Reitz-Backed Bill to Promote Good Government Heads to Governor’s Desk

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Legislation backed by state Rep. Nathan Reitz, D-Steeleville, which would prohibit public office holders from hiring themselves into a second position within local government has been sent to the governor to be signed into law.

“We need to put an end to loopholes that let unethical elected officials hire themselves for a second government job, allowing them to cash in on more than one taxpayer-funded paycheck,” said Reitz. “This is commonsense, because elected officials have a duty to local residents to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being spent as wisely and efficiently as possible.”

Local units of government within Illinois have had an issue with municipal clerks and other officials hiring themselves as their own assistants, allowing them to receive two taxpayer-funded paychecks. Reitz sponsored House Bill 3501, which would prohibit this practice, and recently passed out of the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate with unanimous bipartisan support. The measure now heads to the governor’s desk.

“Elected officials are beholden to taxpayers. It is inexcusable for public office holders to have the power to double-dip into taxpayer funds and get paid twice,” continued Reitz. “Instead these dollars should be used to fund our schools, repair our crumbling infrastructure and invest in our local economy. I will continue fighting for smart solutions to protect taxpayers from fiscal irresponsibility.”