The Green Clean Schools Act became a law in Illinois law on Aug. 13, making Illinois the second state in the nation, along with New York, to require green cleaning in schools.

The law, which defines green cleaning simply as cleaning to protect health without harming the environment, requires schools to purchase environmentally sensitive cleaning products. It does not require schools to throw away existing supplies, and allows time for schools to order less toxic supplies in the next normal procurement cycle.

The law’s passage represents a victory not only for Illinois children, teachers, school nurses and community leaders, but also for children’s health advocates around the U.S. who are working to make green cleaning the norm in schools.

Since the act’s victory in the Illinois legislature earlier this year, lawmakers in three states have contacted HSC to express interest in putting forth similar legislation. HSC staff are available to offer advice and insight into the legislative process to advocates for green cleaning in schools.

Interested in bringing a Green Clean Schools law to your state? Contact HSC’s Mark Bishop to learn more about making it a reality.