Newsom Vetoes California Bill to Allow Undocumented Students Campus Jobs, Citing Federal Retaliation Risks
California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill 713, which would have mandated that public universities and community colleges offer employment to undocumented students. In a veto message issued last month, Newsom cited concerns that the federal government might retaliate against state institutions for implementing the measure. This decision contrasts with his recent aggressive legislative stance against federal immigration enforcement, including signing laws to ban masked ICE agents and restricting enforcement tactics. The veto leaves undocumented students without guaranteed access to campus jobs, despite a favorable court ruling against the University of California’s previous hiring ban. Advocates argue the move leaves students vulnerable, while Newsom prioritized protecting state institutions from potential federal retribution.
Key points
- Newsom vetoed AB 713, which would have required California public universities and community colleges to make undocumented students eligible for campus employment.
- The veto was issued last month, with Newsom citing fears that Trump administration officials would seek retribution against state schools for implementing the policy.
- This decision contrasts with Newsom’s recent actions, including signing a ban on federal immigration agents wearing masks and legislation to clamp down on immigration enforcement.
- The veto blocks a measure supported by student groups and legislators, despite a favorable court ruling against the University of California’s previous hiring ban.
- Advocates argue the veto leaves undocumented students vulnerable, while Newsom prioritized protecting state institutions from potential federal retaliation.
Background
In September 2026, Newsom vetoed AB 713, which would have allowed undocumented students to hold paid jobs at California public universities. The veto blocked a measure supported by student groups and legislators, citing legal risks. Advocates argued the decision left students vulnerable and ignored a favorable court ruling against the University of California’s hiring ban. This follows a broader trend of states like Florida and Washington facing federal challenges over policies supporting undocumented students in higher education.
Why it matters
The veto highlights the tension between state-level efforts to support undocumented students and the risks of federal retaliation. It underscores the challenges faced by undocumented students in accessing employment and higher education, as well as the political calculus behind state decisions in the face of federal immigration policies.
What to watch
Advocates may continue to push for alternative measures to support undocumented students, while the federal government may monitor state actions for potential retaliation. The outcome of the veto could influence future legislative efforts in California and other states regarding undocumented student employment and higher education access.
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