SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Sen. Michael Bond (D-Grayslake) that creates streamlined auditing and accreditation systems for all human services state agencies was signed into law today. Bond has been a leading advocate for improving government efficiency since he took office in 2007.

House Bill 5124 creates a streamlined auditing and accreditation system for all human services state agencies. Agencies included under this legislation are the Department of Human Services, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services. The new system is intended to address potential inefficiencies or redundancies in the oversight of service providers, auditing procedures, licensing and training requirements.

"The goal of this legislation is to improve efficiency in our state agencies and reduce our financial deficit," Bond said. "In order to serve as many people as possible, we need to ensure that there are not duplicate services being provided. The money we save through streamlining our efforts can be used to help more people in need of services."

Under Bond’s legislation, the agencies are required to conduct internal reviews of their daily operations. At the conclusion of the internal reviews, the agencies will work together to write and submit a report to the General Assembly outlining statutory or administrative rule changes to streamline agency efforts. The report is due by January 1, 2011.

"During these tough economic times, everyone is looking to tighten the belt and make sure that funds are being spent efficiently and effectively," Bond said. "This report will help us identify areas where spending can be reduced, freeing up more dollars for additional services."