Reis Introduces Measure to Bring Oversight to Infrastructure Funding Project

May 8, 2008

Springfield, IL.…State Representative David Reis (R – Ste. Marie) has introduced new legislation that will create the Joint Committee on Capital Improvements (JCCI). This 12-member bi-partisan committee comprising of State Representatives and Senators from both parties, will be in charge of bringing much needed planning and oversight to future capitol improvement expenditures including new roads, bridges, and schools.

“We’ve gone far too long without a new capital program. However, given the Governors past track record, legislators from both sides of the isle simply don’t trust the administration with billion of dollars in new funding,” Reis said.  “This lack of trust is a major reason why Illinois hasn’t seen a comprehensive infrastructure improvements program since 2002 and why its time to try something different.”

As introduced, the Joint Committee on Capital Improvements will be responsible for recommending 5-year capital plans that will be ratified by both chambers of the General Assembly.  JCCI will be required to analyze State budgets and legislation, and propose capital improvements with respect to pre and post construction operating costs and to determine the projects' compliance with the capital plan. Committee members will also monitor construction projects, project implementation, and repair and maintenance costs.  JCCI is authorized to prohibit further spending when determined non-compliant with the capital plan.

The Governor will not be allowed to spend capital funds except in accordance with the 5-year capital plans approved by the JCCI.  If the Governor attempts to spend or reappropriate any unused capital funds as executive “pork,” the JCCI will have the right to veto these spending plans by a three-fifths majority, just as the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) is authorized under Illinois state law.

Representative Reis is reaching out to his Democrat colleagues to work for the passage of HB 6639 to bring some common sense and civility to the chaos that has marred down past negotiations of a new capitol bill.

“Simply saying we don’t trust the Governor only works for so long. Now is the time for legislators from across the state to come up with new solutions to try and break the stalemate in Springfield,” Reis concluded.  “Hopefully this concept will be a starting point in our good faith efforts to rebuild trust and confidence between our two branches of government. Only then will we really be able to begin focusing on the capitol plan itself and more importantly how to pay for it.”

For additional information on House Bill 6639, please feel free to contact Representative Reis’ legislative website at www.davidreis.org or contact his district office at 618-392-0108.