Full Text of SB2480

LRB104 11835 SPS 21925 b

104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
State of Illinois
2025 and 2026
SB2480

Introduced 2/7/2025, by Sen. Mattie Hunter

SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:

New Act
20 ILCS 3903/Act rep.
20 ILCS 3916/Act rep.
20 ILCS 3983/Act rep.
20 ILCS 4028/5
20 ILCS 4075/15
20 ILCS 4085/10
20 ILCS 5015/15
20 ILCS 5025/10
30 ILCS 574/40-10
775 ILCS 5/7-101	from Ch. 68, par. 7-101

Creates the Illinois African American Commission Act, the Illinois Asian American Commission Act, and the Illinois Latino Commission Act. Establishes a new Illinois African American Commission, Illinois Latino Commission, and Illinois Asian American Commission. Provides that the purpose of these Commissions is to be an independent voice for their communities, represent community priorities, and advocate for policies, programs, and services that promote greater equity and inclusion in State government. Repeals the African American Family Commission Act, the Latino Family Commission Act, and the Asian American Family Commission Act.

A BILL FOR

AN ACT concerning State government.

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly:

Article 5. Illinois African American Commission

Section 5-1. Short title. This Act may be cited as the Illinois African American Commission Act. References in this Article to "this Act" mean this Article.

Section 5-10. Purpose and objectives. The purpose of the Illinois African American Commission is to be an independent voice and represent the priorities of the African American community and advocate for policies, programs, and services that promote greater equity and inclusion in State government. The Illinois African American Commission works directly with the Governor, the General Assembly, constitutional officers, and State agencies to develop new and to improve existing policies, services, programs, and opportunities for Illinois African American families. The African American Commission shall:

(1) advocate for State policies, programs, and services that improve equity, inclusion, and the quality of life of African Americans;

(2) develop and advance recommendations to the Governor, the General Assembly, and other State entities such as constitutional officers and State courts to reduce disparities and disproportionality experienced by African Americans;

(3) identify priorities, goals, and objectives reflecting an African American policy agenda to guide the Commission's work;

(4) monitor the impact of and shape legislation, policies, programs, and practices to ensure that they are responsive to African Americans in Illinois;

(5) collaborate with the Governor's office, the General Assembly, constitutional officers, State courts, State agencies, and boards and commissions in developing new and shaping existing programs, services, policies, and initiatives to expand and enhance the social and economic well-being of African American children and families;

(6) facilitate the participation and representation of African Americans in the development, implementation, and planning of policies, programs, and services;

(7) engage in and promote research efforts concerning African Americans that can inform policies, programs, and services to ensure greater equity and accountability;

(8) create and approve the annual budget and have sole authority over expenditures in line with the Illinois Procurement Code and the rules adopted under that code;

(9) hire an executive director to administer operations;

(10) make or enter into contracts with third parties as necessary and convenient for the exercise of its powers and duties, including defining personnel needs and hiring staff as required to perform its duties under this Act; all procurement must follow State policy and procedures;

(11) co-convene quarterly roundtable meetings with the Illinois Latino Commission, and the Illinois Asian American Commission, to identify opportunities for collaboration and alignment;

(12) hold at least 2 public hearings annually to assist in the development of recommendations for the Governor, the General Assembly, and other State entities;

(13) exercise such other powers as are necessary or incidental to the administration of this Act or the performance of duties under this Act; and

(14) apply for, receive, establish priorities for, allocate, disburse, and spend grants funds that are made available to the Commission.

Section 5-15. Appointment; terms. The Illinois African- American Commission shall be composed of 15 members. As soon as practical after the effective date of this Act, but no later than July 1, 2025, the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Minority Leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives shall each appoint 3 members to the Commission. At the first meeting of the Commission, the members shall select a 5-person Steering Committee that includes the co-chairs. The chairperson or chairpersons shall each serve for a 2-year term.

Members shall serve 3-year terms, except in the case of the following initial appointments: each appointing authority shall each appoint 2 members to a 2-year term and one member to a 3-year term. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, members may be reappointed to a 3-year term.

Thereafter, each member shall serve for a term of 3 years and until the member's successor is appointed and qualified. A vacancy occurring other than at the end of a term shall be filled by the initial appointing authority only for the balance of the term of the member whose office is vacant and until a successor is appointed and qualified. No member shall serve more than 2 terms, excluding any partial term resulting from a filled vacancy. Members will serve without compensation, but shall be reimbursed for Commission-related expenses.

