Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

Illinois House Bill HB5840

Introduced
5/9/24  

Caption

ETHICS ACT-CONFLICT

Impact

HB5840 is expected to sharpen the ethical framework for legislative action in Illinois. By precisely defining conflict situations, the bill aims to enhance government transparency and accountability, thereby fostering public trust in the legislative process. It mandates that legislators consider the possibility of eliminating conflicts or abstaining from voting when such situations arise, ensuring a structured approach to managing personal interests against public responsibilities.

Summary

House Bill 5840 introduces key amendments to the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act, focusing specifically on the definitions and regulations surrounding conflict situations for legislators. The bill seeks to clarify what constitutes a conflict situation, particularly stating that any situation involving a legislator, their immediate family, or any associated business where there exists a direct or indirect economic interest is deemed a conflict if it relates to legislative actions. This policy aims to solidify ethical guidelines to prevent undue influence or personal gain by legislators in their official duties.

Contention

While the bill has a clear goal of reinforcing ethical practices among legislators, it may lead to debates about the feasibility of complying with such regulations. Critics might argue that the definitions of conflict situations could be interpreted broadly, potentially leading to scenarios where legislators feel compelled to abstain from voting on a variety of matters, which could hinder legislative functionality. Furthermore, the application of the amendment could raise questions about enforcement and the potential consequences for non-compliance amongst legislators.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IL HB2795

ETHICS ACT-CONFLICT SITUATION

IL HB1641

ETHICS-REP CASE AND RECUSAL

IL HB3121

ETHICS-REP CASE AND RECUSAL

IL SB1566

GA CONFLICT OF INTEREST

IL SB2699

GA CONFLICT OF INTEREST

IL SB0033

GA CONFLICT OF INTEREST

IL HB2559

ETHICS-PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

IL HB3577

LOBBYING PROHIBITION

IL SB0095

GOVERNMENTAL ETHICS-LOBBYING

IL SB2685

GOVERNMENTAL ETHICS-LOBBYING

Similar Bills

IL HB2795

ETHICS ACT-CONFLICT SITUATION

MT HB701

Revise legislator ethics laws regarding pecuniary interests

NH HB1368

Relative to recusal by members of the general court for conflicts of interest.

UT SJR009

Joint Rules Resolution - Amendments to Joint Rules

NH HB1388

Relative to ethical standards for members of the general court.

LA SB783

Prohibits any legislator from doing business with the state of Louisiana. (gov sig)

AZ SB1431

Legislators; conflicts of interest; requirements

AZ SB1133

Legislators; conflicts of interest; requirements