SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Ram Villivalam released the following statement after Gov. JB Pritzker signed an executive order protecting immigrant families in Illinois.

“I commend Gov. Pritzker for prioritizing and raising the voices of immigrant families in Illinois,” Villivalam (D-Chicago) said. “We have a president who constantly spouts anti-immigrant rhetoric, and those who enter this country seeking opportunities for themselves and their family need to know that the people of Illinois are on their side.”

Executive Order 2019-07 calls for the Department of Human Services to expand access welcoming centers for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. In addition, state agencies are required to inform immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers of their rights and opportunities available to them in the state of Illinois.