Starting this month, pumpkin pie will join the list of official state symbols, which includes a state flower, fossil and dance.
Some might question the need to add a state pie to that list, especially during a time when the state doesn’t even have a budget.
But supporters of the new law say it’s important not to forget about the positives — like the fact that Illinois grows most of the pumpkin that is processes and consumed in the country.
Keith Sommer is a Republican Representative who sponsored the law creating a state pie.
“Making pumpkin the official pie of the state of Illinois is certainly not one of the more important issues that faced the legislature this year. But I think it’s significant that we recognize the good things about the state of Illinois in light even of the challenges we face as a state,” Sommer said.
Pumpkin pie joins other foods on the state symbols list, including Popcorn which was chosen as the official state snack in 2003.
