Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat, recently signed a bill into law that adds “immigration status” as a protected class, thereby mandating landlords to consider all applicants, regardless of their immigration status.
The law aims to address the rising real estate prices in the state.
Under the new law, landlords and property sellers are prohibited from refusing to rent, sell, decline offers, or negotiate with individuals based on their immigration status. Additionally, third-party loan modification service providers are also required to engage in loan modification services without discrimination based on immigration status. Critics have drawn comparisons to the 2008 housing-market collapse, highlighting concerns about excessive subprime lending.
However, some critics argue that the law is a political move by the Democrat-led state to secure future Democratic voters at the expense of repeating past mistakes. State Senator Ann Gillespie, a Democrat, praised the legislation for promoting fairness while acknowledging that it indirectly encourages illegal activity. Gillespie stated that the law establishes clear boundaries and protects the rights of immigrants, preventing discriminatory practices by financial institutions and service providers. The aim is to ensure that individuals are not unjustly denied housing.
Housing costs in Illinois, particularly in Chicago, remain high, with the median rent increasing to $1,900 per month from $1,750 per month in the previous year, according to Breitbart.
Republican Senator J.D. Vance from Ohio has expressed concerns about the impact of mass immigration on the real estate market. He argues that accommodating millions of people who are in the country illegally further drives up housing costs, particularly when interest rates are already high. Vance describes the situation as economic warfare and a threat to the American dream for American citizens, emphasizing the need to continue opposing such policies.
The sanctuary city of Chicago has experienced an influx of immigrants due to busing programs from Texas. Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot appealed to Texas Governor Greg Abbott to end the program, citing limited shelter spaces and resources to accommodate the increased number of individuals. Despite these challenges, Chicago lawmakers have extended public resources, including education, to support their undocumented residents.