HB 5832

Abstract

Amends the Recreational Use of Land and Water Areas Act. Provides that an owner that is a not-for-profit organization operating and remaining in good standing under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code which makes its land (except for residential buildings) available for entry by the general public for any activity undertaken for conservation, resource management, education, or outdoor recreational use may register with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in order that the owner may qualify for limited liability under this Act for the land used in that manner. Provides that the Department shall create a registration page on its website to collect the following information from any 501(c)(3) entity that wishes to register its property: (i) the name and address of the owner; (ii) the 501(c)(3) organization's tax identification number; (iii) the size, address, and property identification number of the property, and (iv) the county in which the property is located. Provides that a parcel of property is deemed registered once the information is submitted to the Department. Provides that once the property is registered, the 501(c)(3) owner qualifies for the Act's limited liability until either (i) the owner notifies the Department to remove the property from the list or (ii) the owner no longer has a possessory interest in the property. Makes changes to the definitions of "land", "owner", and "recreational or conservation purpose". Provides that the changes to the Act apply only to causes of action accruing on or after January 1, 2013. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.