SB3384 96TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

LRB096 20467 AMC 36122 b

96TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
State of Illinois
2009 and 2010
SB3384

Introduced 2/10/2010, by Sen. Jeffrey M. Schoenberg

SYNOPSIS AS INTRODUCED:

See Index

Amends the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act. Removes the Illinois Gaming Board from the list of agencies to which the ex parte communications provisions apply (adds ex parte communication provisions for the Illinois Gaming Board in the Riverboat Gambling Act). Provides for an Executive Inspector General for gaming activities appointed by the Governor who has jurisdiction over the Illinois Gaming Board and officers and employees of the Illinois Gaming Board. Amends the Riverboat Gambling Act. Codifies the separation of the Illinois Gaming Board from the Department of Revenue and makes conforming changes in various Acts. Ends the terms of the current members of the Illinois Gaming Board and provides that the Governor shall nominate new members from nominations presented by the Nomination Panel, which is created by this amendatory Act. Makes various other changes in provisions concerning the Illinois Gaming Board and its duties. Adds ethics provisions applicable to the Board members, members of the Nomination Panel, and employees. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.

CORRECTIONAL BUDGET AND IMPACT NOTE ACT MAY APPLY

FISCAL NOTE ACT MAY APPLY

PENSION IMPACT NOTE ACT MAY APPLY

A BILL FOR

AN ACT concerning gaming.

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly:

Section 5. The State Officials and Employees Ethics Act is amended by changing Sections 5-50, 20-10, and 20-15 as follows:

(5 ILCS 430/5-50)

Sec. 5-50. Ex parte communications; special government agents.

(a) This Section applies to ex parte communications made to any agency listed in subsection (e).

(b) "Ex parte communication" means any written or oral communication by any person that imparts or requests material information or makes a material argument regarding potential action concerning regulatory, quasi-adjudicatory, investment, or licensing matters pending before or under consideration by the agency. "Ex parte communication" does not include the following: (i) statements by a person publicly made in a public forum; (ii) statements regarding matters of procedure and practice, such as format, the number of copies required, the manner of filing, and the status of a matter; and (iii) statements made by a State employee of the agency to the agency head or other employees of that agency.

(b-5) An ex parte communication received by an agency, agency head, or other agency employee from an interested party or his or her official representative or attorney shall promptly be memorialized and made a part of the record.

(c) An ex parte communication received by any agency, agency head, or other agency employee, other than an ex parte communication described in subsection (b-5), shall immediately be reported to that agency's ethics officer by the recipient of the communication and by any other employee of that agency who responds to the communication. The ethics officer shall require that the ex parte communication be promptly made a part of the record. The ethics officer shall promptly file the ex parte communication with the Executive Ethics Commission, including all written communications, all written responses to the communications, and a memorandum prepared by the ethics officer stating the nature and substance of all oral communications, the identity and job title of the person to whom each communication was made, all responses made, the identity and job title of the person making each response, the identity of each person from whom the written or oral ex parte communication was received, the individual or entity represented by that person, any action the person requested or recommended, and any other pertinent information. The disclosure shall also contain the date of any ex parte communication.

(d) "Interested party" means a person or entity whose rights, privileges, or interests are the subject of or are directly affected by a regulatory, quasi-adjudicatory, investment, or licensing matter.

(e) This Section applies to the following agencies:

Executive Ethics Commission

Illinois Commerce Commission

Educational Labor Relations Board

State Board of Elections

Illinois Gaming Board Health Facilities and Services Review Board

Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission

Illinois Labor Relations Board

Illinois Liquor Control Commission

Pollution Control Board

Property Tax Appeal Board

Illinois Racing Board

Illinois Purchased Care Review Board

Department of State Police Merit Board

Motor Vehicle Review Board

Prisoner Review Board

Civil Service Commission

Personnel Review Board for the Treasurer

Merit Commission for the Secretary of State

Merit Commission for the Office of the Comptroller

Court of Claims Board of Review of the Department of Employment Security Department of Insurance

Department of Professional Regulation and licensing boards under the Department

Department of Public Health and licensing boards under the Department Office of Banks and Real Estate and licensing boards under the Office

State Employees Retirement System Board of Trustees Judges Retirement System Board of Trustees General Assembly Retirement System Board of Trustees Illinois Board of Investment State Universities Retirement System Board of Trustees Teachers Retirement System Officers Board of Trustees

(f) Any person who fails to (i) report an ex parte communication to an ethics officer, (ii) make information part of the record, or (iii) make a filing with the Executive Ethics Commission as required by this Section or as required by Section 5-165 of the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act violates this Act.

(Source: P.A. 95-331, eff. 8-21-07; 96-31, eff. 6-30-09.)

(5 ILCS 430/20-10)

Sec. 20-10. Offices of Executive Inspectors General.

(a) Six Five independent Offices of the Executive Inspector General are created, one each for the Governor, the Attorney General, the Secretary of State, the Comptroller, and the Treasurer and one for gaming activities. Each Office shall be under the direction and supervision of an Executive Inspector General and shall be a fully independent office with separate appropriations.

