The Kern County Board of Supervisors will host its annual TRUTH Act Community Forum on Tuesday, August 19, at 2 p.m. at the County Administrative Center, 1115 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield. This forum provides the public with an opportunity to ask questions and receive information regarding the Kern County Sheriff’s Office’s (KCSO) collaboration with federal immigration enforcement.

Under the TRUTH Act, California law enforcement agencies must provide details about their interactions with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when they transfer individuals to ICE custody. These forums are mandated to ensure transparency and community oversight.

Last year’s forum revealed that KCSO had transferred over 300 individuals to ICE in 2023, drawing criticism from community advocates who raised concerns about due process, the impact on immigrant families, and the lack of transparency. Local organizations like the ACLU and Faith in the Valley have previously used the forum to demand accountability and an end to voluntary cooperation with ICE.

Community members are encouraged to attend and speak during public comment.