Carbon capture and storage has been safely utilized in Illinois for over a decade, and now is the time for lawmakers to put in place the regulatory framework needed to expand this important technology that would create thousands of jobs while also advance the state’s clean energy goals.

As a member of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 137 which employs 900 working men and women in Central Illinois, I’m proud of the work we do every day to keep our communities running. The specially trained men and women of our union install and maintain everything from the HVAC in our homes and businesses to oxygen lines in hospitals, plumbing and sprinkler systems and energy production facilities.

The opportunities presented by carbon capture and storage can’t be ignored. The University of Illinois predicts an expansion of this technology in Illinois could create 14,400 jobs and generate over $3 billion in economic development. These jobs would allow pipefitters and other laborers to support their families and re-energize our local economy.

HB569 and SB3311 would build upon existing federal regulations and allow Illinois to deploy CCS technology more widely, which is needed if Illinois is to meet its green energy goals. Importantly, this proposal features a project labor agreement that sets strong labor standards ensuring workers building our clean energy economy will be paid fair wages, work in safe conditions and have the necessary training.

Advancing CCS legislation in Illinois is a win for economic growth and a win for our environment. On behalf of the hard-working men and women of organized labor, I urge lawmakers to vote “yes” on this proposal to keep our state moving forward.

Aaron Gurnsey, Springfield