HB1429 is Illinois’ response to the recent US Supreme Court decision in the case of Grants Pass v. Johnson, which determined that people experiencing homelessness can be arrested and fined for sleeping outside even when there are no safe alternatives.

Please contact your state representative today to ask them to co-sponsor HB1429 or thank them for doing so.

This legislation focuses on preventing the further criminalization of homelessness, without restricting established municipal powers. Before and since the US Supreme Court decision, local governments in Illinois have had the power to make people move from public spaces when necessary, using a variety of local ordinances—this legislation does not change that.

Unsheltered homelessness is increasing due in large part to a shortage of emergency shelter beds and affordable permanent housing. Statewide, we have a shortage of 5,379 emergency shelter beds and 10,972 permanent supportive housing units. Local governments need to partner on constructive solutions to make sure everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home.