State lawmaker discusses new squatter law taking effect in 2026

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Another new law is one that will stop squatters from taking over homes.

A state lawmaker who helped make the law happen, State Rep. La Shawn Ford, joined ABC7 to talk about the law and why the issue was important for them to get behind.

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The law will make it easier for police to remove squatters from someone's home, bypassing a possibly months-long eviction process

SEE ALSO: New IL laws in 2026 address missing persons investigations, sexual assault victims, police hiring

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

WATCH | Squatting in Illinois: A Statewide Fight

The law also establishes a clear distinction between lawful tenants and unlawful squatters, ensuring that property owners are no longer forced to navigate a long court process to remove unauthorized occupants.

RELATED: Gov. Pritzker signs 'Squatter Bill' into law, making it easier for police to remove trespassers