As of 2024, all eligible low-income undocumented residents can now enroll in Medi-Cal, the state's Medicaid program. This groundbreaking policy ensures that a large segment of the population has access to affordable healthcare.

Homeownership Program for Undocumented Immigrants

California Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula of Fresno has introduced AB 1840 to expand the state's California Dream for All Shared Appreciation Loans program to include undocumented immigrants. The program offers zero-down, no-payment loans for home purchases, providing a pathway to homeownership for many. The Senate Appropriations Committee expressed concerns about the potential significant cost pressures associated with expanding the program to undocumented immigrants. The program operates on a lottery system, with a high number of applicants and limited funding. The expansion raises concerns similar to those associated with the Bush-era home down payment assistance program, which contributed to the 2008 financial crisis. The high cost of housing in California remains a significant barrier to homeownership for many, including undocumented immigrants. Overall, the bill seeks to address a pressing need for affordable housing but faces challenges related to cost and potential risks.