WESTCHESTER, Ill.  - State Rep. Emanuel "Chris" Welch, D-Hillside is calling on Governor Rauner to honor his commitment to immigrants, business organizations and advocates and sign legislation into law that will help protect undocumented immigrants from illegally being detained by the police.

 

"For years, the rhetoric against immigrants has grown more hateful and aggressive, as demonstrated by the racially driven protests in Virginia last weekend," Welch said. "However, we know that communities that are welcoming to immigrants and promote diversity have more economic growth and lower crime rates. Governor Rauner should sign this legislation to show his commitment to protecting and respecting everyone who lives in Illinois, regardless of their race or immigration status."

 

Welch's Senate Bill 31, known as the Illinois TRUST Act, is aimed at preventing undocumented immigrants with no criminal backgrounds from being detained by law enforcement and increasing trust between communities and local law enforcement was recently signed into law. The measure sets reasonable limits on local law enforcement from executing federal immigration policies by:

 

"Elected officials have a responsibility to promote the safety and welfare of our citizens," Welch said. "Ensuring that undocumented immigrants are not being detained will help many people living in communities across the state feel more safe and secure. It is time for Governor Rauner to stand up to the racist, fringe-elements of society and sign this legislation."