(20 ILCS 864/10)

(Section scheduled to be repealed on January 1, 2037)

Sec. 10. Establishment of Commission.

(a) The Illinois Freedom Trails Commission is established. The purposes of the Commission are to explore, research, and commemorate the journeys of freedom seekers and the sites and landmarks in this State that became the networks of the Underground Railroad.

(b) The Commission shall consist of a chairperson and 10 additional members appointed by the Governor. The membership may include, but is not limited to, persons who are public officials, scholars, and community-based activists who have knowledge and interest in promoting the work of the Commission. Members shall be broadly representative of the State and the variety of groups interested in promoting the work of the Commission.

(c) The terms of the members shall be 4 years. Members shall serve until their successors are appointed and qualified. Any vacancy in the membership of the Commission shall be filled by the Governor for the unexpired term. Members shall serve without compensation, but may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses.

(d) Subject to appropriation, the Department shall provide administrative and other support to the Commission.

(e) Subject to appropriation, the Commission shall hire a full-time professional staff to implement Commission projects.

(f) At its first meeting and annually thereafter, the Commission shall elect from among its members a chairperson and other officers it considers necessary or appropriate. After its first meeting, the Commission shall meet at the call of the chairperson or if requested by 7 or more members.

(g) A majority of the members of the Commission constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at a meeting of the Commission. A majority of the members present and serving is required for official action of the Commission.

(h) All business that the Commission is authorized to perform shall be conducted at a public meeting of the Commission, held in compliance with the Open Meetings Act.

(i) A writing prepared, owned, used, in the possession of, or retained by the Commission in the performance of an official function is subject to the Freedom of Information Act.

(Source: P.A. 104-113, eff. 8-1-25.)