DOJ sues Illinois over illegal immigrant financial aid laws

The United States Justice Department filed a lawsuit against the state of Illinois on September 3, 2025, over laws that facilitate in-state tuition benefits and financial assistance for illegal immigrants. This lawsuit targets state regulations enacted by Governor J.B. Pritzker, including those in the Illinois Public Act of 2003 and the Illinois DREAM Act of 2011. The DOJ argues that these laws violate federal law provisions established in the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that federal law prohibits states from providing educational benefits to individuals not legally residing in the United States unless such benefits are also available to U.S. citizens. The lawsuit emphasizes that Illinois’s laws create a discriminatory framework against American citizens, particularly affecting out-of-state U.S. residents who do not qualify for these benefits. The Illinois administration has faced persistent criticism from various segments of the public, especially parents concerned about the implications of resource allocation related to education. The Trump administration has been actively challenging similar state laws since returning to power in January. This lawsuit is part of a broader push to curb what they view as preferential treatment of illegal immigrants in higher education, emphasizing that regulations must adhere to federal guidelines. Critics of these measures, including Governor Pritzker's office, accuse the federal government of attempting to strip resources from states that pursue inclusive education policies. Pritzker defended Illinois's position by stating that the state is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for all students, including immigrants, to better serve the community. Furthermore, the backdrop of this legal dispute highlights the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and various states over immigration policy and resource allocation. The DOJ claims that allowing illegal immigrants to access financial aid programs creates an incentive for further illegal immigration, thereby complicating the overall legal and social landscape of education in Illinois. As this lawsuit progresses, it could set a significant precedent regarding state rights and federal oversight in immigration policy, educational access, and the handling of taxpayer resources in public education systems across the United States.