Illinois Law Restricts Future Immigration Detention Centers Near Schools, Homes and Community Hubs (Springfield, IL) – A new Illinois law led by Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford places restrictions on where future federal immigration detention facilities can be constructed or operated, establishing a 1,500-foot buffer around designated community gathering places.
Supporters say the measure is intended to protect Illinois families and communities by preventing future immigration detention centers from being located close to places where children, families and residents regularly gather.
Under the law, new immigration detention centers will not be permitted within 1,500 feet of certain protected community locations, including daycare centers, parks, places of worship and residential areas.
Democratic Party of Illinois Chair Lisa Hernandez said the law is intended to provide residents with greater protection in their neighborhoods.
“Our communities should feel safe to play, go to school, and attend church without fear,” Hernandez said. “Illinois Democrats are protecting our neighborhoods by prohibiting the presence of future detention centers, when current ones have already reported inhumane conditions.”
The protected locations include daycare centers, including home daycares; cemeteries; public parks and forest preserves; public housing and private residences; and places of religious worship.
The legislation is being promoted by Illinois Democrats as part of broader efforts to limit the impact of federal immigration enforcement on communities across the state.
The law applies to future immigration detention facilities and establishes geographic restrictions intended to keep such facilities away from community hubs and residential areas.
Illinois Law Restricts Future Immigration Detention Centers Near Schools, Homes and Community Hubs
