Madigan announces $1.4 million to help Illinois renters

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan has announced that nearly $1.4 million from a recent settlement will go toward legal help for renters.

Madigan’s office announced Thursday the money has been awarded to Chicago’s Lawyers Committee for Better Housing.

The funding is part of a $25 billion national settlement in February with the nation’s five largest bank mortgage servicers. The settlement addressed allegations of widespread “robo-signing” of foreclosure documents and other fraudulent practices involving loans to struggling homeowners.

Madigan says the grant will help provide needed legal representation and advocacy services for Illinois renters living in buildings on the verge of foreclosure.

The Lawyers Committee for Better Housing works with tenants to advocate for their rights and improve their living conditions.