Update on Proposed Bill Requiring Local Government Expense Policies
On
April 21, 2016 we reported on HB 4379, which had passed the Illinois House and was under
consideration by the Illinois Senate. The bill
has since passed both legislative chambers and has been sent to the Governor for his
consideration. HB 4379 requires school
districts, community college districts and non-home rule municipalities to
adopt a policy, by ordinance or resolution, regulating reimbursements of travel,
meals, and lodging expenses for all officers and employees.
The
policy must address the following:
- The type of business eligible for reimbursement;
- The maximum allowable reimbursement for each expense; and
- Creation of a standardized form for submission of expenses. The form must address (a) estimated costs or actual receipts for costs incurred, (b) name and job title of officer or employee, (c) date of travel and a description of the event.
Any
expense exceeding the maximum allowable amount for such expense and all
expenses for members of the governing body must be approved by a roll call vote
of the governing body. Expenses
exceeding the maximum allowed under the policy may be reimbursed only if the
governing body finds emergency or other extraordinary circumstances.
The
bill prohibits reimbursements for entertainment defined as shows, amusements,
theater, circuses, sporting events or other public and private entertainment or
amusement.
The
bill also prohibits all reimbursements unless a policy, in compliance with the
statute, is adopted by the governing body.
Affected
governmental entities should consult with their attorneys and be ready to
develop a compliant policy if this bill is approved by the Governor.
Post Authored by Steve Mahrt, Ancel Glink
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