Bill > SB2061

This bill amends the Wildlife Code to create a new compensation mechanism for Illinois residents who suffer property damage from wild deer. Specifically, if wild deer cause more than $500 in property damage on land owned or leased by an Illinois resident, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be required to compensate the resident for the actual damages. To receive compensation, residents must submit a claim in the form and manner prescribed by the DNR within one year of suffering and discovering the damages. The bill also provides that if the DNR does not compensate the resident within 180 days of submitting a complete claim, the resident may file a lawsuit in the Court of Claims against the State of Illinois. The DNR is granted rulemaking authority to establish the specific procedures for filing and processing these claims. This legislation aims to provide financial relief to landowners who experience significant property damage from wild deer, recognizing the potential economic impact of wildlife on private property.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2061&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104