Indy Standard

The Indiana House of Representatives has moved forward with legislation co-authored by State Representative Jack Jordan to explore the possibility of adjusting Indiana's border. This initiative is aimed at welcoming Illinois counties that have expressed a desire to secede from their state.

House Bill 1008, a priority for House Republicans, proposes the establishment of the Indiana-Illinois Boundary Adjustment Commission. This commission would examine the potential benefits of redrawing state lines. Since 2020, 33 counties in Illinois have voted to secede, including seven in the last November election.

"If those Illinois counties want to separate from their state, we think they should consider joining Indiana," said Rep. Jordan. "Indiana offers a great quality of life and for those Illinois residents who feel like they are being ignored, we would happily welcome them to our state."

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that over 100,000 residents have relocated from Illinois to Indiana since the pandemic began. Studies suggest high taxes as a primary reason for this migration.

In contrast, Indiana's Republican-led General Assembly has consistently reduced taxes over the past decade and plans further income tax cuts in the coming years. Since the pandemic, Indiana's GDP has increased by 9.3%, surpassing other Midwest states and significantly outpacing Illinois.

Indiana ranks first in the Midwest according to both the Tax Foundation's 2025 State Tax Competitiveness Index and Chief Executive Magazine’s annual survey on business-friendly states.

For any boundary adjustments to occur, similar legislation must be passed in Illinois. House Bill 1500 has been introduced by Rep. Brad Halbrook in the Illinois General Assembly. Approval from both state legislatures and Congress would be necessary for any changes.

"To me, Indiana is home and it's the best state to work, live and raise a family," added Jordan. "Our door is open, and we would love to see even more Illinois residents choose to become Hoosiers."

House Bill 1008 will now proceed to the Senate for further discussion.