California schools will soon have stronger legal protections keeping immigration enforcement agents off campuses after Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 49 and Senate Bill 98 into law over the weekend.
Laws Aim to Protect Students and Restore Trust
The new measures, sponsored by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, prohibit immigration officers from entering school property without a valid judicial warrant and require immediate notification to families and staff if agents are present.
“I am proud to have sponsored and supported the passage of AB 49 and SB 98 to keep ICE and immigration enforcement away from our school campuses without a judge’s authorization,” Thurmond said. “The reckless actions of the Trump administration have sown fear and trauma throughout California school communities.”
Governor Newsom echoed that message, linking the legislation to California’s broader effort to protect immigrant communities.
“Public safety depends on trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve — but Trump and Miller shattered that trust,” Newsom said, referencing former President Donald Trump and adviser Stephen Miller. “Schools and hospitals should be places of care, not chaos.”
Background: Immigration Enforcement at Schools
Earlier this year, the Trump administration revoked federal guidance that limited immigration enforcement at “sensitive locations” such as schools, hospitals, and churches.
Since then, according to the California Department of Education (CDE), there have been multiple incidents of ICE agents near or on school grounds — including flashbang grenades detonated within earshot of campuses, agents requesting direct contact with minors, and even detentions of parents during school drop-offs.
The Urban Institute estimates that half of California children have at least one immigrant parent, and 93% of children in mixed-status families are U.S. citizens. Advocates say these encounters have caused widespread fear among families and students.
Fresno Unified Supports the New Measures
Locally, Fresno Unified School District (FUSD) has already implemented policies to protect students and communicate with families about immigration enforcement.
“We have strong protocols to ensure our schools remain safe spaces for learning,” said district spokesperson Diana Diaz. “If immigration enforcement ever impacts a campus, we’re prepared to communicate swiftly and clearly with staff and families.”
The district began preparing immigration-related resources and response plans in late 2024, when reports of ICE activity increased around Central Valley neighborhoods. Student-led protests and community walkouts were also held in opposition to deportation policies.
What the New Laws Require
Under the new state laws:
- AB 49 bars any school employee from granting access to non-public school areas without a judicial warrant, subpoena, or court order.
- SB 98 mandates immediate notification to students, families, and staff if immigration agents appear on school grounds.
To assist implementation, the CDE launched “Our Schools: Resources for Including Immigrant Families,” a toolkit offering posters, handouts, and guidance for schools to inform families of their rights regardless of immigration status.
All local education agencies must now submit their immigration enforcement policies to the CDE by March 1, 2026.
The Takeaway
The signing of AB 49 and SB 98 cements California’s position as one of the most protective states for immigrant families, ensuring that schools remain safe havens where education — not enforcement — takes priority.
