New Indiana Law Creates Commission to Explore Adjusting Illinois Border

Tanya Williams
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New Indiana Law Creates Commission to Explore Adjusting Illinois Border

ILLINOIS — A newly signed Indiana law is drawing attention — and some controversy — by establishing a commission to review whether to adjust the boundary between Indiana and Illinois. But with no equivalent measure passed in Illinois, the plan’s future remains uncertain.

House Bill 1008, signed into law by Indiana Governor Mike Braun, establishes a boundary adjustment commission comprised of six members from Indiana and five from Illinois. The commission will begin discussions this summer, though Illinois lawmakers have not yet approved participation, raising questions about the commission’s legitimacy and impact.

Secession Sentiment Driving Discussion

The legislative push follows recent momentum among several downstate Illinois counties that have publicly expressed a desire to secede from Illinois. In the November 2024 election, seven counties voted in favor of secession, citing dissatisfaction with state policies, taxation, and representation.

The idea of redrawing state lines has been floated before but has never progressed beyond symbolic or advisory measures. This new Indiana law marks the first formal effort by a neighboring state to create an official commission for evaluating such a shift.

Indiana’s Economic Pitch: “You’d Be Welcome”

Supporters of the bill in Indiana frame it as an open invitation to Illinois counties that are seeking change. Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston, the bill’s sponsor, positioned Indiana as a more economically appealing alternative.

“Our economy is growing at a faster rate than all of our neighboring states,” Huston said. “If Illinois residents and counties are looking for something different, we’re simply raising our hands and saying, you’d be welcome in Indiana.”

The statement underscores Indiana’s attempt to attract discontented counties by highlighting economic growth, lower taxes, and different political leadership.

Illinois Officials Dismiss Proposal as “Stunt”

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker was quick to dismiss the proposal, calling it a political stunt with no real future.

“That’s not going to happen,” Pritzker said in January. “I don’t think that’s attractive for anyone in Illinois, where wages are higher, the standard of living is higher, and we provide health care for people in need.”

Pritzker’s remarks reflect the general sentiment in Springfield that Indiana’s outreach is not likely to gain serious traction — particularly without any official backing from the Illinois General Assembly.

Illinois Counter-Bill Remains Stalled

Illinois State Representative Brad Halbrook introduced House Bill 1500 earlier this year, proposing the creation of an “Illiana Boundary Commission”. However, the bill has been stuck in the Rules Committee with no further legislative movement since January.

Without passage of Halbrook’s bill — or any alternate measure from Illinois lawmakers — Indiana’s commission will have no formal partner to negotiate or evaluate boundary adjustments.

Should downstate counties be allowed to switch states — or is this just symbolic politics? Join the debate now at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.

Tanya Williams

Tanya Williams

Tanya covers positive and people-centered stories from across Chicago. From neighborhood events to inspiring local residents, she focuses on what brings our communities together. Tanya grew up in the city and believes every neighborhood has a story worth telling.

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