Illinois Expands Migrant Protections With Controversial New Law
Illinois has strengthened its migrant sanctuary policies after Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a controversial bill into law. The measure, known as the Illinois Bivens Act, allows civil lawsuits against officials who violate constitutional rights during immigration enforcement. It also introduces new protections for immigrants in areas like education and healthcare.
The bill began as a simple proposal for POW/MIA Recognition Day. Later, lawmakers amended it into a broader immigration reform, renaming it the Illinois Bivens Act. Both chambers approved the measure—the Senate by 40-18 and the House by 75-32—before sending it to Pritzker on November 25, 2023. The governor officially signed it into law on August 2, 2024.
The Illinois Bivens Act is now in effect, expanding protections for immigrants across the state. It allows civil lawsuits against officials involved in rights violations and sets stricter policies for public institutions. The law marks a significant shift in how Illinois handles immigration enforcement and institutional accountability.
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