"Access to affordable housing has become increasingly difficult in recent years," Clayborne said. "Providing access to it is extremely important, especially during this tough economic climate. As unemployment rises, so does the demand for this type of housing."

The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is largely responsible for the implementation of affordable housing projects in Illinois. The IHDA finances the creation and the preservation of these projects throughout the state and increases the supply of decent and safe places for people of low or moderate means to live. IHDA has helped finance more than 204,000 units of affordable housing since its inception.

IHDA is strictly a financing entity, and helps to finance affordable housing through homeownership programs targeted at low- or moderate-income households, or with multifamily development financing to help developers build rental properties for at-need populations.

"We have the infrastructure in place to monitor and promote affordable housing in Illinois," Clayborne said. "The only remaining element of this equation is providing ample revenue. This legislation designates additional revenue, while providing a financial incentive for individuals who support this worthy cause."