August 17, 2009

To the Honorable Members of the General Assembly:

I am pleased to affix my signature to Senate Bill 189.  With my approval, this landmark legislation becomes the law of our State. 

I commend the members of the Illinois Reform Commission, the Illinois General Assembly, and the Attorney General for their work on this issue.

I am delighted to preside over the enactment of one of the more significant pieces of reform legislation in our State’s history.  Transparency in government has long been one of my core priorities.  With this bill, this goal is now a reality.  The Freedom of Information Act and the Open Meetings Act have been strengthened.  Moreover, disputes over the release of public information can be resolved definitively with binding decisions.

No piece of legislation is perfect.  I am cognizant that there are significant concerns about the effect of this bill upon law enforcement and local government. 

I note that the effective date for this bill is January 1, 2010.  The process of implementation will necessitate additional legislative work.  It is my express desire that all parties impacted by this bill work collegially in the coming months to craft consensus legislation that addresses the significant, lingering concerns.  As this bill promotes transparency and accountability, so too must the process of implementation be inclusive and transparent.

Sincerely,

PAT QUINN

Governor