Holmes supports HB4438 to recognize the Black-and-Gold Bumblebee as Illinois' state bee

Sen. Linda Holmes (D-42nd) voted in favor of HB4438, which seeks to designate the Black-and-Gold Bumblebee as the official state bee of Illinois, during the 104th General Assembly on May 31, 2026, according to the Illinois Senate. The legislation was approved in the Senate with a 58-0 vote.

According to the text of the bill, the proposal is described as: "STATE BEE DESIGNATION."

The summary provided below explains the essential aspects of the bill text and may interpret provisions for clarity.

Essentially, the legislation amends the State Designations Act by introducing Section 17, which officially establishes the bumblebee species Bombus auricomus, also called the Black-and-Gold Bumblebee, as Illinois' state bee. The measure serves as a symbolic state designation, with no listed effective date, nor any further rules, funding, or enforcement components.

The official status of HB4438 is 'Third Reading - Passed'.

Holmes earned her BA from National College of Education in 1984.

A Democrat, Holmes began her tenure in the Illinois State Senate in 2007, representing the 42nd Senate District after succeeding Phyllis Petka.

Legislation in Illinois follows a multi-step process, beginning with its introduction in either chamber, being reviewed by committees, debated on the floor, and voted on in both the House and Senate before reaching the governor for potential approval or veto. The General Assembly operates on a two-year cycle, with thousands of bills introduced per session, although only a small percentage ultimately become law.