Manley Working to Streamline State Government with Financial Reporting Reforms

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, is working to bring greater efficiency and accountability to state government by advancing new legislation through a House committee that will give the state’s financial watchdogs more tools to oversee management of taxpayer dollars. 

“The auditing process, although daunting, is a crucial aspect of ensuring transparency and accountability in government finances. Our goal with this bill is to manage taxpayer dollars efficiently — auditing plays a key role in this by identifying areas where resources can be optimized, waste reduced, and financial mismanagement prevented,” said Manley. “Establishing this unit demonstrates the state’s commitment to accountability and responsible financial stewardship.”

Manley’s House Bill 5513 would create a new unit within the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget, tasked with facilitating comprehensive auditing of state agencies. The new Internal Control Unit will review the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report used by state agencies to oversee and account for their use of taxpayer dollars. The unit will also make recommendations on new reforms and control processes that can improve transparency and accountability.

Manley secured unanimous and bipartisan support for the measure in the House Executive Committee, and it awaits consideration by the full house.

“We have an obligation as lawmakers to ensure that government funds are used effectively to meet the needs of residents in all corners of the state,” said Manley. “This unit will be crucial in maintaining the integrity of financial reporting, safeguarding public funds, and enhancing the overall financial governance of Illinois.”