Governor J.B. Pritzker signed legislation into law on Thursday that will impose new regulations and scrutiny on carbon dioxide pipeline projects in Illinois. The Safety and Aid for the Environment in Carbon Capture and Sequestration Act includes a two-year moratorium on CO2 pipeline construction, giving time for federal regulations to be updated for improved safety and oversight. This move comes after a CO2 pipeline rupture in Mississippi led to severe health issues and evacuations. Pritzker believes that Illinois can be a national leader in carbon capture technology, contributing to the fight against climate change.
The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition supports the new law, emphasizing the importance of protecting residents and the environment from potential pipeline accidents. However, agricultural groups, such as the Illinois Farm Bureau, are concerned about property owners who may not be adequately compensated for pipelines running under their land. State Senator Sally Turner also raised concerns about eminent domain issues and the risks associated with potential groundwater contamination and leaks.
Despite these concerns, supporters of the new law believe that the regulations will ultimately benefit the state and its residents by ensuring that carbon capture projects do not increase harmful air and climate pollution. By taking a cautious approach and implementing safety measures, Illinois aims to set a positive example for the carbon capture and storage industry.
Source
Photo credit www.advantagenews.com