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Bill

AB 18

California Secure Borders Act of 2025.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Carl DeMaio

California would establish state-run border enforcement and immigration detention operations, asserting independent state authority over immigration enforcement traditionally reserved for federal government.

From printer. May be heard in committee January 2.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · AB 18

Legislative bill overview

AB 18 proposes California establish its own border enforcement operations and immigration detention facilities, positioning the state to conduct independent border security activities alongside federal authorities. The bill would create state-level immigration enforcement capabilities and potentially allow California to detain individuals for immigration violations.

Why is this important

This represents a significant assertion of state authority over immigration enforcement, traditionally a federal responsibility. The proposal raises questions about California's legal ability to enforce immigration law, the substantial costs of duplicative enforcement infrastructure, and potential conflicts with federal immigration policy and existing state law that generally limits local immigration enforcement.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional authority: States have limited power to enforce federal immigration law; federal courts have repeatedly struck down state immigration enforcement programs, making the legal viability highly uncertain
  • Cost and duplication: Establishing parallel state border enforcement and detention systems would be expensive and duplicative of existing federal resources (Border Patrol, ICE, CBP)
  • Conflict with existing California law: California's sanctuary policies and values explicitly limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement; this bill directly contradicts the state's stated approach to immigration matters

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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