HB 5296

Abstract

Creates the Mobilizing Our Neighborhoods to Adopt Resilient Conservation Habitats (MONARCH) Act. Authorizes the Department of Natural Resources to provide financial and technical assistance for the planting of native and pollinator-friendly plants. Provides that the Department may prioritize grants based on the presence of certain species. Requires the Department to publish information on its website and design a yard sign. Provides that homeowners associations and common interest communities may not prohibit the planting of a pollinator habitat. Authorizes collaboration. Authorizes the Department to adopt rules. Effective immediately. House Committee Amendment No. 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Creates the Homeowners' Native Landscaping Act. Provides that an association shall not prohibit any resident or owner from planting or growing Illinois native species on the resident's or owner's lawn so long as the area is maintained predominantly free of weeds, invasive species, and trash, and vegetation does not extend over or onto neighboring properties, public or common sidewalks, pathways, streets or other public or common areas or elements, and does not interfere with traffic or utilities. Allows an association to adopt reasonable rules and regulations governing a planned, intentional, and maintained native landscape that do not impair the native landscape's proper maintenance and care or impose height restrictions. Provides that the provisions shall not apply to common areas or elements or to other property owned by the association or other owners in which the resident or owner does not have authority to landscape or plant. Defines terms. Effective immediately.