Governor Pritzker to sign Illinois 'Squatter Bill' into law

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The ABC7 I-Team has learned Governor JB Pritzker will sign the Illinois "Squatter Bill" into law.

Senate Bill 1563 passed the Illinois House in May 2025.

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The proposed Illinois law would make it easier for police to remove squatters from someone's home, bypassing the months-long eviction process.

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

If Pritzker signs it into law, it would differentiate squatters from tenants, making it easier for property owners to regain control of their home.

WATCH | Squatting in Illinois: A Statewide Fight

The law would go into effect on January 1, 2026.

Officials did not say when the governor is expected to sign the bill into law. His deadline to sign is July 31.

State Rep La Shawn Ford, the co-author of the bill, issued the following statement:

"Help is on its way. Thank you to the General Assembly for passing the bill to eliminate the legal standing of squatters in Illinois, and to the Governor for announcing he will sign the squatter bill into law.

This is a great example of positive press and excellent investigative work! Having 'Sam on your Side,' ABC 7 Chicago, in these important matters is always beneficial. Let's put an end to home theft in Illinois."

This is a developing story.

The news comes the day after the I-Team reported that alleged squatters move next-door to an Illinois state representative in Chicago.

Lawmaker Marcus Evans called on the governor to take action.

SEE ALSO | 5 ways to protect your home, vacant property from squatters