CA SB882

Expresses legislative intent to require California courts to allow any party or witness to appear remotely at civil or criminal hearings, trials, or conferences until January 31, 2029

Officially titled the "Keep Courts Safe from the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Act"

Cites increased federal immigration enforcement operations at state courthouses since January 2025 as justification for expanding remote appearance options

References Judicial Council of California data showing over 6,500 remote hearings occur daily with 90% positive participant experience since COVID-19 pandemic procedures began

Notes that vulnerable court users, including domestic violence and elder abuse victims, report reduced anxiety from not appearing in person with perpetrators