Bill > SB2455

This bill amends two existing laws: the Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Act and the State Forest Act. For the Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Act, the bill expands and clarifies definitions related to forestry grants, including new terms like "public trees," "public tree inventory," and "underserved or disadvantaged" communities. The bill modifies the Department of Natural Resources' duties to provide more comprehensive support for urban and community forestry programs, and updates the grant application process to focus on specific objectives such as implementing the Illinois Forest Action Plan, enhancing local forestry management, increasing tree canopy in underserved areas, and improving urban forest coverage. The bill also adjusts grant requirements, allowing more flexible matching fund contributions and in-kind service options for local governments. For the State Forest Act, the bill updates the list of designated state forests, adding Lowden-Miller State Forest in Ogle County and Spoon River State Forest in Knox County, while removing the previous language about Sand Ridge State Forest (which is then re-added). These changes aim to provide more comprehensive support for forestry management and conservation efforts across Illinois.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2455&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104