Illinois governor signs bill implementing two-year pause on CO2 pipeline construction
(UI) — Governor JB Pritzker has signed SB1289, the SAFE CCS Act, into law, introducing stringent safety and environmental standards for carbon capture and sequestration projects in Illinois. A central feature of this landmark legislation is a two-year moratorium on new CO2 pipeline construction, which may be adjusted if federal safety regulations are finalized sooner.
The SAFE CCS Act requires new carbon sequestration facilities to obtain state permits, adhere to rigorous monitoring, and maintain financial assurances. This move positions Illinois as a national leader in setting high standards for carbon capture technology, Gov. Pritzker said.
The law is expected to attract up to $9 billion in investment and create approximately 3,700 jobs, largely within the union sector, driven by federal tax incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act. It mandates that CO2 projects achieve net reductions in greenhouse gases and undergo comprehensive assessments by the Illinois Commerce Commission.
Governor Pritzker highlighted the dual benefits of the bill: advancing climate protection while stimulating economic growth. "Every reduction in planetary warming represents potential savings and lives saved," he said.
The SAFE CCS Act also includes provisions for extensive monitoring of water, air, and soil to prevent leaks and mandates high safety standards for any new pipelines. Additionally, it supports training for first responders in pipeline emergencies.
This legislation reflects the broader efforts of the Biden-Harris administration to expand carbon capture infrastructure, with strong support from state lawmakers and environmental advocates. The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition praised the new law for its robust safeguards against risks associated with carbon capture and sequestration projects.
Overall, the act aims to balance environmental protection with job creation and economic development, establishing Illinois as a leader in clean energy policy.
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