IL HB4644

Allows public utilities to apply for expedited review of certificates for new high voltage electric service lines not exceeding 5 miles in length and not advancing contiguously to projects filed in 2012.

Requires applicants to submit detailed engineering data, project descriptions, location maps, and identify a primary right-of-way plus alternate routes; applicants must pay a $100,000 application fee.

Mandates utilities hold minimum 3 pre-filing public meetings in each affected county with newspaper notice published weekly for 3 consecutive weeks, and establish a dedicated project website.

Commission must issue a decision within 150 days of filing, extendable by 75 additional days upon finding good cause before day 30.

Prohibits transmission line construction within 1.5 miles of 30 specified areas including residential zones, schools, parks, wetlands, airports, and archaeological sites; utilities must pay $20,000 per mile construction fee to affected counties.