Springfield, IL — Today, following months of negotiations and mere hours after the passage of the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act, which accelerates Illinois’ clean energy goals, the Illinois General Assembly passed another major climate action bill – the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act (SB2111). The NITA Act addresses air and climate pollution in Illinois’ transportation sector–which is the state’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions–by reforming and investing $1.5 billion in public transit. In response, IEC Legislative Relations Director Dany Robles released the following statement:
“Today, the Illinois legislature decisively rejected the anti-climate and anti-environmental justice policies touted by the Trump administration. While the federal government repeals climate policies, Illinois is investing $1.5 billion dollars in public transit, which is key to mitigating air and climate pollution. And while the Trump administration rejects DEI initiatives and policies grounded in equity, Illinois is passing policies that prioritize accessibility and economic vitality for all Illinoisans. Thanks to the leadership of the Governor’s Office, State Senator Ram Villivalam, and State Representative Eva-Dina Delgado, among other climate leaders in the General Assembly, Illinoisans will move across the region more safely, reliably, and affordably, and the state will continue to move forward on its climate goals.
“As we’ve said from day one, transit is essential. It is also essential that we expand active modes of transportation and fully electrify our transportation sector in order to ensure all communities across Illinois are afforded reliable, clean, and sustainable transportation options. Investing in public transit is the first step to fully transforming Illinois’ transportation sector, and we look forward to the continued work to keep Illinois moving forward.”
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About IEC: Since 1975, the Illinois Environmental Council has worked to safeguard Illinois—its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends by building power for people and the environment. Representing over 130 environmental organizations in the state, IEC carries out its mission to advance equitable public policies that create healthy environments across Illinois through education, advocacy, and movement building.