Illinois Governor Pritzker Signs Bill Granting Financial Aid to Undocumented Immigrants

CHICAGO (December 3) – Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has signed House Bill 460 into law, marking a significant policy shift. This legislation, effective January 1st of next year, amends the state’s RISE Act and makes illegal immigrants and some other noncitizens eligible for financial aid in higher education.

The bill authorizes state-funded scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers for individuals without legal status who meet residency requirements. It specifically targets those ineligible for federal benefits, offering them a pathway to lower college costs through programs administered by the University of Illinois system, among others.

This decision comes after the Trump administration filed a lawsuit against the measure in September 2025. In a statement accompanying the suit, Attorney General Pam Bondi cited concerns that schools “cannot provide benefits to illegal aliens that they do not provide to U.S. citizens,” arguing it creates inequality for taxpayers.

State Senate Republicans voiced strong opposition Wednesday, labeling the law as harmful and illogical. They stated simply: “With Illinois families already burdened by some of the highest taxes in the nation, they will now be forced to subsidize college aid for individuals who are not citizens.” They also noted potential legal complications related to a carveout that applies to individuals exempt from registering for Selective Service.

“This provision weakens compliance with federal law,” said spokespersons, adding it “undermines fairness” and raises questions about national defense obligations.”

According to the Higher Ed Immigration Portal, approximately 270,000 undocumented immigrants in Illinois are actively pursuing higher education. State data indicates this population numbers well over half a million across all non-citizen groups within the state.

Governor Pritzker defended the measure as “common sense” policy that would help ensure Illinois retains its top students regardless of their immigration status.