East Central Reporter

Progressive Democrats in Illinois are pushing for a significant change in zoning laws that would impact single-family housing in the state. House Bill 4795, introduced by Representative Kam Buckner, aims to eliminate single-family zoning areas in Illinois' largest cities. The proposed legislation, known as the Single-Family Zoning Ban Act, would require areas currently zoned for single-family homes to allow for the development of duplexes, triplexes, and other types of multi-family homes.

The bill has sparked a debate between supporters who argue that single-family zoning contributes to a lack of affordable housing and opponents who fear the potential negative effects on their neighborhoods. Many Illinois communities with populations exceeding 25,000 have the authority to control their land use through Home Rule status. However, the Single-Family Zoning Ban Act would supersede this authority for larger cities and counties, allowing the state to impose its own zoning regulations if localities do not comply.

Illinois is taking cues from states like California, Oregon, and Washington, which have already implemented bans on single-family zoning to promote more diverse housing options. If passed, the legislation would require zoning changes for areas with populations between 100,000 and 500,000 by June 1, 2025, and for those with populations over 500,000 by June 1, 2026.

Meanwhile, in a separate context, Rep. Miller recently commented on Governor Pritzker's spending initiatives, highlighting concerns about the state's financial management. The bill proposing changes to zoning laws in Illinois has been re-referred to the House Rules Committee, indicating that discussions and evaluations on the matter are ongoing.