Ditka Memorial Resolution Honors

Summary#

HR-1049, titled “MEMORIAL-MIKE DITKA,” is an introduced Illinois House resolution, not a bill that amends or creates a law. It would express the House’s mourning and condolences after Mike Ditka’s death; its stated purpose is to honor his memory.

  • The House would formally mourn Ditka and extend condolences to his family, friends, and others who knew him.
  • The House would have a suitable copy of the resolution presented to his family.
  • The text recounts Ditka’s football career and personal life, but does not create a new service, benefit, right, or government office.

What it means for you#

  • Ditka’s family: If the House adopts the resolution, it would receive a suitable copy. The resolution does not provide financial or other material support.
  • General public: It would not directly change taxes, services, rights, or rules.
  • Illinois government: The resolution is at the introduced stage, so it has not yet taken effect. Its passage is uncertain.

Money#

No cost information is in the available material.

  • The resolution does not state an appropriation, tax, fee, fine, or spending estimate.
  • It does not say what it would cost to prepare and present the copy to the family.

What is unclear#

  • The text does not say when the copy would be presented or who would arrange it.
  • The cost, if any, of preparing and presenting the copy is not stated.
  • The resolution has been introduced, but whether it will be adopted is unknown.

Case for#

  • The resolution would give the House a formal way to recognize Ditka’s playing and coaching career and express condolences to his family.
  • A possible argument for this approach is that a public tribute can recognize a person’s connection to Illinois and the Chicago Bears without changing law or setting up a new program.

Case against#

  • A limitation is that the resolution offers recognition and condolences but no material support or service to Ditka’s family.
  • The text provides no cost estimate, so the expense of preparing and presenting the copy is unclear.
  • It is a ceremonial measure; it does not address any broader policy issue.