IL HB3219

Creates a Division on Downstate Economic Development within the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to coordinate existing state programs for economic development in nine downstate regions: Northern Stateline, Northwest, West Central, North Central, East Central, Central, Southwest, Southeast, and Southern regions.

Assigns the Division duties including reviewing current Department programs, identifying functions to house under the Division, recommending improvements to existing assistance, and facilitating Department interactions with downstate communities.

Directs the Division to gather information on state and federal revitalization programs, promote community development and job creation, recommend economic policies to the General Assembly and Governor, and encourage new industrial enterprises to locate downstate.

Requires the Department to use existing funds and resources to implement the Division and prevent duplication of current Department operations.

Designates the Assistant Director to oversee the Division's implementation and administration, grants the Department rulemaking authority, and makes the Act effective immediately upon becoming law.