HB5165 - 104th General Assembly (2025-2026)

RIVER ACCESS MODERNIZATION ACT
Last Action
3/12/2026 - House: Assigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
Hearings
Agriculture & Conservation Committee Hearing Mar 24 2026 2:00PM Capitol Building Room 115 Springfield, IL - House Committee Amendment 1
Statutes Amended In Order of Appearance
New Act  
Synopsis As Introduced
Creates the River Access Modernization Act. Affirms the public's right to use navigable and recreationally suitable waters for canoeing, boating, kayaking, and angling, subject to protection of private property rights and environmental values. Provides that the public right of use does not include crossing private uplands or exiting onto private land without permission. Establishes landowner liability protections. Prohibits littering and alteration of flora and fauna. Grants rulemaking authority to the Department of Natural Resources to designate public access points, resolve conflicts, promote safety and conservation education, and maintain a listing of navigable waterways. Defines "navigable water" and "public recreational use".
Actions
DateChamberAction
2/05/2026HouseFiled with the Clerk by Rep. Lawrence "Larry" Walsh, Jr.
2/10/2026HouseFirst Reading
2/10/2026HouseReferred to Rules Committee
3/12/2026HouseAssigned to Agriculture & Conservation Committee
3/16/2026HouseHouse Committee Amendment No. 1 Filed with Clerk by Rep. Lawrence "Larry" Walsh, Jr.
3/16/2026HouseHouse Committee Amendment No. 1 Referred to Rules Committee
3/18/2026HouseHouse Committee Amendment No. 1 Rules Refers to Agriculture & Conservation Committee