California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) vetoed Senate Bill 227 on September 28, 2024, which proposed an excluded workers unemployment insurance program. These excluded workers, particularly those without legal immigration status, are unable to access traditional unemployment benefits. The proposed Excluded Workers Program would have created a framework for financial assistance for these individuals, directing the Employment Development Department to develop a detailed plan for execution.
Newsom said in his veto statement that this bill’s timelines are impractical, that it has operational challenges, and that its required funding was not included in the budget. He previously vetoed a similar bill on September 28, 2022, which aimed to extend unemployment insurance benefits to the same group under the proposed Excluded Workers Pilot Program. At that time, he cited the price of the program as the reason for his veto.
Critics of the proposed program, including Senate minority leader Brian Jones (R), voiced strong opposition. Jones stated, “It’s insulting that California Democrats are even considering expanding unemployment benefits to illegal immigrants,” emphasizing concerns about the state’s fiscal health. He pointed out that “under the Newsom administration, the unemployment insurance fund is already broke with a $20 billion deficit,” arguing that California cannot afford to extend benefits to those without legal status.
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