IL SB0700

Requires each public official elected or appointed on or after the effective date to complete an 8-hour continuing education program within 2 years of taking office and every 2 years thereafter, at their own expense.

The continuing education program shall be established by Econ Illinois-Illinois Council on Economic Education and approved by the Illinois Community College Board, focusing on economic theories and the interaction between economic policy and government.

Public officials who hold multiple offices need only complete the 8-hour program once every 2 years.

Defines "public official" as the Governor, members of the General Assembly, and corporate authorities of counties and municipalities.

An ethics commission may levy administrative fines up to $5,000 against public officials who violate the continuing education requirement; officials who fail to timely pay fines and complete the program are barred from being elected or appointed to public office.

Amends the Election Code to require candidates to certify in their statement of candidacy that they are not barred from being elected or appointed under the continuing education provisions.