Written by Frerichs Staff Tuesday, 12 April 2011 17:52
"By mandating this 4-day review period, this bill increases transparency in the state’s budget process," explained Senator Frerichs. "Even though we work on the state budget for months, too often, the budget is passed quickly, sometimes in a single day. This bill ensures taxpayers have an opportunity to review the process." A "Sunshine Bill," SB 2232 ensures the public and the media have an opportunity to review appropriation bills online before the General Assembly takes a final vote. "Transparency is an essential part of making our democratic system work," said Sen. Frerichs. "The Taxpayer Transparency Act ensures that all state spending is open to public scrutiny, and that legislators aren’t passing spending bills quickly or in the dead of night." SB 2232 passed the Illinois Senate with a 55-0 vote. It now moves to the Illinois House of Representatives for further consideration.
SPRINGFIELD, IL – Last Friday, the Illinois Senate unanimously passed State Senator Michael Frerichs’ (D – Champaign) Senate Bill 2232, the Taxpayer Transparency Act. The Taxpayer Transparency Act requires all bills making appropriations with taxpayer dollars be conveniently available to the public for at least 4 days on the General Assembly website before final legislative action.
Senator Frerichs Menu
52nd District
Years served: 2007 - Present
Committee assignments: Higher Education (Vice-Chairperson); Agriculture and Conservation (Chairperson); Licensed Activities; Commerce; Education; Committee of the Whole; Subcommittee on Animal Welfare (Sub-Chairperson); Subcommittee on Coal Mining (Sub-Chairperson).
Biography: Full-time legislator; born July 28, 1973, in Gifford; B.A., Yale University; former Champaign County Auditor and Champaign County Board Member; Certified Public Finance Officer; married (wife, Laura), one daughter.