IL SB0085

Creates the Local Government Inspector General Act to establish an independent entity that receives and investigates allegations of incompetence, neglect of duty, malfeasance, corruption, or official misconduct involving units of local government and their officers, employees, and local officials.

Establishes the Local Government Ethics Commission with 9 commissioners appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent, serving 4-year terms; commissioners must have government experience or be from the general public and cannot be convicted felons, registered lobbyists, or state employees.

Creates the Office of the Local Government Inspector General, appointed by the Governor with Senate consent for 5-year terms; requires a bachelor's degree and 5+ years of cumulative experience in law enforcement, prosecution, senior management, or judicial service.

Grants the Inspector General authority to investigate allegations, request information, issue subpoenas, and file complaints with the Commission through the Attorney General if reasonable cause exists; establishes a one-year statute of limitations for initiating investigations except where fraudulent concealment occurred.

Requires the Commission to hold hearings, issue decisions by preponderance of evidence, and may dismiss complaints, recommend discipline, impose fines, or issue injunctive relief; mandates public release of records within 30 days of final decisions finding violations, with redactions for witness/complainant protection.