Item #4 Draft Budget Recommendation - Immigrant Legal Services — original pdf

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HISPANIC/LATINO QUALITY OF LIFE RESOURCE ADVISORY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 202503XX-X Immigrant Legal Services Seconded By: Commissioner Date: March XX, 2025 Subject: FY26 Budget Recommendations Motioned By: Commissioner WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a long-standing commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive, and diverse community that values all of its residents, regardless of immigration status; and WHEREAS, immigrants contribute significantly to the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Austin, but despite these contributions, many immigrants face significant barriers to accessing legal services; and WHEREAS, we continue to hear from the community that legal services funding is crucial; and WHEREAS, there are immigrants who need access to counsel and cannot afford attorneys, especially immigrants facing removal proceedings; and WHEREAS, the growing uncertainty surrounding federal immigration policies increases the need for legal assistance and protections, and the potential cuts to federal grants and funding for immigrant legal services; and WHEREAS, it is essential that immigrant communities obtain accurate advice and assistance; and WHEREAS, the people most impacted by the complicated changes in immigration policy and funding are low-income immigrants; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin funds legal services for low income immigrants who are Austin residents, and there continues to be an unmet need; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission recommends funding immigrant legal services with a $1,000,000 5-year contract to continue services currently being provided.  Against: Abstain: Absent: Commissioner Neri, Commissioner Silva, Commissioner Afifi, Commissioner Perales, Commissioner Castañeda, Commissioner Galvan, Commissioner Jackson Jr. Attest: XX XX, Chair Vote For: