SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Karina Villa led a measure through the Senate to shield minors from eviction actions on their records that inhibit their future ability to rent.

“The careless actions of landlords listing minors in evictions contributes to generational housing instability, affecting marginalized communities the most,” said Villa (D-West Chicago). “Having an eviction on your record is a scarlet letter and these children are having to deal with the turmoil before they’re given the opportunity to build their history as a tenant.”

House Bill 3566 would prohibit minors from being named as defendants in eviction cases. If a minor is improperly named, the action would be dismissed and sealed. In addition, if the landlord deliberately placed a minor on the eviction filing, the minor would be entitled to attorney’s fees, damages and $1,000 in compensation.

“Children as young as 2 years old have been listed in eviction fillings, drastically challenging the ability for these children to find a safe place to live when they become adults,” said Villa. “We must work to protect minors from this practice that limits their ability to access quality and affordable housing.”

House Bill 3566 passed the Senate Thursday.