Bill > SB1841

This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act to provide an exception for alleged environmental violations if the person accused has made a reasonable effort to remedy the violation, as determined by the Agency. The bill introduces a new provision that allows the Agency to consider a "reasonable effort" as a potential mitigating factor when addressing violations. Specifically, the bill adds language to the enforcement process that allows for a more flexible approach to addressing environmental violations, giving the Agency discretion to evaluate good-faith remediation attempts. Additionally, the bill includes a temporary provision for violations occurring between January 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024, which requires a review within 30 days of the bill's effective date for violations in municipalities with a population between 900 and 1,100 residents. This change aims to provide a more nuanced and potentially less punitive approach to environmental enforcement, allowing entities an opportunity to correct violations before facing formal legal action. The bill maintains the existing framework of notice, response, and potential compliance agreements, but adds this new layer of flexibility in addressing environmental infractions.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1841&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104