Mason-Backed Bill to Study Carbon Capture Technologies Passes Both Chambers

GURNEE, Ill. – A measure supported by state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, to increase research of carbon capture technologies passed out of the legislature last week and now goes to Gov. J.B. Pritzker to be signed into law.

“Scientists and researchers have been hard at work developing new technologies that could revolutionize the way we approach our fight against climate change,” Mason said. “It’s important that we as lawmakers have a thorough understanding of the work they’re doing so we can create policies that are in line with their research and support future use of the technologies they’re creating.”

Mason helped pass House Bill 165, a measure that commissions a comprehensive report from the Prairie State Research Institute about carbon capture technologies. The Prairie State Research Institute is a state-funded research organization that offers scientific knowledge and expertise to state agencies, industries and the public. The report called for in House Bill 165 would include information on the feasibility of implementing carbon capture technologies throughout Illinois, ways to support job growth through the use of carbon capture technologies and the financial impact of using carbon capture technologies long term. The report is scheduled to be submitted to the governor and the General Assembly by the end of 2022.

“Capturing and storing carbon dioxide could prove to be a highly effective method for lowering greenhouse gas emissions on an industrial scale. In some cases, these technologies can be used in a way that gets us to production systems that are carbon neutral or even carbon negative,” Mason said. “If signed into law, this legislation will give us a clearer picture of the current science around carbon capture technologies and allow us to make more informed policy decisions on legislation designed to combat climate change.”