So far, three state lawmakers–Sen Sandoval (D), State Rep Arroyo (D) and Sen Tom Cullerton (D)–are caught up in federal investigations at the moment, which stemmed in part from their involvement with lobby groups. A very angry Governor Pritzker is now arguing for a greater spotlight on lobbyist activity:
“We want to make sure that lobbyists are reporting everything we will want to know so that we know how much influence they’re having on legislators, how much money they’re giving, who they’re associated with that’s giving money,” he said.
Illinois already requires lobby groups to report their names, associations, expenses and activities at least twice a month. It does not, however, require disclosure of how much they’re getting paid.
The city of Chicago does require lobbyists to disclose that number, and a published report suggests Illinois could follow that lead.
The governor is pushing for state lawmakers to take up the change during next week’s veto session.
