Bill > H1954

This bill establishes the Immigrant Legal Defense Fund in Massachusetts to provide free legal services to immigrants and refugees facing removal proceedings who lack access to legal representation. The fund will be administered by the Office for Refugees and Immigrants and will use a competitive grant program to support nonprofit organizations, law firms, and qualified attorneys in providing culturally responsive legal representation. Eligibility will be based on income (not exceeding 200% of federal poverty guidelines) and the individual's connection to Massachusetts. The bill creates an advisory committee with up to 15 members from diverse backgrounds to help develop policies and coordinate services. Grant recipients must provide legal representation at no cost, prioritizing detained individuals and those at imminent risk of deportation. The legal services will cover various proceedings, including immigration courts, federal appeals, and other related legal matters. An annual review of the fund's activities will be conducted and reported to the state legislature, tracking sources of funds, expenditures, and case data. The state will appropriate funds for the program, with grants to be awarded starting July 31, 2026, to help ensure immigrants have access to legal support during removal proceedings.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1954