"This legislation intends to restore trust between hard working immigrants seeking a better life and selfless police officers protecting our community.” - State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria)

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation designed to restore trust between immigrant communities and the police was passed by the Illinois Senate today.

Senate bill 31, also known as the TRUST Act, would require federal immigration officials to have a criminal warrant before entering schools, medical facilities and facilities owned by the Secretary of State to make an arrest. The legislation also prohibits using any state or local resources to help create a federal registry based on race, national origin, religion or other protected classes.

State Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria) issued the following statement:

“This country was built by and for immigrants searching for a better life, not only for themselves, but more importantly for their children. Immigrants should not be fearful of contacting the police because they are afraid of deportation. This legislation intends to restore trust between hard working immigrants seeking a better life and selfless police officers protecting our community.”