The Trump administration has launched an investigation into California’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) amid allegations of funds being used for ineligible recipients.
At a Glance
- The Trump administration is scrutinizing California’s CAPI for potentially paying ineligible illegal aliens.
- CAPI supports noncitizens over 65, blind, or disabled individuals ineligible for Social Security.
- Over 16,000 recipients were reported in July 2024.
- DHS subpoena targets Los Angeles County to ensure eligibility and immigration status verification.
California’s CAPI Under Investigation
The federal government is focusing on California’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI), which provides monthly payments to noncitizens who are ineligible for Social Security due to their immigration status. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has issued a subpoena to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services to identify if any illegal aliens ineligible for assistance have received funds from the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) since early 2021. This directive aims to validate applicants’ immigration statuses and proofs of eligibility.
CAPI provides vital assistance to legally present noncitizens aged over 65, or those who are blind or disabled, offering up to $1,206.94 per month. Under this program, California has supported over 16,000 recipients by July 2024. Secretary Noem criticized the state for its alleged preference of illegal aliens over citizens, reiterating the administration’s stance to prevent the misuse of funds.
Federal Benefits and Eligibility Concerns
The DHS has put a microscope on ensuring federal benefits are strictly reserved for eligible individuals, reflecting a broader national goal to prioritize American citizens and protect their tax money. Historically, the program was established after the 1996 Welfare Reform Act to support legal immigrants by offering state-funded benefits distinct from federal aid.
“If you are an illegal immigrant, you should leave now. The gravy train is over” – Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
The subpoena requires detailed records of applicants’ immigration statuses and proof of Social Security ineligibility, focusing solely on Los Angeles County, which administers CAPI for the area. Noem highlighted that this is just the beginning of an intensified effort to prevent misuse of public benefits.
Impacts and National Goals
The Trump administration has made it clear that illegal aliens should not receive federal benefits. The DHS highlights the issuance of over 2 million undeserved Social Security Numbers in the fiscal year 2024. The inquiry aims to corroborate whether this occurred alongside the provision of California’s state-driven benefits.
“Radical left politicians in California prioritize illegal aliens over our own citizens, including by giving illegal aliens access to cash benefits” – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
This investigation places a spotlight on CAPI and reflects broader concerns about the integrity of federally-backed entitlement programs, reinforcing the drive to protect American taxpayers while ensuring assistance reaches those truly eligible.
