California Today

Abandoned oil wells cost Illinois millions

24 May 2026 10:42

A mysterious company abandoned 603 oil wells in Illinois, leaving the state with a massive cleanup bill. - The company used shell corporations to evade oversight.

- The abandoned wells pose environmental risks like groundwater contamination and methane leaks. - Cleanup costs could exceed $100 million.

- State regulators are investigating and seeking federal assistance.

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CarpenterenvironmentpoliticsmoneyNevada CountyWarningMoney