Sangamon Sun

Illinois taxpayers have been facing significant financial burdens due to the costs associated with providing services to undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers, with estimates reaching billions of dollars. According to reports, these expenses have reached approximately $2.84 billion since July 1, 2022, excluding education costs and other state and local services.

A breakdown of the estimated taxpayer spending on non-citizens from Fiscal Year 2023 to Fiscal Year 2025 reveals substantial amounts allocated to support services. This includes $478,000 for asylum seeker assistance, $160,000 for new additional state investments, and $182,000 for emergency funding requests, totaling $800,000.

Healthcare costs for undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers have also been a significant concern, surpassing $2 billion over a two-year period. The figures show allocations of $619 million in the Fiscal Year 2023 state budget, $773 million in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, and $629 million in the proposed Fiscal Year 2025 budget.

Republican lawmakers in Illinois have raised questions about the priorities of the state's Democrats, particularly regarding the substantial rise in healthcare costs for undocumented immigrants. Concerns have been voiced about the disparity between taxpayers who bear the burden of insurance premiums and co-pays and non-citizens who do not contribute to their healthcare costs.

Moreover, the allocation of billions of taxpayer dollars towards undocumented immigrants has sparked criticism, as it diverts funds that could otherwise support essential programs for Illinois citizens, particularly seniors and the economically vulnerable. Illinois stands out as one of the few states providing Medicare-like benefits to undocumented immigrants, all at the expense of taxpayers.

In response to these concerns, House Republican lawmakers in Illinois have introduced legislation aimed at addressing these issues. House Resolution 220 seeks to impose a moratorium on healthcare benefits for non-citizens, while House Bill 4187 aims to repeal the Illinois Trust Act, which designates Illinois as a Sanctuary State for immigrants and migrants.

Amidst the ongoing debate and legislative efforts, a statement attributed to House Republicans criticizes Governor Pritzker for shifting blame to Texas Governor Greg Abbott for the migrant crisis in Chicago. The statement emphasizes the need for accountability and highlights the impact of policies on citizens' welfare.

As the discussions surrounding the costs of supporting non-citizens continue, efforts are being made to rally support for legislative changes. A call to action urges individuals to sign a petition supporting the repeal of the Trust Act to end Illinois' sanctuary state status and address the influx of undocumented immigrants into the state.