IL HB5577

Adds definition of "land with a primary purpose of preservation or conservation" to include public or private land used for wildlife habitat, erosion control, energy conservation, natural community restoration, general reforestation, and research.

Creates separate penalty for unauthorized tree cutting on conservation lands requiring payment of 3 times stumpage value plus all remediation costs (cleanup, soil remediation, invasive species control, restoration, seeding/planting, and staff/contractor fees).

Prohibits courts from using diminution of market value when determining damages in tree cutting cases.

Allows prevailing plaintiffs to recover all costs of expenses incurred, including attorney's fees and administrative costs.

Clarifies that the Act does not limit other legal rights of conservation land owners and takes effect immediately upon becoming law.