On the final day of the spring legislative session in Springfield, the Illinois Senate passed legislation sponsored by State Representative David Reis (R-Ste. Marie) which was drafted as a constituent initiative aimed at helping rural communities seeking wastewater services. HB1914 allows water districts and every non-profit private water company to construct, maintain, alter, and extend their wastewater lines under streets, roadways, highways, and other public grounds.
Non-profit water companies can currently utilize public ground for water supply lines but are not specifically authorized to utilize public land in the same way if the community also wants wastewater services. Many rural communities are in need of wastewater services that meet environmental requirements.
After receiving approval in both the House and Senate, the measure now heads to the Governor’s desk for consideration.
