Rep. John Shimkus (R-Ill.) sent a letter to Illinois Governor Pat Quinn on Monday urging him to sign a new state fracking bill into law.
Shimkus represents a large portion of Southern Illinois. He said his constituents would benefit from any potential fracking boom.
“This legislation will open the door for thousands of jobs and significant economic development in Southern Illinois,” Quinn said. “It could be a shot in the arm for many communities. This is a good bill and it’s the result of a good-faith effort by lawmakers, industry and labor leaders, environmental groups and members of my administration to ensure Illinois’ natural resources are protected.”
The bill recently passed in both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly. Members from both parties voted in favor of the legislation.
Illinois is still recovering from the recent recession and is experiencing high unemployment, tax increases and a pension crisis.
Fitch Ratings downgraded Illinois’ credit rating on Monday.
“Illinois’ unemployment rate is far too high,” Shimkus said. “While this bill is not the end all, it can certainly help in rural areas where every small step is appreciated.”
Shimkus said the bill is supported by the oil and gas industry and has the strictest environmental protection in the nation.