Thousands of immigrants in California are facing the loss of food assistance benefits, known as CalFresh, beginning this month. The changes impact lawfully present individuals, including refugees, asylees, and those from Iraq and Afghanistan who assisted the U.S. military.

Impact on Los Angeles County

Officials estimate that around 23,000 people in Los Angeles County will be affected by these changes. State officials have stated that current recipients will continue to receive benefits until their renewal date. Eligibility may be restored if their legal status changes to lawful permanent resident.

Who is Affected?

The cuts extend to individuals with refugee status and victims of trafficking, in addition to immigrants from Iraq and Afghanistan with special visas. “These are folks … many of whom have large families that we have a commitment to as a country because we welcomed them and invited them here to find a place of refuge,” said Cambria Tortorelli, president of the International Institute of Los Angeles, a refugee resettlement agency. “They’re authorized to work and they’ve been brought here by the U.S. government.”

Federal Funding Cuts Drive Changes

The changes stem from cuts to social safety net programs, including food assistance and Medicaid, enacted through the federal spending bill H.R. 1. President Donald Trump stated the changes were in line with his campaign promises.

Future Eligibility

State officials emphasize that noncitizens currently receiving benefits will continue to do so until their next renewal. Recipients may regain eligibility if their legal status is updated to lawful permanent resident.

CSU Students and AI: Concerns and Policy Needs

Nearly every student in the California State University (CSU) system has experimented with artificial intelligence (AI) tools, but a recent survey reveals widespread distrust in the results and anxieties about future job security. The comprehensive survey, polling over 94,000 students, faculty, and staff, highlights a strong desire for greater input into systemwide AI policies.

Key Findings from the CSU Survey

  • Widespread AI Use: 95% of CSU students have used an AI tool.
  • Trust Concerns: 84% of students used ChatGPT, but many question its trustworthiness.
  • Job Security Fears: 82% of students worry AI will negatively impact their future job prospects.
  • Policy Input: Both faculty and students want more say in AI policies.
  • Varied Faculty Approaches: Professors differ on whether to encourage or prohibit AI use in classrooms.

Students are requesting career-relevant AI training, stating a need to learn tools used in their specific industries. Faculty are divided on the impact of AI on teaching and research, with a call for clear guidelines on AI tool usage. CSU has partnered with OpenAI and other tech companies to explore AI integration.

Moving Forward with AI at CSU

San Diego State University conducted the initial campus-wide survey in 2023, prompting a mandate for faculty to include AI usage policies in syllabi. The 2025 systemwide survey data will inform future policy decisions, with a focus on ethical safeguards and professional development for faculty. The data also reveals that first-generation and minority students are particularly interested in formal AI training.