California Lawmakers Propose Protections for Immigrant Students

California lawmakers are advancing two key bills, AB 49 and SB 48, designed to protect undocumented students from potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions near schools. AB 49 mandates that ICE agents secure written permission from school superintendents to enter K-12 schools or daycare centers, while SB 48 limits local police cooperation with federal authorities within a mile of schools. These measures respond to heightened fears following President Trump's deportation threats, with nearly 12% of California’s K-12 students having undocumented parents. Los Angeles Unified School District has also initiated training for staff and provided resources to assist immigrant families, emphasizing that education is a right regardless of immigration status. While experts acknowledge the bills may not fully prevent arrests, they aim to alleviate community concerns about safety during school drop-offs. Overall, these legislative efforts reflect California's commitment to safeguarding its immigrant student population amidst a climate of uncertainty.