Appointing authorities shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the Commission is diverse with respect to age, gender, and geography to ensure the needs of African American families and children through the State are met. Members shall be persons with recognized ability and experience in one or more of the following areas: education, business, social services, human services, community development, labor, economic policy, criminal justice, immigration, or health care.

The Commission may establish committees that address specific issues or populations and may appoint individuals with relevant expertise who are not appointed members of the Commission to serve on committees as needed.

Section 5-20. Organizational meeting. Commission members shall be appointed within 60 days after the effective date of this Act, but no later than July 1st, 2025. The Commission shall hold its organizational meeting within 60 days after at least 50% of the members who are to be appointed under Section 5-15 have been appointed.

Section 5-25. Funding. Illinois African American Commission may receive its own appropriation. The Illinois African American Commission may receive additional appropriations through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion or other designated agency. The Commission on Equity and Inclusion or designated agency shall expend funds set aside for the Commission at the Commission's direction.

Section 5-30. Reporting. By January 1 of each year, the Illinois African American Commission shall submit to the Governor and the General Assembly a report detailing progress toward the goals and objectives of the Commission. The report shall detail, at a minimum, the Commission's work with agencies under the Governor, the Commission's current and ongoing research projects, and any legislative activity undertaken by the Commission.

Section 5-35. Administrative support. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the Commission on Equity and Inclusion shall, at the request of the Illinois African American Commission, provide administrative and technical support to assist the Commission in carrying out its duties. Administrative and technical support includes providing guidance on State rules and regulations pertaining to contracts, expenditures, and payments to ensure compliance with State procurement policies and processes. The Commission on Equity and Inclusion shall provide assistance to the Illinois African American Commission as requested, including access to office space, technology, and other supports necessary for effective operations.

(20 ILCS 3903/Act rep.)

Section 5-90. The African American Family Commission Act is repealed.

Article 10. Illinois Asian American Commission

Section 10-1. Short title. This Act may be cited as the Illinois Asian American Commission Act. References in this Article to "this Act" mean this Article.

Section 10-10. Purpose and objectives. The purpose of the Illinois Asian American Commission is to be an independent voice and represent the priorities of the Illinois Asian American community and greater equity and inclusion in State government. The Illinois Asian American Commission works directly with the Governor, the General Assembly, constitutional officers, and State agencies to develop new and improve existing policies, services, programs, and opportunities for Asian American families. The Illinois Asian American Commission shall:

(1) advocate for State policies, programs, and services that improve equity, inclusion, and the quality of life of Asian Americans;

(2) develop and advance recommendations to the Governor, the General Assembly, and other State entities such as constitutional officers and State courts to reduce disparities and disproportionality experienced by Asian Americans;

(3) identify priorities, goals, and objectives reflecting an Asian American policy agenda to guide the Commission's work;

(4) monitor the impact of and shape legislation, policies, programs, and practices to ensure that they are responsive to Asian Americans in Illinois;

(5) collaborate with the Governor's office, the General Assembly, constitutional officers, State courts, State agencies, and boards and commissions in developing new and shaping existing programs, services, policies, and initiatives to expand and enhance the social and economic well-being of Asian American children and families;

(6) facilitate the participation and representation of Asian Americans in the development, implementation, and planning of policies, programs, and services;

(7) engage in and promote research efforts concerning Asian Americans that can inform policies, programs, and services to ensure greater equity and accountability;

(8) create and approve the annual budget and have sole authority over expenditures in line with The Illinois Procurement Code and the rules adopted under that code;

(9) hire an executive director to administer operations;

(10) make or enter into contracts with third parties as necessary and convenient for the exercise of its powers and duties, including defining personnel needs and hiring staff as required to perform its duties under this Act; all procurement must follow State policy and procedures;

(11) co-convene quarterly roundtable meetings with the Latino Commission, the Illinois African American Commission, and the Department of Human Rights to identify opportunities for collaboration and alignment;

(12) hold at least 2 public hearings annually to assist in the development of recommendations for the Governor, the General Assembly, and other State entities;

(13) exercise such other powers as are necessary or incidental to the administration of this Act or the performance of duties under this Act; and

(14) apply for, receive, establish priorities for, allocate, disburse, and spend grants funds that are made available to the Commission.

