Proposal Aims to Stop Taxpayer Funded Credit Card Abuse by Requiring Better Transparency

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In response to numerous local government controversies involving the inappropriate use of taxpayer-funded credit cards, state Rep. Anthony DeLuca, has introduced a plan to implement improved transparency requirements.

“Too often we see headlines of officials overspending with their taxpayer-funded credit cards,” DeLuca said. “First class travel, five-star hotels, luxury dining and personal use. When the spending is exposed, the taxpayers are outraged, demanding reform and accountability. Especially while property taxes are continually on the rise.”

DeLuca's proposal offers stronger transparency requirements that make taxpayers a priority. House Bill 4196 would require the governing authority of local governments to specifically vote and verify the validity of an itemized statement of all purchases made using the government credit card in the preceding month. The itemized statement must include all purchases and may not be redacted. Additionally, if the government entity has a regularly maintained website, the itemized statement would be required to be published on the website.

HB4196 would impact townships, park districts, municipalities, school districts and community colleges. HB4196 does not restrict or prohibit the use of a government-issued credit card.

"Public servants must be better stewards of tax dollars and manage credit card spending, especially in light of rising costs for essentials and property taxes, which create an affordability challenge for all", DeLuca said.