May 29, 2026 - SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Anamarie Ávila Farías (D-Martinez) has released the following statement:
“This week, the California State Assembly passed Assemblymember Anamarie Ávila Farías’ bills to disqualify employees of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from becoming peace officers in California and to protect California’s communities, polling places, and childcare centers.
“No parent should fear losing a child to enforcement actions, and no voter should be intimidated from participating in our democracy,” said Assemblymember Ávila Farías. “I thank Speaker Rivas and my fellow Democratic colleagues for their support of our community’s safety. I look forward to continuing to work for immigrants and all Californians.”
“AB 1627, the Misconduct Ends Law-Enforcement Trust Act of 2026 (MELT ICE Act), would disqualify individuals previously employed by ICE with documented patterns of abuse during relevant periods from serving as peace officers in California.
“AB 2230 protects voters and children by restricting federal law enforcement presence near polling places and prevents ICE from entering nonpublic childcare areas without a judicial warrant, subpoena or court order.”
On the Assembly Floor, Assemblymember Ávila Farías emphasized that ICE enforcement has created fear across California—impacting both citizens and immigrants alike—and legislation is needed to proactively safeguard our communities and critical spaces.
“These bills are about safety, dignity, and reducing harm before it happens. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” the Assemblymember said.
Both bills have advanced to the State Senate where they await referral to relevant committees.
Assemblymember Ávila Farías represents the 15th Assembly District‚ which includes the communities of Antioch‚ Bay Point‚ Brentwood‚ Clayton‚ Concord‚ Crockett‚ Pacheco‚ Pittsburg‚ Pleasant Hill‚ Port Costa‚ and Walnut Creek.
Source: Assemblymember Anamarie Ávila Farías
