“If we don’t provide real, intentional help for these social equity dreamers, we’re going to let them down as a state. All of their money will be lost,” a key lawmaker said.
Solutions
Illinois Doled Out Millions to Pot Growers. It Still May Not Be Enough to Save the Industry.
As independent ‘craft growers’ in Illinois struggle to secure financing for their cannabis businesses, a state-backed fund has emerged as a key lifeline.
As Chicago Punts on Apartment Safety, Denver Shows What’s Possible
Chicago has no way of tracking landlords, nor does it require rental units to be inspected. That was the case in Colorado’s largest city, until officials decided to do something about it.
Chicago Doesn’t Keep Track of Landlords. Renters Are Demanding Change.
Chicago’s building safety enforcement lags behind many peer cities. Boulder offers a model that Chicago could follow.
East Coast Cities Are Zapping Rats With High-Tech Traps
SMART Boxes shock rats with electricity, collect their carcasses, then share data wirelessly with local officials.
As Chicago Considers a ‘Mansion Tax,’ Evanston and LA Show Potential Paths Forward
Evanston is using its additional revenue to fund a housing reparations effort. Meanwhile, Los Angeles’ new funds are frozen as the tax is challenged in court.
Could Chicago Impose an Income Tax? Here’s What It Looks Like in Other Cities.
As Mayor Brandon Johnson looks for new revenue, an income tax may be one of the city’s only progressive options. It comes with risks.
Explained: Why Did the State Pause a Health Insurance Program for Undocumented Immigrants?
Illinois was the first state to create the Medicaid-like program, but in only three years it has become one of its “most expensive programs.”
How the ‘Most Equity-Centric’ Law on Weed Went Wrong – and Where Illinois Can Go from Here
Illinois is finally issuing new dispensary licenses. But after legislation failed last month, advocates say the state’s cannabis industry has a long way to go to achieve true social equity.
A Popular Affordable Housing Initiative Is Ripe For Expansion in Chicago — But When?
City officials and multiple alderpeople agree the Additional Dwelling Unit program deserves a boost. But amid political and logistical hurdles, they warn it will take time.