Springfield, IL – The Illinois Senate approved a bipartisan legislative proposal that will encourage the development of the alternative fuels market by supporting research and increasing Illinois’ investment in renewable fuels, said State Senator Dan Rutherford (R-Pontiac).

Senator Rutherford, co-sponsor of Senate Bill 2236, said he is optimistic that the initiative will lead to further success within Illinois’ ethanol and biodiesel fuel industries.

“In order to achieve growth within any industry it’s essential to set realistic goals and outline rational objectives for expansion,” said Rutherford. “Illinois is already a leading producer of alternative fuels, and this legislation will encourage even more efforts in that direction. Not only is ethanol good for the environment, but as this industry expands it will create well-paying construction and manufacturing jobs throughout Illinois, boost the state’s economy, and eventually reduce our dependence on foreign oil.”

The bill requires that a minimum 10% of all motor fuel used in Illinois be pure ethanol by 2008, and establishes a state goal to expand this number to 15% by 2012. Rutherford said that the standards provide a goal for the state to work towards, but noted that there may be minor adaptations as the bill moves forward through the legislative process.

The legislation also calls for a reduction of the state sales tax on ethanol from its current rate of 80% of the state sales tax, to a rate of 90% of the state sales tax.

Senate Bill 2236 will now proceed to the Illinois House of Representatives for further consideration. If approved, the legislation will head to the Governor for final approval.