U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has raised concerns about a new California law that provides smartphones to undocumented immigrants using taxpayer funds. Cruz criticized the measure in the context of an ongoing government shutdown, noting that Democrats are seeking taxpayer-funded healthcare for undocumented immigrants while California is moving forward with additional benefits.
In correspondence addressed to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr and U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, Cruz stated that California Assembly Bill 1303 expands the state's Lifeline subsidy program to include undocumented immigrants. He also pointed out that the legislation restricts cooperation with federal immigration authorities, which he argued hinders enforcement of federal immigration laws.
Cruz warned, "this measure undermines federal law, encourages unlawful entry, and misuses taxpayer dollars." He called on Carr and Bondi to review whether the state law aligns with federal requirements and to ensure oversight regarding the use of public funds for these subsidies.
Cruz emphasized his request by stating that action is needed "in order to restore transparency and ensure taxpayer dollars are not misused to subsidize and encourage illegal immigration."
The full letters sent by Cruz can be accessed online.
