June 11, 2003

To the Honorable Members of the

Illinois House of Representatives

93^rd General Assembly

            In signing House Bill 46 today, I continue the State of Illinois’ longstanding commitment to the development and use of ethanol as a viable and necessary alternative to our nation’s reliance upon fossil fuels.  House Bill 46 establishes a grant program essential for stimulation of the agricultural sector of the economy of this State.  In light of pending federal legislation, it is anticipated that national demand for ethanol will grow from 3 billion to 5 billion gallons annually.  The grant program established through this legislation will enable the State to take advantage of this dramatic upsurge in demand by facilitating the construction of additional ethanol plants.  The provision of House Bill 46 providing for the use of project labor agreements will expedite the construction of ethanol plants by encouraging labor peace, thereby ensuring the most efficient use of State funds.     

Sincerely,

ROD R. BLAGOJEVICH

Governor