Springfield, IL…In an effort to bring transparency to the state’s finances, State Representative Suzie Bassi (R-Palatine) filed House Bill 194 that would require the Governor’s office to create a website that would allow the public and even members of the General Assembly to see exactly how the state’s money is being spent and who is receiving contracts for Illinois projects.

“Taxpayers have the right to know exactly how their tax dollars are being spent. The bill will help citizens of Illinois understand how the state budget works and what benefits they receive from state services,” said Bassi. “Ultimately, budget transparency will check corruption, improve the public’s confidence and promote fiscal responsibility – all of which is desperately needed in Illinois.” Continue reading »

I was very interested in the Chicago Tribune editorial “Cut the Free Rides” since I recently filed House Bill 2657 that would eliminate the Senior Transit Ride Giveaway; while preserving free rides for senior citizens on Circuit Breaker and the disabled.

Nearly 400,000 seniors have been issued cards that qualify them for free rides, regardless of income. My legislation would also reinstate the half-off senior discount for all seniors.  Continue reading »

Springfield, IL … This week State Representative Suzie Bassi (R-Palatine) sponsored House Resolution 92 calling for the resignation of U.S. Senator Roland Burris. After a request to discharge the legislation from the Rules Committee on Thursday, the House Democrats refused to allow a vote on the resolution.

“Senator Burris dodged questions and lied to the House Impeachment Committee about his appointment to the U.S. Senate and then filed an affidavit weeks later that contained several discrepancies. His credibility is shot. Illinois citizens deserve a leader who seeks elected office to serve people, not to enhance his political clout,” said Bassi. Continue reading »

Palatine, IL … State Rep. Suzanne “Suzie” Bassi (R-Palatine) announced today that application forms for General Assembly Scholarships for the 2009-2010 school year are now available through her district office to residents of the 54th District. These one-year scholarships cover tuition costs at the undergraduate, graduate or professional level at any Illinois state school.

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While I look forward to a new era in Illinois state government with a new governor and two new leaders in the General Assembly, it is no secret that our state is facing serious difficulties. Everyday we are inundated with the news of more employee layoffs, a flailing stock market and potholes large enough to swallow cars.

Former Governor Blagojevich, who abused his power for political and financial gain, left the State of Illinois in shambles. Although I was aware of the harm that Blagojevich had been doing to the State of Illinois beforehand, it wasn’t until I served on the House Impeachment Committee that I became painfully aware of the extent of the damage that he had inflicted. In addition to blocking important legislation passed by the Legislature, he continued to spend money that we didn’t have and start programs without the funds to pay for them, digging an even deeper financial hole. Continue reading »