The federal government is intensifying pressure on Los Angeles County over its alleged lack of cooperation in enforcing immigration laws.
On May 12, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a subpoena to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), seeking records to determine whether the county provided cash assistance to undocumented immigrants through the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI).
According to the Los Angeles Times, the investigation was launched by the Trump administration, citing transparency in the use of federal funds as the reason for the probe.
DHS Demands Sensitive Immigrant Data
CAPI, operated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), offers monthly cash benefits to non-citizen immigrants aged 65 and older who are disabled or elderly. Beneficiaries may also qualify for Medi-Cal, CalFresh (food assistance), and In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS).
The DHS maintains that, since federal funds are involved in the program, benefits must not be extended to applicants who are undocumented immigrants, as they are ineligible under federal law.
Through the subpoena, DHS is demanding LA County provide records dating from 2021, including applicants’ names, dates of birth, application forms, immigration status, proof of ineligibility for Social Security benefits, and supporting declarations. If the county complies, the federal government would gain access to sensitive personal data of immigrants in the region.
Nationwide Crackdown Possible
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stressed that the Trump administration is committed to preventing undocumented immigrants from accessing federal welfare or financial support. “We must stop the abuse of public benefits. Undocumented immigrants must leave this country immediately,” she said.
Noem also indicated that the investigation into LA County could be expanded nationwide. On April 15, President Trump signed an executive order banning undocumented immigrants from accessing Social Security benefits.
State and Labor Union Pushback
The eligibility criteria for CAPI do not explicitly define the precise immigration status required, instead using the term “non-citizens” as described by CDSS. Since January 2024, California has also allowed undocumented immigrants to enroll in Medi-Cal.
The CDSS currently states that CAPI is fully funded by the state budget, with no federal contributions.
In response, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California and its Western Division criticized the federal government’s actions. David Huerta, SEIU California President, argued in a statement that the federal government has no authority to dictate how the state allocates funds to combat local poverty. He described the investigation as a threat to people striving to sustain their livelihoods and safety.
BY HYOUNGJAE KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]
