Chicago, Illinois — The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Attorney General Kwame Raoul, escalating a legal dispute over a newly enacted state law that restricts federal immigration enforcement activities at and near courthouses. The lawsuit argues that Illinois overstepped its authority by attempting to regulate federal law enforcement operations, particularly those carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The law, signed earlier this month, prohibits immigration enforcement actions inside state courthouses and within 1,000 feet of those buildings. It also expands legal avenues for individuals to sue federal agents over alleged civil rights violations. Supporters of the measure say it is designed to ensure immigrants can attend court proceedings without fear of detention, while critics argue it interferes with federal responsibilities.
In its filing, the Justice Department claims the statute violates the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution and exposes federal officers to excessive legal risk. Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate said the department would “steadfastly protect law enforcement from unconstitutional state laws” that could endanger officer safety.
Pritzker has framed the law as a response to aggressive federal deportation tactics that have included arrests in or near courthouses. He has argued that such actions discourage crime victims and witnesses from participating in the justice system. State officials have acknowledged they anticipated legal challenges but maintain the law is necessary to protect public safety and access to justice.
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