In a virtual news conference on August 13, a group of Democratic lawmakers proposed a package of ethics reform bills.

The group’s goal is for the General Assembly to take the bills up during the veto session scheduled to begin on November 17.

Proposals include banning current state legislators from also serving as lobbyists; banning former lawmakers from immediately becoming lobbyists after they leave office; amending the definition of what activities are considered lobbying; and creating official procedures for investigation, censure, and temporary removal of leadership positions for members facing criminal charges.

Republicans asked Gov. J.B. Pritzker to call a special session now to focus on ethics reform, but Pritzker issued a statement indicating he believes these important objectives should be accomplished during this fall’s veto session.