About the Alderman   >  Legislative Initiatives

One of the most prolific legislators in the City Council, Alderman Banks has authored and co-sponsored hundreds of legislative initiatives that have benefited his constituents and the people of Chicago. The alderman's legislative work reflects his continuing commitment to improving opportunities for Chicago families.

Representative legislative initiatives include:

• Promoting home ownership Alderman Banks' Home Equity Ordinance created a special service area on the northwest side of Chicago guaranteeing home equity.
  
  
• Promoting responsible development* The Chicago Linked Development Ordinance proposes new ways to achieve balanced growth between Chicago's Central Area and the rest of the city.
  
  
• Cracking down on gangs Alderman Banks' Anti-Gang Loitering Ordinance and Anti-Cruising Ordinance have given Chicago police officers new tools for cracking down on city gangs.
  
  
• Expanding emergency services Alderman Banks has passed a resolution calling on the city to increase the number of paramedic units. He is also responsible for the installation of defibulators in city fire trucks.
  
  
• Improving law enforcement The False Burglar Alarm Ordinance seeks to reduce the estimated 300,000 false burglar alarm calls the city receives each year by penalizing businesses for bogus calls for help.
  
  
• Supporting our troops The Veteran's Preference Points Ordinance Amendment allows those who have served honorably in the Armed Forces for a six-month period to receive points in the city's hiring selection.
  
  
• Promoting responsible government The Governmental Ethics Ordinance makes it a misdemeanor to willfully report erroneous information or accusations.
  

(* indicates that legislation is currently being considered by the City Council.)