What You Should Know:

Consensus was reached by individual Leagues throughout the state of Illinois on this issue, and then the issue was ratified at State Convention in June 2007. Our own Kim Reed led this study and worked for the creation of this position.

Congratulations, Kim!

Why You Should Care:

Immigration is a contentious national issue. Many educated and intelligent Leaguers have studied this issue for years and from every angle. This position reflects thoughtful decision making that benefits every citizen and potential citizen for the best possible outcome to protect people and the country.

Illinois' State Position on Immigration

As approved by the delegates to the LWVIL State Convention, June 2007

·       The League of Women Voters of Illinois believes that the State of Illinois should promote local community efforts to provide orientation and counseling services for immigrants regardless of documentation status.  The State of Illinois should support funding efforts for these services by encouraging federal funding and by the use of funds from the state and local governments as well as from the private sector.

·       The League of Women Voters of Illinois believes the State of Illinois should promote and fund educational programs and materials that seek to inform all workers, including documented and undocumented immigrants, of their rights in the workplace.

·       The League of Women Voters of Illinois believes the State of Illinois should provide "driving certificates" or some other form of proof of driving validation to undocumented drivers, allowing those drivers to drive legally and ensuring that they would have passed a state driving test.  The LWVIL also believes the State of Illinois should permit and encourage auto insurance providers to issue insurance coverage to holders of such driving certificates.

·       The League of Women Voters of Illinois opposes the deputization of state and local police to enforce immigration laws in Illinois.

·       The League of Women Voters of Illinois opposes legislation or ordinances at the state and local level that would penalize landlords for renting to undocumented immigrants.

·       The League of Women Voters of Illinois opposes legislation or ordinances at the state and local level that would prohibit the issuance of business permits to undocumented immigrants.

·       The League of Women Voters of Illinois does not support extending the right to vote to undocumented immigrants.