Section 10-15. Appointment; terms. The Illinois Asian American Commission shall be composed of 15 members. As soon as practical after the effective date of this Act, but no later than July 1, 2025, the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Minority Leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives shall each appoint 3 members to the Commission. At the first meeting of the Commission members shall select a 5-person Steering Committee that includes the co-chairs. The chairperson or chairpersons shall each serve for a 2-year term. Members shall serve 3-year terms, except in the case of the following initial appointments: each appointing authority shall each appoint 2 members to a 2-year term and one member to a 3-year term. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, members may be reappointed to a 3-year term. Thereafter, each member shall serve for a term of 3 years and until the member's successor is appointed and qualified. A vacancy occurring other than at the end of a term shall be filled by the initial appointing authority only for the balance of the term of the member whose office is vacant and until a successor is appointed and qualified. No member shall serve more than 2 terms, excluding any partial term resulting from a filled vacancy. Members will serve without compensation, but shall be reimbursed for Commission-related expenses.

Members shall serve 3-year terms, except in the case of the following initial appointments: each appointing authority shall each appoint 2 members to a 2-year term and one member to a 3-year term. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, members may be reappointed to a 3-year term.

Thereafter, each member shall serve for a term of 3 years and until the member's successor is appointed and qualified. A vacancy occurring other than at the end of a term shall be filled by the initial appointing authority only for the balance of the term of the member whose office is vacant and until a successor is appointed and qualified. No member shall serve more than 2 terms, excluding any partial term resulting from a filled vacancy. Members will serve without compensation, but shall be reimbursed for Commission-related expenses.

Appointing authorities shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the Commission is diverse with respect to age, gender, and geography to ensure the needs of Asian American families and children through the State are met. Members shall be persons with recognized ability and experience in one or more of the following areas: education, business, social services, human services, community development, labor, economic policy, criminal justice, immigration, or health care.

The Commission may establish committees that address specific issues or populations and may appoint individuals with relevant expertise who are not appointed members of the Commission to serve on committees as needed.

Section 10-20. Organizational meeting. Commission members shall be appointed within 60 days after the effective date of this Act, but no later than July 1st, 2025. The Commission shall hold its organizational meeting within 60 days after at least 50% of the members who are to be appointed under Section 10-15 have been appointed.

Section 10-25. Funding. Illinois Asian American Commission may receive its own appropriation. The Illinois Asian American Commission may receive additional appropriations through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion or other designated agency. The Commission on Equity and Inclusion or designated agency shall expend funds set aside for the Commission at the Commission's direction.

Section 10-30. Reporting. By January 1 of each year, the Illinois Asian American Commission shall submit to the Governor and the General Assembly a report detailing progress toward the goals and objectives of the Commission. The report shall detail, at a minimum, the Commission's work with agencies under the Governor, the Commission's current and ongoing research projects, and any legislative activity undertaken by the Commission.

Section 10-35. Administrative support. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the Commission on Equity and Inclusion shall, at the request of the Illinois Asian American Commission, provide administrative and technical support to assist the Commission in carrying out its duties. Administrative and technical support includes providing guidance on State rules and regulations pertaining to contracts, expenditures, and payments to ensure compliance with State procurement policies and processes. The Commission on Equity and Inclusion shall provide assistance to the Illinois Asian American Commission as requested, including access to office space, technology, and other supports necessary for effective operations.

(20 ILCS 3916/Act rep.)

Section 10-90. The Asian American Family Commission Act is repealed.

Article 15. Illinois Latino Commission

Section 15-1. Short title. This Act may be cited as the Illinois Latino Commission Act. References in this Article to "this Act" mean this Article.

Section 15-10. Purpose and objectives. The purpose of the Illinois Latino Commission is to be an independent voice and represent the priorities of the Latino community and advocate for policies, programs, and services that promote greater equity and inclusion in State government. The Illinois Latino Commission works directly with the Governor, the General Assembly, constitutional officers, and State agencies to develop new and improve existing policies, services, programs, and opportunities for families. The Illinois Latino Commission shall:

(1) advocate for State policies, programs, and services that improve equity, inclusion, and the quality of life of Latinos;

(2) develop and advance recommendations to the Governor, the General Assembly, and other State entities such as constitutional officers and State courts to reduce disparities and disproportionality experienced by Latinos;

(3) identify priorities, goals, and objectives reflecting an Latino policy agenda to guide the Commission's work;

(4) monitor the impact of and shape legislation, policies, programs, and practices to ensure that they are responsive to Latino in Illinois;

(5) collaborate with the Governor's office, the General Assembly, constitutional officers, State courts, State agencies, and boards and commissions in developing new and shaping existing programs, services, policies, and initiatives to expand and enhance the social and economic well-being of Latino children and families;

