Date: April 1st, 2014
Topic: Energy, Natural Resources
Type: Lawsuit v. Other Public Entity
Jurisdiction: Illinois
In 2007, the Illinois AG sued the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) over the issuance of a coal mining and reclamation permit in Fulton County, Illinois. The permit would have given the mining company right to operate within the Illinois River floodplain with possible impact on the surrounding natural areas and on local water supply. The AG complaint alleged that DNR had not followed administrative procedures and given adequate consideration to environmental and social concerns in issuing the permit.
The AG reached a settlement with the DNR in 2014. As part of the settlement, the DNR will institute a series of reforms in its permitting process that will allow for increased public participation and stronger environmental protection.
Key documents:
Note: we were unable to obtain copies of the complaint or settlement for this action. If you have those documents, please submit them to Jessica Wentz, [email protected]