Illinois Senate Bill SB3685

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/24
• Refer: 2/9/24
• Refer: 2/28/24
• Refer: 5/3/24

Caption

EPA-RENEWABLE FUELS PROGRAM

Impact

The program will create the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Fund to support this initiative, with the state committing to transfer $3 million quarterly from the Underground Storage Tank Fund for grants. Eligible expenditures include modifications required for tanks, piping, and dispensers, thereby directly influencing the state's capacity to handle and promote renewable fuel consumption. The cap on funding for any single entity is set at $1 million, ensuring a broad distribution of resources among various applicants.

Summary

SB3685 introduces the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program in the State of Illinois, aiming to enhance the infrastructure necessary for distributing renewable fuels. This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act to outline the formation of the program, which will be administered by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. The program's main function is to provide grants to petroleum marketers and terminal operators to encourage the installation and upgrading of equipment that facilitates the storage and dispensing of newer fuel blends, particularly those exceeding traditional ethanol and biodiesel percentages.

Contention

Despite its intentions, SB3685 may face scrutiny regarding its impact on public bodies, as no funding will be made available to governmental entities. This limitation could raise concerns about equity among various stakeholders in the energy sector. Furthermore, the establishment of the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Task Force—including representatives from both petroleum and agriculture sectors—might lead to debates over how well the interests of diverse groups are represented and whether the task force will effectively achieve program objectives without binding decision-making authority.