The Department of Homeland Security is investigating California’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) over allegations it provided benefits to undocumented immigrants. A federal subpoena demands Los Angeles County hand over records from 2021 onward, including applications, immigration status, and proof of ineligibility for Social Security benefits. The probe follows President Trump’s April 2025 order to prevent undocumented immigrants from receiving Social Security-related benefits and enforce compliance with federal welfare laws.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem accused California of prioritizing undocumented immigrants over citizens and warned that more investigations could follow. UC Davis Law Professor Kevin R. Johnson noted that CAPI legally supports non-citizens with lawful status, including crime victims, but acknowledged the Trump administration may have evidence prompting the probe.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s office defended the program, stating it serves eligible immigrants only. DHS claims over 2 million ineligible individuals received Social Security Numbers in 2024, raising concerns about broader misuse of federal aid.