CAL.Regulation
California keeps CalWORKs eligibility for members detained in federal immigration custody
Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 1655 on September 29, 2026. It amends and adds Welfare and Institutions Code section 11269 so that a CalWORKs assistance-unit member detained in an immigration detention facility is treated as temporarily absent, and the household stays eligible. A written sworn statement is sufficient to establish the detention. The rule becomes operative July 1, 2027, or when the automation system is ready, whichever is later.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Office of the Governor
Key points
- Treats detention in federal immigration custody as temporary absence for CalWORKs purposes.California Legislative Information
- Preserves the assistance unit's eligibility during the detention.California Legislative Information
- A written sworn statement is sufficient proof of the detention.California Legislative Information
- Effective July 1, 2027 or when SAWS automation is ready, whichever is later.California Legislative Information
- Chapter 742, Statutes of 2026, amends, repeals and adds Welfare and Institutions Code section 11269.California Legislative Information
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Office of the Governor