Governor expected to sign bill protecting undocumented victims of and witnesses to crime

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Governor Bruce Rauner is expected to sign a bill into law that offers protection to some immigrants in Illinois, and called that bill "reasonable" Friday.

The Illinois TRUST Act, which has been passed by the State House and Senate, protects immigrants who witness crime or are victims of crime if they come forward with information.

The governor made positive comments about the bill during an appearance on WBEZ radio Friday morning, which was both encouraging and frustrating for those waiting for that protection.

A group gathered outside the station to hear the governor's comments on immigration and the pending TRUST Act.

"I think it seems very reasonable," the governor said.

Rauner did not comment when leaving the radio station, and his staff did not have more information about his plan of action for the TRUST Act.

Among those watching the governor's actions closely are people who said they've seen immigrant victims of crime stay silent instead of calling law enforcement for help.

Some rallied at the Thompson Center to encourage the governor to sign the Trust ACT.

State Representatives Lisa Hernandez (D-24) and Emanuel "Chris" Welch (D-7) sponsored the bill and want to see the governor sign the legislation into law.

"What's the wait?" Hernandez asked.

"Honestly, I'm surprised he hasn't signed it yet," Welch said.

U.S. Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin put pressure on President Donald Trump to protect young immigrants in the DACA program Friday, and also urged uniform action on immigration reform.

The TRUST Act requires action by August 28; the governor can sign it or veto it. If the governor does not take action, it would immediately become law.