Illinois launches website to track state spending on asylum seekers [Video]

CHICAGO – A new database aims to show how tax dollars are being spent on asylum seekers in Illinois.

The more migrants that arrive at the migrant landing zone at Polk and Desplaines streets, the more tax dollars are spent. That’s why Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza has launched a new online portal to track state spending on new arrivals.

“While the state is incurring expenses that, frankly, should be paid by the federal government, I want to make sure that taxpayers know exactly what the state is spending money on when it comes to the arrival and care of asylum seekers,” Mendoza said in a statement.

The portal’s homepage shows visitors the spending amounts, vendor names and a description.

So far, the portal has tracked expenditures totaling $31.1 million since November 1, 2023. However, it’s important to note the portal just launched Tuesday, so that number is expected to grow as more state …