"Stemming the ever-increasing mortgage foreclosure rate is extremely important," Holmes stated. "When we are talking about homeowners who are serving in the military and are deployed on active duty when the foreclosure is imminent, special action is necessary. These brave men and women have sacrificed so much for our safety, the least we can do is assist them taking the appropriate steps to ensure they maintain their home."

Under the Federal Servicemembers Relief Act, a servicemember may be granted a stay of civil proceedings under certain circumstances. House Bill 3762 strengthens the provisions in Illinois.

Additional legislation passed by the Senate this week amends the Illinois Mortgage Foreclosure Law. House Bill 5735 provides that a court that enters a foreclosure judgment shall refrain from selling the property if the homeowner meets certain requirements before the scheduled date of the sale. One of the requirements includes the homeowner applying for assistance under the Making Home Affordable Program.

"The goal of this legislation is to ensure that mortgage lenders fulfill their obligations under the Making Home Affordable Program," Holmes said. "This program gives eligible homeowners an opportunity to refinance their mortgages into more affordable monthly payments. It is a valuable tool that will decrease the foreclosure rate and help our citizens maintain their homes."