Overview

• The Indiana House and Senate have passed House Bill 1008, which creates a commission to examine the potential transfer of 33 Illinois counties to Indiana.
• Governor Mike Braun has confirmed his intention to sign the bill into law, with the commission's first meeting expected by September 1, 2025.
• The proposal stems from rural Illinois counties' dissatisfaction with state policies dominated by Cook County and their desire for lower taxes and better representation.
• Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker dismissed the effort as a political stunt, criticizing Indiana's economic and labor policies while a companion bill has been introduced in Illinois.
• Economic analysis suggests absorbing the counties could cost Indiana $2 billion annually, raising concerns about the fiscal impact and feasibility of the proposal.