SB0684 Summary

• Establishes the Task Force on Counsel in Immigration Proceedings consisting of 7 members appointed by the Governor in consultation with legislative leaders and state officials.

• Task Force shall investigate implementation of universal legal representation for individuals in federal immigration removal proceedings, including estimating costs, identifying necessary resources, and evaluating funding sources.

• Task Force must submit a comprehensive report by July 1, 2022 with findings and recommendations on how to provide full legal representation to covered individuals facing immigration proceedings.

• Defines "covered individuals" as anyone subject to federal removal proceedings who is either an Illinois domiciliary or has proceedings conducted in Illinois, and "covered proceedings" to include immigration court hearings, detention challenges, appeals, and related state court proceedings.

• Act automatically repeals on July 1, 2023, making this a temporary task force established to study and recommend solutions for providing right to counsel in immigration cases.