Illinois State Senate District 24 issued the following announcement on Jan. 24.
State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) has introduced legislation to lengthen the period before state officials can become lobbyists.
“In light of recent scandals that have shown how blatant corruption can be in Springfield, we need to send a clear message to citizens and lawmakers that there can be no grey area between who is in government and who represents special interests,” Glowiak Hilton said. “This ensures the passage of an entire election cycle before any former lawmaker can begin influencing the process as the agent of a special interest.”
Senate Bill 2463 prohibits a statewide elected official, administrative head or deputy administrative head of a State agency, or a member of the General Assembly from lobbying within two years after termination of service. Currently, 37 states have a “cooling-off” period of at least six months.
“I am optimistic that we can make lasting changes to our state’s political culture, and that needs to start with clear laws and clear boundaries,” Glowiak Hilton said.
The legislation awaits consideration in the Illinois Senate. Lawmakers were scheduled to return to Springfield Jan. 28.
Original source can be found here.
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