Illinois House Bill HB2487

Illinois 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/4/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/21/25

Caption

EPA-COAL TAR SEALANT BAN

Impact

By placing this ban, HB2487 aims to mitigate the pollution associated with coal tar sealants and promote safer alternatives. The state will also empower local governments to adopt ordinances to enforce this law, which encourages decentralized environmental governance. This approach seeks to enhance public health by minimizing exposure to toxic substances found in these sealants, improving water quality in urban regions where these products are commonly used.

Summary

House Bill 2487, known as the Coal Tar Sealant Product Ban, aims to amend the Environmental Protection Act in Illinois. The bill prohibits the sale of coal tar sealant products designated for driveways and parking areas starting October 1, 2026, with a further ban on their application beginning October 1, 2027. The legislation is introduced amidst growing concerns regarding the environmental and health impacts of coal tar sealants, which are known to release harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that pose risks to public health and aquatic ecosystems.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes provisions for exemptions, allowing individuals involved in specific research to apply for the use of coal tar sealants on a case-by-case basis. This exemption clause may be a point of contention among environmental advocates who argue that any use of coal tar could be detrimental. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the economic implications for businesses involved in the manufacture and sale of these products, as the transition away from coal tar sealants could impact certain sectors.