Moylan Introduces Ethics Reform Bill Prohibiting Local Officials from Lobbying Professionally

DES PLAINES, Ill. – Persisting in his efforts to pass comprehensive ethics reforms, state Rep. Marty Moylan, D-Des Plaines, has introduced another piece of ethics reform legislation aiming to prohibit local elected officials from receiving compensation for any lobbying efforts they may undertake.

“Government officials, no matter if it is in state or local government, simply cannot be allowed to profit from influencing government actions,” Moylan said. “The influence elected officials have over legislation is a public service they provide to benefit the people they represent. We cannot allow elected officials at any level of government in our state to exploit the offices they hold for their personal financial benefit.”

Ethics reform has been a top priority of Moylan’s legislative agenda as he has personally introduced several ethics reforms bills. The Moylan-introduced House Bill 4028 would prohibit any member of a local legislative body from receiving compensation for any efforts aimed toward influencing the passage or denial of legislation before the General Assembly or a local legislative body, other than the compensation that is provided by law for their legislative duties. Nothing prohibits legislators or local officials from voluntarily lobbying, as this bill would prohibit local officials from making a profit specifically as a result of their lobbying activities.

“Unfortunately in Illinois, we have seen government officials abuse the public trust for their own benefit, and sweeping ethical reforms are long overdue,” Moylan said. “We need to close loopholes like this one that would lead to conflicts of interest, abuses of power and corruption. Elected officials on all levels are chosen by Illinoisans to represent their interests, and any actions that would prioritize personal ambition or wealth over the well being of Illinois must be banned without hesitation.”

For questions concerning HB 4028, state issues, other legislation or district matters, please contact Moylan’s full-time constituent office at 847-635-6821 or email StateRepMoylan@gmail.com.