The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a subpoena to California’s government on Monday, requesting documentation concerning alleged federal funds spent on illegal immigrants. This move comes from ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) office in Los Angeles, targeting the state’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI).
CAPI is designed to provide monthly cash benefits to non-citizen seniors, blind, and disabled individuals who are ineligible for federal supplemental security income. The White House argued that this program supports undocumented immigrants who lack access to Social Security benefits.
DHS Secretary Christie Noem criticized California’s politicians, stating, “We will prioritize illegal aliens over our citizens… The Trump administration is focused on identifying abuses and preventing public benefits from being exploited.” She added, “If you’re an illegal immigrant, you should leave now. The gravy train is over.”
The HSI subpoena seeks records dating back to 2021, including the names and birth dates of CAPI applicants, their immigration status, and related documentation.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has not responded to requests for comments.
This investigation follows a recent report claiming California has been funneling billions of federal taxpayer dollars towards payments for illegal immigrants. The Economic Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) suggested there is a link between California’s Medicaid Provider tax and nearly $4 billion in state funds allocated to healthcare initiatives for illegal immigrants. However, EPIC clarified that this federal funding is actually a reimbursement to California.
The report alleged that California’s collusion with insurers regarding Medicaid beneficiaries created a significant money laundering scheme, allowing the state to obtain over $19 billion in federal funds without making state contributions between April 2023 and December 2026. This funding reportedly supports extensive expansions of the Medicaid program, aimed at both illegal immigration and long-term care for wealthier individuals.
A spokesperson from California’s Department of Healthcare Services dismissed EPIC’s findings as “misleading,” urging people to refer to their website for more accurate information on the topic.
