SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Adriane Johnson passed a measure to require regular monitoring of water quality from nearshores, harbors and public water supply intakes in Lake Michigan.

“Lake Michigan is the largest public drinking water supply in the state, serving nearly 6.6 million people, in addition to being Illinois’ largest recreational resource,” said Johnson (D - Buffalo Grove). “The protection of water resources is essential for sustaining public health, quality of life and economic prosperity.”

Senate Bill 3716 would update an existing provision to ensure that the IEPA is regularly monitoring water quality from nearshores, harbors and public water supply intakes in Lake Michigan. The measure would also require the IEPA to provide an executive summary every two years on conditions of the water quality in Lake Michigan to the governor and General Assembly. This update further aligns Illinois with the federal Clean Water Act. 

“This measure gives us the ability to fully maintain our long-standing policy to restore, protect and enhance the environment,” said Johnson. “In protecting our environment, we safeguard the quality of life for future generations.”

Senate Bill 3716 is a part of a package initiative, H2024, aimed to enhance water quality. To learn more about these other measures, click here.

Senate Bill 3716 passed the Senate Friday and heads to the House for further consideration.