Chicago City Files Lawsuit Against Airbnb
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Commissioner Ivan Capifali, and Corporation Counsel Mary B. Richardson-Lowry announced that the City of Chicago has filed a lawsuit against Airbnb, Airbnb Living, LLC, and Slumber Stay LLC, one of its most active hosts in Chicago, for repeatedly violating the City's Shared Housing Ordinance and other consumer protection laws. The suit also includes Slumber Stay's manager, Milan Rubenstein. The complaint, filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, alleges that the defendants have profited from unlawful short-term rental activity, while evading requirements under City law designed to protect short-term renters, preserve residential quality of life, and maintain a supply of affordable housing. "Requiring short-term rental companies to follow the same rules as everyone else is critical to our work of building a safer, more affordable Chicago," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "The City will deter bad actors from attempting to slip under the regulatory radar and ensure that the industry is operating fairly and safely both for our residents and visitors to our great city. At a time when affordability remains front of mind, our administration will continue to prioritize the needs of our residents, stability within our neighborhoods, and responsible business practices."
