Due to Illinois's unique geology, carbon capture and sequestration projects are highly sought after.  In response to this growing industry, State Senator Laura Fine passed legislation to ensure these projects meet some of the strongest environmental protections in the nation. 

Senate Bill 1289 sets environmental safety requirements at each stage in the carbon capture process at the capture facility, via pipelines, and at sequestration sites.  The law ensures that Illinois will remain a leader in climate progress by requiring carbon capture companies not to increase air pollution and demonstrate a net reduction in climate pollution.  The law also will establish a two-year moratorium on carbon dioxide pipelines. 

Senator Fine says that Illinois can be a leader for the nation on carbon copy laws.

The law will also hold sequestration site operators at standards above and beyond US EPA requirements.  IEMA, Illinois Fire Service Institute, OSFM, and the Illinois Department of Public Health must create training to prepare enhanced local emergency response plans.  The law requires corporations to monitor sequestration sites for a minimum of 30 years after the last carbon injection. 

Senate Bill 1289 was signed into law Thursday and goes into effect immediately.