Did you know Illinois politicians proposed a law that would levy a $500.00 fine if you are caught using a Gas Leaf blower in Illinois?

[Q: Should you have to pay $500 fine if caught using a Gas Leaf Blower?]

History: Back in 2020, Illinois Politicians proposed Illinois Senate Bill 3313 [Sponsored by State Sen Laura Fine (D)] that would ban gas powered leaf blowers in Illinois and fine people $500.

Fine argued:

-Gas-powered leaf blowers are detrimental to the health of the citizens of the State of Illinois and the quality of the environment
-Two-stroke and four-stroke engines used in gas-powered leaf blowers emit exceedingly high rates of pollutants, including, but not limited to, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides, and hydrocarbons;
-The chemical pollutants that gas-powered leaf blowers emit can contribute to smog formation and acid rain
-Gas-powered leaf blowers generate noise at a decibel level capable of causing hearing loss in a short amount of time;(5) gas-powered leaf blowers send dust and other small particles into the air for considerable distances,
-Gas-powered leaf blowers send dust and other small particles into the air for considerable distances including, but not limited to, animal feces, trace quantities of heavy metals such as lead, and allergens such as pollen and mold.

…and yes, a $500.00 penalty would apply to those violating the law!

The good news, the law was ‘not’ approved, but…….

Fast forward to 2024, when Democrat Chicago State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D) introduced HB4805 which was intended to create “the Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Ban Act.” The law provides that, on and after January 1, 2025, a person may not operate or sell at retail a gas-powered leaf blower in the State. Provides that a person who violates the Act’s provisions is subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $500.

The good news, again, the bill died, but will that stop Illinois politicians from bring it back again? Probably Not!