An Indiana bill that could explore changing the state’s border with Illinois has passed its first step, but it is unlikely to become law.
Indiana House Bill 1008, introduced by House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers), would create a commission to study the idea of adjusting the Indiana-Illinois border. The bill was approved by the state’s Committee on Government and Regulatory Reform with an 11-1 vote.
The proposal comes after some conservative counties in downstate Illinois have pushed to leave Illinois due to political disagreements. In November, seven counties in Illinois voted to explore breaking away, and since 2020, 33 counties have passed similar measures.
Huston believes these counties may have another option instead of forming a new state—joining Indiana. In an editorial for the Indiana Business Journal, he wrote, “For those who wish to escape Illinois’ political and economic struggles but haven’t yet moved to Indiana, there might be an alternative.” He pointed out that about 100,000 former Illinois residents have already relocated to Indiana since 2020.
If the bill is approved, the Indiana-Illinois Boundary Adjustment Commission would be formed. It would have ten members—five appointed by Indiana’s Republican Governor Mike Braun and five by Illinois’ Democratic Governor JB Pritzker. The commission’s job would be to study whether adjusting the border is a good idea and submit a report within 60 days of reaching a conclusion.
However, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has dismissed the idea, calling it a political “stunt.” He said the plan is unrealistic and argued that Illinois offers better wages, healthcare, and worker protections than Indiana. “It’s not gonna happen,” Pritzker stated.
Even if the commission supports the change, redrawing the border would require approval from both state legislatures and the U.S. Congress, making it a long and difficult process.
While the bill has gained some attention, it faces major challenges before becoming a reality.
