Marin County Joins Lawsuit Claiming Unconstitutional Federal Overreach

MARIN COUNTY, CA — The County of Marin has joined the growing number of local governments who are suing President Donald Trump’s administration over efforts to punish jurisdictions that have limited cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

The lawsuit originated in San Francisco and Santa Clara counties and has now been joined by 48 other jurisdictions across the U.S. The complaint challenges recent executive actions, which threaten to withhold federal funding unless local governments enforce federal immigration laws.

“This is about protecting the values and priorities of Marin County residents,” said Brian Washington, Marin County Counsel. “The federal government cannot coerce local jurisdictions into doing its job through illegal threats to critical funding. We’re standing up for our constitutional rights and for our community.”

The plaintiffs claims that federal attempts to compel local agencies into immigration enforcement violate several constitutional provisions including the 10th Amendment, the Spending Clause, the separation of powers, and the 5th Amendment's due process protections.

Marin County’s sanctuary status is defined by its adherence to state law, which limits the use of local resources for federal immigration enforcement.

“Joining this lawsuit helps protect the County’s critical federal funding,” said Mary Sackett, Board of Supervisors President. “We’re proud to stand in solidarity with local governments across the country defending our rights to govern locally and uphold public safety without fear or intimidation.”