SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to address critical water issues across the state and enhance current protections to fulfill existing water needs, State Senator Laura Ellman championed a law to create the State Water Plan Task Force.

“Over time, contaminants in our waterways pose serious health risks to communities and wildlife,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “We need to ensure existing and future water concerns are addressed consequentially without any delays.”

This law requires the State Water Plan Task Force to address water issues and reevaluate environmental needs by assisting state and local authorities in the implementation of recommended plans. Further, it requires the task force to publish a State Water Plan at least once every 10 years and meet once per quarter each calendar year.

Ellman’s law is part of a group of initiatives aimed to enhance water quality in Illinois. The H2024 initiatives create long-term solutions to longstanding environmental issues across the state – from improving drinking water to preserving the biological welfare of people and wildlife from harmful pollutants, and maintaining a clean water supply.

“Regularly updating the state’s water plan will allow us to assess the effectiveness of previous recommendations in alleviating past issues and identify areas for improvement,” said Ellman. “I look forward to seeing the task force collaborate with communities in bringing solutions that meet their unique needs.”

Senate Bill 2743 was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect immediately.