This article explains why Illinois still needs tougher ethics laws and standards. In other states, a politician must recuse themselves from voting when a close relative (grandparent, parent, child, grandchild or their spouse, brother and sisters and their inlaws) hold financial interests in companies affected by the legislation proposed.
This article explains:
Medill Watchdog examined statements of economic interests of public officials, lobbying registrations filed with the City of Chicago, Cook County and the state, and records of state bills and local ordinances. The investigation found 14 elected officials from Cook County alone who, while not lobbyists themselves, are related to or in business with lobbyists.
The review found more than a dozen instances in which an official took action that benefited the lobbying client of a family member or business partner.
Reformers say Illinois has a historic tolerance for corruption. “There are people who believe that’s just…
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