An Indiana House Committee has approved a bill that would adopt several Southern Illinois counties that have indicated they want to secede from the state.
Marion County and most South Central Illinois counties are among those who have had advisory votes that passed by wide margins.
Any annexation would need approval from Illinois and Indiana state officials as well as an act of Congress.
Indiana House Speaker, Representative Todd Huston, who introduced the bill, says Indiana officials hear the frustrations of Illinois residents and want them to enjoy Indiana’s low-cost and low-tax advantages.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker earlier called the Indiana legislation a stunt that is not going to happen. He notes Illinois offers higher wages and standard of living and provides health care for people in need.
