Some Indiana lawmakers have taken steps to absorb the Illinois counties that have voted to leave the state. Last election, seven Illinois counties joined more than 20 others to greenlight a proposal to explore splitting from the state.

Several Illinois counties that have explored the idea of secession might be welcomed with open arms in Indiana. Legislators in Indiana’s Republican-majority General Assembly have introduced a house bill that would establish a commission to discuss whether it’s advisable to adjust the boundary between Illinois and Indiana.

To all of our neighbors in the West, we hear your frustrations and invite you to join us in low-cost, low-tax Indiana,” Indiana's House Speaker, Rep. Todd Huston (R) said. "Instead of seceding and creating a 51st state,