Know SB-54
Knowing the existing laws allows us to enforce compliance or to request its repeal. The immigrant community represents a high percentage of the total population of the country, we are working people, we pay taxes, we buy products and services, we participate in almost all social and economic spheres, and we collaborate in the integral development of the country. Along the lines of “Yes we can” we have achieved important achievements to improve the situation and living conditions of our communities, we have participated in the social changes that will guarantee a better future for the whole population, especially for our daughters and sons. Keeping us informed and informed about the legislative task allows us to discuss, study and take action before the events, supporting or not bills that impact our lives.
Given this is the case of Bill SB-54, approved by the California Senate last Monday, April 3/17 with a vote of 27 in favor and 12 against, the next step being its discussion and approval by the Assembly State. If the Assembly approves this proposal and Governor Jerry Brown the signature becomes Law and would take effect from January 1, 2018.
What is the SB-54?
It is a Bill or Bill proposed by Senate Temporary President Kevin De Leon, Representative of District 25 (Los Angeles) of the State of California, supported by Assemblyman Marc Levine (D-Marin County). SB-54 is also known as the “California Securities Act” and has been presented for the purpose of preventing the use of public, state, and local resources to assist federal agents for Immigration Control and Customs (ICE) in deportation actions.
The Bill would make California a “Sanctuary State” by prohibiting officers and sheriffs from collaborating with immigration officers and agents, unless they have a court order, because the person committed a crime or has a deportation order.
The California Securities Act will also create “safe zones” throughout the state by prohibiting the application of immigration laws in public schools, hospitals, and courts. To ensure that immigrants continue to take their sons and daughters to public schools and apply for services and assistance in different state agencies when they are eligible. The bill also requires state agencies to review and update their public confidentiality policies.
Citizen participation and the support of various social and community organizations has made itself felt in backing this proposal, thus collaborating to a large extent in the positive process of it, which would give a respite to the immigrant population of California. Even so SB-54 has faced contrary positions, as is the case of law enforcement representative Scott Jones, Sacramento County Sheriff.
An informed community is a community with power.