California Budget to Invest $55 Million in Resources for California Immigrants

June 16, 2015

SACRAMENTO – Today, Assemblymember Luis Alejo (D-Salinas), Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, and Vice-Chair Senator Ben Hueso (D-San Diego), issued the following statement regarding today’s Budget agreement.

“While Congress continues to shirk its responsibility to pass comprehensive immigration reform, California is once again leading the way with significant and meaningful investments towards improving the lives of immigrants throughout the state.

I commend Governor Brown for his steadfast leadership and support for California’s immigrant community,” states Luis Alejo, Chairman of the California Latino Legislative Caucus. “The Latino Caucus has a rich history of standing with California’s immigrants, and today’s budget reaffirms our trust in Governor Brown and his commitment to helping our state’s most vulnerable.”

Under the agreement announced between Governor Brown and Assembly and Senate Leadership, the state will invest in the following Latino Caucus budget priority items, listed below:

  • Health for All - $40 million

Allows all children 19 and under to enroll in Medi-Cal, regardless of immigration status.

  • One California - $15 million

Provides qualified nonprofits with the resources to provide education, outreach and legal services to lawful permanent residents eligible for citizenship and immigrants eligible for deferred action under the President's Executive Orders.

Nearly 2.5 million legal permanent residents in California are eligible for naturalization. Additionally, over 1.5 million immigrants in California are estimated to be eligible for administrative relief under the Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA) program and the expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

  • Statewide Director of Immigrant Integration

Coordinates services across state agencies and departments to better integrate immigrants into our communities and workforce.

  • Farmworker Housing - $3.5 million

Invest in the Office of Migrant Services Family Housing Centers.  

“California and Governor Brown have an extensive history of standing with immigrants and children,” stated Senator Hueso.  “Today’s budget will expand access to health care to 170,000 undocumented children. The hardworking individuals that work tirelessly to achieve the American dream will know that Governor Brown supports their efforts.”

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Contact: Michelle Reyes / Michelle.Reyes@asm.ca.gov / (916) 319-2030