SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D- Elgin), who has been a fierce advocate for government reform and established a joint commission on ethics in 2019, issued the following statement on the Senate Bill 539, a comprehensive ethics package that is on its way to the governor’s desk:

“It’s no secret that Illinois has needed reform for some time. Addressing the legislator-to-lobbyist pipeline was a top priority, and I believe this legislation will play a big part in closing the loopholes that have allowed elected officials to hold office one day and lobby the next.

“I am also pleased to see the common sense ‘No Exit’ provision included in this package. A legislator should not receive a full month’s salary for just a day or two of work.”

“I vow to continue to work on ethics reform until all members of the General Assembly and political insiders are held to the highest standards.”