California is poised to become the first state in the nation to offer home loans to undocumented immigrants, following the passage of Assembly Bill 1840 in a 45-15 vote on Wednesday. The bill, which now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk for approval, has sparked intense debate and criticism from Republican lawmakers.
The measure, which would provide $150,000 home loans to eligible undocumented immigrants, has been met with fierce opposition from Republicans who argue that it is a misuse of taxpayer funds and a betrayal of California residents. The state is currently grappling with a $68 billion budget deficit, which has only added to the controversy.
Assemblyman Bill Essayli, a Republican, blasted the bill as “offensive” and argued that it sends the wrong message by rewarding individuals who have entered the country unlawfully. He pointed out that securing a down payment is often a significant hurdle for prospective homeowners, and that providing loans to undocumented immigrants would be a “slap in the face” to those who have followed the law.
The bill would increase the number of applicants for home loans, which already exceeds 18,000, with only 1,700 selected through a state lottery system. The measure has drawn comparisons to a proposal by Vice President Kamala Harris to offer up to $25,000 in federal down payment assistance to first-time homebuyers.
Republican lawmakers, including Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones and Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez, have urged Newsom to veto the bill, arguing that it would unfairly prioritize the interests of undocumented immigrants over those of California residents. Sanchez likened the state’s policies to a “giant welcome sign” for undocumented immigrants, saying that they are already eligible for free healthcare and other benefits.
Jones argued that every dollar allocated to undocumented immigrants is one less dollar available to support legal residents, including veterans, teachers, and families. He noted that many Californians who have lived in the state for generations are struggling to afford homes due to unsustainable economic policies, and questioned whether the state should be providing financial assistance to those who are in the country unlawfully.
Newsom has until September 30 to decide on the bill’s fate.
