summary
Introduced
01/22/2025
01/22/2025
In Committee
01/22/2025
01/22/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the Counties Code. Provides that, beginning June 1, 2027 and subject to Federal Aviation Administration approval to equip and operate light mitigating technology for at least 30% of the proposed wind towers included within a commercial wind energy facility, a county shall require the facility owner of a commercial wind energy facility constructed beginning in 2019 or later to install light mitigating technology at the commercial wind energy facility. Includes requirements when the light mitigating technology must be installed, and allows a facility owner to seek an extension from these requirements from the county board. Provides that a county board may impose civil penalties on the facility owner of a commercial wind energy facility that failed to comply with the requirements in the amount of $1,000 per day. Provides that the provisions do not apply to test wind towers allowed by a county that are used solely for purposes of research and testing.
AI Summary
This bill amends the Counties Code to require counties to mandate light mitigating technology for commercial wind energy facilities constructed on or after January 1, 2021, beginning June 1, 2027, subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval. The bill defines light mitigating technology as a sensor-based system that detects approaching aircraft and keeps lights off when it is safe to do so, meeting specific FAA advisory circular requirements. Facility owners must apply for FAA approval within 6 months of receiving a determination of no hazard and then install, test, and commence operation of the technology within 24 months of receiving approval, contingent on manufacturer availability. The bill allows facility owners to seek extensions from the county board and permits counties to impose civil penalties of $1,000 per day for non-compliance. Importantly, the requirements do not apply to test wind towers used solely for research and testing purposes. The goal appears to be reducing unnecessary lighting on wind towers while maintaining aviation safety through advanced technological solutions.
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Laura M. Murphy (on 04/11/2025)
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=195&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104 |
| BillText | https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/104/SB/10400SB0195.htm |
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