The impact of HB 1217 on state laws is substantial, as it directly alters the legal framework related to privacy and data sharing among government entities. By repealing provisions that restricted information sharing with immigration enforcement, the bill paves the way for increased collaboration between state agencies and federal immigration authorities. This could lead to a chilling effect on immigrants seeking public services, as the fear of data disclosure may discourage access to essential services like healthcare and education.
Summary
House Bill 1217 aims to repeal the Illinois TRUST Act, which provided certain protections against the disclosure of personal information to immigration authorities. The repeal of this act would allow state agencies, particularly those involved in issuing identification cards and vehicle registrations, to share information with immigration agents. This change is significant as it modifies existing protocols regarding the privacy of individuals' data, especially for undocumented immigrants and their access to state services.
Contention
The bill has sparked notable contention in legislative discussions. Proponents argue that increased transparency and cooperation with federal immigration efforts are necessary for public safety and law enforcement efficacy. However, opponents express concerns over civil liberties and the potential for discrimination, fearing that the repeal may lead to racial profiling and increased deportations. Advocates for immigrant rights criticize the bill as a harmful step backwards in protecting vulnerable populations.
Modernizing Access to our Public Waters Act or the MAPWaters Act of 2025 or the MAPWaters Act of 2025This bill directs the Forest Service and the Department of the Interior to standardize and publish data relating to public's access to federal waterways for recreational use.Specifically, the Forest Service and Interior must jointly develop and adopt interagency standards for data collection and dissemination of geospatial data relating to public outdoor recreational access of federal waterways and federal fishing restrictions. The standards must ensure compatibility and interoperability among applicable federal databases with respect to collection and dissemination of such data.Within five years, the Forest Service and Interior must also digitize and make publicly available online certain geographic information system data about (1) federal waterway restrictions, (2) federal waterway access and navigation information, and (3) federal fishing restrictions. They must also update the data about waterway restrictions, waterway access, and navigation information at least twice per year. Data about fishing restrictions must be updated in real time as changes go into effect. Finally, the Forest Service and Interior must develop a process to allow members of the public to submit questions or comments regarding the data regarding waterway restrictions, waterway access, and navigation information.