To ensure participation, we support legislation that would provide every voter with a postage-paid ballot. At the same time, it’s important to preserve and protect in-person polling places.
Analysis
Posted inAnalysis, Perspective, Policy
Dillon: How To Keep An Eye on Government During COVID-19 Emergency
Public bodies throughout Illinois are holding virtual meetings during the statewide stay-at-home order. The Open Meetings Act still protects the right of citizens to observe and participate.
Posted inAnalysis, Perspective, Policy
Dillon and Topic: FOIA Is Essential During COVID-19 Emergency (and Always)
State and local governments have exercised extraordinary authority to deal with the public health crisis. That calls for more transparency, not less.
Posted inAction, Analysis, Policy
Safeguarding Democracy In a Pandemic
The BGA and other policy advocates offer guidelines for Illinois residents and their leaders to promote transparency and accountability in uncertain times.
Posted inAnalysis, Perspective, Policy
Dillon: To Break the Cycle of Ethical Failure, Fix the Legislative Oversight System
In Illinois, the Legislative Inspector General answers to a panel of legislators appointed by other legislators. No wonder this doesn’t work.
Posted inAction, Analysis, Policy
BGA Supports Stronger Legislative Inspector General
The legislative oversight system in Illinois is dysfunctional, BGA Policy Director Marie C. Dillon told a state panel considering ethics reforms. Changes are needed to empower the Legislative Inspector General and to make the process more transparent.
Posted inAction, Analysis, Policy
BGA Calls For Stronger Conflict-of-Interest Laws
Illinois needs better disclosure laws for public officials and explicit, mandatory rules about what lawmakers must do when conflicts arise, BGA Policy Director Marie C. Dillon told a state panel considering ethics reforms.
Posted inAction, Analysis, Policy
Dillon: Ethics Panel Should Focus On Big Picture
BGA Policy Director Marie C. Dillon testified at the second meeting of the Joint Commission on Ethics and Lobbying Reform.
Posted inAnalysis, Policy
Video Gambling in Chicago? Here’s What’s at Stake.
More than 32,000 video gambling terminals generated $478 million in revenue for state and local governments in fiscal year 2019. Chicago has resisted allowing the machines — so far. But the pressure is on.
Posted inAction, Analysis, Policy
BGA Supports Limits on Lobbying by Government Officials
The measure was sponsored by Ald. Michele Smith, chair of the Committee on Ethics and Government Oversight, and Ald. Matt O’Shea, 19th.