Illinois will enact a law starting in 2024 that prohibits landlords from discriminating against potential tenants based on their immigration status. Governor J.B. Pritzker signed SB 1817, which adds protections in the Illinois Human Rights Act for housing and addresses discriminatory advertising.
The legislation is part of a series of bills signed by Governor Pritzker, including one aimed at granting access to state driver’s licenses for undocumented immigrants. The new law replaces the Temporary Visitor Driver’s License with a standard license that will have a four-year validity, benefiting over 300,000 individuals currently holding temporary licenses.
Governor Pritzker emphasized that these measures aim to eliminate barriers and provide equal opportunities for undocumented immigrants. The housing rights expansion was championed by Democratic State Senator Ann Gillespie, who emphasized the importance of preventing unjust housing denials.
The law establishes clear boundaries to protect immigrant rights and prohibits discriminatory practices by financial institutions and service providers. Third-party loan modification service providers are also barred from modifying terms of service based on immigration status, while inquiries into immigration status will be permitted when required by law.
The goal of this law is to promote inclusivity, remove obstacles, and provide immigrants with the opportunity to establish homes and contribute to their communities without being disqualified based on their background.
