A measure that reduces quarrys’ liability to monitor groundwater monitoring rules for construction debris fill operations at unlined quarries has passed the House and now awaits Senate approval, reports West Cook News.
House Bill 2880 would “release from permitting requirements a quarry-waste operator who transfers part of a quarry-disposal site to someone else."
The bill was to be debated on the Senate floor on Friday after passing the House of Representatives on a vote of 110-2. Rep Daniel Beiser (D-Alton), chairman of the House Environment Committee, introduced the bill earlier this session.
The measure is in almost direct opposition to HB3056, which was introduced by Rep Margo McDermed (R-Mokena) and which would reinstate the requirements for quarry operators to monitor groundwater for potential contamination.
Also in McDermed's quarter is Attorney General Lisa Madigan, who is suing in state court over existing regulations that are not being enforced. The lack of oversight is what prompted McDermed to submit her bill.
Sen Michael Hastings (D-Tinley Park) is chief sponsor of HB2880, which amends the state Environmental Protection Act to eventually allow owners of unlined quarries to transfer a portion of their property to another individual and thus be released from the permitting requirements.
McDermed was one of the two members of the House to vote against HB2880. Rep Peter Breen (R-Lombard) was the other. HB3056 has more than 28 cosponsors from both political parties.
