Help protect communities from industrial polluters!

A crucial environmental justice bill is back before the Illinois General Assembly right now. If signed into law, it would reform permitting laws to make the permitting process more transparent and equitable for communities of color and make it more difficult for industrial polluters to operate in the heart of already-overburdened communities.

This bill will begin dismantling the environmentally racist policies that have put the health and wealth of Illinois communities at risk for decades.

Tell your representative to prioritize people over polluters and pass the Environmental Justice Act (HB 2520) today!

Tell your state senator to support the Environmental Justice Act and hold polluters accountable.

Tell your state senator to support the Environmental Justice Act and help reform permitting laws to hold polluting industries accountable.

Photo: K Canales Salas/Calavera Studios

Low-income communities and communities of color have become “sacrifice zones” across the state, experiencing a host of overlapping environmental and industrial stressors that have adverse effects on health and well-being. We can’t continue to consolidate polluting industries in these communities.

This bill will begin dismantling the environmentally racist policies that have put the health of Illinois communities at risk for decades. Tell your senator to prioritize people over polluters and pass the Environmental Justice Act today!

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Your Message

Subject Please pass the Environmental Justice Act

Dear Senator:

Message Body

I'm writing in support of the Environmental Justice Act. This bill will begin dismantling the environmentally racist policies that have put the health of Illinois communities at risk for decades. We can’t continue to consolidate polluting industries in low-income communities and communities of color.

With Illinois’ current siting and permitting laws, it’s frustratingly normal for industry to move and begin operating within walking distance of schools, parks, and residences in already-overburdened communities.

If passed, the bill would reform the current Illinois permitting and zoning laws in order to make the process more transparent, equitable, and inclusive. It would require applicants for large air pollution facilities to hold public hearings in environmental justice communities and conduct a cumulative impact review of air pollution.

I believe that people should have a say in whether or not industrial polluters are able to obtain permits to operate in their communities. As your constituent, I am urging you to support the Environmental Justice Act and stand for a healthier and more equitable Illinois for all communities across the state.

Thank you,

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