Hundreds rally at State Capitol calling on lawmakers to pass the Power Act

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Hundreds rallied at the Illinois State Capitol Saturday, calling on lawmakers to pass the Power Act before ending the legislative session.

Organizers with the Illinois Environmental Council gathered at the Lincoln Statue in support of new regulations on data centers.

Supports said the legislation would help address concerns about energy use, environmental impacts, and consumer costs as the industry continues to grow across the state.

Majority Leader of the Illinois House of Representatives Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston) said, "The Power Act is the most comprehensive bill in the nation. It's about big tech paying their fair share. It's about local accountability. It's about water transparency, and it's about protecting our communities."

Leaders hope their effort will convince legislators to approve the measure before the end of session Sunday night.