CA AB1318

References to federal tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code for state grants, service contracts, or disbursement of state/local funds will now also include organizations with California state tax-exempt status under Section 23701d of the Revenue and Taxation Code

Expands the definition of "qualified nonprofit organization" for refugee social services, immigration legal services, rapid response immigrant assistance, and the Enhanced Services for Asylees and Vulnerable Noncitizens program to include organizations with state tax-exempt status, not just federal tax-exempt status

Organizations providing immigration-related legal services must still meet existing requirements including 3+ years experience handling immigration issues, conducting trainings, and being recognized by the Department of Justice's Office of Legal Access Programs or meeting State Bar Trust Fund Program requirements

The bill takes effect immediately as an urgency statute due to "escalating threats from the federal government to nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable communities"

Contains a severability clause ensuring that if any provision is held invalid, the remaining provisions remain in effect