California Senate Approves Bill for Undocumented Immigrants’ Access to Homebuyer Loans

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According to hollywoodunlocked, On August 27, 2024, the California State Senate approved a bill that would extend first-time homebuyer loan eligibility to undocumented immigrants. The legislation, known as AB 1840, passed with a 23-11 party-line vote and is now awaiting a final approval vote in the Assembly before reaching Governor Gavin Newsom.

AB 1840 proposes to broaden the eligibility criteria for California’s first-time homebuyer loan program, the California Dream For All Shared Appreciation program. If enacted, the bill would allow undocumented immigrants residing in California to qualify for the loan program, which was initially intended for documented immigrants and U.S. citizens.

Supporters of the bill, including Democrats, argue that applicants will still need to provide a taxpayer identification number or social security number, ensuring that the loans are not misused. The California Dream For All Shared Appreciation program, launched in 2023, was designed to assist low- and middle-income individuals with down payments for home purchases within the state.

Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno), who introduced the bill, emphasized that AB 1840 clarifies the program’s eligibility criteria, which previously did not specify immigration status. Arambula stated, “The program hasn’t been clear about eligibility for undocumented individuals, and AB 1840 addresses that issue.”

As the current legislative session concludes on August 31, Governor Newsom has until September 30 to sign any bills into law.

Republican lawmakers have voiced strong opposition to the bill. Assemblyman Bill Essayli (R-Corona) criticized the measure, arguing, “This is outrageous. Democrat politicians care more about handouts for illegal immigrants rather than improving the quality of life for legal California citizens. I will strongly oppose this measure when it comes to the Assembly Floor this week.” Similarly, Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Sacramento) expressed his reluctance, stating he “just can’t get behind using our limited dollars for people who are in this country undocumented.”

The debate over AB 1840 reflects ongoing tensions over immigration policy and its implications for state programs.

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