California announces dozens of laws that protect immigrants and Latinos

Now it will be easier to obtain identification, medical services and legal assistance regardless of immigration status

California has enacted more than a dozen laws specifically to improve conditions for immigrants in the 2022 legislative cycle, as well as dozens more to benefit Latinos, putting the state ahead of the nation in greater protections for these immigrants. communities.

On September 30 of this year, Governor Gavin Newsom finally signed into law 2022, which includes multiple victories for farmworkers, the undocumented, and Latino communities.

One of those victories was the enactment of AB 1766, known as the “California ID Card for Everyone,” which would allow undocumented residents of California to obtain an identification card.

In California, approximately 2 million people do not have legal status, and although the state has offered driver’s licenses to undocumented people since 2015, the selfless and minors cannot obtain identification documents. State ID. The law will take effect no later than July 1, 2027.

AB 1766 is part of 10 laws that benefit immigrant and Latino communities, including legislation that makes it easier for street vendors to obtain local health permits to sell their wares.

California will also give undocumented students better access to tuition waivers at public colleges and universities and English language courses at community colleges.

Additionally, the Democratic governor signed a bill that would provide low-income Californians with eligibility for legal aid in civil matters affecting basic human needs, regardless of their immigration status.

In August, Newsom signed into law SB 836, which bars any party from disclosing a person’s immigration status at public hearings in criminal cases unless approved by a judge.

“California is providing more opportunities for everyone, regardless of immigration status,” the Democratic governor said in a statement, adding that the state is a “safe haven” for immigrants.

Rural workers also won a law that makes it easier for them to unionize and vote. Although Newsom had previously said he would veto the bill, he had to bow to pressure from United Farm Workers (UFW).