by Sacramento, CA – A new bill moving through the California Legislature would require federal immigration enforcement agencies to notify schools before entering campuses, aiming to give families advance warning in the event of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity.
Senate Bill 98, known as the Sending Alerts to Families in Education (SAFE) Act, was introduced by Senator Sasha Renée Pérez (D–Pasadena). It would mandate advance notice to public K–12 schools, California State University campuses, and community colleges whenever federal immigration enforcement plans to be on school grounds.
With the Trump administration intensifying nationwide deportation efforts, supporters say the bill addresses growing fears among immigrant families as the school year begins.
“The President is not above the law, and like any other individual, must comply with court orders,” Pérez said. “I am committed to creating greater protections for families sending their students back to school. I understand the deep fear families are feeling.”
How the Alert System Would Work
The proposal would integrate with schools’ existing emergency response systems. Notifications would include the date, time, and confirmed location of any immigration enforcement activity. The bill defines immigration enforcement as actions taken to investigate or enforce federal laws related to a person’s presence, entry, or reentry into the United States.
Support and Related Legislation
Kristina Lovato, Assistant Professor of Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley, said the bill meets an important need.
“It’s important for caregivers and parents to know when a threat like this is present. This particular bill provides that necessity to inform parents and caregivers.”
Sen. Pérez has also introduced Senate Bill 805, the “No Vigilantes Act,” which would make it a crime to impersonate peace officers, including federal agents.
“The lack of transparency surrounding ICE raids fosters confusion, fear, and mistrust in communities across the state,” Pérez said. “SB 98 and SB 805 respond directly to these troubling attacks on our communities.”
SB 98 passed the State Senate in June after being introduced in January and is now under review by the Assembly.
