West Central Reporter

House Republicans in Illinois are seeking to repeal the state's sanctuary policies, citing concerns over costs and public safety. The effort is focused on overturning the TRUST Act, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

Deputy Republican Leader Norine Hammond (R-Macomb) stated, “The surge of illegal immigrants into Illinois under Biden’s Open Border Policy led to a string of horrific crimes, endangered public safety, and blew a huge hole in our already-strained budget. Illinois has spent $3 billion on healthcare and other benefits for illegal immigrants. I will continue to fight for legislation and a state budget that prioritizes the needs of Illinois working families and seniors over illegal immigrants.”

Hammond was elected to the Illinois State House in 2023 to represent the 94th District, taking over from Randy Frese.

State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville), who is sponsoring HB 1317—the bill aimed at repealing the TRUST Act—argued that sanctuary policies have burdened taxpayers. “Governor Pritzker’s failed sanctuary state policy has cost Illinois taxpayers billions of dollars and made our communities less safe,” said Davidsmeyer. “With 550,000 illegal immigrants in Illinois, we should be working with the Trump Administration to detain and deport dangerous criminal aliens. That’s why I filed HB 1317 to repeal the TRUST Act and end Illinois’ failed sanctuary state policy.”

Representative Mike Coffey (R-Springfield) also criticized current policies, saying, “I talk to folks from my district often who are working full-time and struggling to pay for healthcare while migrants are receiving free Cadillac healthcare, and it’s not fair to Illinois citizens. House Republicans have championed legislation that would end Illinois’ TRUST Act policies and put Illinois citizens first. We must protect our communities, and it starts with commonsense legislation that improves the quality of life for Illinois taxpayers.”

Estimates place the total cost of services provided by the state of Illinois to undocumented immigrants at more than $3 billion. HB 1317 is currently awaiting consideration in the House Rules Committee.