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.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Lakesia Collins championed a law that will improve birth care in maternal health deserts by giving certified nurse midwives more independence and greater flexibility to practice in underserved areas.

“This law gives Illinois nurse midwives more flexibility and opportunities to collaborate and deliver care,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “We are modernizing the rules for providers to give residents greater access to care and assistance in our communities.”

Previously, certified nurse midwives were required to collaborate formally with a physician to practice at full scope, which created a barrier as more than one-third of Illinois counties lack sufficient maternity care. Under Collins’ law, House Bill 2688, CNMs are now able to provide out-of-hospital birth services at licensed birth centers without the need for a formal collaboration agreement, as long as they have permission from the birth center’s clinical director.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Lakesia Collins spearheaded a property tax relief package that was signed into law Friday, increasing property tax exemption thresholds for senior citizens in Illinois.

“Seniors have a lot on their plate to deal with from health care to home care, and property taxes should not be on that list,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “Expanding the number of seniors who qualify for relief ensures seniors in our neighborhoods can stay in our neighborhoods.”

The new law, Senate Bill 642, will deliver critical updates to help seniors on fixed incomes and help families facing economic challenges manage rising property tax costs. Under the measure, the maximum income limit for the Low-Income Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption will increase substantially over the next several years, beginning at $75,000 for taxable year 2026, increasing to $77,000 for taxable year 2027 and settling at $79,000 for taxable year 2028 and beyond.