Advocates Urge City To Keep Funding For Free Legal Services For Immigrants

Pro-immigration groups and legal aid providers in Chicago are urging Mayor Brandon Johnson to maintain city funding for the Legal Protection Fund, which provides free legal services to immigrants. The fund, which has spent $4.48 million of its $4.5 million allocation as of March 31, faces potential funding gaps after pandemic-era American Rescue Plan Act funds expire in 2026. The mayor’s 2027 budget includes at least $3 million for the fund, according to a spokesperson.