‘Bonta is just grandstanding here’
In a statement on Wednesday, Attorney General Rob Bonta announced updates to policies and recommendations to help guide public institutions in complying with California law limiting state and local participation in immigration enforcement activities, adding more to his attempt to block new tougher immigration policies next year.
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For the last month, Bonta, as well as other Democratic California lawmakers, have rallied against President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed migrant policy changes, such as a ramping up of deportation efforts against illegal immigrants and stricter border measures. Entire cities have also gotten into it, with the Los Angeles City Council voting to make the city a sanctuary city a few weeks ago. Governor Gavin Newsom also recently proposed $25 million going to a legal defense fund to challenge immigration enforcement authorities. For Bonta, it has also meant attempting legal challenges against Trump, as well as strengthening California sanctuary state laws, despite the numerous issues with them.
On Wednesday, Bonta went even further, announcing updated guidance on SB 54/Sanctuary state laws. This included reiterating that hospitals, libraries, shelters, schools, and courthouses were safe spaces for illegal migrants.
“No matter who is in the White House, in California, we will continue to lead with California values. California is the most diverse state in the nation, and immigrants are the backbone of our economy, history, and culture. We will not be caught flat-footed if the President-elect follows through on his threats of mass deportation – and we will not allow safe spaces like libraries, hospitals, and courthouses to be co-opted and commandeered for his inhumane immigration agenda,” said Bonta. “Many public institutions already have policies in place for how to respond to immigration enforcement authorities – and we advise those who do not to make a plan today. My office will continue to use the full force of the law and every tool at our disposal to protect the rights of California’s immigrants – and we need staff at these critical locations to do the same. We cannot let the Trump deportation machine create a culture of fear and mistrust that prevents immigrants from accessing vital public services.”
He also reiterated that state courthouses, public healthcare facilities, and public schools are required to limit support of immigration enforcement activity. All other facilities, such as libraries, are encouraged to do so.
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