Good Health for All: California's Legislative Efforts to Provide Services for Undocumented Immigrants

Introduction:  The Latino Coalition for a Healthy California (LCHC) has been working for the past twenty years to increase culturally and linguistically appropriate health care services available to all Latinos.  Even with the passage of Obamacare, millions continue to remain ineligible for health care coverage because of their immigration status. 

Approach:  LCHC is part of a legislative and advocacy collaborative that is working closely with Sen. Ricardo Lara, Chair of the California Legislative Latino Caucus, to create and advocate for a “mirror exchange” whereby those not eligible for either Covered California (Obamacare) or the Medi-Cal expansion, will have another option to purchase health insurance for themselves and their families. 

Results:  As we author this abstract, LCHC is working with Sen. Lara’s staff, Latino Caucus members, and advocate partners on the development of the Bill language.  The desired outcome of our efforts will be the passage of this Bill during the current legislative session which ends on August 31, 2014.  The results for our presentation will be an evaluation of the process by which this Bill is developed and shepherded through the legislative process. 

Discussion:  Without Federal immigration reform, California’s Latino Legislative Caucus is addressing the growing public health challenges posed by denying undocumented immigrants basic services that are essential to good health.  Emboldened by the passage of AB60, Drivers Licenses for All; AB4, The Trust Act; and AB1024, Attorneys:  Admission to Practice, the California Legislature is addressing the broader determinant level health needs of California's undocumented population.