The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) recently announced that, beginning January 1, 2014, Stage II vapor recovery systems in Illinois are to be decommissioned, with decommissioning to be completed by December 31, 2016.  Since the late 1990's, the U.S. EPA has required vehicle manufacturers to install on-board refueling vapor recovery systems in hopes of phasing out Stage II vapor recovery requirements for UST facilities.  In 2013, the EPA determined that enough motor vehicles have these systems in place that dispenser-based Stage II vapor recovery equipment can begin to be phased out.As a result, the IEPA has removed the Stage II vapor recovery requirements for new gasoline dispensing facilities in the Chicago nonattainment area.  In addition, existing facilities in Illinois must decommission Stage II vapor recovery systems before December 31, 2016.  Prior to decommissioning, the Stage II equipment must remain in operation and be properly maintained.  At least ten days prior to decommissioning, owners/operators must submit a Notice of Intent to Decommission Stage II Vapor Recovery Equipment form to the IEPA.  Thirty days after decommissioning has been completed, owners/operators must submit to the IEPA a Stage II Decommissioning Checklist and the required testing results.If you would like more information, visit www.epa.state.il.us and click the "Stage II Vapor Recovery Decommissioning" link on the right sidebar.  You may also call the IEPA at 217-557-1441.