Marion…. A bipartisan bill sponsored by State Representative David Severin (R-Benton), was signed into law by the Governor on Friday. Senate Bill 730/P.A. 100-0220 extends the Petroleum Education and Marketing Act (PEMA) another 10 years to January 1, 2028. The Illinois Petroleum Resources Board (IPRB), which works under the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, will continue to oversee the act.
Representative Severin says that the PEMA is still primarily meant to promote the oil and gas industry. The act will also expand the purpose of the board to include oilfield environmental remediation and restoration activities.
“The PEMA is intended to be mainly educational, by working with teachers to educate students and the general public about the importance of the oil and gas industry in Illinois.” Rep. Severin said, “Under the renewed act, the board will also be able support efforts to clean up and/or restore tank battery sites that are environmentally friendly.”
The bill received support from the Illinois Oil and Gas Association and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources alike. It will go into effect immediately.
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