Immigration: access to legal counsel.
Vote required
Majority
Fiscal committee
No
Appropriation
No
Current location
Appropriations
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill aims to provide legal counsel to individuals facing immigration proceedings in California who are currently not represented by an attorney. It would establish an administrator within the Department of Social Services to oversee the implementation of this program, ensuring access to legal assistance for those deemed ‘covered’ based on indigency and a connection to California immigration matters. The bill also outlines a phased approach to implementation and establishes criteria for selecting legal service providers, including nonprofit organizations, public defender offices, and private attorneys.
Key provisions
- Establishes an administrator within the Department of Social Services to oversee the program.
- Defines ‘covered individual’ based on indigency and connection to California immigration proceedings.
- Requires the state to provide legal counsel to covered individuals who are not already represented.
- Outlines criteria for selecting legal service providers, including nonprofits, public defenders, and private attorneys.
- Mandates a phased-in implementation plan, prioritizing individuals in immigration custody.
- Requires an annual report to the Legislature detailing program implementation and outcomes.
- Specifies data collection requirements to assess eligibility and representation efforts.
- Allows for grants to community-based organizations for outreach and education.
Who is affected
- Immigrants in California
Bill text
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