Carbon capture reform bill in Illinois could protect property owners

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — In 2024, carbon sequestration was legalized in Illinois with multiple concerns raised by farmers and GOP members. On Wednesday, state Democrats passed a plan in hopes to quell some of those concerns.

The proposal would give compensation to land owners if their property has been disturbed by the construction of a carbon capture pipe. Property owners could receive compensation if their crops, trees, fences, shrubs, livestock or other objects were damaged during construction.

"This bill further clarifies just compensation for land owners and gives further protection for surface owners in case their land is hurt or destroyed n the process of laying down a pipeline," state Sen Laura Fine (D-Glenview) said on the Senate floor.

When called for a vote, the plan passed unanimously out of the Illinois Senate. The legislation will now head to the House floor for further debate.