Carbondale Reporter

Three Republican lawmakers representing southern Illinois are pushing for the end of Illinois' sanctuary state status. House Republican Floor Leader State Representative Patrick Windhorst, State Rep. Dave Severin, and State Rep. Paul Jacobs issued a joint statement on Monday, urging the immediate passage of HB 4187. This bill aims to repeal the controversial TRUST Act that was passed in 2017. The legislators argue that the influx of illegal migrants and drugs into the state must be halted.

According to Rep. Windhorst, "The TRUST Act established Illinois' 'sanctuary state' status, and the results for our state and its taxpayers have been disastrous." He highlights the unsustainable number of approximately 628,000 undocumented immigrants residing in Illinois and the burden it places on cities, both large and small. Rep. Windhorst emphasizes the financial strain on taxpayers, stating, "We literally cannot afford to continue funding this crisis."

Rep. Severin places blame on the Biden administration for the crisis at the southern border. He asserts that migrants are aware of Illinois' sanctuary state status and view it as a safe haven, shielded from law enforcement's deportation efforts. Rep. Severin criticizes the TRUST Act for prohibiting local law enforcement officials from cooperating with federal immigration authorities. He also highlights the issue of providing free healthcare benefits to undocumented immigrants and the strain it puts on Illinois taxpayers.

Joining Windhorst and Severin, Rep. Jacobs is offering an online petition for district residents to voice their opinions on illegal immigration and sanctuary state issues. He acknowledges the Democratic party's support for lax immigration laws and open borders but believes that the citizens do not share the same sentiment. Rep. Jacobs urges residents to sign the petition, calling for the repeal of the TRUST Act. He emphasizes the escalating costs, rising crime rates, and lack of a comprehensive plan to address the hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants in the state.

The Republican lawmakers are demanding a fair and open hearing for their legislation and a vote in the House. They hope that the petition will amplify the voices of their constituents and bring an end to Illinois' time as a sanctuary state.

To participate in the petition, residents can visit the following link: [https://www.ilhousegop.org/jacobs_trust_repeal](https://www.ilhousegop.org/jacobs_trust_repeal)

For additional details, please follow this link: https://reppauljacobs.com/2023/10/30/southern-il-republican-representatives-time-to-end-illinois-sanctuary-state-status/