SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Senator Karina Villa cracks down on landlords who maliciously or ignorantly place a minor on an eviction action, resulting in negative consequences affecting a child’s future ability to rent.
“Naming a child in an eviction filing causes lasting harm that follows them into adulthood,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “No child should bear the consequences of an eviction action, especially after experiencing a childhood marked by housing instability. Illinois has a responsibility to protect our youngest and most vulnerable residents from the lasting damage caused by irresponsible eviction practices.”
The law prohibits minors from being named as defendants in eviction cases. If a minor is improperly named, the action will be dismissed and sealed. Additionally, if the landlord deliberately placed a minor on the eviction filing, the minor is entitled to attorney’s fees, damages and $1,000 in compensation.
According to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, eviction numbers in Cook County grew to levels not seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic. These evictions disproportionately affect Black renters, and eviction filings were double for adults with children than those without.
Landlords often run background checks on prospective tenants. A renter who was named in their parent’s eviction case as a minor has a greater possibility of being denied housing.
“Including minors in eviction filings is reckless. This practice sets children up for future housing instability and exposes them to discrimination for circumstances entirely beyond their control,” said Villa. “Children should not be punished for the alleged actions of a parent. Illinois is taking a clear stand to protect these innocent individuals and break the cycle of harm before it begins.”
House Bill 3566 was signed into law Friday and goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026.
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