House Speaker Todd Huston is advocating for Indiana to respond to votes by almost a third of Illinois counties in favor of secession from their state. Since 2020, 33 Illinois counties have approved measures to explore seceding, citing reasons such as lower taxes and more opportunities in Indiana. To address this, a bipartisan House committee has advanced a bill to establish a bi-state commission to redraw the border between the two states.
Huston emphasized that Indiana does not want to see its neighbors suffer and that their success or failure impacts Indiana as well. He encouraged Illinois counties and residents to consider coming back to Indiana if they feel unheard or unrepresented. However, Rep. Chris Campbell opposed the bill, arguing that it would only deepen political divisions by redrawing state boundaries along party lines.
If the commission is established, it would require approval from both the Indiana and Illinois General Assemblies as well as Congress. Illinois State Rep. Brad Holbrook has introduced a similar bill in his state, but it has not yet been heard in committee. Huston also addressed concerns about Lake County potentially seceding from Indiana, stating that it would be up to the voters to decide if they want to deal with Illinois’ laws and tax system.
The debate surrounding the potential border redraw highlights the political tensions within the region and the impact of economic factors on state allegiances. Huston’s push for a bi-state commission reflects the changing dynamics in the area as more Illinois residents look to Indiana for opportunities.
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