SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes was joined by the Clean Energy Choice Coalition and his colleagues for a press conference on a proposal that would make utilities more affordable, accessible and environmentally friendly.

“This is an issue from rural Illinois to Chicago,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “Consumer protection is extremely important for us to get in front of. As the energy sources change, we need to make sure that we protect our consumers statewide.”

Cervantes introduced legislation that would take a step toward that goal, as it would require a review of consumer impacts before enacting large-scale gas transition policies. The measure would also protect customers from unfair cost increases and cost shifting.

“Illinois is in a critical moment for its energy future,” said Lissa Druss, spokesperson for CECC. “Illinois is not prepared to meet its 2035 electrification goals if we are eliminating energy options before they are replaced.”

“This measure puts consumer protections first as Illinois considers major changes in the natural gas system,” Cervantes said. “It does not stop electrification or clean energy innovation, and it does not roll back environmental progress. The bottom line about Senate Bill 3979: it ensures Illinois’ energy transition is affordable, fair, transparent and responsible.”

Senate Bill 3979 waits to be assigned to a Senate committee.