SACRAMENTO: California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a package of laws on Friday, allocating $50 million to shield the state’s policies from federal challenges and provide legal support to immigrants facing deportation amid President Trump’s mass-deportation plans.
The move is seen as California’s continued effort to “Trump-proof” its values, as tensions between the state and federal government resurface during Trump’s second term.
Breakdown of the $50 Million Package
- $25 million for the California Department of Justice to fund legal battles against the federal government
- $25 million to support legal organizations defending immigrants, including those facing deportation
Newsom’s Fight Against Trump Policies
During Trump’s first presidency, California engaged in over 120 legal battles against the federal government, challenging policies on climate change, immigration, and water management. With similar conflicts reemerging, the newly allocated funds aim to bolster the state’s legal defenses.
“Californians are being threatened by an out-of-control administration that doesn’t care about the Constitution,” said Democratic Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas.
The new laws were passed during a special legislative session called by Newsom in January to prioritize both wildfire relief and protecting California’s progressive policies from federal interference.
Governor Newsom Balances Legal Battles with Wildfire Relief
Newsom’s announcement comes a day after returning from Washington, where he met with President Trump and members of Congress to secure federal disaster aid following the devastating Los Angeles-area wildfires in January. The fires killed more than two dozen people and destroyed numerous homes.
Last month, Newsom signed a $2.5 billion package for fire relief, which will help fund:
- Evacuations and shelter for survivors
- Hazardous waste removal
- Recovery and rebuilding efforts
Newsom’s administration expects federal reimbursement for much of this funding.
Criticism from Republican Lawmakers
Republican leaders have criticized the $50 million in legal funding, arguing that it detracts from the urgent needs of fire victims.
“This slush fund isn’t about solving real problems—it’s a political stunt,” said Republican Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones.
Critics have also raised concerns that the funds could be used to defend immigrants with serious felony convictions. However, Newsom clarified that the funding is not intended for such cases and encouraged additional legislation to address any ambiguity.
California’s History of Legal Battles Against the Federal Government
- 120+ lawsuits were filed against Trump’s administration during his first term.
- Legal cases ranged from environmental protections to immigrant rights.
- The state spent about $42 million overall on federal lawsuits, with annual costs ranging from $2 million to $13 million.
California’s $50 million legal defense fund signals Governor Newsom’s commitment to safeguarding the state’s progressive policies against federal challenges. While some argue the funding is politically motivated, Newsom maintains that the legal battles are necessary to protect California’s vulnerable residents and uphold the state’s values in the face of federal opposition.
