The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has launched an investigation into California’s Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) to determine whether individuals who are ineligible for federal benefits may have improperly received financial support.
At the center of the inquiry is a federal subpoena issued to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services. Authorities are reviewing records dating back to January 2021 to assess whether any recipients, who are ineligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to their immigration status, were granted access to the state-run program.
CAPI provides cash assistance to some elderly, blind, and disabled non-citizens who do not qualify for federal SSI benefits. According to legal experts, including UC Davis Law Professor Kevin R. Johnson, the program requires applicants to meet strict eligibility criteria, including proof of lawful immigration status or pending legal protections.
The subpoena specifically requests documents such as application forms, proof of immigration status, SSI ineligibility letters from the Social Security Administration, and supporting affidavits. DHS’s investigative arm, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Los Angeles, is leading the review.
In a statement, DHS noted that the investigation is part of broader federal efforts to ensure compliance with benefit eligibility rules and protect public resources. It also referenced recent federal directives to coordinate agency efforts to prevent the misallocation of Social Security and related benefits.
California state officials have responded by reiterating that CAPI is intended for individuals with lawful immigration status or those actively pursuing legal protections, including victims of crimes or trafficking.
As of now, there is no public evidence of wrongdoing. However, legal observers believe the subpoena may have been prompted by internal reports or audits that raised questions about program administration.
The outcome of the investigation could determine whether additional enforcement actions or oversight measures will be implemented.
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