Seth Perlman/AP file; Ashlee Rezin Garcia/Sun-Times file
SPRINGFIELD State lawmakers say they’re close to introducing ethics legislation that they’re optimistic about passing before the end of session, a move that comes a day after the indictment of another associate of former Speaker Mike Madigan.
Democrats had identified ethics reforms as one of their priorities months ago, but since then had said little about the issue publicly until former Madigan chief of staff Tim Mapes was charged with perjury and attempted obstruction of justice.
That changed on Thursday just days before the Legislature is scheduled to adjourn.
Timothy Mapes, former chief of staff to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, was indicted Wednesday on charges of making false statements to a grand jury investigating public corruption allegations.
Sarah Mansur
Capitol News Illinois
SPRINGFIELD The former longtime chief of staff to former House Speaker Michael Madigan was indicted Wednesday for allegedly lying under oath and attempting to obstruct justice.
Tim Mapes, who also formerly served as the House clerk, was granted immunity in connection with the federal investigation into potentially criminal efforts by officials and lobbyists with Commonwealth Edison to curry favor with Madigan in exchange for favorable energy legislation. Madigan has not been charged and denies wrongdoing.
The indictment came with just six days remaining in the legislative session as ComEd was among several interest groups negotiating a massive energy regulatory overhaul bill with lawmakers in the General Assembly.
The former longtime chief of staff to former House Speaker Michael Madigan was indicted Wednesday for allegedly lying under oath and attempting to obstruct justice.