By Joe Ragusa
SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Republicans say a proposal could save the state over $500 million dollars annually by reforming the way the state buys goods and services.
State Rep. Dan Brady (R-Bloomington) said the savings could help fund higher education.
“They’re looking for help or a lifeline,” Brady said. “This type of procurement legislation is a type of significant lifeline that can help those universities and community colleges.”
Gov. Bruce Rauner says he’s on board with the procurement changes, especially since the Democrats proposal to fund higher education fails to offer any revenue solution.
“There’s no way I could sign that bill,” Rauner said. “I want to fund MAP grants but I want to have the money to pay for it.”
Rauner said procurement reform is long overdue.
“Procurement has been one of the largest sources of waste and abuse in our state,” Rauner said. “It’s frustrating, the level of incompetence and inefficiency in the system, and we really need to change this as quickly as we possibly can.”
Steve Brown, spokesman for House Speaker Michael Madigan said he wants more information on the proposal.
“I think you want to be very careful to document any proposed savings that are being promoted,” Brown said.
Part of the proposal would allow the auditor general to conduct spot checks of purchases. It also aims to reduce redundant steps in the procurement process.
Joe Ragusa can be reached at joe.ragusa@cumulus.com.
