IL HB1863

Creates Division 135.5 (Regional Water Commission Act) in the Illinois Municipal Code under Article 11, allowing municipalities to jointly acquire, develop, and operate water supplies and water works through intergovernmental cooperation.

General Assembly findings establish that municipalities dependent on Cambrian-Ordovician and shallow aquifers face insufficient water supply or quality due to economic development, population growth, and proximity to urban centers, threatening public health and safety.

Authorizes municipalities spanning multiple counties to establish a regional water commission structure to provide a reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative water source to address aquifer depletion.

Preserves existing water commissions and county water commissions operating as of the effective date and maintains municipal authority over retail water distribution to residents and water system customers.