Indiana Proposes Bill to Redraw State Lines

Indiana lawmakers are proposing a bill, HB 1008, to create an 'Indiana-Illinois Boundary Adjustment Commission' aimed at welcoming Illinois counties that wish to secede due to dissatisfaction with high taxes. Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston stated that over 30 Illinois counties have voted for secession since 2020, and he encourages them to instead join Indiana. The bill would require approval from both the Indiana and Illinois legislatures, as well as Congress, to succeed. Critics like State Rep. Ed DeLaney argue that the proposal distracts from pressing issues like high property taxes and rural hospital closures, calling it a potential 'laughingstock.' The bill is currently set for its first hearing in the House Government and Regulatory Reform Committee. Supporters believe this initiative could address the frustrations of those Illinois residents seeking lower taxes and better governance.