SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – There’s only 50 of them in the entire country, and Illinois could soon look into giving theirs a makeover.
Senate Bill 1818 creates the Illinois Flag Commission, aimed at studying whether the flag needs a new look.
“For the purpose of developing a new state flag, or new state flag designs, and making recommendations to us, the General Assembly, concerning whether the current state flag ought to be replaced with a redesigned state flag,” says State Representative Kam Buckner (D-Chicago).
The bill has passed both the Illinois House and Senate, and awaits Governor J.B. Pritzker’s signature to become law and create the commission.
Proponents of redesigning the flag say it’s time for an overhaul with a better depiction that represents Illinois. Opponents are concerned with the costs of replacing state flags.
State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) says there is excitement over a potential redesign.
“I’ve gotten calls from grade schools, middle schools, high schools wanting their students to be involved,” Turner said. “And that’s one of the reasons why I think this is a good piece of legislation because it does get, I believe, people in the state excited about Illinois again.”
The public will be able to provide input to the commission, which must issue its recommendations by December 2024.
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