Unfortunately, they're trying to bring the bill back again for another vote. If you haven't called your State Senator already then now would be a good time.
For a little background, Illinois has a renewable energy standard that requires the state to use an increasing amount of clean energy each year, like wind, solar and geothermal. This bill would add tire burning to the standard, which means the state wouldn't have to produce as much real clean energy. It's designed to help a single facility in Ford Heights (Chicago area) that burns tires for electricity.
The renewable energy standard has been under attack ever since it was created. Last time, the company building the Taylorville coal plant tried to get their project defined as renewable energy under the standard. That attempt was defeated.
Springfield area Senator Larry Bomke voted in favor of the tire burning bill. Maybe he wants Springfield to have its own tire fire just like the Simpsons.
I keep getting facebook requests to become a fan of electing State Senate Democrats. It's very difficult to become a blanket fan of the entire Democratic caucus when they put environmental policy in the hands of lackeys for special interest polluters like Mike Jacobs and James Clayborne. This has been a horrible year for the environment in the Illinois Senate.
On a more positive note, central Illinois band Backyard Tire Fire is getting some national attention. I've seen them in the area a few times and always enjoy their show. Maybe they'll call their Senator and ask him to vote no this time. Here's a video.