(6) facilitate the participation and representation of Latino in the development, implementation, and planning of policies, programs, and services;

(7) engage in and promote research efforts concerning Latino that can inform policies, programs, and services to ensure greater equity and accountability;

(8) create and approve the annual budget and have sole authority over expenditures in line with The Illinois Procurement Code and the rules adopted under that code;

(9) hire an executive director to administer operations;

(10) make or enter into contracts with third parties as necessary and convenient for the exercise of its powers and duties, including defining personnel needs and hiring staff as required to perform its duties under this Act; all procurement must follow State policy and procedures;

(11) co-convene quarterly roundtable meetings with the Illinois African American Commission, the Illinois Asian American Commission, and the Department of Human Rights to identify opportunities for collaboration and alignment;

(12) hold at least 2 public hearings annually to assist in the development of recommendations for the Governor, the General Assembly, and other State entities;

(13) exercise such other powers as are necessary or incidental to the administration of this Act or the performance of duties under this Act; and

(14) apply for, receive, establish priorities for, allocate, disburse, and spend grants funds that are made available to the Commission.

Section 15-15. Appointment; terms. The Illinois Latino Commission shall be composed of 15 members. As soon as practical after the effective date of this Act, but no later than July 1, 2025, the Governor, the President of the Senate, the Minority Leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives shall each appoint 3 members to the Commission. At the first meeting of the Commission, the members shall select a 5-person Steering Committee that includes the co-chairs Commission members shall elect the chairperson or chairpersons by a majority vote of the appointed members, and the chairperson or chairpersons shall each serve for a 2-year term.

Members shall serve 3-year terms, except in the case of the following initial appointments: each appointing authority shall each appoint 2 members to a 2-year term and one member to a 3-year term. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, members may be reappointed to a 3-year term. Thereafter, each member shall serve for a term of 3 years and until the member's successor is appointed and qualified. A vacancy occurring other than at the end of a term shall be filled by the initial appointing authority only for the balance of the term of the member whose office is vacant and until a successor is appointed and qualified. No member shall serve more than 2 terms, excluding any partial term resulting from a filled vacancy. Members will serve without compensation, but shall be reimbursed for Commission-related expenses.

Thereafter, each member shall serve for a term of 3 years and until the member's successor is appointed and qualified. A vacancy occurring other than at the end of a term shall be filled by the initial appointing authority only for the balance of the term of the member whose office is vacant and until a successor is appointed and qualified. No member shall serve more than 2 terms, excluding any partial term resulting from a filled vacancy. Members will serve without compensation, but shall be reimbursed for Commission-related expenses.

Appointing authorities shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the Commission is diverse with respect to age, gender, and geography to ensure the needs of Latino families and children through the State are met. Members shall be persons with recognized ability and experience in one or more of the following areas: education, business, social services, human services, community development, labor, economic policy, criminal justice, immigration, or health care.

The Commission may establish committees that address specific issues or populations and may appoint individuals with relevant expertise who are not appointed members of the Commission to serve on committees as needed.

Section 15-20. Organizational meeting. Commission members shall be appointed within 60 days after the effective date of this Act, but no later than July 1st, 2025. The Commission shall hold its organizational meeting within 60 days after at least 50% of the members who are to be appointed under Section 15-15 have been appointed.

Section 15-25. Funding. The Illinois Latino Commission may receive its own appropriation. The Illinois Latino Commission may receive additional appropriations through the Commission on Equity and Inclusion or other designated agency. The Commission on Equity and Inclusion or designated agency shall expend funds set aside for the Commission at the Commission's direction.

Section 15-30. Reporting. By January 1 of each year, the Illinois Latino Commission shall submit to the Governor and the General Assembly a report detailing progress toward the goals and objectives of the Commission. The report shall detail, at a minimum, the Commission's work with agencies under the Governor, the Commission's current and ongoing research projects, and any legislative activity undertaken by the Commission.

Section 15-35. Administrative support. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, the Commission on Equity and Inclusion shall, at the request of the Illinois Latino Commission, provide administrative and technical support to assist the Commission in carrying out its duties. Administrative and technical support includes providing guidance on State rules and regulations pertaining to contracts, expenditures, and payments to ensure compliance with State procurement policies and processes. The Commission on Equity and Inclusion provide assistance to the Illinois Latino Commission as requested, including access to office space, technology, and other supports necessary for effective operations.

