Didech Seeks to Eliminate Golden Parachutes for Lawmakers, Advocates for Stronger Accountability

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Working to help restore public faith in state government, state Rep. Daniel Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, is backing legislation to eliminate a golden parachute that allows lawmakers to collect an entire month’s salary when they resign.

“No lawmaker can properly serve the public if they don’t have the trust of the community they serve,” said Didech. “We need to enact policies that help restore the public’s trust and advocate for stronger accountability in state government. This new law would help ensure that no state legislator receives full pay and benefits without putting in the work.”

Didech is sponsoring House Bill 4131, which would require lawmakers to be compensated on a prorated basis only for the days they actually worked if they resign before the end of their term. The same would also apply to lawmakers appointed to complete the term of vacancy. Under current law, even if a lawmaker resigned on the first day of the month, they would be eligible to receive an entire month’s salary.

“Illinoisans deserve government representation that serves them with honesty and integrity,” said Didech. “While there remains work to be done, this measure will serve as a critical first step in cleaning up state government. In order to build a stronger Illinois, we must ensure our community can trust that their elected officials will be held to the highest standard.”