California's ‘sanctuary state’ bill nears approval

A ‘sanctuary state’ bill of California that would reduce cooperation of police with federal immigration authorities was given a go-ahead by the state Assembly on 15 September, as it won with a 49-25 vote.

Jerry Brown, California Governor, extended his support in September second week after Kevin de Leon, Senate President Pro Tem, agreed to water it down and let authority continue for jail and prison officials to cooperate with immigration officials as and when necessary.

This bill is Democratic lawmakers’ latest initiative in California, which houses approximately 2.3 million undocumented immigrants, to make it difficult for the US administration to expedite deportation efforts. They also made it tougher for businesses and government agencies to divulge people's immigration status by approving money for college scholarships and legal assistance for these undocumented immigrants.

Pablo Alvarado, executive director of the National Day Laborer Organizing Network, was quoted by Associated Press as saying that it was a relief to find out that some legislators are taking notice of it.

This stance is being lauded by immigration supporters as it still offers some protections for illegal immigrants.

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