I have introduced the Illinois Public Corruption Transparency Act to create a no-hiding, no-spin public corruption registry that exposes finalized corruption cases involving Illinois government insiders.
For too long, corrupt politicians in Illinois have been able to hide behind a system that protects insiders and keeps taxpayers in the dark. Illinois has become synonymous with public corruption, and the people deserve a clear record of who betrayed the public trust.
My legislation, Senate Bill 3840, would end the culture of secrecy and protection enabled by one-party Democratic control in Springfield and give taxpayers a clear, searchable record of misconduct, including cases involving Democrats such as Michael Madigan, Rod Blagojevich, and Martin Sandoval.
This registry would make sure corruption cannot be buried or forgotten. When public officials abuse their power, the public deserves permanent transparency. Illinois taxpayers should never have to wonder who was convicted of betraying them.
While serving in the House of Representatives, I helped push for the creation of the committee to investigate former House Speaker Michael Madigan. At a time when many in Springfield were reluctant to confront corruption at the highest levels of state government, I supported efforts to bring greater scrutiny and accountability to the office of the powerful longtime speaker.
That experience only reinforced my belief that Illinois needs stronger transparency and accountability. The Illinois Public Corruption Transparency Act is about making sure corruption is exposed and that the public has a permanent record of those who abused their positions of power.
Senate Bill 3840 is currently in the Assignments Committee.
