Indiana Gov. Mike Braun appointed five members to a commission that will examine how Indiana could redraw its state lines to include nearly a third of neighboring Illinois’ counties.
Though the counties in question previously voted to explore the formation of a new state, the process goes against the views of some officials and residents alike.
Here’s what we know.
What is the Indiana Illinois Boundary Adjustment Commission?
The commission was created as a result of the passing of House Bill 1008 in May with a goal of examining how Indiana could accept counties seceding from Illinois.
The bill says the commission must include six members from Indiana and five from Illinois “appointed under Illinois law.” But only six members (the number of Indiana appointments) are required for the commission to conduct any business.
Who has been appointed to Indiana Illinois Boundary Adjustment Commission?
Braun announced the following five appointmenets in a Sept. 2 news release:
HB1008 specifies that terms are limited to four years, and appointments should include no more than four people from one political party.
Which Illinois counties voted to secede?
Thirty-three Illinois counties have previously voted to explore the idea of secession, according to NBC5 Chicago. Here’s the list:
It’s important to note, however, that some of the Illinois secession movement leaders have indicated the purpose of their separation votes was not to join Indiana. Many counties instead passed such referendums to study the possibility of secession, spurred on by a feeling of being underrepresented in their government.
Will Illinois counties be annexed by Indiana?
HB1008 states that the redrawing of states boundaries will only take effect if the decision is approved by Indiana’s general assembly, Illinois legislators and the U.S. Congress.
As far as some Illinois lawmakers go, however, the process doesn’t appear to be popular. For example, Gov. JB Pritzker called the bill “a stunt” in January.
Some Indiana leaders have similarly expressed concerns, citing the financial strain the addition of the Illinois counties would place on the state.
“Should we be taking on more counties like those in Illinois … that would cost the state money?” House Minority Leader Phil GiaQuinta asked bill author Rep. Todd Huston in April.
Nonetheless, Braun has directed the commission to hold its first meeting by Dec. 1, meaning discussions will likely take place without Illinois representation.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Board studying Illinois secession — but no one from Illinois is on it. See Indiana members
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall and Brittany Carloni, USA TODAY NETWORK / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
