CHICAGO, IL – State Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago, has been appointed chair of the House Energy and Environment Committee for the upcoming General Assembly. Williams has spent much of her legislative career advancing policies aimed at protecting the environment, preserving our natural resources, and keeping our air, water and land clean.
“The new Energy & Environment Committee presents an important opportunity for environmental advocates and energy producers to work together to create policy that will protect our environment while growing our economy,” Williams said. “I look forward to bringing my prior experience as the chair of the Illinois Legislative Green Caucus and the Renewable Energy & Sustainability Committee to this position in an effort to maximize its impact.”
A member of Governor JB Pritzker’s “Powering Illinois’ Future” transition committee, Williams has worked closely with environmental advocates to advance Illinois’ renewable energy portfolio and pass responsible environmental policies across the board. She was a co-sponsor of the groundbreaking Future Energy Jobs Act, which created tens of thousands of new jobs while increasing the use of renewable energy statewide. She also spearheaded efforts to expand the use of electric cars in Illinois.
“Governor Pritzker has made it clear that his administration will make a significant investment in our state’s infrastructure and that the development and utilization of clean energy sources will be a priority.” Williams said. “As the chair of the Energy & Environment Committee, I plan to work closely with the Governor and across the aisle to advance these goals.”
“We must do what we can on the state level to address climate change and fight back against the Trump administration’s dangerous environmental policies. We can create jobs, increase energy efficiency and implement cost-saving sustainability practices – ensuring our communities remain vibrant well into the future.”
Williams represents the 11th District, which includes all or part of several Chicago neighborhoods, including North Center, Lakeview, Roscoe Village, Ravenswood, Ravenswood Manor, Lincoln Park and Lincoln Square.