IACBMC’s advocacy

 

Advocacy

Governmental Relations and Legislation
IACBMC serves as the official voice of Illinois county government in Springfield. On behalf of member counties, the Association communicates and advocates positions in the legislative and regulatory arenas at the state level.
Legislative Representation
One of IACBMC's primary responsibilities is to represent the collective interest of its member counties before the Illinois General Assembly and the state elected and administrative offices. The Association's legislative policy is set by its members and reflected in the official issues platform which is revised annually. IACBMC staff coordinates testimony before legislative committees, prepares amendments and meets with legislators and their staff regularly.
Legislative Tracking
In an average year, one in every five bills introduced in the Legislature affects county government. IACBMC staff review all bills introduced in the General Assembly. Based on the annual platform and action by the Board of Directors, the Association's legislative consultant and executive director present the county viewpoint during the legislative session. The Association supports legislation which will materially assist counties in their daily operations and opposes bills which would seriously hinder their abilities to govern themselves or that mandate additional costs.
Legislative Committee
The IACBMC Legislative Committee meets as needed during Session to advice staff on policy direction. The committee, which consists of representatives of each member county, has been given authority by the Board of Directors to set legislative direction in those instances where the annual platform is silent, legislative circumstances have changed or quick action is needed.
Legislative Reports
During the hectic pace of legislative sessions, county officials and legislators alike value the "Counties at the Capitol" legislative bulletin for its timeliness and content. The publication is e-mailed periodically during Session to inform members of the status of bills of county interest and current legislative developments. Special editions of the bulletin are published during non-session months as issues of significant county interest arise. Members without e-mail may request a fax version.
Legislative Summary
Published annually at the close of Illinois' legislative session. Summarizes bills passed by the General Assembly and acted upon by the Governor. Includes brief descriptions of each bill and its implications.

Above is take from: http://www.ilcounty.org/news/8-1.html