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SB 2981

CLIMATE CHANGE SUPERFUND

104th Regular Session Introduced by Lakesia Collins and 8 co-sponsors

SB 2981 creates a dedicated Illinois Climate Change Superfund to finance environmental remediation and climate resilience by potentially requiring major emitters or corporations to contribute to cleanup and adaptation costs.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 2981

Legislative bill overview

SB 2981 establishes a "Climate Change Superfund" in Illinois, creating a dedicated funding mechanism to address climate-related damages and environmental remediation. The bill would generate revenue through mechanisms targeting major greenhouse gas emitters or corporations responsible for climate impacts, similar to federal Superfund models that hold polluters accountable for cleanup costs.

Why is this important

Illinois faces substantial climate risks including flooding, extreme heat, and infrastructure damage that require significant public investment. By potentially shifting financial responsibility to major emitters rather than taxpayers, the bill could fund climate adaptation, environmental cleanup, and community resilience projects—though funding mechanisms and amounts remain to be determined from the bill text.

Potential points of contention

  • Mechanism uncertainty: The bill's revenue source (tax on emitters, corporate fees, or other methods) isn't specified in available summaries, making it difficult to assess which industries or companies bear costs
  • Economic competitiveness concerns: Illinois businesses worry that climate-focused fees could drive operations to other states or increase consumer costs
  • Implementation complexity: Determining liability, defining "responsible" parties, and administering a superfund-style system requires significant regulatory infrastructure and court clarity
  • Funding adequacy: Without knowing the revenue target, it's unclear whether the fund will meaningfully address Illinois's climate challenges or serve primarily symbolic purposes

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

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