IL HB6896

Cook County Assessor must maintain a public log documenting all ex parte communications involving property tax appeals, including the date, nature, substance, parties involved, and actions requested.

Cook County Board of Review must maintain a public log documenting all ex parte communications in the same manner as the Assessor's office.

Any ex parte communications received by either the Cook County Assessor or Board of Review must be immediately reported to the respective ethics officer, who must add the communication to the appeal or assessment record.

Ex parte communication is defined as written or oral communication during an appeal that imparts material information or makes material arguments about the appeal, but excludes public statements, procedural matters, and statements made by the Assessor or Board members themselves.

The Act takes effect immediately upon becoming law.