The Vera Institute of Justice applauds the California Assembly Human Services and Judiciary Committees for passing AB 1140 through committees on consent. This legislation will ensure immigrant children are protected while in federal custody placements by clarifying the State’s role and jurisdiction in oversight of children held in state-licensed Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) facilities.

“Vera welcomes the passing of AB 1140 out of committees. Now California is one step closer to ensuring the state can offer robust oversight and enforcement of state licensing standards for immigrant children in state-licensed facilities while awaiting reunification with relatives,” said Shaina Aber, Deputy Director of Vera’s Center on Immigration and Justice. “California continues to lead the way in safeguarding the rights of the vulnerable population of children in federal immigration custody and ensuring that all children in California-licensed facilities, regardless of immigration status, have access to the rights and protections afforded to them under the law. Vera welcomes the bill’s movement, strongly supports its passage, and hopes it is one of several steps needed to protect the health and wellbeing of children in immigrant facilities.”

About the Vera Institute of Justice:

Vera is powered by hundreds of advocates, researchers, and community organizers working to transform the criminal legal and immigration systems until they’re fair for all. Founded in 1961 to advocate for alternatives to money bail in New York City, Vera is now a national organization that partners with impacted communities and government leaders for change. We develop just, antiracist solutions so that money doesn’t determine freedom; fewer people are in jails, prisons, and immigration detention; and everyone in the system is treated with dignity.