Golden State Today

Santa Barbara County will hold a forum to discuss the TRUTH Act, focusing on the access provided to federal immigration authorities. This community forum is scheduled during the Board of Supervisors meeting on December 10, 2024, at the Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building in Santa Maria. The session is expected to begin after 2:00 p.m., with virtual and in-person participation options available.

The TRUTH Act, or Transparent Review of Unjust Transfers and Holds Act, was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown on September 28, 2016. It requires local governments that have allowed ICE access to individuals through law enforcement contact to hold forums for public comment.

During the forum, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office will present data regarding ICE access provided in 2023. Out of 141 inquiries from ICE about inmates, only 33 qualified for notification under SB54 as exceptions to the TRUST Act. Of these, five individuals were re-arrested by ICE post-release.

The public was notified of this forum on October 15, 2024, through various channels including newspapers and social media platforms managed by the Sheriff’s Office. Community members are encouraged to express their views either in person or through written comments directed to the Board of Supervisors.

Spanish translation services will be available during the forum for non-English speakers. Those interested can view proceedings via live stream or local cable channels offering English and Spanish broadcasts.

For more information or assistance regarding participation and accommodations at the meeting, residents can contact the Clerk of the Board’s Office.