Fine highlights plan to restrict hiring of ICE agents

SPRINGFIELD, IL - State Senator Laura Fine called a press conference on Wednesday to outline crucial legislation that would protect families and curb ICE intimidation by preventing newly hired ICE agents from serving as law enforcement officers in Illinois.

"Police officers occupy positions of public trust. Given widespread concern over ICE's violent tactics, allowing current ICE agents to police local communities undermines that trust and should be prohibited," said Fine (D-Glenview). "My district is one of many communities across the state that has repeatedly voiced concerns about increased ICE activity in our neighborhoods, schools, shopping centers and public spaces, and it's time we take action against threats to public safety."

The Prohibited Hiring of Federal Immigration Officers Act would prohibit police departments in Illinois from hiring anyone who was employed by ICE as a federal immigration officer between Jan. 20, 2025 and Jan. 20, 2029 as a law enforcement officer.

"Prior to the Trump administration, ICE agents received an average of 16 weeks of training. Now, that average has dropped to 47 days," said Fine. "Our state and local law enforcement in Illinois receive extensive training and hold themselves to a high standard. They are trained to de-escalate dangerous situations and build community trust. We would never let any one of them go into the field with only 47 days of training. This bill represents a vital step toward creating a safer, more just environment for everyone, regardless of immigration status."

Senate Bill 2820 awaits assignment to a Senate committee.