Illinois Lawmakers Tackle Affordability and Tech Regulation

Proposed housing and consumer protection bills aim to address rising costs and online safety concerns

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:04am

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Illinois Democrats are focusing on affordability and technology regulation in the state's 2025-26 legislative session. Gov. JB Pritzker has proposed a sweeping housing package to preempt local zoning restrictions, while legislators are also working on bills to ban hidden 'junk fees' and regulate social media platforms' engagement with minors.

Why it matters

The proposed legislation reflects growing concerns over housing affordability and consumer protection issues in Illinois, as the state faces a serious housing crisis with home values up nearly 50% since 2019. The tech regulation bills also signal lawmakers' increasing focus on addressing the impacts of social media on children's mental health and online safety.

The details

Pritzker's 'Building Up Illinois Developments' plan would strip local governments of tools used to limit density and slow development, including requiring municipalities to allow up to eight housing units on larger residential lots and severely limiting parking minimums. The broader 'Junk Fee Ban Act' would mandate upfront pricing and restrict insurance companies' ability to raise premiums. Meanwhile, the 'Children's Social Media Safety Act' would mandate age verification and regulate how platforms engage with minors.

  • In February 2026, Pritzker proposed the housing package as part of his State of the State address.
  • In March 2026, Pritzker decried 'patchwork' local zoning restrictions in a news release announcing the housing plan.
  • The Junk Fee Ban Act and Children's Social Media Safety Act were introduced in the Illinois legislature in early 2026.

The players

JB Pritzker

The Democratic governor of Illinois who proposed the 'Building Up Illinois Developments' housing plan.

Michael Hastings

The Democratic state senator who introduced the 'Junk Fee Ban Act' to require upfront pricing and restrict insurance premium hikes.

Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz

The Democratic state representative who authored the 'Children's Social Media Safety Act' to regulate how social media platforms engage with minors.

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What they’re saying

“'Illinois working families deserve better. Homeownership — a cornerstone of the American dream — is too far out of reach, and rent is too damn high. We're coming together to cut through red tape, build more homes, and make Illinois the best state to live, work, and raise a family.'”

— JB Pritzker, Governor of Illinois

“'Illinois families should never face surprise charges or hidden fees. This bill puts transparency and fairness first, making it easier for consumers to manage their subscriptions and make informed decisions.'”

— Michael Hastings, State Senator

“'We've been a little bit too late to the game to talk seriously about how do we protect children's mental health and children's safety online. These conversations I think have been taking place in every household in America.'”

— Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz, State Representative

What’s next

The housing and consumer protection bills are currently working their way through the Illinois legislature, with votes expected in the coming months. If passed, the measures would then go to Gov. Pritzker's desk for signature.

The takeaway

Illinois lawmakers are taking a multi-pronged approach to address the state's affordability crisis, tackling issues like housing costs, hidden fees, and the impact of social media on children. These efforts reflect growing public concerns over the rising cost of living and the need for stronger consumer protections and technology regulations.