Lobby Day itself, held on March 25, was a critical moment in this campaign. CAI representatives met directly with key legislators, including:
• Mike Hastings, Senate Judiciary Chair • Darby Hills, co-sponsor • John Curran, Republican Leader • Eva Delgado, Assistant Majority Leader • Margaret DeLaRosa • Rick Ryan, co-sponsor • Tom Weber • Janet Yang Rohr, co-sponsor
These meetings were not symbolic, rather they were strategic. Each conversation helped build support, address concerns, and ensure that legislators understood the real-world impact of the bill. Just as importantly, these relationships continue to grow stronger with each engagement, reinforcing that CAI Illinois is not only a resource for homeowners and industry professionals, but also a trusted resource for developing smart, balanced legislation for the community association industry.
The Reality of Advocacy
It’s easy to overlook what goes into a single day at the Capitol. Behind every meeting is preparation, research, negotiation, and follow-up. Lobby Day may last a day, but the fight spans months and often years.
The battle against bad legislation and the fight for good policy continues. And it will take all of us to carry it forward. The work doesn’t stop here. With your support, we can continue advancing smart legislation, please consider contributing to the IL LAC Lobbyist Fund https://advocacy.
caionline.org/lac-donation-form/.
And while this year’s team was small in number, their impact was significant. Four committed members stood in for thousands of community associations across Illinois, ensuring their voices were heard where it matters most.
What Comes Next
As SB 3401 moves to the House for consideration, the battle is far from over. ILAC continues to engage legislators, monitor amendments, and prepare for additional calls to action.
If passed, this legislation will mark a turning point, establishing a long-overdue framework for reserve planning that protects both associations and homeowners.
But success is never final in the legislative arena. New proposals will emerge, new challenges will arise, and the need for advocacy will remain constant.
A Call to Stay Engaged
The 2026 Lobby Day proved one thing clearly: advocacy works. When industry professionals engage, organize, and speak with a unified voice, meaningful change is possible.
cai-illinois.org • 847.301.7505 | 39
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