Carbondale Reporter

House Republican lawmakers in Illinois have introduced legislative proposals aimed at ethics reform, seeking to address public corruption within the state government. State Representatives Patrick Windhorst, Dave Severin, and David Friess highlighted the history of corruption cases affecting the Illinois General Assembly, including those involving former Speaker Michael Madigan.

State Representative Dave Severin emphasized the need for significant changes to restore public trust. "Rep. Windhorst and I were both here when Mike Madigan was still in control of this place," said Severin. He noted that despite various challenges and political changes, fundamental issues remain unaddressed.

Representative Patrick Windhorst is sponsoring several ethics reform bills, including HB 2413, which aims to prevent legislators from lobbying at local levels. "While Democrat politicians were arrested, indicted, charged, convicted, and incarcerated, we waited for action," stated Windhorst.

David Friess criticized the lack of progress on ethics reform bills in committee discussions. "Today is our final day to pass house bills out of committee…and how many of our ethics reform bills have made it out of committee to even be considered on the House floor? Zero," he said.

In a separate matter related to education policy, House Bill 2827 has sparked controversy among families choosing home or private schooling for their children. The bill mandates annual registration with the Illinois State Board of Education and requires homeschools to submit personal information about administrators and students.

"Illinois should empower parents to place their children in education environments that help them learn and succeed," commented Rep. Amy Elik. She opposed additional mandates on homeschooling families.

The immigration issue also remains contentious as Assistant Republican Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer criticized Illinois' "Sanctuary State" policy under Governor Pritzker's administration. Davidsmeyer is advocating for legislation (HB 1317) to repeal the Illinois TRUST Act.

"The surge of illegal immigrants into Illinois has led to a string of horrific crimes," said Davidsmeyer while highlighting financial strains caused by services provided to migrants.

Budgetary concerns are also prominent as a new report from CGFA forecasts growing deficits over the next three fiscal years unless significant spending restrictions are implemented.