SPRINGFIELD – To help make renting more affordable for Illinois residents, State Senator Adriane Johnson is leading a measure that would address the burden faced by renters in the state.
“Commonsense housing policies create a healthier rental market for everyone,” said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). “With additional protections for renters, we can promote access, reduce displacement and ensure safe, stable housing remains within reach for hardworking Illinoisans.”
States across the U.S. are facing critical housing supply challenges and rising cost of living affecting renters, homebuyers and developers alike. In 2025, Pew Research found that the average rent in U.S. metro areas rose 49% from 2017 to 2024, with a record 27% of renters now paying more than half their income on housing. Other studies have found that nearly half of renters in the U.S. are spending more than 30% of their incomes on housing and a quarter of renters spend more than half their incomes on housing.
Johnson is leading a measure that would address the financial barriers faced by renters, including security deposits, by prohibiting landlords from charging a security deposit that exceeds the cost of one month’s rent. Under the legislation, landlords would also be prohibited from raising the amount of the deposit when a lease is renewed or when rent is raised.
Further, annual rent increases would be capped at 3.5% so long as the property is the tenant’s primary residence. Property owners would need to notify tenants at least 30 days prior to a rent increase. Under Johnson’s measure, a renter wouldn’t be liable for the difference between the initial rent and increased rent if they weren’t notified of the increase.
“This legislation is a practical step toward fairness and helps remove a major barrier to stable housing,” Johnson said. “When families can plan ahead without fear of sudden rent spikes, they can plan for the future and focus on building stronger, more secure lives.”
Senate Bill 3530 was heard in a subject matter hearing Thursday and awaits further action.
