Democrats in the California State Legislature are proposing a bill that would allow hiring non-legal immigrant students for state jobs.
The "Opportunity for All Act" (CA Assembly Bill 2586) introduced by Assembly-member David Alvarez would allow the University of California system—the state's largest government agency—to begin hiring students with a non-legal immigrant status for taxpayer-funded state jobs, at state-run universities.
“America has always promised that if you work hard, you will have the opportunity to succeed,” said Assemblymember David Alvarez. “These students have fulfilled their obligation and are ready to be our future teachers, scientists, doctors, and public servants. This bill will provide them with the opportunity to work. Creating these pathways to secure employment is essential.”
The bill which passed the Assembly by a 59-4 vote and now heads to the State Senate.
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Opposition to AB 2586
Republican based Reform California claims this proposal exacerbates the border crisis and violates federal law. Carl DeMaio, chairman of Reform California and a State Assembly candidate, criticized the bill for incentivizing illegal immigration.
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“By mandating that illegal immigrants be hired for taxpayer-funded jobs in state government, California Democrats are worsening our border crisis and openly violating federal employment laws prohibiting the hiring of illegal immigrants!" DeMaio said.
“This outrageous proposal should be rejected immediately! It's offensive to force taxpayers to fund government jobs for illegal immigrants and it risks, federal prosecution for those who hire them,” he continued.
The UC Board of Regents briefly considered implementing this proposal independently but rejected it after state government lawyers warned it would violate federal law and risk federal prosecution for illegal immigrants and their employers.
Due to the serious legal risks posed by AB 2586, the University of California opposes the bill. UC attorneys argue the bill “does not protect our undocumented students or employees from prosecution” nor does it protect the universities from federal consequences.
Carl DeMaio, website states that he is running for State Assembly to fight against bills like AB 2586.
