SPRINGFIELD – Under a new law led by State Senator Rachel Ventura, a new grant program for local governments to help mitigate the impact of climate change and tackle growing emission rates from automobiles and trucks will be created.

“Every level of government needs to address the climate crisis and do their part to help our planet. The cost for an abundance of trees and native grasses can add up quickly, but this program will allow local governments that may not normally be able to afford these projects to take advantage of funding to do so,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By creating this opportunity and encouraging local governments to plant native trees and grasses, which are proven to help mitigate climate change through carbon capture, we can aid the process of healing our planet for future generations significantly.”

Scientific research underscores the efficacy of native grasses and trees in carbon capture. In response to these pressing needs, this law establishes a grant program tailored for local governments.

The Healthy Forests, Wetlands, and Prairies Act would require the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to establish a grant program for local governments to restore degraded forests and prairies, encourage planting trees and grasses along roadways to help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and address flooding and prevent snow and dirt drifts.

Under the grant program, local governments are be able to use the funds toward local projects restoring or expanding forests, wetlands, prairies, or other natural landscapes demonstrated to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Further, they can use the money for education and marketing regarding local projects or steps community members may take to promote the growth of native vegetation that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

"Encouraging our local governments to play an active role in mitigating climate change is essential right now," said State Representative Hoan Huynh (D-Chicago). "It will take all of us to beat climate change, and establishing the Forests, Wetlands, and Prairies Grant Program will allow us to better protect our environment. I look forward to working with all of my colleagues to continue to confront this challenge."

Ventura encourages all local government to apply and consider lining their roadways with trees and native grasses where applicable.

Senate Bill 2781 was signed into law Friday and is effective immediately.