Sanctuary Bill Watered Down By Governor Brown Still Ties Law Enforcements' Hands

Legislative Update By: Shari Rendall

On the last day of its legislative session, the California legislature sent Governor Jerry Brown SB 54, a bill that expands the State’s sanctuary law further placing the interests of illegal aliens above its lawful residents.  (Newsweek, Sept. 18, 2017) Dubbed the “California Values Act”, SB 54, ties the hands of law enforcement and further undermines federal immigration enforcement in the state.  

Despite Governor Brown “scaling back” the legislation’s reach, SB 54 still drastically undercuts what actions law enforcement officials may take. Specifically, SB 54 them from inquiring about the citizenship or immigration status of any individual they encounter, which hampers their ability to cooperate in immigration enforcement matters. (SB 54) It also stops law enforcement from arresting, searching, or detaining any person based on their immigration status, detainer, or an administrative warrant that may be issued by the federal government. (Id.) Additionally, SB 54 precludes law enforcement from entering into any agreement or program with federal officials for training or participation in immigration enforcement, including the 287(g) program. (Id.)

Governor Brown is expected to sign the California Values Act soon.