PARENTAGE ACT-SCOPE

The bill updates Illinois law to clarify when corporations can be held accountable in Illinois courts for certain injuries related to toxic substances. It states that corporations doing business in Illinois consent to the court's authority over them, especially if they are involved in cases of toxic exposure. This applies even if the incident causing the injury occurred outside of Illinois, as long as there are other defendants in the case that can be held accountable.

IL SB0026 is a senate bill in the Illinois 104th General Assembly, sponsored by Don Harmon (D), currently “Engrossed” since April 9, 2025.

We track 10,921 Illinois bills this session, 516 of them sponsored by Don Harmon.

Supporters of the bill argue that it strengthens consumer protection by ensuring that corporations cannot evade responsibility for harm caused by toxic substances. They believe it promotes accountability and allows victims to seek justice more easily, regardless of where the injury occurred.

Critics of the bill contend that it may impose excessive legal burdens on businesses operating in Illinois, potentially discouraging investment and economic growth. They argue that the broad scope of jurisdiction could lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits against corporations, which might ultimately harm the state's business climate.