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Bill

SR 172

PRESCRIBED BURNING MONTH

104th Regular Session Introduced by Li Arellano and 7 co-sponsors

Illinois designates a month to raise public awareness about prescribed burning as a wildfire prevention and forest management tool.

Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Graciela Guzmán
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Bill Summary · SR 172

Legislative bill overview

SR 172 designates a specific month in Illinois as "Prescribed Burning Month" to raise awareness about controlled burning practices. The resolution was adopted on April 11, 2025, with bipartisan support from multiple state senators. This is a symbolic measure rather than a binding regulatory or budgetary action.

Why is this important

Prescribed burning is a forest management tool that reduces wildfire risk, promotes ecosystem health, and prevents catastrophic uncontrolled fires. Illinois has experienced increased wildfire activity in recent years, making land management practices increasingly relevant to public safety and environmental resilience. Designating an awareness month can educate the public and support policy discussions around controlled burn implementation.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation concerns: Without accompanying legislation or funding, an awareness month alone may not translate to actual prescribed burning programs or address barriers to their use (liability concerns, air quality regulations, landowner education)
  • Air quality trade-offs: Prescribed burns create temporary smoke and air quality impacts that may concern urban residents or those with respiratory conditions, potentially conflicting with clean air goals
  • Liability and insurance issues: Landowners and agencies may hesitate to conduct prescribed burns due to legal and insurance complications, which a symbolic resolution does not resolve

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

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