The Illinois Pollution Control Board (IPCB) is considering a proposal that would ban the sale of most new non-electric vehicles in the state by 2035. Environmental groups are pushing for Illinois to adopt California-style emissions standards, which include phasing out gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles and implementing stricter emissions regulations on heavy-duty trucks.
The proposed mandate has sparked significant opposition from small businesses. Noah Finley, Illinois State Director for the National Federation of Independent Business, stated that 99% of small business members oppose the regulation, fearing severe economic consequences.
“We did a survey of our small business members earlier this year, and 99% of them oppose the adoption of these new mandates. They’re concerned that it could really have a detrimental impact on their small businesses,” Finley told The Center Square.
The proposed regulations would require businesses to invest in more large trucks and additional drivers, exacerbating the ongoing truck driver shortage. Finley warned that these changes would increase transportation costs, ultimately raising prices for consumers.
“Employers are already having a hard time finding these drivers. This is going to drive up the cost of transporting goods, and we’re all going to pay more at our local store,” he explained.
The financial burden of transitioning to electric commercial vehicles is another major concern. A study presented to the IPCB by The Clean Freight Coalition and Roland Berger estimated that reaching 100% electrification for commercial vehicles would require a $620 billion investment in charging infrastructure nationwide. Additionally, utilities would need to spend $370 billion on grid network upgrades. These costs do not include the high price of purchasing new battery-electric trucks.
A report from Ryder System, Inc. submitted as evidence Tuesday estimated that mandated electric vehicle adoption could add between 0.5% and 1% to overall inflation. The report noted that a lack of charging infrastructure, high vehicle costs, and limited availability make the transition to electric commercial vehicles particularly challenging.
Environmental groups, including the Sierra Club Illinois Chapter, the Chicago Environmental Justice Network, and the Environmental Defense Fund, have voiced support for the measure. More than a dozen public comments have been submitted in favor of the proposal.
A similar proposal failed to advance in 2023. However, if approved, the ban could place Illinois at a competitive disadvantage compared to neighboring states. Finley cautioned that many small businesses might relocate to avoid the costly regulations. “Many of our members have indicated they would consider just moving their business across state lines to avoid these mandates,” he said.
The IPCB will continue reviewing evidence and public comments before making a final decision on the proposed regulations.
