In a decisive move to safeguard state interests amid potential federal policy shifts, the California Assembly passed two bills on Feb. 3 aimed at bolstering legal defense and providing immigration aid. Backed by Assembly Democrats, these measures allocate $50 million to support legal services for vulnerable communities and establish a fund to challenge federal policies that could threaten California’s funding and programs.
The legislation includes SBX1-1, which creates a $25 million State Litigation Fund within the California Department of Justice to counter federal actions that may jeopardize state resources. Additionally, SBX1-2 directs another $25 million toward legal assistance for veterans, students, renters, families, and other at-risk groups—while specifically excluding individuals convicted of violent or serious felonies.
Assembly leaders framed the bills as a proactive defense against federal policies that could undermine state programs. Among their concerns is the recent “Republican Freeze”—a delay in the disbursement of Congressionally approved federal funds for small businesses, education, housing, wildfire recovery, and healthcare.
Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas underscored the urgency of the measures, emphasizing California’s commitment to protecting its residents from political instability in Washington.
“At a time when Washington is being dragged down by unprofessional, chaotic behavior, here in California, we are focused on results,” Rivas stated. “We do not trust President Donald Trump to respect the Constitution or the limits of his power, so we are taking action to protect our residents.”
Assembly Budget Chair Jesse Gabriel reinforced the state’s obligation to defend its people and finances.
“We cannot—and will not—stand idly by if the administration breaks the law or violates the U.S. Constitution,” Gabriel said. “Californians should rest assured that we will vigorously protect both their fair share of federal dollars and their fundamental rights.”
SBX1-1 enables the California Department of Justice to file lawsuits if the federal government withholds critical aid, ensuring the state has legal recourse to secure necessary funding.
Meanwhile, SBX1-2 designates resources for free legal aid to support veterans, people with disabilities, unhoused youth, seniors, and victims of domestic violence, wage theft, and human trafficking.
The legislation has received backing from a wide range of stakeholders, including business leaders, emergency responders, and healthcare advocates.
Brian K. Rice, president of the California Professional Firefighters, emphasized the need for preparedness in responding to federal policy shifts.
“This action is not about antagonizing the federal government but ensuring we can protect our residents,” Rice said.
Louise McCarthy, president of the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County, highlighted the importance of securing federal healthcare funding.
“We can’t play politics with people’s lives,” McCarthy said. “We thank the State of California for acting swiftly to respond to any threats to our federal programs and funding.”
Pepi Jackson, president of the Riverside County Black Chamber of Commerce, pointed to the bill’s potential impact on small businesses.
“This $50 million funding package is about survival for the small and minority-owned businesses that form the backbone of our local economy,” Jackson said.
California has a track record of using litigation to protect its interests. Between 2016 and 2021, the California Department of Justice spent approximately $40 million on legal challenges against federal policies, winning two-thirds of its cases against the Trump administration.
Notable victories included securing over $8 billion in energy efficiency savings for California ratepayers and reclaiming nearly $60 million in federal public safety grants.
Supporters of SBX1-2 also emphasized the crucial economic contributions of immigrants, who generate an estimated $715 billion annually for California’s gross domestic product (GDP).
According to data from the USC California Immigrant Data Portal and the U.S. Census, immigrants:
- Pay nearly $130 billion in annual state and federal taxes.
- Represent 88% of the state’s farmworker population—about half of whom are undocumented.
- Make up 41% of the construction workforce and one-third of workers in tourism and hospitality.
- Account for 50% of certified nursing assistants in California nursing homes, underscoring their role in key industries.
The special legislative session also addressed wildfire response funding. Lawmakers have already approved a $2.5 billion package for Los Angeles wildfire recovery, covering cleanup efforts and the rebuilding of schools and homes.
Over the past decade, California’s wildfire prevention budget has nearly tripled, increasing from $1.1 billion in 2014-15 to $3 billion in 2023-24. The current budget includes $199 million for additional firefighting personnel and ongoing investments in wildfire resilience programs.
With Assembly approval secured, SBX1-1 and SBX1-2 will now move to the California Senate for further debate and consideration.