Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – The County of Marin’s proposed budget for the 2026-28 fiscal years does not include funding from the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP), and the County Executive will instead recommend using one-time funds to support jail operations while temporarily pausing participation in the program.
County Executive Derek Johnson confirmed his decision to the Board of Supervisors at its February 10 meeting, ahead of budget workshops scheduled for later this month.
SCAAP is a longstanding federal reimbursement program that helps offset some costs for housing individuals who were already in local custody due to criminal charges. Participation in the program is administrative and retrospective in nature and does not involve immigration enforcement or coordination with federal immigration authorities. While the County’s past participation has been lawful and compliant with California Senate Bill 54, the California Values Act, the program is not widely understood and has prompted questions from residents and advocates.
“Given the concerns that have been raised, the budget I am preparing will not include a reliance on SCAAP funding,” Johnson said during the February 10 meeting. “This recommendation comes after extensive conversations with community members, stakeholders, and peer counties that share Marin County’s commitment to equity. We have heard the speakers who have come forward and take those concerns seriously.”
The loss of SCAAP revenue will be absorbed within the County's General Fund and incorporated into the multiyear financial forecast. As the 2026-2028 Proposed Budget and financial plan are finalized, the County will determine the appropriate mix of one-time and ongoing resources to maintain operational stability, including support for jail operations.
“The Marin County Sheriff’s Office is fully compliant with SB 54,” said Marin County Sheriff Jamie Scardina. “State law clearly prohibits local law enforcement from engaging in immigration enforcement, and we strictly adhere to those requirements. Any criminal record information that is shared with federal agencies is already public record and is limited to individuals convicted of serious or violent felonies, as determined by statute. Our focus remains on public safety, grounded in our values of fostering community trust and ensuring fair treatment for every person who comes into our custody.”
County leadership also underscored its continued commitment to supporting immigrant residents. Marin County provides many services to residents, regardless of immigration status, and the Supervisors recently approved an allocation of $500,000 for immigration related support.
Later in the meeting, the Board announced it had authorized the County to join amicus briefs opposing the federal government’s immigration enforcement approach in the Midwest. The County will join other localities nationwide in Minnesota et al. v. Noem in federal district court in Minnesota as well as in a companion case in Illinois.
“Marin County remains committed to investing in programs, services, and partnerships that promote safety, dignity, and access to support,” Johnson added. “We will continue to stand with immigrant residents during times of uncertainty or challenge, and I appreciate the community engagement that has informed this work.”
The 2026-28 Proposed Budget will be presented to the Supervisors on February 23-25 during the annual budget workshops. Learn more about the budget process and timeline on the County website.