Law-enforcement officers throughout Illinois have offered their support of Senate Bill 31, which Gov. Bruce Rauner signed into law on Monday and which some have argued turns Illinois into a so-called sanctuary state.
The bill created the TRUST Act to reduce the reach of federal agencies when it comes to police interaction with immigrants, a news release on IllinoisSenateDemocrats.com said. A news release from the Illinois Republican Party said the legislation will keep law enforcement’s focus on its duties.
However, Lake County Sheriff Mark Curran said in a statement from the Illinois Republican Party that the bill does not create a sanctuary state.
“This is a good bill that will make Illinois a safer place,” Curran said. “Law enforcement must use every tool available in order to protect our communities from the true predators on the street. The relationships built because of this bill will give police officers and investigators a much better chance at convincing victims and witnesses of violent crime to come forward.”
The Illinois Association of Police, in a statement, reiterated Curran’s belief that the bill will not create a sanctuary state.
“We are pleased that Governor Rauner [signed] the bill,” the statement said.
Lake County State’s Attorney Mike Nerheim said in a statement that the bill will encourage people to come forward and work with law-enforcement officials to find those who have committed serious crimes.
