SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Cristina Castro sponsored a measure that would protect the constitutional rights of Illinois residents amid ongoing federal raids on businesses and homes.

“Our schools, our hospitals and our neighborhoods are under attack,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Our communities should not have to fear living their day-to-day lives.”

The measure encompasses initiatives of the Illinois Senate Latino Caucus to protect Illinois residents’ constitutional rights and ensure safe access to public spaces amid increasingly aggressive violations of those rights in Chicago and across the state.

It would allow Illinois citizens and residents to bring civil actions against any person who deprives them of their constitutional rights while conducting civil immigration enforcement. Punitive damages may be available when agents engage in certain behavior, including: wearing masks to conceal their faces, refusing to identify themselves, or driving vehicles with hidden or altered license plates.

The legislation further would require public colleges and universities to establish procedures for reviewing law enforcement access requests and would prohibit unauthorized disclosure of immigration status.

The measure would also codify long-standing common law protections to ensure parties, witnesses, and their family members can access the justice system without fear of civil arrest. The legislation would create a 1,000-foot safe zone around courthouses, including parking facilities and surrounding streets. Violations would carry civil damages for false imprisonment.

Similarly, all Illinois hospitals would be required develop comprehensive policies for law enforcement interactions by early 2026, with $500 daily penalties for noncompliance. Licensed daycare centers would also be required to adopt policies for interacting with law enforcement, including parental notification and consent requirements before sharing children's information, while prohibiting disclosure of citizenship or immigration status unless legally required

“This won’t be the last obstacle that lies ahead,” said Castro. “But it is a step toward accountability, transparency and protection for our vulnerable communities.

House Bill 1312 passed the Senate on Thursday.