Illinois Legislature Enters Veto Session with Focus on Energy Policy

The Will County Legislative Committee heard that Illinois’ veto session could see action on energy policy, particularly regarding battery storage, as the state considers codifying regulations that might be rolled back under a Trump administration.

“If they fear that the federal government will roll back some energy regulations and they want to see those kept strong in Illinois, that might be something that they try to address,” reported state lobbyist Ann. “Most of the conversation about that so far has been battery storage and incentivizing building and setting up battery storage in Illinois.”

The legislative update also revealed:

• No state legislative seats changed party control in recent elections
• Two House races remain too close to call, within 500 votes each
• Democrats maintain supermajorities in both chambers
• A potential $730 million “fiscal cliff” faces regional transit systems

Committee members expressed concerns about energy reliability and safety, particularly regarding battery storage facilities. “I don’t feel enough conversation has been had to address that even if it happens once…the cost to the county not only in terms of dollars but who knows resources…what the damages could be,” noted one board member.