California Democrats have been criticized for advancing a bold legislative measure that would provide up to $150,000 in homeownership assistance to undocumented immigrants. Officials have labeled this proposal as “crazy.”
The bill, AB 1840, seeks to expand the California Housing Finance Authority’s home purchase assistance program, known as the California Dream for All Program, to include applications from undocumented immigrants.
The state Senate approved the bill on Tuesday.
California Nears Approval of $150K Loans for Undocumented Immigrants to Assist with Home Purchases
In a statement to TV5s Digital, California Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) contended that the proposed legislation would worsen the existing border and housing crises, as well as the escalating cost of living in California.
Former California Official Criticizes State Bill Offering Housing Loans to Undocumented Immigrants as ‘Absurd
“I never thought it was possible to exacerbate both the border and housing crises with a single vote, but Democrats have managed to do just that,” Gallagher remarked. “Allocating taxpayer-funded housing subsidies to undocumented immigrants will only escalate costs and fuel further disorder at the border.”
“This is absurd and must be stopped,” he added.
The California Dream for All program, which faced issues with funding running out merely 11 days after its launch in June—serving 1,700 first-time homebuyers at that time—was passed despite concerns about securing additional funds.
The program offers first-time homebuyers up to 20% of a home’s value or $150,000 in down payment assistance. The bill is now returning to the California state Assembly to review revisions made by the Senate.
It passed with a 23-11 vote, largely along party lines, with some Democrats abstaining. Governor Gavin Newsom has yet to announce whether he will sign the bill into law if it reaches him before the August 31 deadline.
In a statement to TV5s Digital, Newsom’s press secretary indicated that the governor will review the legislation when it arrives on his desk.
