Scherer Encourages Residents to Share their Ideas on Cutting Wasteful Government Spending

DECATUR, Ill. – State Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, is highlighting a little-known opportunity for taxpayers to contribute suggestions of cost-saving measures within state government through the State Government Suggestion Award Board.

“The hardworking families that I represent have to keep tabs on their finances, and create budgets for their households so that they do not spend more money than they have coming in.  I think that our state should be held to the same standard,” said Scherer.  “Something has to be done to address the poor fiscal state that Illinois is in, so every avenue to save the state money should be fully explored.”

The State Government Suggestion Award Board allows Illinois residents to submit ideas to help eliminate wasteful spending in state government.  Following review, individuals whose suggestions resulted in actual money saved would be awarded between $50 and $5,000 dollars, depending on the amount saved by the state.  Suggestions must be original and cannot require a change in the state or federal constitution.  According to the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, since 1993, the state has realized a savings of over $500,000 through ideas submitted.

“I encourage folks to share their ideas on how to cut burdensome red tape or eliminate unnecessary government procedures to save the state money,” continued Scherer.  “I will continue to do my part in restoring Illinois’ fiscal health, by standing up and supporting a truly balanced budget.”

To submit your cost-saving idea, visit https://www.illinois.gov/gov/SGSAB/Pages/default.aspx or call Scherer’s constituent service office at 217-877-9636.