SB1628 is a simple appropriations bill that would allocate $250,000 from the General Revenue Fund to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The money is designated for expenses related to the operation of the Ste. Genevieve–Modoc River Ferry, a transportation service identified in the bill caption as the “IDOT-MODOC FERRY.” The bill is effective July 1, 2025.
The measure does not amend regulatory language or create a new program; instead, it provides a direct funding line for ferry operations. In practical terms, it would support continued service for the ferry by covering operating expenses through state appropriations, with IDOT as the administering agency. Because the bill is narrowly focused, its legal effect is limited to the state budget and the specific ferry operation named in the text.
Impact
SB1628 would change Illinois law only by adding a $250,000 appropriation from the General Revenue Fund to IDOT for ferry operating expenses. It would not alter eligibility rules, transportation policy, or agency authority beyond funding the Ste. Genevieve–Modoc River Ferry. The affected parties are primarily IDOT and users or communities served by the ferry, which may rely on the appropriation to maintain service.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate, support, or opposition in the available materials. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears routine and noncontroversial, reflecting a targeted funding request for a specific transportation service rather than a broader policy change.
Contention
No specific points of contention are documented in the provided record. If any concerns were to arise, they would likely center on the use of General Revenue Fund dollars for a single ferry operation, the necessity of the appropriation, or whether the service should be funded through another mechanism. However, the available materials do not show any stated objections or competing viewpoints.