First appeared on FOX: California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a controversial bill that would have given illegal immigrants hundreds of thousands of dollars in home loans.
Last month, the California Assembly passed AB 1840, known as the “California Dream for All” loan program, which would provide loans of up to $150,000 to undocumented immigrants as first-time homebuyers. If enacted, the bill would provide first-time homebuyers with down payment assistance of up to 20% of the home's price, or up to $150,000.
“This bill seeks to prohibit applicants for the California Homeowner's Finance Agency (CalHFA) homebuying assistance program from being disqualified based solely on immigration status. Because funds available for CalHFA programs are limited, any expansion of program eligibility must be carefully considered within the broader context of the State's annual budget and ensure effective stewardship of resources,” Governor Newsom said in his veto letter.
“For this reason, I am unable to sign this bill.”
California close to approving $150,000 loans to help illegal immigrants buy homes
California Governor Gavin Newsom greets people near Common Man Roadside Market & Deli in Hooksett, New Hampshire on July 8. (AP Photo/Stephen Sene)
But the state's Democratic lawmakers have defended the bill, arguing it is simply intended to give undocumented immigrants the same benefits given to everyone else in the state.
“It's not going to be a blind giveaway to everybody,” Democratic Rep. Eloise Gomez Reyes said at a hearing on the bill in June.
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This is a developing story so check back for updates.
Fox News Digital's Michael Lee contributed to this report.
