IL HB0887

Establishes a voluntary public campaign financing system for Illinois Supreme Court and Appellate Court judge candidates, administered by the State Board of Elections, effective for elections beginning in 2008.

Creates the Illinois Public Campaign Financing Fund funded by individual income tax checkoffs (minimum $3), attorney contributions (up to $50 annually), and voluntary donations from corporations, unions, and professional associations.

Requires participating candidates to obtain qualifying contributions from at least 175 registered voters totaling 20-60% of the office's annual compensation, with strict limits on total contributions ($1,000 per donor, $2,000 from family members) and spending during the qualifying period.

Distributes funds to certified candidates in contested general elections: 125% of annual appellate court judge compensation and 175% of annual supreme court judge compensation; provides "rescue funds" when opponents exceed spending thresholds.

Imposes civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation or triple the financial transaction amount involved, and Class 2 misdemeanor penalties for contribution limit violations.