IL SB0050

Amends the Public Utilities Act definition of "public utility" to exclude commercial natural gas cooperatives from regulatory oversight.

Allows commercial natural gas cooperatives to qualify for Illinois Commerce Commission recognition if properties receiving service have no public utility-owned natural gas pipeline, comprise 500-2,500 acres (non-contiguous territory permitted), and are used exclusively for non-residential purposes.

Expands existing natural gas cooperative exemptions to include both residential and commercial enterprises, while maintaining state guarantee of legally binding contracts for residential natural gas cooperatives (capped at $1,000,000 total liability, maximum 3 consecutive years per cooperative).

Effective date: July 1, 2021.