A New Measure Allowing Unauthorized Immigrants to Own Homes
After passing the State Senate on Wednesday, a new California law that would provide house loans to illegal immigrants is on its way to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk.
Should the bill be approved, California would be the first state to offer state-sponsored home-buying loans to unauthorized immigrants.
The bill’s sponsor, Assemblymember Joaquin Arambulo, stated that “the social and economic benefits of home ownership should be available to everyone regardless of immigration status.”
AB 1840 would include illegal immigrants in the “California Dream for All” program, which offers qualifying applicants up to $150,000 or a 20% down payment for their first house.
“Due to federal restrictions, undocumented individuals have historically been excluded from housing initiatives,” stated Arambulo. “Ensuring universal access for all borrowers will be beneficial to California’s overall prosperity and vitality.”
Republican politicians and conservative news sites have responded quickly.
GOP Minority Leader State Senator Brian Jones stated, “For every dollar that goes to an illegal immigrant, that’s a dollar that isn’t going to a veteran or a legal California citizen who also qualify.” “The state doesn’t have an endless supply of money for these homebuyer programs.”
Governor Newsom has not said whether he would sign the legislation, which may make the Democratic Party’s messaging on the contentious immigration topic more difficult to understand during election season.
Kamala Harris, the Democratic contender for president, has supported spending for the border.
Additionally, Harris has supported a modest plan for a government house down payment assistance that would not include unauthorized immigrants.
Donald Trump, the Republican candidate for president, has previously criticized the California measure.