to prevent people from being treated as second-class individuals,” Jones-Sawyer said. “The REP for All Immigrants Act ensures racial justice and truly equitable access to crucial immigration services for all — not some.”
California currently has an existing law that prohibits the use of grant funds to provide legal services to illegal immigrants who are appealing a conviction of a violent or serious felony. AB 2031 would remove the prohibition of those funds for those individuals. The bill would amend multiple acts in California’s Welfare and Institutions Code relating to immigration services.
“AB2031 would force California taxpayers to fund immigration services for anyone who can claim a nexus to and intent to reside here, including violent criminals facing deportation,” Laura Powell, a California lawyer associated with Californians for Good Governance, posted on X.
Proponents of the bill see this as a way for families to stay together while members are facing deportation.
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“We eagerly and proudly champion the protection of human rights, civil rights, and racial justice for all immigrants,” Camila Alvarez, legal director at Central American Resource Center, said. “The recent reintroduction of the REP4All bill is a significant stride forward, and we are proud to support this crucial legislation that plays a pivotal role in safeguarding immigrants from deportation, ensuring access to legal representation, and addressing racial injustices in California.”
AB 2031 is being heard in the Assembly Judiciary Committee tomorrow in Sacramento.