(20 ILCS 3983/Act rep.)

Section 15-90. The Illinois Latino Family Commission Act is repealed.

Article 20. Amendatory Provisions

Section 20-5. The Violence Prevention Task Force Act is amended by changing Section 5 as follows:

(20 ILCS 4028/5)

Sec. 5. Violence Prevention Task Force; members.

(a) There is created the Violence Prevention Task Force (hereinafter referred to as the Task Force) consisting of 6 members appointed as follows:

(1) one member of the Senate appointed by the President of the Senate;

(2) one member of the Senate appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate;

(3) one member of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives;

(4) one member of the House of Representatives appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives; and

(5) 2 members appointed by the Governor, one of whom shall be designated the chairperson by the Governor.

(b) The members of the Task Force shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for their reasonable and necessary expenses from funds appropriated for that purpose.

(c) The Task Force may employ skilled experts with the approval of the chairperson, and shall receive the cooperation of those State agencies it deems appropriate to assist the Task Force in carrying out its duties.

(d) The Illinois African American African-American Family Commission, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the Illinois Latino Family Commission shall provide administrative and other support to the Task Force.

(Source: P.A. 98-194, eff. 8-7-13; 98-756, eff. 7-16-14.)

Section 20-10. The Commission on Children and Youth Act is amended by changing Section 15 as follows:

(20 ILCS 4075/15)

Sec. 15. Commission members; appointments. The Commission shall be composed of the following members, to be appointed within 60 days after the effective date of this Act:

(a) Four members of the General Assembly: 2 members of the Illinois Senate, one member appointed by the President of the Senate and one member appointed by the Senate Minority Leader; 2 members of the Illinois House of Representatives, one member appointed by the Speaker of the House and one member appointed by the House Minority Leader.

(b) A member of the Governor's leadership team appointed by the Governor, who shall serve as one of the co-chairs of the Commission.

(c) Up to 30 public members appointed by the Governor with demonstrated interest and expertise in children and youth across the major stages of child and adolescent development. Public members shall include rural, suburban and urban entities; direct service providers; child advocates; human rights organizations; faith-based service providers; philanthropic organizations that invest in children and youth; at least 3 parents of children under the age of 16; and at least 3 young people between the ages of 16 and 24. A second co-chair of the Commission shall be elected from among the public members of the Commission by the public members.

(d) The following shall serve as ex-officio members of the Commission: the Director of Children and Family Services or his or her designee; the Director of Commerce and Economic Opportunity or his or her designee; the Director of Corrections or his or her designee; the Director of Employment Security or his or her designee; the Director of Healthcare and Family Services or his or her designee; the Secretary of Human Services or his or her designee; the Director of Juvenile Justice or his or her designee; the Director of Public Health or his or her designee; the State Superintendent of Education or his or her designee; the Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Children and Youth Services or his or her designee; the Executive Director of the Illinois Violence Prevention Authority or his or her designee; the Executive Director Chair of the Illinois African American African-American Family Commission or his or her designee; and the Executive Director Chair of the Latino Family Commission or his or her designee; and the Executive Director of the Illinois Asian American Commission or his or her designee. In addition, there shall be a representative of a local government entity coordinating services for children and youth and a representative of the Illinois Early Learning Council, to be chosen by the chairs.

(Source: P.A. 95-781, eff. 8-5-08.)

Section 20-15. The Commission to Study Disproportionate Justice Impact Act is amended by changing Section 10 as follows:

(20 ILCS 4085/10)

Sec. 10. Composition. The Commission shall be composed of the following members:

(a) Two members of the Senate appointed by the Senate President, one of whom the President shall designate to serve as co-chair, and two members of the Senate appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

(b) Two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, one of whom the Speaker shall designate to serve as co-chair, and two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

(c) The following persons or their designees:

(1) the Attorney General,

(2) the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County,

(3) the Director of the Illinois State Police,

(4) the Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department,

(5) the sheriff of Cook County,

(6) the State Appellate Defender,

(7) the Cook County Public Defender,

(8) the Director of the Office of the State's Attorneys Appellate Prosecutor,

(9) the Cook County State's Attorney,

(10) the Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Information Authority,

(11) the Director of Corrections,

(12) the Director of Juvenile Justice, and

(13) the Executive Director of the Illinois African American African-American Family Commission, .

(14) the Executive Director of the Illinois Latino Commission; and

(15) the Executive Director of the Illinois Asian American Commission.

