New state law governs dry-cleaning chemical

A new Illinois law will toughen safety measures on a chemical used by dry cleaners.

Gov. Pat Quinn signed the measure Friday. It includes improved containment systems, better training and more comprehensive reporting for the use of perchloroethylene.

Quinn said if the chemical isn’t handled properly it can seep into the groundwater and is harmful to the workers who use it. Perc is a known carcinogen.

Under the law, beginning in 2013, all new dry-cleaning machines must have two control systems to reduce the concentration of the chemicals. By 2014, the machines will have to have sealed containment structures to contain leaks or spills.

Interim Illinois EPA Director John Kim said the law will significantly reduce future contamination of wells used for drinking water in Illinois.