AG Bonta, leading a coalition of 19 attorneys general, submitted a comment letter opposing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ proposed rule that would add burdensome new requirements for sponsors of unaccompanied immigrant children. The coalition argues that the proposed rule’s requirements related to proof of identity and proof of income for potential sponsors will create barriers that will make it more difficult for immigrant family members and other qualified sponsors to sponsor unaccompanied children, decreasing the number of available sponsors and prolonging children’s time in federal custody. 

"As Attorney General, I am dedicated to protecting all children within California’s borders, including immigrant children. The changes proposed by HHS will achieve nothing but separating desperate families and increase the time kids are spending in immigration facilities. I urge HHS to reconsider this course of action and make the pathway to family reunification easier, not harder." – AG Bonta