Gov. Jerry Brown, top lawmakers back legal aid to Central American children
Source: San Jose Mercury News
SACRAMENTO -- As unaccompanied children from Central America continue to flow illegally into California, Gov. Jerry Brown and top Democratic legislators on Thursday unveiled a groundbreaking plan to spend $3 million to make sure the young migrants get legal help.
The legislation, destined to be approved by the end of the legislative session this month because it requires only a majority vote of the Democratic-controlled Legislature, would provide money to nonprofit legal groups representing the unaccompanied minors.
"Helping these young people navigate our legal system is the decent thing to do," Brown said. "And it's consistent with the progressive spirit of California."
The Golden State is believed to be the first state to respond to the immigration crisis with direct funding for the Central American children, although states such as New York have approved some general funding for legal representation for illegal immigrants.
Read more: http://www.mercurynews.com/crime-courts/ci_26382526/gov-jerry-brown-top-lawmakers-back-legal-aid