Illinois House Bill 1829, introduced on March 7, 2025, aims to streamline the information-sharing process between property owners and chief county assessment officers while enhancing privacy protections for financial records. The bill mandates that property owners provide detailed physical descriptions of their properties upon request from assessment officers, with penalties for non-compliance.

A significant aspect of HB1829 is its amendment to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which exempts financial records related to real estate income, expenses, and occupancy from public disclosure unless they are part of an assessment appeal. This change is designed to protect sensitive financial information from being publicly accessible, a move that has sparked debate among transparency advocates and property owners.

Supporters argue that the bill will facilitate more accurate property assessments and protect owners' financial privacy, while critics express concern that it could hinder public access to information that is vital for accountability in local government. The bill's implications could reshape how property assessments are conducted in Illinois, potentially leading to more efficient processes but also raising questions about transparency and public oversight.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain, with potential amendments likely to address the concerns raised during discussions. If passed, HB1829 could significantly impact property owners and the assessment process across the state, marking a pivotal moment in Illinois' approach to property assessment and information privacy.