CHICAGO (AP) — The Department of Justice filed a lawsuit Monday against Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker over new state laws aimed at protecting immigrants at courthouses, hospitals, and day cares.
Pritzker signed a set of laws earlier this month that ban civil arrests at and around courthouses statewide and require hospitals, day care centers, and public universities to implement procedures for handling civil immigration operations and protecting personal information.
The laws, which took effect immediately, also provide legal recourse for individuals whose constitutional rights were violated during federal enforcement actions, including $10,000 in damages for unlawful arrests while attending court proceedings.
Immigration and legal advocates have praised the legislation, asserting that many immigrants have been avoiding courthouses, hospitals, and schools out of fear of being detained.
Lawrence Benito, executive director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, described the laws as “a brave choice.” He stated, “Our collective resistance to ICE and CBP’s violent attacks on our communities goes beyond community-led rapid response — it includes legislative solutions as well.”
The Justice Department claims that Pritzker and Attorney General Kwame Raoul, both Democrats named in the lawsuit, violated the U.S. Constitution with the new laws, arguing they “threaten the safety of federal officers.” This lawsuit is part of a broader effort by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to challenge state and local laws perceived to hinder federal immigration functions.
Pritzker and Raoul have not yet responded to requests for comment. Pritzker had previously acknowledged the possibility of legal challenges to the laws, expressing pride in their intent and overall impact.
Supporters of the laws argue that they are crucial for ensuring safety and trust within immigrant communities, while opponents emphasize the potential risks they pose to federal enforcement and public safety.
