Bill > HB2533

This bill amends the Public Utilities Act to require a mandatory referendum for water or sewer utilities owned by the state or political subdivisions that are being acquired by a large public utility. Specifically, after a public meeting and notice about the proposed acquisition, the next election will include a ballot measure for all voters in the utility's service area. Voters will be asked whether the large public utility should be allowed to acquire the water or sewer utility, with votes recorded as "yes" or "no". If a majority of voters approve the acquisition, it may proceed. However, if less than a majority vote in favor, the Illinois Commerce Commission will be prohibited from approving the acquisition. A "large public utility" is defined as an investor-owned utility regulated by the Illinois Commerce Commission that provides water or sewer service to more than 15,000 customer connections. The bill aims to give local voters direct input into significant utility ownership changes that could impact their community's water or sewer services, ensuring a democratic process for such acquisitions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2533&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104