Illinois REALTORS® is applauding the signing of three key bills that will impact affordable housing, property fraud protection and long-term housing planning across the state. Two of the new laws will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, while one is already in effect. 

Supporting affordable housing for veterans 

The first bill, Senate Bill 39, removes a significant cost barrier for nonprofit groups building tiny homes for homeless or at-risk veterans. It prohibits local governments from requiring electric vehicle (EV) charging stations on these homes, helping reduce construction costs and allowing more veterans to access safe, stable housing. This measure took effect immediately upon the governor’s signature. 

Fighting deed fraud across Illinois 

The second bill, Senate Bill 1523, targets a growing concern: fraudulent or unlawfully altered deed filings. The new law makes it a crime to knowingly file such documents with the intent to cloud or transfer a property title. It also requires county governments to implement property fraud alert systems and establish formal procedures for reviewing deeds and related instruments. This law goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2026 and is now known as Public Act 104‑0382. 

Improving data for housing planning 

The third measure, House Bill 3616, strengthens the state’s ability to plan for future housing needs. It requires the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) to collect and analyze housing-related data and issue a public report every five years. This data will help policymakers better understand housing availability and affordability statewide. This law also takes effect on Jan. 1, 2026.