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HB 5118

DNR-PARK AND CONSERVATION FUND

104th Regular Session Introduced by Eva-Dina Delgado and 1 co-sponsor

Creates a dedicated Park and Conservation Fund to finance DNR park operations, conservation programs, and related projects with prioritized, transparent use.

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Bill Summary · HB 5118

Bill Summary: HB 5118 (104th Illinois General Assembly) – DNR-PARK AND CONSERVATION FUND

Purpose and intent

HB 5118 establishes and outlines a dedicated funding mechanism intended to support the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) through a new or expanded Park and Conservation Fund. The bill aims to enhance funding for park operations, conservation programs, and related activities to preserve natural resources, support public recreation, and improve ecological health across the state.

Key provisions and changes

  • Creation/ designation of a Park and Conservation Fund: Establishes a dedicated fund to receive and allocate revenues specifically for DNR-related parks, conservation, and natural resource programs.
  • Funding streams and sources: Defines permissible sources for the fund (e.g., state revenues, transfers, grants, dedicated fees, or other approved revenues). The bill may specify minimum annual deposit requirements or identify earmarked revenue streams to ensure stable funding.
  • Allocation priorities: Sets priorities for fund disbursement, likely prioritizing:
    • Maintenance and operation of state parks
    • Capital improvements and infrastructure upgrades (e.g., trails, facilities, accessibility)
    • Conservation programs (habitat restoration, wildlife management, invasive species control)
    • Environmental education and public recreation initiatives
    • Support for DNR personnel and core services
  • Use of funds: Outlines allowable and restricted expenditures, ensuring funds are used for DNR activities, park stewardship, and conservation outcomes, with potential prohibitions on using the money for unrelated statewide programs.
  • Oversight and accountability: May establish reporting requirements, audits, or annual or biannual budget plans to track fund usage and impact. Could empower a board, commission, or internal DNR mechanism to oversee allocations.
  • Transfers and coordination: Addresses whether funds can be transferred to other state accounts or agencies and how spending aligns with statewide conservation or park objectives.
  • Sunset, sunset-like review, or renewal: May include provisions for periodic review to assess effectiveness and continuing need, with potential reauthorization requirements.

Who is affected

  • State agencies: Illinois Department of Natural Resources as the primary recipient and manager of the fund.
  • Public users: Park visitors, outdoor enthusiasts, and local communities benefiting from improved parks, trails, and conservation programs.
  • Local governments and partners: Potential eligibility for grants or matching funds to support local conservation and park projects.
  • Taxpayers and general public: Through changes in how funds are sourced, allocated, and reported, affecting public fiscal transparency.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Legislative sponsorship: Co-sponsors include Eva-Dina Delgado and Elgie Sims, indicating Democratic sponsorship at the sponsor level.
  • Implementation timeline: If enacted, the bill would specify effective dates for the Park and Conservation Fund, including any phase-in periods for revenue deposits and first-year allocation plans.
  • Reporting cadence: Likely requires annual or biannual financial reports and program impact statements to accompany appropriations and disbursements.
  • Interaction with existing laws: Amends or adds to existing provisions governing state parks, conservation programs, and DNR budgeting, integrating with current statutory framework.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Enhanced park and conservation funding: Could stabilize and grow resources for maintenance, capital projects, and habitat conservation, leading to improved park experiences and ecological outcomes.
  • Transparency and accountability: If the bill includes robust reporting and audits, it would improve public visibility into how funds are used.
  • Fiscal implications: Depends on the defined funding sources; could involve new revenues or reallocation of existing dollars, with considerations for budget balance and tax/fee policy discussions.
  • Equity and access: With focus on parks and conservation, benefits could extend to underserved communities through improved access, programming, and stewardship initiatives.

Note: This summary focuses on the bill’s general structure and likely content based on its title and typical provisions for a DNR-Park and Conservation Fund. For precise statutory language, exact funding mechanisms, allocation formulas, and timelines, refer to the official bill text and fiscal notes.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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