Sangamon Sun

The ongoing national debate on immigration has intensified with California's recent proposal to provide housing assistance to undocumented immigrants. The proposed bill in California would allow these individuals to apply for state-backed home loans of up to $150,000. This development has sparked discussions about whether Illinois might consider a similar approach, especially as Chicago's migrant crisis remains a significant issue.

Illinois is recognized as a sanctuary state for undocumented immigrants, reinforced by the Illinois TRUST Act passed in 2017. This legislation prevents law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities regarding a person's immigration status unless there is a federal criminal warrant.

The state's expanded healthcare coverage for undocumented immigrants is projected to cost nearly $831 million for the fiscal year 2024, surpassing the initially budgeted $550 million. In response, State Representatives C.D. Davidsmeyer and Mike Coffey have expressed concerns over these expenses.

"Illinois Democrats 'sanctuary state' policies are a huge burden on the people of Illinois," said Davidsmeyer. "Unfortunately, Democrats have built an entire support system for individuals who have broken into our country illegally; which includes free healthcare, driver’s licenses, housing assistance, just to name a few."

Davidsmeyer and Coffey have co-sponsored House Resolution 220, calling for a moratorium on new enrollees in the state's healthcare program for undocumented immigrants and urging an audit of these services' financial impact on taxpayers. Additionally, House Bill 5846 proposes more regulations to manage benefits for undocumented immigrants and ensure fiscal responsibility.

"These bills represent necessary steps to address the unsustainable financial burden on our state," Coffey remarked.

The opposition to pro-immigration policies like the TRUST Act in Illinois mirrors broader national debates on such matters. Governor Newsom's veto of California's attempt at providing state-backed housing loans underscores tensions between advocates of immigrant protections and those concerned about financial implications.

As California navigates its immigration and housing challenges, Illinois faces similar issues. While it remains uncertain if Illinois will adopt California's proposed housing loan path, the conversation continues among lawmakers prioritizing residents' needs.