Quincy Reporter

The Office of the Executive Inspector General has uncovered more instances of fraudulent conduct and the misuse of state resources within state agencies, according to a scathing report for Fiscal Year 2023. The report revealed that there were 3,078 complaints filed, leading to 450 investigations being opened by the office. State Senator Jil Tracy expressed her concern over the report, stating that it is indicative of the ongoing issues within the Pritzker Administration. Tracy pointed out that this report follows several audits that highlighted problems within agencies under the Governor's control.

Among the specific reports of wrongdoing detailed in the report were a case of a human services caseworker using an incarcerated individual's Link Card for 13 months, instances of sexual misconduct within the Department of Corrections, falsification of education on employment applications, improper hiring of family members, and engaging in political activities while on state time. The report emphasized the range of misconduct, including fraudulent conduct, unprofessional conduct, mismanagement, improper reporting, conflicts of interest, and distributing confidential information.

In response to the controversial green energy law that stripped property owners of their rights, lawmakers have passed new legislation to restore protections for farmers and landowners. Senate Bill 1699 was introduced to address the damage caused by the Governor's green energy push and aims to provide safeguards for agricultural crop losses and damage to drainage systems caused by wind and solar facilities. The bill also requires a study on the potential impact of proposals on the state's electrical grid and allows public school land to include at least 15 percent renewable generation, benefiting schools that want to invest in solar or wind projects.

Meanwhile, Illinoisans are being called upon to honor veterans across the state through the Illinois Veterans History Project. The project, a collaboration between the Library of Congress and the Illinois Secretary of State's office, aims to collect, preserve, and make accessible first-hand recollections of veterans who served in the five military branches. Illinois military veterans and their families are encouraged to submit their stories, photos, and mementos to be displayed on the project's website. The collection, which currently contains over 6,700 records, can be searched by name, war, and hometown of the veterans who submitted materials.

To contribute to the Illinois Veterans History Project, individuals can visit the website www.ilsos.gov/veteranshistoryproject and complete an Illinois Patriot Information Form. The completed form can be submitted electronically to ilvhp@ilsos.gov or by mail to the Illinois State Library. The project aims to ensure that the stories of Illinois veterans are not forgotten and serves as a tribute to their service and sacrifice.

The Office of the Executive Inspector General's report sheds light on the pervasive misconduct within state agencies, while the new legislation offers hope for landowners seeking to regain control over green energy projects. At the same time, the Illinois Veterans History Project provides an opportunity for Illinoisans to honor and remember the sacrifices made by veterans. As Illinois moves forward, it is crucial to address these issues, protect citizens' rights, and preserve the legacy of those who have served our country.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://senatorjiltracy.com/2023/11/17/senate-week-in-review-nov-13-17-2023/