A new California bill that would provide home loans to illegal immigrants is now heading to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk after being passed by the state Senate on Wednesday.
If passed, California would be the first state to offer undocumented immigrants government-backed loans to purchase homes.
“The social and economic benefits of homeownership should be available to everyone, regardless of immigration status,” said Rep. Joaquin Arambulo, the bill’s author.
AB 1840 would expand the California Dream for All program, which provides qualified applicants with a 20% down payment or up to $150,000 on their first home, to include undocumented immigrants.
“Historically, undocumented people have been excluded from housing initiatives due to federal restrictions,” Arambulo said. “Ensuring universal access for all borrowers will contribute to California’s overall success and vitality.”
Conservative news agencies and Republican politicians responded promptly with backlash.
“Every dollar that goes to an illegal immigrant is not going to a veteran or a legal citizen of California who also qualifies,” said Senator Brian Jones, the Republican minority leader. “The state does not have unlimited money for these homebuyer programs.”
Governor Newsom has not said whether he will sign the bill, which could complicate the Democratic Party’s message on the volatile immigration issue during the election campaign.
Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has spoken out in favor of funding the border.
Harris also supported a proposal for a modest federal grant for a down payment on a home, exempting undocumented immigrants.
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has already condemned the California legislation.
