Illinois voters will be given more election transparency thanks to a measure co-sponsored by Rep. David Olsen (R-Downers Grove) and Rep. Peter Breen (R-Lombard) that was signed into law by Gov. Bruce Rauner recently, according to a press release.
“In 2016 the results of four successful referenda were challenged because in each instance the official publishing of the question occurred three days prior to the state-required posting period,” Olsen said in the release. “Expanding that window for posting ballot questions allows voters more time to learn about the proposals that will be put before them at the ballot box, and provides taxing bodies with a more flexible time frame in meeting posting requirements.”
According to the release, House Bill 512 also amends the election code, making it state law that public questions be published not more than 60 days and not less than 10 days before the election, offering a wider window for voters about referendums that could become tax measures.
“Especially as more and more people are taking advantage of early voting, expanding that window for posting information will be very helpful," Breen said in the release.