Statement from the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition on Energy Bill Development

SPRINGFIELD — Today, Illinois took another step toward an equitable clean energy future for all with the introduction of SB1751, House Amendment 1 which will take action on climate, protect communities from pollution, and launch a generation of new, good-paying jobs that lift up those who need it most.

In response, the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC) released the following statement:

“The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition strongly supports SB1751, House Amendment 1. This language — which mirrors energy legislation passed by the Illinois Senate (SB18) on September 1 and includes an important new element — is the reasonable path forward to a true climate and equitable jobs bill.

“In addition to a specific timeline for the closure of coal plants, this bill as amended also includes interim carbon pollution reductions for the Prairie State coal plant and CWLP’s Dallman coal plant in Springfield. These critical reductions are in line with climate science and will protect the public health of Illinoisans during the decades it will take to decarbonize. It is our understanding that this is the bill Governor Pritzker will sign.

“We are proud to advocate alongside the Governor and legislative Green Caucus in support of this legislation that meaningfully addresses our climate crisis, takes bold action on creating equitable jobs across the state particularly in Black and Brown communities, and enacts tough utility accountability measures.

“An urgent and nation-leading opportunity is within our reach. We encourage lawmakers to take this comprehensive climate and equitable jobs bill across the finish line next week.”

 

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