Governor Approves Hoffman-Backed Measures to Strengthen State Ethics Laws

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A new legislative package to strengthen state ethics laws to crack down on public corruption and unethical lobbying practices supported by state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

“The simple truth is that many Illinoisans have lost their faith in our state’s leadership with Illinois’ notorious reputation for government corruption,” said Hoffman. “For too long shady lobbying situations have gone unchecked and politicians have had the power to exploit their positions to get rich. I took action because Illinoisans deserve a government they can rely upon to make tough decisions on the issues facing our state.”

Hoffman recently supported a package of legislative proposals to reform state government ethics and lobbying practices. Senate Bill 1639 includes a series of reforms to strengthen state ethics laws including increased transparency of outside income, assets, significant debts, gifts and relationships to lobbyists. This measure will also require lobbyists to disclose each unit of government they are registered to lobby, and all elected or appointed positions they hold.

Hoffman also supported House Joint Resolution 93, which creates the Joint Commission on Ethics and Lobbying Reform, a bipartisan, bicameral task force that will closely examine state ethics and lobbying laws and make concrete recommendations to reform current laws.  Both measures were recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

“With my background as an attorney, I will continue demanding the commonsense reforms that Illinoisans deserve and working to put an end to government corruption,” continued Hoffman. “Building a stronger Illinois includes restoring Illinoisans’ faith in our government and increasing transparency and accountability among elected officials.”

For more information, please call Rep. Hoffman’s constituent service office at 618-416-7407 or email RepJayHoffman@gmail.com.