Governor Newsom Signs Assembly Member Santiago’s Immigrant Rights Act

(Sacramento, CA) – Following Governor Newsom’s signing of the “Immigrant Rights Act” AB 1261 (Santiago, 2023), author Assembly Member Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) released the following statement:

“With AB 1261, we not only have a chance to reduce crime but also protect some of our most vulnerable community members,” said Assembly Member Santiago.

“These visas provide pathways to allow undocumented crime victims and witnesses to seek justice and feel safe coming forward without risking deportation. Our collective public safety depends on all Californians feeling safe when they participate in our legal system.”

The Immigrant Rights Act promotes shared values of safety and justice by codifying the procedures for S visas and clarifying the procedures for U and T visas. It provides additional guidance to law enforcement and prosecutors on the requirements and factors that are not required for a U, T, or S visa to be issued as well as who is eligible under these programs.

Assembly Member Miguel Santiago is the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Governmental Organization. He represents the 54th District composed of the cities of Los Angeles, Commerce, Montebello, and Vernon.

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