SPRINGFIELD - To reaffirm the State of Illinois’ commitment to amateur athletics, State Senator Michael E. Hastings has introduced the Illinois Amateur Sports Commission Act, which was signed into law Friday.

“Over the past school year, not only did Illinois students lose the chance to make treasured memories with their teammates and friends, they lost the chance to prove they have what it takes to potentially earn a college scholarship. Though we cannot make up for that lost time, we can improve the way amateur sports programs throughout the state are conducted, and it is my hope that this commission can play a key role in that development.”

House Bill 3870 creates The Illinois Amateur Sports Commission, whose purpose is to research, study, and make recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly about the promotion, development, expansion, and fostering of amateur sports throughout the state.

The recommendations by the Commission will be focused on the promotion and encouragement of physical fitness through participation in amateur sports and amateur sports programs. Additionally, the development of local and statewide business opportunities and economic development relating to amateur sports, amateur sports programs, competitions, and events will be prioritized.

The state of Minnesota has a similar organization, which has generated sports tourism revenue and played a key role in assembling a bid proposal for Minnesota to host the 2024 Olympic Swimming Trials, for which the state is currently a finalist.

This legislation is effective immediately.