CALIFORNIA -- California leaders are considering a bill that would extend MediCal to immigrants living in the U.S. illegally. Senate Bill 974 would "strengthen the state's workforce," said the bill's author Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens).

SB 974 would "would additionally extend eligibility for full-scope Medi-Cal benefits to individuals of all ages who are 65 years of age or older, if otherwise eligible for those benefits, but for their immigration status, subject to an appropriation."

In a opinion piece for the Sacramento Bee, Lara and Assemblyman Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) wrote the bill would benefit immigrants living in the U.S. illegally who are working.

"Currently, undocumented adults are explicitly and unjustly locked out of healthcare due to their immigration status," the lawmakers wrote. "It is much more sensible to provide access to life-saving preventive care than to keep vulnerable populations one emergency room visit away from financial ruin. Our state is stronger when everyone has access to healthcare, regardless of immigration status."