Metro East Sun

On April 1, a bipartisan bill promoting the use of higher blends of biodiesel was put into action in Illinois. State Representative Charlie Meier expressed his optimism about the new law, stating, “This new law will help Illinois soybean farmers continue to be leaders in the biofuel market, creating jobs and revenue for Illinois. Encouraging the use of a higher percentage of biodiesel blends will help reduce emissions up to 74% compared to normal diesel fuel.”

Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Chairman Ron Kindred also lauded the legislation, emphasizing its broad impact, "This is a significant milestone law for Illinois soybean farmers, but it also shows how the whole state can come together around an issue with multiple benefits for all our citizens and the environment." Kindred further detailed the potential outcomes of the bill, stating, “Our estimates indicate this bill creates new demand for an average of 90-100 million gallons of soybean oil or the equivalent of about 65-70 million bushels of soybeans annually once B20 is fully implemented.”

The American Lung Association's Director of Clean Air Initiatives, Bailey Arnold, commended the move towards higher biodiesel blends, noting, “Increasing the biodiesel blend available in Illinois from 11% to 20% over the next few years marks a significant step in the right direction for our state.”

The B20 bill represents a collaborative effort across political lines and various sectors, as Kindred highlighted, “This momentous achievement elevates Illinois to the pinnacle of renewable fuels leadership, and it represents a giant leap toward a more sustainable future that starts on Illinois farms." The bill's primary sponsors, Rep. Eva Dina Delgado and Sen. Patrick Joyce, along with lead Republican sponsor Rep. Charlie Meier were acknowledged for their dedication to the cause.

The legislation sets a new standard for biodiesel use in Illinois, with the minimum blend level eligible for tax exemption increasing gradually. This shift aims to promote cleaner-burning fuel alternatives and reduce carbon emissions, ultimately benefiting the environment and the health of Illinois residents.