Another Woke Overreach: Sen. Laura Fine's SB2820 Blocks Qualified Officers~Time to Rise Up and Win Again!
- Awake IL
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Awake Illinois Fight Against SB2820 is the latest battle in our ongoing mission to protect common-sense policies, public safety, and the freedoms that make Illinois strong. Just as we successfully defeated radical anti-child bill HB487 and anti-homeschool legislation like HB2827 through grassroots power, we're now mobilizing to stop Senate Bill 2820 (SB2820)—a misguided proposal that would harm law enforcement and our communities.
Introduced on January 13, 2026, by Sen. Laura Fine (D-Glenview) and co-sponsored by Senators Emil Jones, Sara Feigenholtz, and Lakesia Collins, SB2820 is titled the "Prohibited Hiring of Federal Immigration Officers Act." This bill would ban Illinois law enforcement agencies from hiring qualified former federal immigration officers (such as experienced ICE agents) who were hired federally between January 20, 2025, and January 20, 2029.
PRESS RELEASE, January 18, 2026
Why Awake Illinois Opposes SB2820
In a time when Illinois communities face real challenges—including staffing shortages in police departments and rising demands for safer streets—this bill excludes highly trained, qualified professionals who could help protect our families and neighborhoods. These former federal officers bring valuable expertise in law enforcement, border security, and public safety. Barring them from state and local roles isn't about reform—it's about putting politics over practicality and safety.
Awake Illinois stands firmly against "woke" policies that weaken law enforcement, prioritize ideology over results, and leave our communities more vulnerable. We've seen how overreaching legislation erodes liberties piece by piece. SB2820 is another step in that direction, and we won't let it pass without a fight.
The Power of Grassroots Action
Just like our victory against HB2827—where thousands of Illinoisans contacted legislators, shared stories, and generated national attention—we know collective action works. SB2820 is currently in the introduced stage. Now is the time to act before it advances.
How You Can Fight SB2820 Right Now
Submit Opposition Directly — Use the Awake Illinois action form to email the bill's sponsors (Sen. Laura Fine and co-sponsors) and the Senate Assignments Committee. Make your voice heard quickly and easily.
Contact Your State Senator — Urge them to oppose SB2820 and vote NO if it reaches the floor. Find your senator and their contact info here: Illinois Senate Map & Contacts..
Spread the Word — Share graphics, resources, and posts from Awake Illinois on social media. Tag your legislators and rally fellow parents, concerned citizens, and law enforcement supporters.
Stay Informed & Engaged — Follow updates on the Awake Illinois website and join our growing movement of uncancellable advocates.
This fight is about more than one bill—it's about defending practical, pro-safety policies against unnecessary restrictions that hurt our first responders and communities. Illinoisans have proven time and again that when we rise up together, we win.
If you're ready to stand for public safety, stronger law enforcement, and against divisive, ineffective legislation, join us today.
Take action and learn more here: www.awakeil.com/fight
Onward—because protecting our communities and our freedoms never stops!