![](https://chicagohomeless.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/illinois-bill-makes-history-hero-v2-1-1024x543.jpg)
By Jacqueline Altamirano Marin, Program Associate, Vera Institute of Justice
Destiny Carter, Policy Specialist, Chicago Coalition for the Homeless
Nelson Gonzalez, Grassroots Leader, Chicago Coalition for the Homeless
On January 13, the Illinois General Assembly unanimously passed the Public Housing Access Bill as part of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus agenda. By passing this legislation, Illinois became the first state in the nation to remove long-standing barriers that have prevented many people with criminal convictions from living in public housing.