Gov. J.B. Pritzker signs bill strengthening protections for immigrants

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed a bill strengthening protections for immigrants in the state, aiming to shield them from what lawmakers described as unjust or discriminatory federal immigration actions.

The legislation, signed Monday, expands existing state safeguards by limiting when local and state law enforcement may cooperate with federal immigration authorities. It prohibits agencies from detaining individuals solely based on immigration status and restricts the sharing of certain personal information with federal officials unless required by a court order.

Pritzker said the measure reinforces Illinois’ commitment to protecting vulnerable communities.

“Illinois will not be complicit in federal overreach that targets immigrants and tears families apart,” Pritzker said in a statement. “This law ensures that residents—regardless of their immigration status—can live without fear of unlawful detention or discrimination.”

Supporters of the bill, including immigrant rights organizations and several Democratic lawmakers, argue the law provides necessary clarity for local law enforcement and helps build trust between immigrant communities and police.

Opponents, including some Republican legislators, criticized the measure, saying it could hinder cooperation with federal authorities and complicate public safety efforts.

Under the new law, Illinois agencies must also provide clearer guidelines on how to respond to federal requests and are required to report instances of attempted immigration enforcement actions within public facilities.

The legislation takes effect immediately.