House Approves Senate Bill 1563, the ‘Squatter Bill,’ Simplifying the Process for Police to Evict Squatters from Homes in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WLS) — The Illinois House unanimously voted to pass Senate Bill 1563, known as the Squatter Bill on Wednesday

The proposed law makes it easier for police to remove squatters from someone’s home, bypassing the months-long eviction process.

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Previously, squatters were allowed to stay at the property during the court process to get them out.

If the bill becomes law, it would differentiate squatters from tenants, making it easier for property owners to regain control of their home.

It now goes to the governor’s desk for approval.

The video in the player above is from an earlier report.

The law comes as an ABC7 I-team investigation uncovered multiple alleged squatting cases in the Chicago area.

Earlier this month, a woman faced arrest and charges in connection with supposedly squatting in a Chicago residence. She presented documents claiming they were mortgage papers to demonstrate that she had purchased the house. Nonetheless, authorities indicated that she used an alias.

WATCH | Squatting in Illinois: A Statewide Fight

Sam is on your side. If you have a problem you want Samantha Chatman to investigate, call the ABC7 I-Team tip line at 312-750-7TIP.