California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued two guidances aimed at helping immigrants in the state understand their rights and protections under the law. These guidances are intended to prevent immigration scams that exploit fear and uncertainty, especially following the President-elect's threats of mass detention, arrests, and deportation.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized the importance of immigrants to California's communities and economy. "In California, we know that our immigrants are the backbone of our communities, a driving force behind our economy, and an essential part of our history as a state," he stated. He further assured that California will protect immigrant rights against any destructive federal immigration agenda.
The new guidance details several key rights for immigrants in California:
- Immigrants have the right to apply for housing without disclosing their immigration status unless applying for federally funded affordable housing.
- They have access to emergency medical care regardless of their legal status.
- If arrested by police or detained by ICE, they have the right to seek legal assistance.
- State and local law enforcement cannot inquire about or share personal information related to immigration status for enforcement purposes.
- Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from assisting ICE with immigration enforcement except under specific circumstances.
The full "Know Your Immigration Rights" consumer alert is available in multiple languages on oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources.
To protect against immigration scams, Attorney General Bonta advises seeking help from legitimate legal aid organizations rather than consultants or notaries who claim expertise in immigration matters. The public is warned against giving money or personal information over phone calls, texts, or emails claiming issues with their immigration status.
For more information on avoiding scams and accessing free legal assistance, resources are available at Law Help CA or Immigration Law Help websites. Complaints regarding rights violations can be filed with the California Department of Justice or reported to the California Civil Rights Department if discrimination is suspected.