Summary as Introduced
Amends the Illinois Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act. Provides that Local Emergency Planning Committees and the State Emergency Response Commission shall partner with schools and school districts regarding safety threats posed by storage and transport of hazardous substances near schools. Provides requirements for a comprehensive emergency response plan to go into effect. Details duties of the State Emergency Response Commission, working in consultation with Local Emergency Planning Committees and schools, with respect to planning and preparedness. Provides for rulemaking by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security. Directs the Illinois Emergency Response Commission and Local Emergency Response Committees to create a timeline for compliance with the requirements of the amendatory Act not to exceed 2 years. Defines terms.
Staff Analysis
The bill proposes amendments to the Illinois Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act. The bill mandates that Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs) and the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) collaborate with schools and school districts to address safety threats posed by the storage and transportation of hazardous substances near educational institutions.
Key Provisions of SB 71:
• Comprehensive Emergency Response Plans: LEPCs and SERC are required to develop detailed emergency response strategies in consultation with local schools. These plans aim to enhance preparedness for incidents involving hazardous materials in proximity to schools.
• Rulemaking Authority: The bill grants the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Office of Homeland Security the authority to establish rules ensuring effective implementation of the new requirements.
• Implementation Timeline: A compliance timeline, not exceeding two years, is to be established by the Illinois Emergency Response Commission and LEPCs to ensure timely adherence to the bill’s provisions.
Impact on Illinois Counties:
• Enhanced Collaboration: Counties will experience increased coordination between emergency planning entities and educational institutions, fostering a unified approach to hazardous material safety.
• Resource Allocation: Counties would need to allocate additional resources, including financial, to support LEPCs in fulfilling the expanded responsibilities mandated by SB 71.
• Improved Safety Measures: The bill aims to bolster the safety of students and school personnel by proactively addressing potential hazards associated with nearby storage or transportation of dangerous substances.