Illegal aliens can apply for direct cash assistance from the California state government as of Monday, marking the implementation of the first relief program of its kind.
“Every Californian, including our undocumented neighbors and friends, should know that California is here to support them during this crisis,” the governor said during the announcement. “We are all in this together.”
The Disaster Relief Fund will proceed despite pushback from California GOP lawmakers, a minority in the state legislature, and a lawsuit challenging the legality of the program.
Federal immigration law typically bars undocumented aliens from being eligible for state or local public benefits. Only through laws enacted by a state legislature can a state government distribute financial assistance to undocumented aliens.
The relief fund, nevertheless, enjoys strong support from the state’s Democratic Party.
California expects to distribute cash to about 150,000 illegal aliens in the state. The governor added at the time of the announcement that as much of 10% of California’s workforce is undocumented — and deserving of financial assistance during the coronavirus pandemic.
The relief program is a public-private partnership, with $75 million in funds being covered by California taxpayers and another $50 million by philanthropic organizations. The fund will dole out one-time cash payments of $500 to each eligible adult, and a cap of $1,000 per family household.
Private donors to the relief program include the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, the James Irvine Foundation, Emerson Collective, California Endowment and Blue Shield Foundation.
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