Yingling Works to Protect the Environment, Pass Clean Energy Legislation

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – As part of his continued commitment to protecting the environment, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, helped pass comprehensive, bipartisan legislation that sets the path for an 100 percent clean energy future in Illinois.                                                

“As we have seen from the record number of devastating hurricanes, wildfires, droughts, floods and other weather-related disasters, climate change is real and must be addressed,” said Yingling. “This legislation places Illinois as a nationwide leader when it comes to transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy. I am proud to be a part of this landmark legislation that makes it clear that we are committed to fighting climate change and protecting our environment for future generations.”

In order to start taking immediate steps to secure a clean energy future for Illinois, Yingling voted in favor of Senate Bill 2408. The bill works to protect the environment by requiring decarbonization over the coming years and laying the groundwork for Illinois to transition to 100 percent green energy. In order to accomplish these goals, the bill creates timelines for the closure of fossil fuel plants and creates a $4,000 rebate for electric car owners, among other provision. The legislation also works to protect consumers from rising electricity rates and strengthens oversight on utility companies to ensure they are not taking advantage of ratepayers.

Since entering the General Assembly, Yingling has been a strong supporter of protecting the environment. During the previous legislative session, he fought to ban the emission of ethylene oxide, a toxic chemical that is linked to increased cancer rates in the communities where it is emitted. Yingling also voted to pass legislation that would prevent coal ash pollution, limit the use of toxic BPA in paper and allow the state to regulate carbon emissions.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that we are doing everything in our power to protect our planet and the future of our children,” said Yingling. “While the passage of this clean energy legislation is a great step in setting our state up for a green future, there is still much more work that needs to be done. I am committed to continuing to support initiatives that will protect our planet for years to come.”