House Bill 1008 – Redrawing Indiana and Illinois state boundaries?

Indiana House Bill 1008 has passed its final legislative step and is headed to the desk of Indiana’s Governor Mike Braun for final approval. House Bill 1008 would establish the Indiana-Illinois boundary adjustment commission. The commission would be comprised of six members appointed by the governor and five members appointed under Illinois law. The commission’s objective? To explore the possibility of adjusting the boundaries between the two states.

33 Illinois counties have expressed interest in seceding from Illinois, and some Indiana lawmakers want to offer them a place here. Many counties are looking to separate from the Chicago area, a movement stemming from political differences and the rural-urban divide. In the last several years, these 33 counties have approved ballot measures that proposed their separation from the Chicago and Cook County area. However, no ballot measure proposing joining Indiana, or any other state, has passed in any of these counties.

If approved by the governor, the legislation will be faced with obstacles limiting the bill’s functionality. First, the Illinois companion bill would also need to pass. However, it has yet to receive a hearing in the Illinois House committee. Further, such a major change in state boundaries would require congressional approval. The most recent major boundary change took place in the Civil War era when Viginia counties broke away and formed West Viginia. Illinois lawmakers and some Indiana representatives are skeptical of the bill’s chances for success. In the event that Illinois declines to pass the companion bill, Indiana’s efforts will be moot. If Illinois agrees to allow some counties to join Indiana, then United States Congress still would have to approve the move.

This McNeelyLaw LLP publication should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion of any specific facts or circumstances. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult your own lawyer on any specific legal questions you may have concerning your situation.