Carbondale Reporter

State Sen. Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) argues the new clean energy bill Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed into law sends the wrong message to residents.

“This legislation sets a terrible precedent by allowing a private company to take someone’s land under the guise of eminent domain,” Bryant posted on Facebook. “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 green-light to take private land from citizens to allow a private company to make money."

Bryant is among other Republican lawmakers warning voters about a measure Pritzker has hailed as being “transformative.”

“Call your senator and tell them to reject Pritzker’s job-killing and rate-raising Illinois Green New Deal,” added Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Louisville), who is seeking the Republican nomination to oppose Pritzker in 2022 on a platform of changing the way Springfield does business.

“This irresponsible and activist-driven legislation allows for eminent domain and will have Illinois importing energy and exporting jobs while working families pay the price,” he said.

The legislation seeks to shift state energy policy toward renewable energy sources and away from a reliance on fossil fuels. The bill also calls for the closure of the downstate Prairie State Coal plant, while pumping nearly $700 million in subsidies to Exelon over the next five years to keep three nuclear plants running.

“The rights and property of our landowners should be protected,” Bryant added. “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.”

Bryant warns the abuse doesn’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,” she said. “I would not support a proposal that places profits and bailouts above the wellbeing and future of Illinoisans.”