Federal Immigration Enforcement In Will County: Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant Has Issued This Executive Order

(The following edited press release came from Mike Theodore, director of communications, Will County Executive Office.)

JOLIET, IL — Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant has issued an executive order that clarifies how county government will respond to increased federal immigration enforcement actions. The order creates restrictions on the use of county property for immigration enforcement staging areas, establishes guidelines for immigration enforcement actions on county property, and provides guidance on referring residents to legal resources and temporary visas available to crime victims.

“I am deeply concerned about reports I am receiving about federal immigration activity occurring locally and tactics causing fear throughout the community,” said Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. “The steps we are taking today are aimed at ensuring our residents voices are heard by providing resources and actions that fall under the county jurisdiction. All people should be safe in their neighborhoods and supported in their community.”

The four-part Executive Order, officially titled Executive Order 25-01, includes two directives to Will County offices and departments that set guidelines on federal immigration enforcement actions on county property. This includes prohibiting the use of County-owned properties under the control of the Executive’ Office, including buildings and lots, to serve as staging areas for enforcement operations.

The Executive Order also requires that federal agents must present a warrant before conducting immigration enforcement operations on County-owned property under the control of the Executive’s Office, while also removing face coverings and ensuring continuous visibility of a badge.

“I applaud Executive Bertino-Tarrant’s leadership and her steadfast commitment to upholding the principles of due process and equal protection under the law,” said State Rep. Dagmara Avelar (D-Romeoville). “This is what true local leadership looks like, standing up for our neighbors, our shared humanity, and our collective responsibility to create a community where everyone belongs.”

The Executive Order cites increased concerns from residents throughout the county about the scale and methods of federal immigration enforcement, including reports of due process violations. The order aims to provide clarity on how residents can continue to access Will County services without fear of harassment or violation of legal rights.

County Executive Bertino-Tarrant also announced a partnership with the Illinois Commission for Immigrant & Refugee Rights as the official referral entity of the County for residents who are concerned about their legal rights regarding federal immigration enforcement. County personnel will direct residents who express concerns about infringements on their rights to the ICIRR Family Support Network Hotline (855-435-7693).

Will County offices and departments that are engaged with law enforcement and judicial activities have also been directed to increase internal awareness of federal U-Visas and T-Visas, which offer temporary immigration status to victims or witnesses of crimes.

The Executive Order has been granted under the authority of Illinois statutes, which grants the County Executive authority to coordinate and direct administrative and management functions of the county government. The order is effective immediately.