Illinois to ban fluorescent lighting in 2026

(WTVO) — Soon Illinoisans will no longer be able to buy fluorescent light as a result of the Clean Lighting Act .

The main goal of the act is to stop pollution that comes from fluorescent lights. Fluorescent lighting is known to be incorrectly disposed of which leads to mercury and other toxins being released into the air.

The act changes the wording of the Illinois Environmental Protection Act. The law will take partial effect in 2026 by banning screw-based or bayonet-based compact fluorescent lamps from being produced or sold.

By 2027, the law will take full effect and will also ban pin-base compact fluorescent lights and fluorescent tubes.

The main exceptions to the law are for using fluorescent lighting in medical uses, academic research and headlights on vehicles manufactured before 2020.

lawmakers who pushed for a ban said 3 in 4 fluorescent bulbs are disposed of incorrectly, resulting in broken glass and the release of toxins into the air. Opponents said the law will cost businesses in the long run.

Illinois is the 10th state to ban fluorescent lighting.

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