(d) The co-chairs may name up to 8 persons, representing minority communities within Illinois, groups involved in the improvement of the administration of justice, behavioral health, criminal justice, law enforcement, and the rehabilitation of former inmates, community groups, and other interested parties.

(Source: P.A. 102-538, eff. 8-20-21.)

Section 20-20. The Commission to End Hunger Act is amended by changing Section 15 as follows:

(20 ILCS 5015/15)

Sec. 15. Members. The Commission to End Hunger shall be composed of no more than 21 voting members including 2 members of the Illinois House of Representatives, one appointed by the Speaker of the House and one appointed by the House Minority Leader; 2 members of the Illinois Senate, one appointed by the Senate President and one appointed by the Senate Minority Leader; one representative of the Office of the Governor appointed by the Governor; one representative of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor appointed by the Lieutenant Governor; and 15 public members, who shall be appointed by the Governor.

The public members shall include 2 representatives of food banks; 2 representatives from other community food assistance programs; a representative of a statewide organization focused on responding to hunger; a representative from an anti-poverty organization; a representative of an organization that serves or advocates for children and youth; a representative of an organization that serves or advocates for older adults; a representative of an organization that advocates for people who are homeless; a representative of an organization that serves or advocates for persons with disabilities; a representative of an organization that advocates for immigrants; a representative of a municipal or county government; and 3 at-large members. The appointed members shall reflect the racial, gender, and geographic diversity of the State and shall include representation from regions of the State.

The following officials shall serve as ex-officio members: the Secretary of Human Services or his or her designee; the State Superintendent of Education or his or her designee; the Director of Healthcare and Family Services or his or her designee; the Director of Children and Family Services or his or her designee; the Director of Aging or his or her designee; the Director of Natural Resources or his or her designee; and the Director of Agriculture or his or her designee. The Illinois African American African-American Family Commission, the Illinois Asian American Commission, and the Illinois Latino Family Commission shall each designate a liaison to serve ex-officio on the Commission.

Members shall serve without compensation and are responsible for the cost of all reasonable and necessary travel expenses connected to Commission business, as the State of Illinois will not reimburse Commission members for these costs.

Commission members shall be appointed within 60 days after the effective date of this Act. The Commission shall hold their initial meetings within 60 days after at least 50% of the members have been appointed.

The representative of the Office of the Governor and a representative of a food bank shall serve as co-chairs of the Commission.

At the first meeting of the Commission, the members shall select a 5-person Steering Committee that includes the co-chairs.

The Commission may establish committees that address specific issues or populations and may appoint individuals with relevant expertise who are not appointed members of the Commission to serve on committees as needed.

The Office of the Governor, or a designee of the Governor's choosing, shall provide guidance to the Commission. Under the leadership of the Office of the Governor, subject to appropriation, the Department of Human Services shall also provide leadership to support the Commission. The Department of Human Services and the State of Illinois shall not incur any costs as a result of the creation of the Commission to End Hunger as the coordination of meetings, report preparation, and other related duties will be completed by a representative of a food bank that is serving as a co-chair of the Commission.

(Source: P.A. 102-1119, eff. 1-23-23.)

Section 20-25. The Racial and Ethnic Impact Research Task Force Act is amended by changing Section 10 as follows:

(20 ILCS 5025/10)

Sec. 10. Racial and Ethnic Impact Research Task Force.

There is created the Racial and Ethnic Impact Research Task Force, composed of the following members:

(1) Two members of the Senate appointed by the Senate President, one of whom the President shall designate to serve as co-chair, and 2 members of the Senate appointed by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

(2) Two members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, one of whom the Speaker shall designate to serve as co-chair, and 2 members of the House of Representatives appointed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

(3) The following persons or their designees:

(A) the Attorney General,

(B) the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County,

(C) the Director of the Illinois State Police,

(D) the Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department,

(E) the Sheriff of Cook County,

(F) the State Appellate Defender,

(G) the Cook County Public Defender,

(H) the Director of the Office of the State's Attorneys Appellate Prosecutor,

(I) the Cook County State's Attorney,

(J) the Executive Director of the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority,

(K) the Director of Corrections,

(L) the Director of Juvenile Justice, and

(M) the Executive Director of the Illinois African American African-American Family Commission, .

(N) the Executive Director of the Illinois Latino Commission, and

(O) the Executive Director of the Illinois Asian American Commission.

(4) The co-chairs may name up to 8 persons, representing minority communities within Illinois, groups involved in the improvement of the administration of justice, behavioral health, criminal justice, law enforcement, and the rehabilitation of former inmates, community groups, and other interested parties.

