Summary as Introduced
Amends the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act. Provides that a distressed location project that is located within a distressed community shall be eligible for assistance of up to 100% for the acquisition of open space lands and for capital development and improvement proposals that are in conformity with the purposes of the Act. Specifies that a project that is located within a distressed community, regardless of whether the project is located within a distressed location, is eligible for assistance up to 90% for the acquisition of open space lands and for capital development and improvement proposals that are in conformity with the purposes of the Act. Provides that a distressed location project that is not located in a distressed community shall be eligible for assistance of up to 75% for the acquisition of open space lands and for capital development and improvement proposals that are in conformity with the purposes of the Act. Directs the Department of Natural Resources to prioritize the making of grants under the Act for projects that are located in distressed locations and distressed communities. Sets limits on the appropriated amounts that may be used for grants to distressed communities and distressed locations. Repeals a provision that required the Department of Natural Resources to prepare a Distressed Local Government Report. Repeals provisions that define terms. Adds other definitions. Amends the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. Grants emergency rulemaking powers to the Department of Natural Resources.
Staff Analysis
House Bill 3654 proposes significant amendments to the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act. The bill aims to enhance support for projects in distressed communities and locations by modifying funding assistance levels and prioritization criteria.
Key Changes Proposed by HB 3654:
Increased Funding Assistance
• Projects situated within distressed communities are eligible for up to 100% assistance for acquiring open space lands and for capital development and improvement proposals aligned with the Act’s objectives.
• Projects located within distressed communities, irrespective of their status as distressed locations, can receive up to 90% assistance for similar purposes.
• Distressed location projects not situated in distressed communities are eligible for up to 75% assistance for acquiring open space lands and related capital developments.
Prioritization of Grants
• The Department of Natural Resources is directed to prioritize grants for projects located in distressed locations and distressed communities, ensuring that these areas receive focused support for open space development.
Funding Allocation Limits
• The bill sets specific limits on the appropriated amounts that may be used for grants to distressed communities and distressed locations, ensuring a balanced distribution of resources.
Repeal of Reporting Requirement
• HB 3654 repeals the provision that required the Department of Natural Resources to prepare a Distressed Local Government Report, potentially reducing administrative burdens.
Definition Adjustments
• The bill repeals certain definitions and adds new ones to better align with the amended provisions and objectives of the Act.
Emergency Rulemaking Authority
• Amendments to the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act grant the Department of Natural Resources emergency rulemaking powers to implement the changes effectively and promptly.
Impact on Existing Law
The proposed amendments represent a shift in the allocation and prioritization of funding under the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act. By increasing financial assistance and prioritizing projects in distressed areas, HB 3654 aims to promote equitable development and access to open spaces across Illinois. The repeal of specific reporting requirements and the adjustment of definitions are intended to streamline processes and clarify the Act’s provisions.