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HB 2416

Allowing increased civil administrative penalties to be promulgated by legislative rules of by the Department of Environmental Protection

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Evan Hansen

HB 2416 empowers Illinois' Department of Environmental Protection to impose higher penalties for environmental violations, promoting compliance and protecting public health.

To House Judiciary
#environment #legislature--rulemaking
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Bill Summary · HB 2416

Summary of HB 2416

Bill Number: HB 2416
Title: Allowing increased civil administrative penalties to be promulgated by legislative rules of the Department of Environmental Protection
Status: To House Judiciary
Introduced: January 31, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Environment, Legislature—Rule Making

Purpose and Intent

HB 2416 aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing environmental protections in Illinois by allowing the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to establish increased civil administrative penalties through legislative rules. This bill seeks to strengthen enforcement mechanisms for environmental violations, thereby promoting compliance and protecting public health and the environment.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Penalties: The bill authorizes the DEP to promulgate rules that would enable the imposition of higher civil administrative penalties for violations of environmental regulations.
  • Rule-Making Authority: The DEP will have the discretion to determine the specific penalties based on the severity and nature of the violations, allowing for a more tailored and effective enforcement approach.
  • Compliance Incentives: By increasing penalties, the bill aims to deter non-compliance and encourage entities to adhere to environmental regulations.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Businesses and Industries: Companies operating in sectors regulated by environmental laws may face higher penalties for violations, incentivizing better compliance practices.
  • Environmental Organizations: Advocacy groups may support the bill as it aligns with efforts to enhance environmental protections and accountability.
  • Public Health and Communities: The general public may benefit from improved environmental standards and reduced pollution, leading to better health outcomes.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • January 31, 2025: Bill filed by Rep. Patrick Windhorst.
    • February 4, 2025: First reading and referred to the Rules Committee.
    • February 10, 2025: Co-sponsor added (Rep. Tony M. McCombie).
    • February 17, 2025: The bill was filed for introduction and subsequently referred to the House Judiciary Committee.

Conclusion

HB 2416 represents a significant step towards enhancing environmental enforcement in Illinois by granting the DEP the authority to impose increased civil administrative penalties. This legislative measure is designed to promote compliance with environmental regulations, ultimately benefiting public health and the environment. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its implications for businesses and communities across the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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