(Source: P.A. 102-538, eff. 8-20-21.)

Section 20-30. The Commission on Equity and Inclusion Act is amended by changing Section 40-10 as follows:

(30 ILCS 574/40-10)

(Text of Section before amendment by P.A. 103-961)

Sec. 40-10. Powers and duties. In addition to the other powers and duties which may be prescribed in this Act or elsewhere, the Commission shall have the following powers and duties:

(1) The Commission shall have a role in all State and university procurement by facilitating and streamlining communications between the Business Enterprise Council for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities, the purchasing entities, the Chief Procurement Officers, and others.

(2) The Commission may create a scoring evaluation for State agency directors, public university presidents and chancellors, and public community college presidents. The scoring shall be based on the following 3 principles: (i) increasing capacity; (ii) growing revenue; and (iii) enhancing credentials. These principles should be the foundation of the agency compliance plan required under Section 6 of the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Act.

(3) The Commission shall exercise the authority and duties provided to it under Section 5-7 of the Illinois Procurement Code.

(4) The Commission, working with State agencies, shall provide support for diversity in State hiring.

(5) The Commission shall supervise the implementation and effectiveness of supplier diversity training of the State procurement workforce.

(6) Each January, and as otherwise frequently as may be deemed necessary and appropriate by the Commission, the Commission shall propose and submit to the Governor and the General Assembly legislative changes to increase inclusion and diversity in State government.

(7) The Commission shall have oversight over the following entities:

(A) the Illinois African American African-American Family Commission;

(B) the Illinois Latino Family Commission;

(C) the Asian American Family Commission;

(D) the Illinois Muslim American Advisory Council;

(E) the Illinois African-American Fair Contracting Commission created under Executive Order 2018-07; and

(F) the Business Enterprise Council for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities.

(8) The Commission shall adopt any rules necessary for the implementation and administration of the requirements of this Act.

(9) The Commission shall exercise the authority and duties provided to it under Section 45-57 of the Illinois Procurement Code.

(10) The Commission is responsible for completing studies as required by Section 35-15 of the Illinois Community Reinvestment Act.

(Source: P.A. 102-29, eff. 6-25-21; 102-671, eff. 11-30-21; 103-865, eff. 1-1-25; 103-959, eff. 1-1-25; revised 11-26-24.)

(Text of Section after amendment by P.A. 103-961)

Sec. 40-10. Powers and duties. In addition to the other powers and duties which may be prescribed in this Act or elsewhere, the Commission shall have the following powers and duties:

(1) The Commission shall have a role in all State and university procurement by facilitating and streamlining communications between the Business Enterprise Council for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities, the purchasing entities, the Chief Procurement Officers, and others.

(2) The Commission may create a scoring evaluation for State agency directors, public university presidents and chancellors, and public community college presidents. The scoring shall be based on the following 3 principles: (i) increasing capacity; (ii) growing revenue; and (iii) enhancing credentials. These principles should be the foundation of the agency compliance plan required under Section 6 of the Business Enterprise for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities Act.

(3) The Commission shall exercise the authority and duties provided to it under Section 5-7 of the Illinois Procurement Code.

(4) The Commission, working with State agencies, shall provide support for diversity in State hiring.

(5) The Commission shall supervise the implementation and effectiveness of supplier diversity training of the State procurement workforce.

(6) Each January, and as otherwise frequently as may be deemed necessary and appropriate by the Commission, the Commission shall propose and submit to the Governor and the General Assembly legislative changes to increase inclusion and diversity in State government.

(7) The Commission shall have oversight over the following entities:

(A) the Illinois African American African-American Family Commission;

(B) the Illinois Latino Family Commission;

(C) the Asian American Family Commission;

(D) the Illinois Muslim American Advisory Council;

(E) the Illinois African-American Fair Contracting Commission created under Executive Order 2018-07; and

(F) the Business Enterprise Council for Minorities, Women, and Persons with Disabilities.

(7.5) The Commission shall have oversight over the collection of supplier diversity reports by State agencies to the extent that those agencies are required to collect supplier diversity reports. This oversight shall include publishing, on the Commission's website, a copy of each such supplier diversity report submitted to a State agency and may include conducting an annual hearing with each State agency to discuss ongoing compliance with supplier diversity reporting requirements. The Commission is not responsible for ensuring compliance by the filers of supplier diversity reports to their respective agencies. The agencies subject to oversight by the Commission and the relevant voluntary supplier diversity reports include the following:

(A) the Health Facilities and Services Review Board for hospitals;

(B) the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for tax credit recipients under the Economic Development for a Growing Economy Tax Credit Act;

(C) the Illinois Commerce Commission for utilities and railroads;

(D) the Illinois Gaming Board for casinos; and

(E) the Illinois Racing Board for race tracks.

