EFFINGHAM – A new law sponsored by State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville) will strengthen government transparency by making local audit and financial reports easier for Illinois residents to access.
“The people of Illinois deserve transparency when it comes to how units of government manage their tax dollars,” said Plummer. “Public financial records should not be difficult to find or buried in websites. This law is a simple, commonsense step to make important financial information easier for taxpayers to locate and review.”
House Bill 2137 requires local governments, counties, and municipalities that already maintain a public website to post information directing residents to where audit reports and financial statements can be accessed through the Illinois Comptroller’s Office.
“Improving access to these records strengthens accountability and gives residents the information they need to hold their local governments responsible,” added Plummer.
House Bill 2137 takes effect January 1, 2027.
