SPRINGFIELD – Under a new law sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy, residents of mobile home parks will see improved transparency and protections.

“Transparency regarding tenants’ rights in mobile home parks is not just a legal obligation, it’s a moral imperative,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “It empowers residents to assert their rights, challenge discriminatory practices and advocate for fair treatment under the law.”

Under current state law, mobile home park owners are required to obtain a license to operate. If a park owner fails to maintain their license, the tenants are not required to pay rent. Murphy’s new law prohibits the eviction of a tenant for failing to pay rent to an unlicensed mobile home park.

Murphy’s measure also requires park owners to give notice to tenants that parks must be licensed to operate, and if they are not licensed, the owner cannot collect rent. Lease agreements will be required to have this disclaimer included in a clear and conspicuous manner. Under the new law, a licensed mobile home park owner could still evict a tenant for failure to comply with park rules, nonpayment of rent due, and failure to comply with local ordinances and state laws regulating mobile homes.

“By adhering to licensing requirements, owners demonstrate their commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and accountability in their communities,” Murphy said. “By prioritizing transparency, we uphold the principles of justice and dignity for all individuals living in mobile home communities.”

Senate Bill 2834 was signed into law by the governor on Monday. It goes into effect Jan. 1, 2025.