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Bill

SB 2401

WETLANDS PROTECTION ACT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Javier Cervantes and 20 co-sponsors

SB 2401 strengthens Illinois wetland protections through regulatory measures to preserve ecosystems, prevent flooding, and support environmental sustainability statewide.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 2401

Legislative bill overview

SB 2401 is Illinois's Wetlands Protection Act, which establishes or strengthens regulatory protections for wetland ecosystems in the state. The bill has been re-referred to committee assignments as of May 2025, with growing bipartisan support indicated by multiple co-sponsors being added throughout the legislative session.

Why is this important

Wetlands provide critical ecosystem services including flood control, water filtration, wildlife habitat, and carbon sequestration. Protecting them through legislation can prevent environmental degradation, reduce flooding risks to communities, and support long-term environmental sustainability and public health.

Potential points of contention

  • Development restrictions: Property owners and developers may oppose limitations on land use if wetlands are present on their properties, potentially affecting real estate values and development projects
  • Regulatory burden: Businesses and agricultural interests may view permitting requirements or compliance standards as costly and administratively burdensome
  • Definition disputes: Disagreement may exist over what constitutes a "wetland" and which areas qualify for protection, affecting how broadly the law applies

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

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