According to recent data, air pollution from older coal-fired power plants is linked to 1,700 premature deaths and 33,000 asthma attacks each year in Illinois, over 6.3 million pounds of toxic chemicals are discharged to Illinois waterways, and over 2,300 chemical incidents occur every year in Illinois. In order to protect public health from pollution and preserve our environment for future generations, Illinois PIRG supports setting modern pollution standards and requiring that those responsible for creating pollution are responsible for cleaning it up. Illinois PIRG supports reducing air pollution by requiring all coal-fired power plants to meet modern pollution standards. Illinois PIRG supports requiring pollution permits which would help fund clean water protection. Illinois PIRG supports reducing mercury exposure from old gas meters by setting high safety standards and strict penalties for violation of those standards for all contractors.
E-mail the governor to protect our public health from mercury exposure .
Encouraging a Fair, Sustainable Economy Missed and delayed repair and installation appointments for telephone and cable, skyrocketing gas prices at the pump last summer and in our homes this winter, invasions of privacy, big banks charging bigger fees, unscrupulous lending practices, defective products, taxpayer money intended for one purpose going to something entirely different, these are just a few of the problems consumers face in today's economy. In order to protect consumers, fair business practices, safe products, and taxpayer accountability measures need to be adopted and enforced. Illinois PIRG supports providing Illinois phone and utility users with the right to obtain refunds for late or inadequate service. Illinois PIRG supports phone carriers using standard verification requirements before service can be changed. Illinois PIRG supports adoption of an arbitration process for individuals with unresolved complaints regarding their utility company.