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HB 4418

EPA-STORMWATER-PLASTIC PELLET

104th Regular Session Introduced by Carol Ammons and 14 co-sponsors

Illinois bill restricts plastic pellet discharge into stormwater to prevent microplastic pollution of waterways and reduce environmental contamination.

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Bill Summary · HB 4418

Legislative bill overview

HB 4418 addresses the discharge of plastic pellets into stormwater systems in Illinois. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Joyce Mason, was recently introduced and referred to the Rules Committee. Based on its title, it likely establishes regulations or restrictions on how plastic pellets (raw materials used in manufacturing) can enter stormwater infrastructure.

Why is this important

Plastic pellets, also called nurdles, are tiny industrial plastic beads that frequently escape during manufacturing and transportation, contaminating waterways and harming aquatic ecosystems. Illinois has significant stormwater management challenges, and microplastic pollution has become an emerging environmental concern affecting water quality and wildlife. Legislation addressing this source pollution could prevent hundreds of tons of plastic from entering state waterways annually.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs: Manufacturing and logistics companies may face significant expenses to implement containment systems and operational changes to prevent pellet loss
  • Scope and enforcement: Unclear whether the bill applies only to direct discharges or broader stormwater runoff, and how enforcement would be funded and managed
  • Economic impact on industry: Illinois manufacturers and distributors may claim the regulations are overly burdensome compared to less stringent neighboring states, potentially affecting competitiveness

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

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