The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is investigating California’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) over allegations that it provided federal benefits to immigrants residing in the U.S. illegally. A federal subpoena has been issued to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, seeking records from January 2021 to the present. The investigation centers on whether ineligible migrants received Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is reserved for lawful residents.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem criticized California officials for allegedly prioritizing illegal immigrants, calling the investigation the beginning of broader enforcement. The probe follows President Trump’s April 2025 executive memorandum to prevent illegal immigrants from obtaining Social Security benefits and enforce federal law under PRWORA.

California officials maintain that CAPI serves only lawful immigrants or those with legal protections. UC Davis Law Professor Kevin R. Johnson noted there’s no clear evidence of abuse yet but acknowledged the federal interest, given the possibility of misallocated federal funds.