Legal Action Filed Against Illinois Officials
The U.S. Department of Justice has taken legal action against Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Attorney General Kwame Raoul regarding a recently enacted state statute. This legislation establishes protections for immigrants at various public facilities.
Details of the Controversial Legislation
Earlier this month, Governor Pritzker formally approved the measure. The law prohibits immigration enforcement activities within or near courthouse premises, extending to a distance of 1,000 feet. Additionally, it mandates that healthcare institutions, higher education establishments, and childcare centers create specific protocols for situations involving federal immigration authorities.
Governor Pritzker has defended the legislation, stating it offers safeguards against what he describes as unfair practices by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Federal Government's Position
The Justice Department contends that the Illinois statute violates constitutional principles. Legal proceedings were officially commenced on Monday.
"The Department of Justice will steadfastly protect law enforcement from unconstitutional state laws like Illinois' that threaten massive punitive liability and compromise the safety of our officers," said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department's Civil Division.
During the bill signing ceremony, Governor Pritzker expressed confidence in the legislation's legal standing despite potential challenges.
"No doubt, they have the ability to go to court about it, but I believe this is a not just a good law, but a great law," Pritzker said.
