The SHIELD Act authorizes the Attorney General to award competitive grants totaling $100 million annually (for fiscal years 2026-2027) to states, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions to expand legal representation for immigrants facing removal proceedings. Eligible recipients can use funds to recruit and train immigration lawyers, accredited representatives, social workers, and community navigators; provide technical assistance and language training; establish regional coordination services; and improve staff retention and diversity in the immigration legal services field. The bill targets support to areas with significant unmet legal representation needs and prioritizes organizations that have already demonstrated commitment to publicly funding immigration legal services. Grant recipients must submit annual reports on their progress, outcomes, and remaining unmet needs, and all grants are subject to audit requirements and accountability measures to prevent fraud and waste.
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