Summary
August 19, 2026
Senator Adam Schiff
United States Senate
112 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Re: Fairness to Freedom Act of 2026 – support
Dear Senator Schiff:
On behalf of the Marin County Board of Supervisors, I write in support of the Fairness to Freedom Act of 2026 (S. 5324), which would establish the right to federally funded legal representation for individuals who cannot afford counsel and are facing immigration proceedings. This legislation represents an important step toward ensuring that individuals navigating complex immigration proceedings have meaningful access to legal representation and due process.
Marin County recognizes that immigration proceedings can have significant consequences for individuals, families, employers, and local communities. Without legal representation, individuals facing deportation and other proceedings must often navigate a complex legal system on their own. Access to qualified counsel helps ensure that individuals understand their rights, present their cases effectively, and receive a fair opportunity to be heard.
The legislation also appropriately recognizes the role of state and local governments in supporting immigration legal services. By coordinating with existing state and locally funded removal defense programs, the Fairness to Freedom Act builds upon established efforts while providing needed federal support. This approach would help reduce the fiscal and administrative pressures placed on local programs while allowing counties to continue directing resources toward other critical community needs.
For these reasons, the Marin County Board of Supervisors supports S. 5324 and appreciates your leadership in advancing legislation that strengthens access to legal representation and due process in immigration proceedings.
Sincerely,
Eric Lucan, President
Marin County Board of Supervisors
CC: Marin County Board of Supervisors
Senator Alex Padilla
Congressman Jared Huffman
View the document
This document may not work with all assistive technology and is being remediated. For alternative formats, please email Sophie Helpard or phone 415-473-6358. To use the California relay service, dial 711.