SPRINGFIELD – In a continued effort to enhance environmental protections for carbon sequestration, State Senator Laura Fine is leading a measure to strengthen pipeline safety and protect pore space owners.

“The following legislation continues work to establish sustainable solutions addressing the needs of our landowners and our environment,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “It is essential that as Illinois continues to lead the nation in the carbon capture and sequestration industry, we have the strongest protections in place.”

Expanding from Senator Fine’s measure last year that set environmental safety requirements at each stage of the carbon capture process, this legislation would enhance protections for property owners. The measure allows for recovery of attorney fees if a sequestration site landowner prevails in a lawsuit for damages to surface property. Additionally, nonconsenting pore space owners will be appropriately compensated.

“Carbon capture and sequestration projects are part of Illinois’s effort in reducing pollution, and it is important to work with environmental advocates, landowners, and lawmakers to secure protections,” said Fine. “We must ensure these projects follow the strongest safeguards we can put in place.”

Senate Bill 1697 passed the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee on Thursday.