California Gov. Gavin Newsom is considering a plan to assist illegal immigrants and their families who are at risk of being affected by President-elect Trump’s mass deportation plan. The plan, titled “Immigrant Support Network Concept,” proposes the formation of regional hubs to connect individuals, families, and communities with various community systems such as legal services, schools, and local governments. The draft was prepared by the California Department of Social Services, but has not yet been reviewed in Sacramento. The plan is part of the state’s effort to prepare for a potential second Trump administration, with discussions of a $25 million legal defense fund and lobbying for additional funds by state lawmakers.
The draft document was characterized as an internal and deliberative draft meant for internal discussions in light of the incoming federal administration’s public remarks. There is uncertainty about the amount of funding required for the plan, but it is expected to be allocated towards community outreach, legal services staffing, and administrative costs associated with hub operations. The California Social Services Department would provide state funds to eligible nonprofits and take on the administrative duties for the hubs. The state currently faces a $68 billion budget deficit, but the administration is collaborating with the Legislature to finalize a funding proposal for the plan to be signed into law before January 20, 2025.
Amid concerns about the impact of potential deportations under the Trump administration, the plan seeks to support at-risk individuals and their families by connecting them with essential community resources. After Trump’s election, Newsom called a special legislative session and discussed the creation of a “Trump-proof” legal defense fund. Additionally, Senate Budget Chair Scott Wiener proposed legislation seeking $60 million, including funds for an immigrant detention representation and coordination program. The draft does not outline specific details on the amount of funding required for the plan, but highlights the importance of funding community outreach, partnership, and staffing positions for legal services in the hubs.
The draft plan is part of California’s proactive approach to addressing potential challenges under a new Trump administration, particularly in relation to immigration policies. The Immigrant Support Network Concept aims to provide support and resources to at-risk individuals and families, working in collaboration with various community systems. The plan underscores the importance of funding legal services staffing positions, community outreach efforts, and administrative costs for the operation of the hubs. Despite the state’s significant budget deficit, the California Social Services Department is working with the Legislature to finalize a funding proposal in order to implement the plan before the inauguration of the new administration.
As discussions continue about the implementation of the plan, California leaders are focused on preparing for potential changes in federal immigration policies under a new administration. The draft document reflects the state’s efforts to support vulnerable immigrant populations and provide them with access to essential services and resources. While the specifics of the funding requirements are still being determined, the plan emphasizes the importance of community outreach, legal services staffing, and administrative costs for the operation of the proposed Immigrant Support Network. Through collaboration between the state government and nonprofit organizations, California is working to establish a framework for assisting at-risk individuals and families in navigating potential challenges related to immigration enforcement.
