WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 3147

MINE SUBSIDENCE INSURANCE FUND

104th Regular Session Introduced by Christopher Belt

Illinois bill establishes Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund to cover property damage from coal mining-caused ground collapse, shifting financial risk from individual homeowners to pooled insurance mechanism.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 3147

Legislative bill overview

SB 3147 establishes a Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund in Illinois to provide insurance coverage for property damage caused by subsidence from coal mining operations. The bill creates a mechanism to protect homeowners and property owners in mining-affected areas from bearing the full financial burden of structural damage caused by underground mine collapse or settlement.

Why is this important

Coal mining in Illinois has left extensive underground voids that can cause ground subsidence, potentially damaging homes, roads, and infrastructure. Without dedicated insurance coverage, property owners must either absorb catastrophic costs themselves or pursue lengthy litigation against mining companies. This fund addresses a real gap in protection for residents in affected regions, particularly in southern Illinois where historical coal mining is prevalent.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism unclear: The bill's structure doesn't specify how the fund will be financed—whether through premiums, coal industry assessments, state appropriations, or a combination, which affects who ultimately bears the cost
  • Coverage scope and limits: Ambiguity about what types of damage qualify, coverage limits per claim, and whether the fund will be adequately capitalized to handle widespread subsidence events
  • Coal industry accountability: Questions about whether the fund reduces incentives for mining companies to maintain mines properly or remediate subsidence risks, potentially shifting responsibility from operators to insurers/taxpayers

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

Sign in to ask a question.