Housing prices are out of control in Illinois and renters are feeling the pain. The average cost of rent in Chicago jumped 10 percent over the last three years, feeding an exodus of people out of the Windy City and into more affordable climes.

It’s clear why, to borrow a phrase from New York, the rent is too damn high. Greedy property companies, a statewide housing shortage, and “NIMBY” homeowners have combined to create an affordability crisis.

At times like this, Springfield needs to take action. But there are smart ways to reform housing and there are feel-good measures that will make little difference to the average Illinoisan.

Unfortunately, a bill introduced this month, Senate Bill 343, falls into the second category.