CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Human Rights and the Illinois Office to Prevent and End Homelessness issued a letter last week reminding public officials of their obligations to protect the civil rights of individuals experiencing homelessness. The letter notes that ordinances restricting access to public spaces based on housing status could violate the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA), the Bill of Rights for the Homeless Act (BRHA), and civil rights laws. Area cities, including Polo and Oregon, have crafted legislation that includes fines for public camping, potentially impacting homeless individuals. Illinois officials warn those ordinances may discriminate against protected groups and encourage local officials to consider the broader implications on civil rights and public access.
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