Inspector General Criticizes Weak Conflict-of-Interest Law

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Byline: Associated Press

SPRINGFIELD The law governing conflicts of interest by Illinois legislators is "a toothless tiger" that needs to be strengthened by allowing investigations, public censure and even fines, the legislatures inspector general said Friday.

Tom Homer said the law urges legislators not to vote on bills that might help them financially but doesnt actually forbid it. And even if it were forbidden, he said, the law doesnt include any enforcement mechanism or penalties.

Homer, himself a former legislator, said he hears allegations of potential conflicts roughly once a month.

"I get complaints that people make in good faith that …