A proposal in the Illinois Senate could give landlords the power to evict residents who commit a crime. Under current law, the so-called Crime Free Rental Housing ordinance can only be used in Illinois cities with more than 25,000 people.
Senator Thomas Cullerton, a Democrat from Villa Park, says small communities are looking for any advantage that would help stop illegal activities.
“They should have the same amount of tools to fight crime, prevent gang violence, prevent gang traffic. A lot of times they don't have the resources a larger community has.” -Thomas Cullerton
Cullerton says communities would not be required to adopt the housing ordinance. Opponents say they're concerned innocent people, like a culprit's relatives, could also end up on the street.
Illinois Public Radio's Chris Slaby contributed to this report.