Prairie State Wire

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has voiced concerns regarding potential changes to natural gas usage in Illinois. Noah Finley, the NFIB Illinois State Director, submitted a letter to the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) as part of its Future of Gas proceedings. These workshops are examining current and future natural gas usage in the state.

According to the ICC's website, these proceedings aim "to explore issues tied to decarbonization of the gas distribution system, including how the gas system may need to adapt." The goal is to develop recommendations for any necessary legislative changes or future actions by the Commission.

The NFIB warns that phasing out or banning natural gas could significantly impact small businesses in Illinois. The organization represents about 10,000 small-business owners across various sectors such as retail, construction, transportation, hospitality, professional services, manufacturing, and agriculture.

Finley's letter highlights that inflation and rising costs are major concerns for small businesses. He states that higher energy prices have already burdened businesses by reducing their ability to grow and innovate. A recent survey found that 98% of NFIB members oppose phasing out or banning natural gas use in Illinois due to its cost-effectiveness for operations.

Concerns were also raised during Phase 2A of the ICC's Future of Gas Workshops about potential increases in end-user costs and taxpayer burdens due to decarbonization policies. Finley argues that small businesses require price stability after years of inflationary pressures. He believes that an artificial timeline for decarbonizing could increase business expenses and divert resources from local communities.

In conclusion, Finley requests that the ICC consider the economic impact on small businesses when making decisions about limiting or banning natural gas use in Illinois.