More Than Half of California Residents Support Sanctuary State Legislation

According to the results of a new poll by USC Dornsife and the Los Angeles Times, more than 50% of California residents support a new state “sanctuary” law that would help shield undocumented immigrants from federal immigration officials and deportation proceedings. California’s landmark sanctuary law, which is set to go into effect in January, places severe limitations on the immigrants that state and local law enforcement agencies can hold, question, and transfer upon the request of federal immigration authorities. Essentially, the only immigrants that local authorities will turn over to immigration are those who have been convicted of certain crimes. However, immigration officials still will be able to work with state corrections officials and enter county jails to question detained immigrants, although access to personal information about immigrants will remain largely restricted. California’s law, along with sanctuary policies of different jurisdictions nationwide, has sparked continual confrontation with the Trump Administration over the course of the past year. California, however, sees it as an effort to protect the 2.3 million undocumented immigrants who are currently living in the state. Although the Trump administration has continued to portray illegal immigration as a threat to public safety, most Californians see undocumented immigrants as revitalizing to cities, rather than as a threat. Traditionally, California residents have supported undocumented immigrants, even when national opinion has shifted in opposition to immigrants. Even Republicans in California have supported a path to citizenship for these individuals, rather than focusing on deportation. As a result, a solid majority of California residents have supported the right of the state government to make its own policies to protect all of its residents, including undocumented immigrants. When you or a loved one are detained and face deportation for any reason, Landerholm Immigration, A.P.C. is here to help. We care about you, your family, and your ability to remain in the U.S. As a result, our California deportation defense lawyers stand ready to build the strongest possible deportation defense case on your behalf. Contact your Oakland immigration lawyer today and learn how we can advocate for you and your family in your deportation proceedings.