Leglistative Updates

• Eminent Domain Case Goes to the Supreme Court

In October, Shriver Center attorneys filed petitions to the U.S. Supreme Court to stop the planned demolition of Evergreen Terrace, a federally subsidized, low-income housing development in Joliet, IL. In April the City of Joliet won a significant court decision giving it the initial green light to take by eminent domain the entire development, in spite of strong opposition from the property owners, the tenants (represented by the Shriver Center), and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  In November, HUD filed court papers arguing that Joliet’s actions are motivated by race discrimination in violation of the Fair Housing Act, Illinois Human Rights Act, and Equal Protection Clause.

• Key Support for Families in Need Achieved

Shriver Center attorneys led the advocacy effort of a bill that significantly increases the number of poor families who will qualify for cash welfare.  The bill, which passed the Illinois House and Senate this fall, improves access to Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) by making all families living in “deep poverty” (below 50% of the Federal Poverty Level) financially eligible for TANF, increasing work incentives, providing applicants with the timely assistance necessary to stabilize their lives, and expanding protections for victims of domestic and sexual violence.