Signing bill first step to end pay-to-play

The League of Women Voters of Illinois fully supports House Bill 824. This bill prohibits campaign contributions from business entities with aggregate state contracts or pending state bids of more than $50,000 to be made to political committees to promote the candidacy of office holders in the executive branch of Illinois government. Signing this bill into law will demonstrate the governor's commitment to eliminating the pay-to-play perception of Illinois government.

This bill is scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2009. Although press reports have indicated that the governor feels HB824 does not go far enough, it is certainly a major step in the right direction to cure some of the campaign finance problems that exist in the state. The governor's positive action on this bill would be very meaningful.

While we strongly believe that additional changes are needed in the state's campaign finance laws, the League of Women Voters believe that HB824 is an excellent first effort. Illinois citizens deserve fair and honest government. Although no legislation can guarantee this, enactment of HB824 can help restore public confidence in the integrity of state government.

Janet Poyner

President

Elgin Area League of Women Voters