The legislation requires that all truck-attracting facilities continuously monitor emissions, particularly focusing on diesel particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. Facilities are obliged to install at least four continuous emissions monitors strategically placed around their perimeters. This continuous monitoring could lead to improved local air quality and public health standards by providing consistent data on emissions generated by heavy-duty trucks, which are significant contributors to pollution across many regions.
Summary
SB2385, introduced by Senator Javier L. Cervantes, proposes amendments to the Environmental Protection Act of Illinois, specifically aimed at enhancing air quality monitoring at truck-attracting facilities. The bill mandates the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to utilize specified federal resources and community data to effectively determine the positioning of air monitoring devices within one year of the bill's enactment. This inclusion of satellite and community data is aimed at enhancing the accuracy and relevance of the monitoring process, ensuring that environmental oversights at these facilities are properly addressed.
Contention
The bill also allows local authorities the option to use mobile air monitoring within their operational fleet, thereby enhancing their capacity to conduct real-time assessments of emissions. Additionally, the EPA is charged with the responsibility of conducting annual truck counts on local roads to gauge traffic volumes at commercial freight facilities. Opponents of expanded monitoring protocols may raise concerns about the increased regulatory burden on businesses involved in freight transportation, and potential compliance costs. However, proponents argue that the long-term benefits of improved air quality and reduced health-related expenses justify these measures.