On Sept. 13, Senate lawmakers returned to Springfield to vote on a controversial energy package that includes the largest utility rate increase in Illinois history and a concerning eminent domain provision.
Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) issued the following statement after the passage of Senate Bill 2408:
“This legislation sets a terrible precedent by allowing a private company to take someone’s land under the guise of eminent domain.
“Eminent domain has always been used by the government for the sole purpose of providing property for public use. Under this legislation, we have given the greenlight to take private land from citizens to allow a private company to make money.
“The rights and property of our landowners should be protected. Yet, today we have pushed through a proposal that sends a clear message. When a profit is on the line, those rights don’t matter. It’s a direct assault on the people of this state.”
“And the attacks don’t end there. This legislation is the highest energy increase in Illinois history, adding to the burdens placed on small businesses and citizens who are already struggling. I would not support a proposal that places profits and bailouts above the wellbeing and future of Illinoisans.”
Senate Bill 2408 passed out of the Senate by a vote of 37 to 17.