SB 1563

Abstract

Amends the Environmental Protection Act. Requires the Environmental Protection Agency to propose and the Pollution Control Board to adopt rules defining what microplastics are for purposes of regulating their presence in drinking water. Directs the Agency to propose and the Board to adopt rules establishing a standard methodology to be used in the testing of drinking water for microplastics, requirements for testing drinking water for microplastics, and standards for the accreditation by the Agency of qualified laboratories to analyze drinking water for microplastics. Provides that the Agency, if it deems doing so is appropriate, is to consider issuing a notification level to aid consumers in the interpretation of the results of drinking water testing. Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Environmental Protection Act. Provides that on or before July 1, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency shall propose and the Pollution Control Board shall adopt rules defining what microplastics are for purposes of regulating their presence in drinking water. Provides that on or before July 1, 2025, the Agency shall develop and submit a plan to the General Assembly and the Governor that determines a standard methodology to be used in the testing of drinking water for microplastics based on the most up-to-date guidance and information from the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Amends the Environmental Protection Act. Provides that, by March 1, 2024, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency shall make publicly available on its website the following information: (1) a description of microplastics and their effects on aquatic life and human health; (2) any federal and State regulatory actions taken to address microplastics and their effects on aquatic life and human health; (3) contact information for an employee of the Agency who is available to provide information on microplastics if a member of the public has questions or concerns; and (4) additional resources. Provides that by October 1, 2024, the Agency shall submit a report to the General Assembly and the Governor that provides an overview of any Agency actions relating to microplastics, a comparative analysis of actions in other states regarding microplastics in the environment, and information on the latest guidance from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.