The bill is expected to impact how local tourism and convention bureaus are managed and funded across Illinois, potentially consolidating the number of certified bureaus. This could lead to improved accountability and efficiency in the use of state tourism funds, encouraging a focus on a more centralized system of tourism promotion. However, it may also create challenges for bureaus that are affected by the new regulations, particularly those that serve smaller or overlapping communities.
House Bill 5088 seeks to amend the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Law in Illinois by establishing criteria for local tourism and convention bureaus to be certified to receive local tourism funds. As of July 1, 2024, if all or part of the geographic area served by a local bureau overlaps with another bureau that is already certified, the overlapping bureau will not be eligible for certification and thus not entitled to local tourism funds. This move aims to streamline funding and avoid duplication among the tourism promotion agencies in the state.
Critics of the bill may argue that it threatens the viability of smaller tourism bureaus that may not be able to compete for funding or that could be eliminated due to overlap with larger or more established bureaus. There are concerns that this will reduce local control over tourism initiatives, as decision-making would increasingly be centralized under the state’s Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Supporters, however, contend that the legislation would minimize wasted efforts and resources, ensuring that tourism promotions are more effective and comprehensive overall.