1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to introduce and support legislation in Ohio similar to Illinois House Bill 1312, which became Public Act 104-0440 on December 9, 2025. This comprehensive law protects constitutional rights during civil immigration enforcement while maintaining public safety and institutional integrity. Illinois created the Illinois Bivens Act, which authorizes civil actions against persons who violate the Illinois or U.S. Constitution while conducting civil immigration enforcement. This provides a critical accountability mechanism through remedies including punitive damages for violations. Ohio residents deserve similar protections when their constitutional rights are violated during immigration activities. The Illinois law includes practical safeguards that Ohio should adopt. The Court Access, Safety, and Participation Act protects parties, witnesses, and court companions from civil arrest while attending state court proceedings in good faith. Violators face actual damages plus $10,000 statutory damages for false imprisonment. This ensures that people can access our justice system without fear, which is fundamental to the rule of law. Illinois also amended its Hospital Licensing Act to require hospitals to adopt policies for law enforcement interactions, including verification procedures for agents involved in civil immigration activities and designated spaces for law enforcement to wait. Similar amendments to the Public Higher Education Act prohibit schools from disclosing citizenship or immigration status without consent and require procedures for reviewing law enforcement entry requests. The Child Care Act was amended to prevent day care centers from consenting to law enforcement entry for immigration enforcement without valid identification and a signed judicial warrant, order, or subpoena. These provisions passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in Illinois, with the House voting 106-0-0 on April 7, 2025. They protect constitutional rights, ensure due process, and maintain institutional sanctity without impeding legitimate law enforcement. Ohio needs similar legislation to safeguard the rights of all residents while respecting the proper role of state institutions. I ask that you champion this effort in our state.