Macon Reporter

State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur) responded to a recent complaint filed by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) against Illinois regarding laws that provide in-state tuition and state-funded scholarships to non-citizens. The DOJ alleges these laws discriminate against U.S. citizens.

“Yesterday’s DOJ action underscores exactly why I filed HB 4097. College costs are high, aid dollars are limited, and families expect their tax dollars to be used fairly. The Justice Department made it clear: Illinois can’t tilt the playing field toward illegal immigrants. My bill restores equal treatment, so no illegal immigrant gets a better deal than any American student, period,” Deering stated.

The DOJ complaint was filed in the Southern District of Illinois against the State of Illinois, Governor Pritzker, the Attorney General, and boards of trustees for state universities. It challenges policies that offer in-state tuition and financial aid to individuals not legally present in the country—benefits not equally available to all U.S. citizens.

The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois commented that the policy “treats illegal aliens better than U.S. citizens living in other states…all on the taxpayer’s dime,” as DOJ seeks to stop enforcement of these laws.

Deering’s proposed legislation, HB 4097, aims to bring Illinois into compliance with federal law by ending what she describes as preferential treatment over U.S. citizens.

Deering urged legislative support for her proposal: “If you believe in equal treatment for American students, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support HB 4097, so Illinois is aligned with federal law and basic fairness and common sense.”

Deering was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 88th House District in 2025, succeeding Dan Caulkins.

For more information, contact Rep. Deering at (217) 876-1968 or visit RepDeering.com.