South West Illinois News

Illinois House Republicans and concerned residents are actively opposing a bill that would enforce California's strict emission standards in Illinois. House Bill 1634, introduced by Democrat Edgar Gonzalez, aims to mandate Illinois to adopt California's stringent motor vehicle emission regulations, which would significantly impact the automotive industry in the state.

The proposed legislation would require Illinois to follow California's mandate for zero-emission vehicle sales, escalating to 35 percent by 2026, 68 percent by 2030, and ultimately reaching 100 percent by 2035 for all new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in the state. Additionally, it would mandate the implementation of California's clean trucks program and heavy-duty low NOx omnibus program, aiming for all new light-duty vehicles to be zero-emission by 2035, drayage semi-trucks by 2035, and buses and long-haul semi-trucks by 2045.

The response to the bill has been met with strong opposition, with over 3,700 witness slips filed in opposition compared to 540 in support. Matt Hart, the Executive Director of the Illinois Trucking Association, expressed concerns about the potential impact of the legislation on businesses in Illinois, stating, "It would be a killer for businesses in Illinois." He highlighted the financial burden on small businesses, particularly in the trucking industry, emphasizing that many cannot afford the high cost of electric trucks, which could lead to businesses relocating to neighboring states.

Hart further pointed out that the operational costs of electric trucks are nearly double that of traditional trucks, making it economically unfeasible for many businesses in Illinois. Several prominent groups, including the Illinois Trucking Association, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Manufacturers Association, Illinois Automobile Dealers Association, and Illinois Farm Bureau, have voiced their opposition to the bill.

The bill was set to be discussed during an Energy and Environment Committee meeting on February 20, but due to the overwhelming opposition, the meeting was canceled. The concerns raised by various stakeholders reflect the significant implications the proposed legislation could have on the automotive and transportation sectors in Illinois.

The current Illinois emissions laws, last updated in 2005, require drivers in specific counties to undergo regular emissions testing for vehicles older than four years and built after 1996. Residents in counties like Cook, DuPage, Kane, and others are subject to emissions testing due to air pollution concerns in those areas.

The ongoing debate surrounding the enforcement of California's emission standards in Illinois underscores the complex challenges and economic considerations involved in transitioning towards zero-emission vehicles and the potential ramifications for businesses and residents in the state.