IL SB1988

Creates the High Speed Railway Commission composed of 18 members including the Governor, legislative leaders, Secretary of Transportation, and representatives from Metra, the Illinois Commerce Commission, labor organizations, rail industry groups, and municipal entities.

Commission chair and vice-chair are elected by simple majority vote from membership; initial appointments must be made by January 1, 2020; commission meets at least quarterly with a quorum of simple majority.

Commission shall create a statewide high-speed rail plan connecting St. Louis and Chicago, including existing Amtrak and Metra services, and connecting Rockford, Moline, Peoria, and Decatur with inter-city bus service coordination.

Commission must conduct a ridership study and make recommendations on governance structure, service frequency, and plan implementation; must report findings to the General Assembly and Governor by December 31 of each year.

Department of Transportation provides administrative support to the Commission; Act takes effect upon becoming law and is repealed on January 1, 2025.