Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, signed a bill that allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a state identification, a document that is broader than a driver’s license, which was limited to a small sector of the population.
With this law, California residents could now acquire a state identification regardless of their immigration status, according to the project announced in a press release.
“We are a sanctuary state, a majority-minority state, where 27 percent of us are immigrants,” he said. Newsom after signing the legislation.
“That is why I am proud to announce the signing of today’s bills to further support our immigrant community, which makes our state stronger every day,” the governor added.
A law passed in 2013 allows California residents to obtain a driver’s license, but this new bill will allow non-driving residents to acquire a government-issued ID, even if they are not legal immigrants.
It is estimated that around 22% of the nearly 11 million California immigrants are in the United States illegally, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.
Under the signed bill, California’s identification eligibility will be expanded to nearly 2 million people who lack legal status. The law will enter into force no later than July 1, 2027.
What benefits could this law bring to undocumented Californians?
- Undocumented Californians will be able to obtain a state ID, a critical step for inclusion and meaningful participation in our communities and economy.
- Street vendors can more easily obtain local health permits, which supports better economic inclusion and opportunity.
- Provides low-income Californians, regardless of immigration status, with eligibility for legal assistance in civil matters affecting basic human needs.
- Access to community health workers and promoters who can facilitate and deliver culturally and linguistically responsive care.
- Cal/OSHA publications will be provided in multiple languages to protect workers and support safe workplaces.
- An alternative plea plan will be created for those charged with crimes of drugs, mitigating particular harm to non-citizen Californians.
Immigrant students will have better access to in-state tuition at public colleges and universities, and to ESL courses at community colleges. In addition, immigrant student borrowers will have more options to finance their college education.
Newsom sponsored the bill, along with other legislation what to allow It would allow street vendors to more easily obtain local health permits and provide immigrant students better access to in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.
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