Grundy Reporter

Illinois Senate Republicans have introduced a new bill aimed at changing the state's approach to immigration enforcement. Senate Bill 1313, led by Senator Neil Anderson (R-Andalusia), seeks to mandate cooperation between state law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The bill targets undocumented immigrants who commit serious crimes, including violent offenses, drug-related crimes, and sex crimes.

Republicans argue that this legislation highlights a contradiction in Governor J.B. Pritzker’s public safety policies. They point out that while Pritzker has stated that "violent criminals who are undocumented and convicted of violent crime should be deported," the TRUST Act he supports limits law enforcement's ability to collaborate with federal authorities for deportations. Republicans claim this stance jeopardizes public safety by allowing dangerous individuals to remain in the state.

In addition to proposing Senate Bill 1313, Republicans are advocating for the repeal of the TRUST Act. This act currently restricts state and local police from working with federal immigration officials unless specific conditions, such as a federal warrant, are met.

State Senator Sue Rezin expressed support for removing these restrictions, stating that enhanced coordination with ICE would enable law enforcement to better manage undocumented felons and improve safety across Illinois.

Senate Republicans are calling on Governor JB Pritzker and Democrat lawmakers to back these initiatives to ensure violent criminals do not continue residing in Illinois.