Illinois Senate Bill SB3393

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/24
• Refer: 2/8/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Refer: 3/15/24

Caption

EPA-METHANE EMISSIONS

Impact

The implementation of SB3393 could result in a considerable shift in landfill management practices across the state. By formalizing the requirements for reporting and controlling methane emissions, the bill aims to reduce environmental pollution and enhance public health. The stipulated monitoring technologies and operational standards are expected to promote better compliance from landfill owners, ultimately leading to lower emissions. Furthermore, the bill allows the Environmental Protection Agency to adopt further rules for effective implementation, showcasing an intent for adaptive and responsive environmental governance.

Summary

SB3393 proposes significant amendments to the Environmental Protection Act, focusing on the regulation of methane emissions from municipal solid waste landfills. Specifically, it targets landfills with 200,000 or more tons of waste by introducing stringent reporting and monitoring requirements. Owners or operators of these landfills would need to submit annual waste-in-place reports and calculate methane generation rates. If the methane levels reach or exceed 664 metric tons, they would be mandated to install gas collection and control systems to mitigate emissions. This change aims to enhance environmental safety by ensuring that methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is managed effectively at landfills.

Contention

Despite its environmental intentions, there may be points of contention surrounding the bill among stakeholders. Critics, particularly from the waste management sector, could argue that the costs associated with compliance—such as installing gas collection systems and conducting regular monitoring—may disproportionately affect smaller landfill operators. Concerns about the potential financial strain on these operators may lead to calls for revisions to the bill, emphasizing the need for balance between environmental protection and economic viability in waste management. Additionally, detailed regulations regarding methane monitoring may raise questions about operational feasibility and the technical capability of existing landfill infrastructure.