The Stephenson County Board approved a resolution declaring itself a non-sanctuary county on Thursday. It passed similar language that has been approved by Ogle and Winnebago counties.
The resolution was approved on a 10 to 6 vote after arguments were made ranging from anti-immigrant rhetoric to pleas to understand the role immigrants play in the local economy.
And though the text garnered debate, it doesn’t do much. It gives a political overview of immigration shaped by the author — county board member Republican Larry Yogerst.
The transportation of migrants began in 2022, as Texas Governor Gregg Abbott began paying for their transportation from the southern border to Illinois, primarily Chicago. Critics says it’s cruel and inhumane.
Board member Democrat Casey Anthony voted against the resolution. She said it does little to understand the reality experienced in the county. Several nonprofits, including churches support a number of migrants who already reside to establish themselves.
She says some in business community also play a role in that effort.
“There are numerous businesses in our area," Anthony said, "that the people coming are their workforce."
The text includes a commitment to prioritize funding for — quote — “legal residents” and calls for the repeal of the Illinois Trust Act.
The Act was passed under then Governor Bruce Rauner, a Republican.
The law prohibits local law enforcement from arresting or detaining a person due to immigration status, unless a warrant has been issued by a judge. The Stephenson County Sheriff’s Department has been sued previously for violation of the Act.
