U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono has reintroduced The Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2025. This legislation aims to ensure legal representation for unaccompanied children in immigration proceedings. The measure follows the Trump Administration's cancellation of a contract that previously provided legal services for about 26,000 children facing immigration judges.
Senator Hirono emphasized, "Children cannot represent themselves in Court—it’s that simple." She noted that legal representation is crucial for ensuring fair hearings for unaccompanied minors. The bill responds to the Trump Administration's actions, which Hirono described as part of a "war on immigrants."
Statistics reveal that nearly half of the unaccompanied children appear in court without legal representation. This lack of counsel significantly reduces their chances of obtaining relief, given their inability to understand or navigate the complex U.S. immigration system.
Several Senators have voiced their support for the bill. Senator Jon Ossoff remarked on the importance of fair treatment and access to representation for children. Senator Richard Blumenthal highlighted the cruel consequences of expecting young children to navigate legal systems unaided, stressing the moral obligation to provide due process.
The legislation proposes detailed measures to ensure that children receive legal representation until the conclusion of their immigration proceedings. It also includes guidelines for recruiting and training pro bono attorneys and allows cases to be reopened if counsel is not provided.
Organizations like Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) and the National Center for Youth Law endorse the bill. Wendy Young, President of KIND, commended Senator Hirono's efforts, stating, "Legal representation helps safeguard unaccompanied children from human trafficking, exploitation, and abuse."
The bill is supported by 26 Senators, including Michael Bennet, Richard Blumenthal, Cory Booker, and others. It underscores Congress's commitment to ensuring that the rights and dignity of all unaccompanied children are upheld during immigration proceedings.