California Assemblyman Bill Essayli is raising concerns about Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed $50 million initiative to strengthen the state's legal defenses against anticipated federal policies from the Trump administration. Essayli questioned whether the funds, intended to "Trump-proof" California, would be used to shield undocumented immigrants, including those with criminal records, from deportation.

During a hearing on the two proposed bills, Essayli pressed Newsom's representatives for clarification. He expressed concern that the funds could be channeled to non-profit groups providing legal services to undocumented immigrants, effectively protecting them from deportation proceedings. A staffer from the governor's office responded that she could only speak to the grant's purpose and couldn't provide the level of guarantee Essayli sought. She admitted uncertainty when further questioned about whether funds granted to nonprofits would be used to defend undocumented immigrants with criminal records.

Newsom's proposal allocates $25 million to the California Department of Justice for legal action against the Trump administration on policies perceived as harmful to Californians, such as environmental regulations and abortion access. Another $25 million is designated for nonprofits defending "immigrant families."

Essayli criticized the hearing as a superficial exercise, claiming that crucial questions remained unanswered. However, Newsom's spokesperson, Brandon Richards, stated unequivocally that none of the funding would support immigration-related services for individuals with criminal records. He reiterated this stance when asked if the funds would be used to defend any undocumented immigrants from deportation.

The Trump administration has prioritized deporting undocumented immigrants with criminal convictions. The Department of Homeland Security recently reported the removal and return of 7,300 undocumented individuals.

Following Trump's re-election, Newsom convened a special legislative session to secure additional funding for legal challenges against the administration. Trump responded on TruthSocial, accusing Newsom of using the term "Trump-proof" to obstruct positive changes for California. The state has a history of legal clashes with the Trump administration, filing numerous lawsuits during his first term, primarily concerning environmental regulations, immigration, and healthcare. California also declared itself a sanctuary state for transgender transition treatments for minors, a practice Trump banned from receiving federal funding.

The California Senate has approved Newsom's proposal, and the Assembly is scheduled to vote soon. If approved without amendments, the measures will go to Newsom for signature.