Chicago Mayor Johnson implementing hiring freeze for city through end of 2025 amid budget crisis

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is implementing a hiring freeze for the city through the end of the year.

That's according to a Thursday memo from the city's budget director.

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It comes as the city faces a 2026 budget gap of more than $1 billion.

The memo says public safety and mental health positions will not be affected.

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The mayor is also suspending non-essential travel and overtime for all non-public safety employees.

Positions wholly supported through other city of Chicago special revenue, enterprise and grant funds are not subject to the hiring restrictions, the memo said.

"We recognize that these directives will require adjustments to your day-to-day operations. Your leadership in interpreting and applying these measures is critical to maintaining both service quality and fiscal discipline. OBM stands ready to support you with guidance, analysis, and flexibility where possible to help you navigate these constraints. Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to stewarding the City's resources responsibly while investing in our most valuable asset-our people," the memo said.