California governor signs new bill giving access to state ID to non-driving undocumented immigrants

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new bill into law on Friday giving access to state-issued non-drivers identification cards to undocumented immigrants residing in the state.

The new bill will allow undocumented California residents to gain permits for things like food trucks, state-sponsored tuition programs at public colleges and universities, DREAM loans, and other state programs they could not access without an official identification.

The move is an extension of the previous 2013 legislation signed by former governor Jerry Brown that allowed undocumented immigrants access to driver’s licenses.

“California is expanding opportunity for everyone, regardless of immigration status,” said Newsom. “We’re a state of refuge – a majority-minority state, where 27 percent of us are immigrants. That’s why I’m proud to announce the signing of today’s bills to further support our immigrant community, which makes our state stronger every single day.”

The new bill is aimed at helping undocumented immigrants get easier access to healthcare, bank accounts and other services they may not otherwise be able to procure. The bill also seeks to give easier access to health services for older undocumented persons who may suffer from disabilities that prevent them from driving. 

Undocumented persons who do not drive will now be eligible to receive “legal assistance in civil matters affecting basic human needs,” and ESL resources. The state will also create an “alternate plea scheme” that will assist those charged with drug offenses.

“California is expanding opportunity for everyone, regardless of immigration status,” said the governor. “We’re a state of refuge – a majority-minority state, where 27 percent of us are immigrants. That’s why I’m proud to announce the signing of today’s bills to further support our immigrant community, which makes our state stronger every single day.”