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.