DHS Probes California Immigrant Aid for SSI Fraud

The Department of Homeland Security has subpoenaed Los Angeles County for records related to California’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI), investigating allegations that undocumented immigrants unlawfully received federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The probe follows an April executive order from President Trump directing agencies to prevent ineligible individuals from accessing Social Security Act funds. Federal officials suspect some recipients may have improperly accessed SSI through California’s state-funded CAPI program, which is intended for legal immigrants who cannot receive SSI due to their immigration status. California officials maintain that CAPI is not generally available to undocumented immigrants and does not use federal funds. Immigrant advocates have criticized the investigation as a political move targeting vulnerable communities. The subpoenas demand records from January 2021 onward, reflecting heightened federal scrutiny amid ongoing national debates over immigration and public benefits.