Avelar Sponsored Legislation Passes House to Protect Groundwater Supply from Contamination

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Understanding the importance of setting the standard for environmentally friendly habits and environmental preservation, state Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, is sponsoring a bill that will increase the testing of incoming debris to clean fill sites in an effort to avoid the contamination of groundwater.

“It is our job as legislators and residents of Illinois, to make sure our groundwater stays safe and clean,” said Avelar. “Our Earth is slowly deteriorating so it is critical that legislators throughout the country find legislation that benefits both the environment and state. I believe House Bill 653 does both of those things.”

Avelar’s legislation, House Bill 653, will increase the state fee for clean construction demolition debris (CCDD) such as concrete, brick, and stone from being disposed of in quarry sites. Under current law, quarries that contain CCDD are not required to be lined or required to have groundwater contamination testing. Under Avelar’s legislation, counties will be allowed to raise their respective fees for CCDD disposal. This extra revenue will allow local municipalities and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to complete more regular inspections of quarry sites to ensure no groundwater contamination is happening. Avelar’s legislation passed the House floor with bipartisan support and is awaiting a vote in the Senate.

“Illinois is truly a beautiful state” said Avelar. “I see bills like this as a win-win situation for everyone. We are contributing to environmentally friendly practices and protecting our natural resources for generations to come. This is only the beginning of what I have planned, but I am glad I can start with such a balanced bill like House Bill 653.”