(The Center Square) – Discussions are expected to continue this summer over Illinois legislation to restrict fees landlords may charge renters.
An amended version of House Bill 3564 failed to advance in the Illinois Senate before the end of the legislative session last weekend.
State Sen. Mike Simmons, D-Chicago, was the Senate sponsor of HB 3564. Simmons told the Senate Executive Committee that the bill was amended after the original measure banned move-in fees.
“The legislation would limit move-in fees to 20% of the first month’s rent. You can only charge a move-in fee or security deposit, not both,” Simmons.
Matt Murphy addressed the committee on behalf of the Chicagoland Apartment Association. Murphy said landlords have to be able to collect what they need to run their property.
“When we tell landlords that they’re predatory and we try and curb their ability to operate their properties in a way that they can be proud of, we’re telling them they’re not welcome in Illinois. It exacerbates the affordability problem. It doesn’t improve it,” Murphy said.
Michael Mini, the Chicagoland Apartment Association’s executive vice president, issued a statement this week.
“We are pleased that lawmakers did not advance HB 3564 before adjournment. While we appreciate the time spent in negotiations, the bill in its most recent form still included provisions that would have significantly disrupted the operational and financial stability of Illinois’ rental housing market,” Mini said.
HB 3564 mandated processes for renters to be able to pay fees in installments and banned landlords from imposing fees or interest charges if tenants elect to pay in installments.
State Sen. Cristina Castro, D-Elgin, scolded the Illinois Realtors for opposing the bill and wanting more meetings.
“To the realtors, the excuse of, ‘Oh, I’d like to do this in the summer’ is not an excuse. You will work with Senator Simmons on this bill,” Castro said.
State Sen. Sue Rezin, R-Morris, said Illinois is one of the least landlord-friendly states in the country.
“That just sends a message to people who want to invest in apartments and housing that we have challenges here,” Rezin said.
HB 3564 was approved by the Senate Executive Committee but was not called for a vote on the Senate floor.
The General Assembly adjourned last weekend, but lawmakers have not ruled out returning to Springfield during the summer.
