Cities and States Advance Tenant Protection Laws

Tenant protection initiatives are advancing in several U.S. cities and states. In Chicago, advocates are pushing for a 'Just Cause for Eviction' ordinance requiring landlords to state reasons for lease terminations and provide relocation assistance in some cases. Oregon has passed legislation that prohibits landlords from inquiring about or discriminating against tenants based on immigration or citizenship status, while Portland city councilors are considering rent subsidies for tenants facing high rents at Everett Station Lofts. Illinois lawmakers are moving forward with measures to increase transparency in rental charges and ban certain 'junk fees,' despite landlord opposition focused on housing supply issues. These efforts are part of a national trend to strengthen tenant protections and address affordability and discrimination. The previously highlighted Saint Paul ordinance is no longer referenced as a central development.