Springfield, IL – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Michael Frerichs (D-Gifford) that gives preference to bidders on state contracts that use biobased products passed unanimously in the Senate today.

House Bill 634 sets that when a contract is put out by the state to be awarded to the lowest bidder, an otherwise qualified bidder who will fulfill the contract through the use of biobased products may be given preference over other bidders unable to do so, if the cost is not more than 5% greater than the cost of products that are not biobased.

"The State of Illinois needs to promote biobased products in fulfilling our State's contractual needs," said Senator Frerichs. "A biobased preference program such as this encourages businesses to utilize the resources of Illinois which can benefit the agricultural community, the economy, and the environment."

Biobased products use plant and other natural materials as their main ingredients. They are made from renewable resources and generally do not contain synthetics, toxins or other environmentally damaging substances.

This program will not apply to contracts for construction projects awarded by the Capital Development Board or the Department of Transportation.

House Bill 634 will move to the Governor's desk to be signed into law.