SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins’ new law will give clarity to law enforcement so they can more easily remove criminal trespassers from a person’s home.

“Our intention is to make it easier for law enforcement to enforce criminal trespassing and remove squatters from property,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “We are responding to constituents who have had trouble with squatters who could not be removed without an eviction, and this will simplify the process.”

Collins’ new law, Senate Bill 1563, clarifies the state’s eviction law to ensure nothing about the eviction process keeps law enforcement from enforcing criminal laws. This change clarifies that squatters – who are trespassers – can be removed without going through the eviction process.

“Squatters are a problem, and no one should have to get an eviction notice to remove squatters from their home,” said Collins. “Law enforcement need to be able to do their job and return homes to their rightful owners. This law will bring back much-needed security to residents.”

Senate Bill 1563 was signed on Monday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago), Senate Joint Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, released the following statement after Sean Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the Murder of Sonya Massey:

“Sonya Massey’s life was stolen far too soon, and nothing can undo the pain her family and community have endured. While this sentencing cannot bring her back, it is an important step toward accountability for the harm done.

“Our hearts are with the Massey family as they continue to grieve and seek healing. We must continue working to ensure that justice is served and that our communities can have trust in those who are entrusted to protect and serve.”

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SPRINGFIELD – Police in Illinois are now able to remove squatters more effectively under a law led by State Senator Lakesia Collins that took effect Jan. 1.

“We are clarifying what the law says to help communities respond to unlawful trespassing,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Laws require clarity and this law ensures police do not have to resort to eviction, by instead giving them the appropriate guidance to ensure they can enforce criminal laws.”

Collins’ law comes in response to local squatters who snuck into a home while the owner was away. Law enforcement told the owner that they could not remove the squatters and that the homeowner would need to file an eviction.

CHICAGO – Residents of nursing homes across Illinois now have additional protections thanks to a law championed by State Senator Lakesia Collins that bans retaliation against nursing home residents.

“In assisted living, folks rely on their caregivers and staff to help with day-to-day tasks, and they shouldn’t be fearful of speaking out when something isn’t right,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This law gives seniors the respect they deserve, expands and protects their rights, and gives them more opportunities to seek justice.”

Under Collins’ law, nursing homes are prohibited from retaliating against a resident who is exercising their rights. If a resident faces retaliation, they are able to file a civil suit against the nursing home and potentially recover damages.