Bill > SB3038

This bill expands the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's (DCEO) ability to offer incentive grants to attract and retain large-scale events like conventions, meetings, sporting events, and trade shows in Illinois, with the aim of boosting both business and leisure travel within the state. Specifically, starting July 1, 2026, the DCEO can issue competitive grants with initial terms of up to 10 years, a significant increase from the previous 5-year limit, and these grants will be funded from a newly established "Tourism Incentive Grant Program Fund." This fund will receive an annual transfer of $5,000,000 from the state's General Revenue Fund, beginning in July 2026, to support these grants. The bill also clarifies eligibility requirements and award limits for these grants, including specific room night requirements for events held inside and outside of Chicago, and allows for joint applications between convention and visitors bureaus and other eligible entities.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=3038&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104