A new California bill advancing in the legislature could offer zero-down payment loans to illegal immigrants, leaving many taxpayers outraged. AB 1840, authored by Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula (D), expands the California Dream for All Shared Appreciation Loan program to include illegal aliens, providing up to 20% of a home’s purchase price. Critics argue that the state is prioritizing illegal immigrants over struggling American citizens, especially as housing costs continue to rise across the state.
The bill comes at a time when California faces a $60 billion budget deficit, raising concerns about fiscal responsibility. San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond criticized the bill, calling it a misuse of taxpayer dollars. He argues that legal residents and citizens should be first in line for assistance, particularly given the financial struggles many are facing in the current housing market.
Supporters of the bill claim that it promotes fairness and equity by extending homeownership opportunities to all residents, regardless of immigration status. Arambula insists that the benefits of homeownership should not be limited by citizenship, but many disagree, feeling that this approach undermines legal pathways and burdens taxpayers.
The Senate Appropriations Committee’s approval of the bill sets it up for a full Senate vote, where it is likely to pass given the Democratic supermajority. If enacted, the bill could fuel further backlash from citizens who feel that their needs are being sidelined in favor of non-citizens.
