SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois House Democrats passed a bill Wednesday to restrict where the federal government can put ICE detention centers.
The plan states the detention and processing facilities cannot be located within 1,500 feet of any home, apartment complex, school, daycare center, public park or church.
House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch (D-Hillside) lead the push for this change, as the Broadview detention center is in the heart of his district.
Welch told the chamber that neighbors and students have been affected by the tear gas fired by ICE agents at demonstrators.
"This is about common sense," Welch said. "This is about dignity for our communities, and this is about standing up for our neighbors who deserve better."
House Republicans said this is another example of Democrats picking fights with the Trump administration instead of working with the federal government to resolve issues.
The plan passed out of the House on a 72-35 vote with two representatives voting present. House Bill 5024 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
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