In the face of potential immigration policy changes under the incoming Trump administration, California Governor Gavin Newsom is reportedly contemplating a strategy to safeguard illegal immigrants and their families.
A draft plan titled "Immigrant Support Network Concept," obtained by POLITICO, outlines the establishment of an Immigrant Support Network. This network, consisting of regional hubs, is designed to link vulnerable individuals, their families, and communities with community systems such as legal services, schools, labor unions, and local governments.
According to Fox News, the draft was prepared by the California Department of Social Services and is yet to be reviewed in Sacramento. "This document is an internal and deliberative draft document meant for internal discussions as part of a number of possible considerations given the incoming federal administrations public remarks," stated Scott Murray, the Deputy Director, Public Affairs and Outreach Programs for the Department of Social Services. He emphasized that it is not a final proposal.
This draft is part of California's proactive measures to brace for a second Trump administration. Following Trump's election, Newsom convened a special legislative session and discussed a $25 million "Trump-proof" legal defense fund. State lawmakers are also lobbying for additional funds. Senate Budget Chair Scott Wiener has proposed legislation seeking $60 million, which includes funds to establish an immigrant detention representation and coordination program.
The draft suggests that the state Social Services Department would distribute state funds to qualifying nonprofits and assume administrative responsibilities for the hubs. While the draft does not specify the required funding for the plan, it indicates that the funds would be allocated for "community outreach, partnership, legal services staffing positions, and approved administrative costs associated with hub operations."
Despite facing a $68 billion budget deficit, California's Legislative Analyst's Office reported in November that the state budget was roughly balanced. However, a spokesperson for the state Finance Department revealed that November revenues fell $1 billion short of the month's forecast. H.D. Palmer, the principal spokesman on fiscal and financial issues for the Newsom Administration, clarified on X that this shortfall was due to a timing issue with cash receipts. He added that the state is still nearly $4.3 billion above projections year to date, and $7.5 billion up since April.
Theresa Mier, a department spokesperson, informed the publication that the administration is working with the Legislature to finalize a thoughtful special session funding proposal. This proposal is expected to be signed into law before January 20, 2025, demonstrating the state's commitment to protecting its immigrant population amidst potential policy shifts.
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