In response to the national traction on immigration issues, this Session has seen the introduction of several California immigration bills. The California Catholic Conference (CCC) has decided to support two in particular, and is examining several others that have the potential to impact immigration in the State in significant ways.

The CCC is supporting Senate Bill 54 (SB 54), the California Values Act introduced by Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de León. SB 54 establishes “safe zones” that would prevent U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from enforcing deportation charges. The bill would that require California schools, hospitals and courtrooms to adopt policies that would limit immigration enforcement on their premises.

“To the millions of undocumented residents pursuing and contributing to the California Dream, the State of California will be your wall of justice should the incoming Administration adopt an inhumane and over-reaching mass-deportation policy,” said Senator de León in a prepared statement.

Senate Bill 257 (SB 257) by Senator Richard Lara (D-Bell Gardens) would require that schools continue to allow the children of deported individuals admission even though they no longer meet residency requirements.

Senate Bill 6 (SB 6), the Due Process For All Act by Senator Ben Hueso (D-San Diego), which would create a state-funded program to provide legal representation for those facing deportation.

At a press conference to announce the bill, Senator Hueso, Chair of the Latino Legislative Caucus, said SB 6 and other related bills “send a clear message to undocumented Californians that we won’t turn our backs on them. We will do everything in our power to protect them from unjustified deportation. In California we embrace people of all walks of life who work hard and contribute to our economy and that won’t change now.”

Full story at California Catholic Conference.