California Assembly Bill AB713

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/25
• Refer: 3/24/25
• Report Pass: 3/26/25
• Refer: 3/27/25
• Report Pass: 1/5/26
• Refer: 1/6/26
• Report Pass: 1/14/26
• Refer: 1/14/26
• Refer: 1/22/26
• Report Pass: 1/22/26
• Engrossed: 1/29/26
• Refer: 1/29/26
• Refer: 5/6/26

Caption

An act to add Article 3.8 (commencing with Section 66029) to Chapter 2 of Part 40 of Division 5 of Title 3 of the Education Code, relating to public postsecondary education.

Impact

The implications of AB 713 could be significant for state laws governing employment and immigration. By treating the federal prohibition on hiring undocumented noncitizens as inapplicable, the bill positions California's educational institutions to make independent employment decisions without the constraints imposed by federal regulations. This move could potentially open new employment opportunities for undocumented students, allowing them greater access to on-campus job positions that have traditionally required proof of work authorization.

Summary

Assembly Bill 713, introduced by Assembly Member Solache, aims to reshape employment policies for students in California's public postsecondary institutions, specifically the University of California, California State University, and California Community Colleges. The bill prohibits these institutions from disqualifying students from employment opportunities based on their failure to provide proof of federal work authorization, mirroring processes that occur under federal law. It delineates specific conditions under which verification is not required, specifically where it is not mandated by federal law or through grants for the respective employment positions.

Sentiment

The discussion surrounding AB 713 appears to be polarizing. Supporters advocate for the bill as a progressive step towards inclusivity and equitable access to employment within educational institutions, which could significantly benefit undocumented students. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding the implications of circumventing federal work authorization requirements, arguing it could conflict with federal laws and potentially lead to legal disputes or complications for the institutions involved.

Contention

Notably, AB 713 raises contentious issues around the balance of state versus federal authority in employment law. The bill's enactment would alter the framework within which California's education institutions operate concerning employment, potentially setting a precedent for further state actions that could challenge federal immigration laws. Critics are likely to highlight the risks of establishing policies that they perceive could undermine federal regulations or conversely, detract from local governance in addressing employment and regulatory matters.