Sen. Michael Hasting proposes Bill 1749 to promote the growth of amateur sports across the state. | Photo Courtesy of Michael Hastings Facebook
Sen. Michael Hasting proposes Bill 1749 to promote the growth of amateur sports across the state. | Photo Courtesy of Michael Hastings Facebook
State Sen. Michael Hastings’ (R-Frankfort) proposed initiative to create the Illinois Amateur Sports Commission Act has passed the Senate Government Committee to promote the growth of amateur sports.
The proposal, known as Senate Bill 1749, ensures the contribution of the Illinois Amateur Sports Commission, which is tasked with researching to aid the development of the activity. The commission will prioritize the growth of the number of physical fitness and amateur sports program participation.
The legislation is now under review and awaiting Senate Approval.
"Students throughout our state saw their athletic development stunted by the COVID-19 pandemic," Hastings said. This commission is simply one way we can begin the work of making up for that lost time, build on our state's historic tradition of athletic success and promote physical fitness for future generations," Hastings said in an April Facebook post.
Through this initiative, local and statewide businesses will be presented with opportunities to help the cause and allow them to reap a financial benefit from promoting related programs, competitions, and events.
The measure was inspired by a similar organization established in Minnesota, which made a crucial contribution to proposing Minnesota as a host for the 2024 Olympic Swimming Trials, resulting in a finalist slot for the state.
“We have seen similar organizations find success in promoting participation in amateur sports on a statewide level,” Hastings said in a statement. “This is an opportunity to build on that success using our state-of-the-art facilities and resources in Illinois to create an environment in which young athletes can continue to learn valuable life skills.
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