HR0070 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0070 LRB102 15399 LAW 20762 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Illinois county fairs highlight our State's rich agricultural history, while preparing and educating our youth and future leaders of tomorrow; and

WHEREAS, Across the State, almost every county fair was canceled entirely due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020; and

WHEREAS, Determining factors for canceling county fairs included the health and safety of fairgoers, government limitations on fairs and festivals, and financial feasibility; and

WHEREAS, There are normally 104 county fairs in Illinois that produce agricultural education, community support, and economic benefits; and

WHEREAS, Economic losses from canceled events were financially devastating for many counties; typically, county fairs in the State of Illinois return over $170 million in tax revenue back to the State every year; and

WHEREAS, Beyond the economic impact, county fairs provide many benefits to the community that are not related to economic gains, including family friendly entertainment, agricultural education, opportunities for local organizations to get involved, traditional community events, fundraising for local groups, and unique entertainment opportunities; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize the importance of county fairs; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Illinois General Assembly will encourage and support the continued success of county fairs across the State.