Illinois Legislative Ethics Commission debates law changes

The Illinois Legislative Ethics Commission (LEC) is preparing to discuss potential changes to state ethics laws. While the commission may meet soon to consider recommendations during the upcoming veto session, LEC Chair Rep. Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) has expressed opposition to taking action before the new General Assembly is sworn in this January.

Keicher argued that making changes during a veto or lame-duck session without full vetting by new members could be a mistake. He noted that the current General Assembly, where recent issues originated, should not be responsible for setting rules for future members.

Proposed recommendations are expected to focus on process-based suggestions to reform the legislative inspector general’s investigatory procedures. The previous inspector general faced criticism for alleged insensitivity toward sexual harassment victims, intimidating witnesses, and revealing confidential information. Keicher emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear separation between the duties assigned to the LEC by the General Assembly and the commission's role in defining ethical standards.