HB 399

Abstract

Creates the High-Speed Railway Commission Act. Prescribes the membership of the Commission. Provides that the Commission shall create a statewide plan for a high-speed rail line and feeder network connecting St. Louis, Missouri and Chicago, Illinois that includes current existing Amtrak and Metra services, connects the cities of Rockford, Moline, Peoria, and Decatur, and uses inter-city bus service to coordinate with the rail line. Provides that the Commission shall conduct a ridership study and shall make findings and recommendations concerning a governance structure, the frequency of service, and implementation of the plan. Provides that the Commission shall report to the General Assembly and the Governor no later than December 31 of each year. Provides that the Department of Transportation shall provide administrative support to the Commission. Repeals the Act on January 1, 2027. Effective immediately. Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Adds language including representatives from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (rather than the Municipal Planning Organization), the Region 1 Planning Council, the McLean County Regional Planning Commission, and the East-West Gateway Council of Governments as members of the High-Speed Railway Commission.