HB5498

Illinois HB5498 mandates counties with over 600,000 residents to establish a tourism and convention bureau starting January 1, 2027.

HB5498 amends the Counties Code to require counties with populations exceeding 600,000 to create a tourism and convention bureau. This bureau will have the same powers and duties as those established under the Tourism Preservation and Sustainability District Act, with the added benefit of immediate eligibility for state tourism dollars and grant funding. The governing body of the bureau will consist of a 25-member board appointed by the county board, with the board members electing the leader by simple majority. This Act becomes effective immediately upon becoming law.