LaPointe Advances Effort to Restore Vehicle Emission Testing Stations in Chicago

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Chicago drivers should be able to complete their vehicle emission test within city limits says state Rep. Lindsey LaPointe, D-Chicago, who passed a measure Wednesday that directs the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop a plan to replace city-based testing sites that were closed in 2016.

“Chicago drivers shouldn’t have to deal with the hassle of traveling to the suburbs for their vehicle emissions test,” LaPointe said. “This proposal would require the Illinois EPA to craft a thought-out plan to reverse a shortsighted decision that closed all city-based locations.”

LaPointe led passage of Senate Bill 1234 in the House, which requires the Illinois EPA to submit a written plan to the General Assembly by Oct. 1 of this year outlining steps to replace closed inspection stations. The report must also include a timeline of actions, including plans for a request for proposals by Jan. 1, 2023 and how the agency can inform area residents of new locations and hours once in operation.

Emissions tests are required for vehicles registered in Chicagoland and the Metro East area near St. Louis. Currently, there are 16 locations found throughout Chicago’s suburbs, and five in the Metro East. The program aims to reduce air pollution from motor vehicles and improve public health.

The bill was introduced and passed in the Senate by lead sponsors state Sen. Sara Feigenholtz, D-Chicago, and state Sen. Rob Martwick, D-Chicago. With Wednesday’s passage, the measure now goes to the governor for review.

“The current system is unnecessarily forcing residents to go well out of their way,” LaPointe said. “Let’s reverse a wrong decision, and return a necessary service back to our state’s largest population.”