An Overview Of TheGreen Governments Illinois

Act

Kate TomfordOffice of Lt. Governor Pat Quinn

Sustainable Government SymposiumDecember 11, 2007

History of the IllinoisGreen Government Coordinating Council

2000 – Gov. Ryan forms the Council by executive order

2005 – Gov. Blagojevich makes the Lt. Governor Council chair by executive order

2007 – Council established by law in the Green Governments Illinois Act

Green Governments Illinois Act(Public Act 95-0657)

Introduced as Senate Bill 46 Sponsored by Senator Susan Garrett Passed Senate 58-0; passed House 115-0 Governor signed amendatory veto Senate and House override Effective date October 10, 2007

Purpose of the Act

“…to demonstrate the State's commitment to reducing negative environmental impacts, reducing greenhouse gases, and preserving resources for current and future generations.”

“…to strengthen the capacity of units of local government and educational institutions to transition to a more environmentally sustainable future.”

Composition of the Council Chair: Lt. Governor Administration: Office of the Lt.

Governor 14 State Agency Members:• Dept. of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

• Environmental Protection Agency• Dept. of Natural Resources• DNR Waste Management & Research Center• Dept. of Central Management Services• Governor's Office of Management & Budget• Department of Human Services

• Dept. of Corrections• Dept. of Agriculture• Dept. of Transportation• Dept. of Public Health• State Board of Education• Board of Higher Education• Capital Development Board

Key Requirements for the Council Convene on a quarterly basis Establish and track long-term sustainability goals Establish and maintain a website devoted to the

Green Governments Illinois program Provide guidance materials, e.g., best practices,

case studies, policy language, model plans, etc. Prepare an online sustainability plan template Review and approve agencies’ sustainability plans;

provide technical assistance Report annually to the Governor and General

Assembly Coordinate an awards programs

Key Requirements for State Agencies;Voluntary for Local Governments and Educational Institutions Form an internal environmental

sustainability committee Develop, submit, and adopt an

environmental sustainability plan Submit an annual progress report Establish an ongoing process to review

and improve upon sustainability efforts

Timeline

Date Entity Requirement

11.1.07

Council Provide a plan template

1.1.08 State Agencies

Form sustainability teams

11.1.07-3.1.08

Council Adopt a plan review process; provide planning assistance

3.1.08 State Agencies

Submit sustainability plans

5.1.08 Council Complete plan reviews;Develop a reporting form

7.1.08 State Agencies

Submit annual reports

9.1.08 Council Submit Council annual report