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.

The new law, Senate Bill 1563, adds a provision to the state’s eviction law affirming that nothing about the eviction process keeps police from enforcing criminal laws. As a result, it clarifies that squatters – who are trespassers – can be removed without going through the lengthy eviction process.

“I have had countless issues with squatters in my district. That’s why we are taking action to return residents to their homes safely and efficiently,” Collins said. “As of Jan. 1, law enforcement have the proper guidance to enforce trespassing and ensure homeowners’ rights.”

Senate Bill 1563 took effect Jan. 1, 2026.

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