IL SB0242

Replaces discretionary sealing with automatic impounding of residential eviction court files when parties agree, case is dismissed, satisfaction of judgment is filed, tenant wins, or eviction order issued without material lease violation alleged.

Allows courts to impound files upon motion if interests of justice outweigh public interest in maintaining public record; automatically impounds files for eviction cases related to foreclosure termination of bona fide leases.

Permits scholars, public policy agencies, educational institutions, journalists, and governmental bodies to access impounded files by motion; party identifying information remains impounded unless court determines release necessary.

Creates civil penalty of $2,000 or twice actual and consequential damages (whichever is greater) for disseminating sealed or impounded court files for commercial purposes; allows Attorney General to enforce violations under Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act.

Requires courts to notify parties if eviction plaintiff fails to prosecute case for 180 days and direct plaintiff to further prosecute or dismiss within 10 business days; allows defendant to petition for dismissal or court to dismiss sua sponte if plaintiff fails to respond, automatically impounding file upon dismissal.