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NewsChicago Sun-TimesJuly 1, 2026United States

Mayor Johnson's Renter Protection Plan Faces Landlord Opposition

Mayor Brandon Johnson has introduced the 'Protecting Renters Ordinance' to address Chicago's housing affordability crisis. The proposal, which faces significant pushback from property owners, includes new rules on fees, legal aid for tenants, and mandatory payments for certain evictions.

housingrenter rightscity councillandlord regulationsurban development
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Why It Matters

The proposed ordinance would change the financial obligations of landlords and the legal rights of tenants in Chicago by banning certain fees and requiring payments of at least $5,000 or five months' rent for specific lease terminations.

Key Facts

  • The 'Protecting Renters Ordinance' would ban move-in fees and 'junk fees' that lack a documented cost.
  • The ordinance would provide legal representation for income-eligible tenants.
  • Landlords would be required to pay tenants $5,000 or five months' rent (whichever is greater) if a lease is not renewed or a tenant is evicted without 'just cause'.
  • The Chicago Housing Committee held its first public hearing on the ordinance on Monday.
  • The proposal is intended to address the city's affordability crisis by changing the balance between renters and landlords.

Who's Mentioned

personBrandon Johnson“Mayor of Chicago and sponsor of the Protecting Renters Ordinance”organizationChicago Housing Committee“The city body holding hearings on the proposed ordinance”