"With the signing of SB 98, the SAFE Act, and AB 49, California has taken powerful steps to protect immigrant students and families while strengthening schools as safe havens for learning.  

SB 98 requires alerts when immigration enforcement is present on or near campuses, bringing much-needed safety, transparency and reassurance to families who live in fear of separation or detention. AB 49 complements this by prohibiting school staff from allowing immigration authorities to enter nonpublic areas of a school site without a valid judicial warrant, subpoena or court order. Together, these support school campuses as protected spaces unless legally mandated otherwise. 

These laws build on existing emergency communication systems and legal safeguards to ensure families, students and staff are informed, prepared and shielded from unauthorized enforcement actions. They help reduce anxiety and preserve trust in schools as places of safety and belonging. 

This legislation also supports educators and school staff by providing clarity and allowing them to respond calmly and proactively during sensitive situations. Above all, it sends a clear message: every student deserves to learn free from fear. SB 98 and AB 49 affirm our collective commitment to dignity, equity and the well-being of all children, ensuring that California schools remain welcoming sanctuaries where every student can thrive. 

I want to thank Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Sasha Renée Pérez and Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi for their leadership and commitment to protecting immigrant families and upholding the values of safety and inclusion in our schools. "

For California Department of Education’s guidance on these new laws, please visit CDE's website. 

View the Los Angeles County Office of Education’s resources for supporting immigrant families on our website.