SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Senator Mike Simmons will allow the industrial use of municipal wastewater through reclamation of a variety of water sources.

“As we continue to look for ways to curb the effects of industry on our environment, this is one way we can work in tandem with industries to reuse our resources,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “This law continues our commitment to our environment and is one more way we can sustain our natural resources here in Illinois.”

By reclaiming water from a variety of sources, treating it and reusing it, industrial wastewater could be used for power generation or cooling of data centers. Because this water may have limited contact with humans, it tends to be less costly and less energy intensive to treat and reuse, ultimately saving money and resources for communities.

The new law, House Bill 2391, will allow the use of treated municipal wastewater for industrial purposes.

“We are rethinking how we use every drop of water,” said Simmons. “We are protecting Illinois waterways for generations to come by coming up with smart, innovative, and green solutions.”

House Bill 2391 was passed on Friday.

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