Kane County Reporter

Illinois Rep. Dan Ugaste is among a growing number of state lawmakers calling for ethics reforms, sharing a post on his Facebook page on May 11 that current ethical statutes aren't enough to keep corruption in check.

"While some politicians argue the laws currently on the books are enough to protect Illinois from corrupt politicians, it is obvious to just about everyone else, they are not," Ugaste (R-65) wrote in the post.

According to a recent post by the Caucus Blog, 10 sitting or former state officials have been charged with public corruption-related activities, including longtime Speaker of the House Michael Madigan who is awaiting trial on charges of racketeering, bribery, fraud and extortion. In light of such cases, reforms such as tougher penalties for those who violate the public trust and banning members from being able to lobby while still in office have been sought by lawmakers including Ugaste.

"Illinois has the distinction of being one of the most corrupt states in the nation. We need to take bold steps to change that moniker," the Caucus Blog stated. "First, those who breach the public trust need to pay dearly with the harshest of penalties. Second, members of the General Assembly should be banned from lobbying while they are in office. Third, the state should create a strong independent watchdog with subpoena powers to aid in their investigation. Finally, lawmakers should be prohibited from using campaign funds to pay legal fees."

The Caucus Blog argued that Democrats have been slow to embrace the idea of ethical change, prompting representatives like Ugaste to argue for ethics reform. 

"We must replace Illinois’ culture of corruption with a different standard. We need to cultivate a new culture where elected leaders are strongly committed to ethics, honesty and adherence to the law," the post stated.