SPRINGFIELD, IL – Illinois’ homeless will be given equal rights to access public buildings, voting and other basic rights now that a measure sponsored by State Senator Ira I. Silverstein (D–Chicago) was signed into law today.“The homeless deserve to be afforded the same basic rights as any other citizen in our state,” Silverstein said, “This law will allow homeless people to get back on their feet, find work and improve their situation.”
Homeless individuals face discrimination in situations for merely lacking a mailing or home address, especially when filling out job applications or showing proof of residency when attempting to vote.
“Many of us who enjoy these rights take them for granted and do not realize that something as simple as not having a physical address would keep us from utilizing these rights,” Silverstein continued.
The measure lists seven rights that will be extended to the homeless:
- Move freely through public buildings, parks, sidewalks and transit systems;
- Equal treatment from all state and municipal agencies;
- Freedom from employment discrimination based on a lack of a mailing address;
- Emergency medical care;
- Register to vote and vote;
- Confidentiality of private records and other personal information;
- A reasonable expectation of privacy with regard to personal property.
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