Illinois Senate Bill SB1839

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/9/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Report Pass: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/31/23

Caption

AUDIT EXPENSE FUND

Impact

The enactment of SB1839 is anticipated to strengthen the fiscal framework surrounding state audits. By establishing clearer procedures for the transfer of moneys into the Audit Expense Fund, the bill aims to streamline the operations of the State Auditor General’s Office. An assured flow of funds would contribute to the efficiency of audits and ensure that state agencies are subject to timely and thorough reviews. This could potentially enhance public trust in government operations by ensuring that audits are conducted without financial constraint, thus improving overall financial governance in Illinois.

Summary

Senate Bill 1839, introduced by Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr., aims to amend the State Finance Act by modifying the provisions concerning the Audit Expense Fund. Specifically, the bill proposes mechanisms for the transfer of funds from various specified funds into the Audit Expense Fund, which is utilized to pay for audits, studies, and investigations as mandated by the Illinois State Auditing Act. The legislation is presented as a means of ensuring that sufficient revenue is available to cover the costs incurred in auditing state funds, thereby enhancing accountability and transparency in state financial management.

Contention

While SB1839 is aimed at bolstering financial oversight, it may prompt discussions regarding the prioritization of funds within the state budget. Opponents may raise concerns about the allocation of resources and whether certain funds should be redirected to support audits over other pressing needs. Moreover, the centralization of financial operations presented by the bill could raise questions among legislators about local versus state financial autonomy and the implications of increased state oversight over various funds. Deeper scrutiny of fund transfers and their purposes may also lead to debates about the efficacy of state auditing practices.