Illinois Senate Bill SB0134

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/23
• Refer: 1/24/23
• Refer: 1/31/23
• Refer: 3/10/23

Caption

WEATHER MODIFICATION-SEEDING

Impact

The implications of SB0134 are significant for state law as it seeks to regulate environmental practices pertaining to weather alteration. By making weather modification illegal, the bill aims to protect natural weather patterns and prevent the potential ecological and environmental impacts that could arise from artificial intervention. This legislation would effectively eliminate any current projects or future proposals aimed at using technology to influence weather, thus protecting the ecological balance within the state.

Summary

SB0134, known as the Weather Modification Act, was introduced in the Illinois General Assembly by Senator Neil Anderson. The primary focus of this bill is to prohibit any form of weather modification within the state, specifically highlighting the ban on cloud seeding—an artificial method aimed at altering precipitation patterns. The legislation defines cloud seeding as a process intended to change the amount or type of precipitation falling from clouds and is effective immediately upon enactment.

Contention

During discussions regarding the bill, notable points of contention emerged. Proponents argue that prohibiting weather modification is essential for preserving the integrity of natural weather systems and protecting agriculture and local ecosystems from unintended consequences. Conversely, opponents may raise concerns about the potential benefits that regulated weather modification could provide, such as improved agricultural yields during droughts or enhanced water supply management. The debate may reflect broader issues regarding governmental oversight over environmental technologies and the balance between innovation and preservation.