California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a new $4.5 million pilot program to provide free immigration legal assistance to farmworkers actively involved in state labor investigations.

The new program includes case review services, legal advice, and representation by an attorney at no cost.

Eligibility for this pilot program’s free legal services is limited to those with a case under review by the Labor Commissioner’s Office, Cal/OSHA, or the ALRB.

This state-based pilot program coincides with a Biden Administration policy change on deferred action for undocumented individuals who are victims of, or witnesses to, violations of labor rights across the country.

The new program will be administered through a partnership between the State Labor Agency and the Department of Social Services.

Funding for the pilot is provided by existing budgeted resources and is expected to begin later this year.

Source: Western Growers