Illinois passed the Clean Lighting Act (Public Act 103-0799), which phases out fluorescent bulbs due to their mercury content. The act bans screw/bayonet CFLs by January 1, 2026, and all other CFLs/linear fluorescents by January 1, 2027, with exceptions for medical, research, and older vehicle uses. This effort promotes energy-efficient LEDs and reduces mercury pollution from improper disposal.
Key Dates:
- January 1, 2026: Ban on screw-base and bayonet-base Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)
- January 1, 2027: Ban extends to pin-base CFLs and linear fluorescent tubes (like T8s and T12s)
Why the Ban?
- Mercury Content: Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, a toxin that pollutes air, soil, and water when bulbs are broken or landfilled
- Environmental Protection: The law aims to prevent this pollution, as most fluorescent bulbs are currently disposed of improperly
- Energy Efficiency: LEDs are more energy-efficient, last longer, and offer cost savings on utility bills
Exceptions:
- Medical and veterinary uses
- Academic research
- Motor vehicles manufactured before 2020 (for headlights)
What You Can Do:
- Switch to LED lighting now to avoid future unavailability and benefit from energy savings
- Properly dispose of old CFLs and fluorescent bulbs at SWALCO's household chemical waste (HCW) events or retailers like Home Depot, Lowe's, or Batteries Plus, rather than landfills. SWALCO hosts two monthly HCW drop-off events at our Gurnee facility. These events are free for all Illinois residents, and appointments are required. Schedule your appointment today: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/ab9f2c49