West Central Reporter

House Republicans in Illinois are pushing for the repeal of the state's sanctuary policies, citing concerns over public safety and financial costs. The legislative effort is focused on repealing the TRUST Act, which House Republicans argue has contributed to increased crime and significant taxpayer expenses.

Deputy Republican Leader State Representative Norine Hammond criticized the current policy, stating: “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.”

State Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer is leading the sponsorship of HB 1317, a bill aimed at repealing the TRUST Act. He said: “Governor Pritzker’s failed sanctuary state policy has cost Illinois taxpayers billions of dollars and made our communities less safe. 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.” Davidsmeyer was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 100th House District in 2012.

State Representative Mike Coffey also expressed concern about how resources are allocated: “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 suggest that services provided by the state of Illinois to undocumented immigrants have exceeded $3 billion in total costs. HB 1317 is currently held up in the House Rules Committee awaiting further action.