HB6273 Summary

• Creates the criminal offense of improper use of public funds under the Criminal Code of 1961, applying to anyone who knowingly misappropriates, misuses, or unlawfully withholds public funds made available through gubernatorial or legislative member initiatives.

• Applies criminal liability to state or local government officials and employees who knowingly facilitate, aid, abet, or participate in the misappropriation or misuse of such public funds.

• Establishes tiered felony and misdemeanor penalties based on amount: Class A misdemeanor for amounts under $1,000; Class 3 felony for $1,000-$4,999; Class 2 felony for $5,000-$9,999; and Class 1 felony for $10,000 or more.

• Defines "gubernatorial or legislative member initiative" as state grants to specific local governments, school districts, nonprofits, or entities for infrastructure improvements or operating expenses, excluding statewide programs with generally applicable eligibility standards unless specifically requested by the Governor or General Assembly member.

• Bars anyone convicted of a felony violation from receiving any grants or contracts from the State of Illinois.