HB2768 would restrict counties and municipalities in Illinois from adopting ordinances or regulations that ban natural gas in new construction, or that have the effect of prohibiting natural gas use, unless the restriction is approved by referendum. The bill applies to both counties and municipalities and is framed as an amendment to the Counties Code and the Illinois Municipal Code.
The measure also expressly limits home rule authority, stating that home rule counties and municipalities may not regulate natural gas in a way that conflicts with the new state law. In practical terms, the bill would preempt local governments from implementing gas-ban policies for new buildings unless local voters first approve such a policy at the ballot box.
Impact
HB2768 would add new sections to the Counties Code and Illinois Municipal Code, creating a statewide restriction on local regulation of natural gas in new construction. It would limit the ability of counties and municipalities, including home rule units, to phase out or prohibit gas hookups in new developments unless a referendum authorizes that action. The bill would therefore shift regulatory authority away from local governments and toward a state-level rule preserving natural gas access in new construction.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or formal support/opposition in the available record. Based on the bill text and caption, the measure appears to be a pro-natural-gas, local-preemption bill intended to protect gas use in new construction and require voter approval before any local ban can take effect.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely to be local control versus state preemption. Supporters would likely favor the bill as a safeguard for consumers, builders, and energy choice, while opponents may view it as limiting municipal and county efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, electrify buildings, or adopt climate-focused building policies. The referendum requirement is also a likely flashpoint because it adds a direct-vote hurdle before local governments can restrict natural gas in new construction.
Relating to the authority of a state agency or the state's air quality state implementation plan to impose certain restrictions with respect to a motor vehicle, including a motor vehicle powered by an engine.
Relating to prohibiting governmental discriminatory practices as well as submissions and trainings that could lead to discriminatory treatment of individuals because of personal identity characteristics including an individual's race, color, ethnicity, sex, national origin or religion and the establishment of remedies and penalties for discriminatory treatment.