Rockford Sun

Illinois is facing a new federal lawsuit over its decision to provide taxpayer-funded financial aid and in-state tuition to undocumented students. The legal challenge follows the signing of House Bill 460 by Governor JB Pritzker earlier this summer, which expands state scholarships and grants to include undocumented immigrants starting next year.

Last week, the U.S. Department of Justice filed suit against Illinois, Governor Pritzker, and Attorney General Kwame Raoul. The department argues that the law violates federal statutes prohibiting benefits for individuals in the country illegally that are not equally available to U.S. citizens. Federal officials also claim the law discriminates against students from other states who are legally present in the U.S. but do not receive the same financial assistance now offered to undocumented immigrants.

The lawsuit asserts that Illinois’ policy conflicts with federal law, increases costs for taxpayers, and may encourage more illegal immigration.

State Senator Dave Syverson commented on the situation: "This latest lawsuit is further proof that Governor Pritzker’s policies are putting the interests of those here illegally ahead of hardworking Illinois families." He added, "He believes taxpayer-funded financial aid should be reserved for U.S. citizens and legal residents, not used to create additional incentives for illegal immigration."

Syverson has served as a Republican member of the Illinois State Senate since 1993, representing the state's 35th Senate District after succeeding Christine J. Johnson.