Illinois governor signs law allowing some non-citizens to become police officers, drawing criticism
- Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill into law allowing certain non-citizens legally authorized to work in the U.S. to become police officers starting in 2024.
- The law applies to those with work authorization under DACA or as permanent residents, not undocumented immigrants.
- Republican lawmakers and some police groups opposed the law, concerned it could impact public confidence in law enforcement.
- Governor Pritzker defended the law as helping address police shortages and providing opportunities for long-term residents.
- The law sparked national backlash from conservatives like Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis, whom Pritzker criticized as "not smart enough to be president."