This opinion was contributed by former Hollister resident Baldo Salcido. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors. Lea este artÃculo en español aqui.
Enforcing AB 1896 appears to be questionable, under the Supremacy Act, Article VI, Clause 2, of the U.S. Constitution that dictates Federal Law preempts contrary State or
local laws.
The Assembly Bill specifically targets the U.S. Coast Guard, which operates under the authority of U.S. Homeland Security. Obvious, it’s also funded 100% by the federal government. Surprisingly, the California Army National Guard (CAARNG) is 90%+ funded by the federal government. On a personal note, as a retiree of the CAARNG and Vietnam Veteran, I’m paid by DFAS, a federal agency.
From my personal view, AB 1896 has minimal to no teeth for enforcement. AB1896, again in my opinion, is merely a showcase, talking points, if you will, for our Democratic Legislature to address the Latino Demographic concerns on immigration. It’s no more than a symbolic stance against the Trump, Steve Miller attacks on immigrants.
It’s admirable, but not realistic, false hopes and more importantly, minimally enforceable. Instead, Robert Rivas, Assembly Speaker and his Super Majority Democratic stronghold should focus on California’s main issues of affordability, costs of goods, gas, housing, etc.
When two refineries at Benecia announced shutting down, Governor Newson proposed increasing gas storage/reserves to offset the lowering of supply to at least maintain the
cost of gas and not experience elevated gas prices. Not the CA Assembly nor the Senate, which is also majority Democrats (31-9) introduced any legislation to lower gas prices.
Robert Rivas, Speaker, should be bold in helping on issues of affordability. He was elected by 66% of the votes, only our popular Rusty Areias, a Republican, obtain a 72%+ votes in SBC, in our past history.
CA Democrats at our Legislature, need to be more aggressive, bold in helping their constituency – IT’S EXPENSIVE TO LIVE IN CA. We can’t blame the Republicans in CA, they are Lame Ducks 19 & 9 respectively. Repulucans are trying to help, but with zero effort, support from Democrats.
Respectfully submitted,
Baldo Salcido, a Registered Democrat.
50 Year Resident of Hollister. Currently 25-year resident in Los Banos
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