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HB 5021

GINSENG HARVESTING-FORFEITURE

104th Regular Session Introduced by John Curran and 2 co-sponsors

Illinois bill establishing forfeiture penalties for illegal wild ginseng harvesting to deter poaching and protect threatened plant populations.

Sent to the Governor
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Bill Summary · HB 5021

Legislative bill overview

HB 5021 establishes forfeiture penalties for illegal ginseng harvesting in Illinois. The bill appears to strengthen enforcement mechanisms against unauthorized harvesting of wild ginseng, a protected plant species with significant ecological and commercial value.

Why is this important

Wild ginseng populations are threatened by overharvesting, and Illinois has long protected the plant through licensing requirements. Enhanced forfeiture provisions create stronger disincentives for poaching and provide enforcement tools to protect remaining wild populations and support legitimate ginseng harvesters who follow regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of forfeiture: Unclear whether forfeiture applies only to harvested ginseng or extends to equipment, vehicles, or other property used in illegal harvesting operations
  • Due process concerns: Questions about what evidence triggers forfeiture and whether current protections exist for innocent property owners
  • Economic impact on rural communities: Potential burden on landowners or rural residents engaged in subsistence harvesting who may be unfamiliar with licensing requirements

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

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