Bridges of Belonging: Legal and Learning Pathways for Immigrants”
Rights in Motion: Empowering the Diaspora”
Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) introduced the Securing Help for Immigrants Through Education and Legal Development (SHIELD) Act on February 27, 2026. The bill aims to strengthen due process rights for immigrants in removal (deportation) proceedings, where there is currently no constitutional right to government-appointed counsel. Many immigrants navigate complex immigration courts alone, which can lead to higher rates of deportation, family separation, and risks of harm or persecution. The legislation addresses this gap by establishing a $100 million federal grant program administered by the Department of Justice’s Office of Access to Justice.
The program would provide renewable grants (typically four-year terms) to states, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions to support the recruitment, training, retention, and development of “immigrant legal defenders” (attorneys and support staff), as well as build related infrastructure for legal aid programs. Proponents, including advocacy groups like the Vera Institute of Justice and the Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition, argue that expanding access to high-quality legal representation is essential for upholding due process, especially amid heightened immigration enforcement under the current administration.
The bill has companion House support and seeks to create sustainable, nationwide capacity for immigrant legal defense.