(7.6) The Commission may hold public workshops focused on specific industries and reports to collaboratively connect diverse enterprises with entities that manage supplier diversity programs. These workshops may be modeled after Illinois Commerce Commission hearings for utilities and railroads that include a collaborative discussion of filed supplier diversity reports.

(8) The Commission shall adopt any rules necessary for the implementation and administration of the requirements of this Act.

(9) The Commission shall exercise the authority and duties provided to it under Section 45-57 of the Illinois Procurement Code.

(10) The Commission is responsible for completing studies as required by Section 35-15 of the Illinois Community Reinvestment Act.

(Source: P.A. 102-29, eff. 6-25-21; 102-671, eff. 11-30-21; 103-865, eff. 1-1-25; 103-959, eff. 1-1-25; 103-961, eff. 7-1-25; revised 11-26-24.)

Section 20-35. The Illinois Human Rights Act is amended by changing Section 7-101 as follows:

(775 ILCS 5/7-101) (from Ch. 68, par. 7-101)

Sec. 7-101. Powers and duties. In addition to other powers and duties prescribed in this Act, the Department shall have the following powers:

(A) Rules and Regulations. To adopt, promulgate, amend, and rescind rules and regulations not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act pursuant to the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act.

(B) Charges. To issue, receive, investigate, conciliate, settle, and dismiss charges filed in conformity with this Act.

(C) Compulsory Process. To request subpoenas as it deems necessary for its investigations.

(D) Complaints. To file complaints with the Commission in conformity with this Act and to intervene in complaints pending before the Commission filed under Article 2, 4, 5, 5A, or 6.

(E) Judicial Enforcement. To seek temporary relief and to enforce orders of the Commission in conformity with this Act.

(F) Equal Employment Opportunities. To take such action as may be authorized to provide for equal employment opportunities and affirmative action.

(G) Recruitment; Research; Public Communication; Advisory Councils. To engage in such recruitment, research and public communication and create such advisory councils as may be authorized to effectuate the purposes of this Act.

(H) Coordination with other Agencies. To coordinate its activities with federal, state, and local agencies in conformity with this Act.

(H-5) Support Commissions. To provide administrative and technical support to assist the Illinois Latino Commission, Illinois African American Commission, and Illinois Asian American Commission in carrying out their duties.

(I) Grants; Private Gifts.

(1) To accept public grants and private gifts as may be authorized.

(2) To design grant programs and award grants to eligible recipients.

(J) Education and Training. To implement a formal and unbiased program of education and training for all employees assigned to investigate and conciliate charges under Articles 7A and 7B. The training program shall include the following:

(1) substantive and procedural aspects of the investigation and conciliation positions;

(2) current issues in human rights law and practice;

(3) lectures by specialists in substantive areas related to human rights matters;

(4) orientation to each operational unit of the Department and Commission;

(5) observation of experienced Department investigators and attorneys conducting conciliation conferences, combined with the opportunity to discuss evidence presented and rulings made;

(6) the use of hypothetical cases requiring the Department investigator and conciliation conference attorney to issue judgments as a means to evaluating knowledge and writing ability;

(7) writing skills;

(8) computer skills, including but not limited to word processing and document management.

A formal, unbiased and ongoing professional development program including, but not limited to, the above-noted areas shall be implemented to keep Department investigators and attorneys informed of recent developments and issues and to assist them in maintaining and enhancing their professional competence.

(K) Hotlines. To establish and maintain hotlines and helplines to aid in effectuating the purposes of this Act including the confidential reporting of discrimination, harassment, and bias incidents. All communications received or sent via the hotlines and helplines are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.

(Source: P.A. 102-1115, eff. 1-9-23; 103-335, eff. 1-1-24; 103-859, eff. 1-1-25.)

Article 99. Other Provisions

Section 99-95. No acceleration or delay. Where this Act makes changes in a statute that is represented in this Act by text that is not yet or no longer in effect (for example, a Section represented by multiple versions), the use of that text does not accelerate or delay the taking effect of (i) the changes made by this Act or (ii) provisions derived from any other Public Act.