SPRINGFIELD – As states across the country advance efforts to revoke access to public education for immigrant students, a new law championed by State Senator Karina Villa secures the right to a free public education for all children in Illinois and broadens protections for students during possible immigration raids come Jan. 1.
“Federal law is clear – free public education is a right guaranteed to every child, regardless of immigration status,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Xenophobia and hateful rhetoric cannot dictate the futures of our children. Our schools will remain places of safety, opportunity, and dignity, where every student is empowered and free to learn.”
Under the new law, schools are prohibited from disclosing or threatening to disclose information about a student’s immigration status or the immigration status of a person associated with the child. The law also requires schools to develop procedures for reviewing and authorizing requests from law enforcement agents attempting to enter a school or school facility.
Additionally, the law ensures that children are not denied a free public K-12 education based on their or their parents’ perceived or actual immigration status, codifying the right to free public education for immigrant children.
“Unjust immigration enforcement near sensitive locations has torn unsuspecting families apart, while undermining the essential services working people depend on. We will not allow the pain and chaos our communities have endured to be normal,” said Villa. “Illinois will always defend children’s fundamental right to learn and uphold the dignity of our immigrant neighbors.”
House Bill 3247 takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.
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