(b) The Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Comptroller, and Treasurer shall each appoint an Executive Inspector General, and the Governor shall appoint an Executive Inspector General for gaming activities. Each appointment must be made without regard to political affiliation and solely on the basis of integrity and demonstrated ability. Appointments shall be made by and with the advice and consent of the Senate by three-fifths of the elected members concurring by record vote. Any nomination not acted upon by the Senate within 60 session days of the receipt thereof shall be deemed to have received the advice and consent of the Senate. If, during a recess of the Senate, there is a vacancy in an office of Executive Inspector General, the appointing authority shall make a temporary appointment until the next meeting of the Senate when the appointing authority shall make a nomination to fill that office. No person rejected for an office of Executive Inspector General shall, except by the Senate's request, be nominated again for that office at the same session of the Senate or be appointed to that office during a recess of that Senate.

Nothing in this Article precludes the appointment by the Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Comptroller, or Treasurer of any other inspector general required or permitted by law. The Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Comptroller, and Treasurer each may appoint an existing inspector general as the Executive Inspector General required by this Article, provided that such an inspector general is not prohibited by law, rule, jurisdiction, qualification, or interest from serving as the Executive Inspector General required by this Article. An appointing authority may not appoint a relative as an Executive Inspector General.

Each Executive Inspector General shall have the following qualifications:

(1) has not been convicted of any felony under the laws of this State, another State, or the United States;

(2) has earned a baccalaureate degree from an institution of higher education; and

(3) has 5 or more years of cumulative service (A) with a federal, State, or local law enforcement agency, at least 2 years of which have been in a progressive investigatory capacity; (B) as a federal, State, or local prosecutor; (C) as a senior manager or executive of a federal, State, or local agency; (D) as a member, an officer, or a State or federal judge; or (E) representing any combination of (A) through (D).

The term of each initial Executive Inspector General shall commence upon qualification and shall run through June 30, 2008. The initial appointments shall be made within 60 days after the effective date of this Act.

After the initial term, each Executive Inspector General shall serve for 5-year terms commencing on July 1 of the year of appointment and running through June 30 of the fifth following year. An Executive Inspector General may be reappointed to one or more subsequent terms.

A vacancy occurring other than at the end of a term shall be filled by the appointing authority only for the balance of the term of the Executive Inspector General whose office is vacant.

Terms shall run regardless of whether the position is filled.

(c) The Executive Inspector General appointed by the Attorney General shall have jurisdiction over the Attorney General and all officers and employees of, and vendors and others doing business with, State agencies within the jurisdiction of the Attorney General. The Executive Inspector General appointed by the Secretary of State shall have jurisdiction over the Secretary of State and all officers and employees of, and vendors and others doing business with, State agencies within the jurisdiction of the Secretary of State. The Executive Inspector General appointed by the Comptroller shall have jurisdiction over the Comptroller and all officers and employees of, and vendors and others doing business with, State agencies within the jurisdiction of the Comptroller. The Executive Inspector General appointed by the Treasurer shall have jurisdiction over the Treasurer and all officers and employees of, and vendors and others doing business with, State agencies within the jurisdiction of the Treasurer. The Executive Inspector General appointed by the Governor shall have jurisdiction over the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, and all officers and employees of, and vendors and others doing business with, executive branch State agencies under the jurisdiction of the Executive Ethics Commission and not within the jurisdiction of the Attorney General, the Secretary of State, the Comptroller, or the Treasurer, or the Executive Inspector General for gaming activities. The Executive Inspector General for gaming activities appointed by the Governor has jurisdiction over the Illinois Gaming Board and all officers and employees of the Illinois Gaming Board.

The jurisdiction of each Executive Inspector General is to investigate allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, misconduct, nonfeasance, misfeasance, malfeasance, or violations of this Act or violations of other related laws and rules.

(d) The compensation for each Executive Inspector General shall be determined by the Executive Ethics Commission and shall be made from appropriations made to the Comptroller for this purpose. Subject to Section 20-45 of this Act, each Executive Inspector General has full authority to organize his or her Office of the Executive Inspector General, including the employment and determination of the compensation of staff, such as deputies, assistants, and other employees, as appropriations permit. A separate appropriation shall be made for each Office of Executive Inspector General.

(e) No Executive Inspector General or employee of the Office of the Executive Inspector General may, during his or her term of appointment or employment:

(1) become a candidate for any elective office;

(2) hold any other elected or appointed public office except for appointments on governmental advisory boards or study commissions or as otherwise expressly authorized by law;

(3) be actively involved in the affairs of any political party or political organization; or

(4) advocate for the appointment of another person to an appointed or elected office or position or actively participate in any campaign for any elective office.

In this subsection an appointed public office means a position authorized by law that is filled by an appointing authority as provided by law and does not include employment by hiring in the ordinary course of business.

(e-1) No Executive Inspector General or employee of the Office of the Executive Inspector General may, for one year after the termination of his or her appointment or employment:

(1) become a candidate for any elective office;

(2) hold any elected public office; or

(3) hold any appointed State, county, or local judicial office.

(e-2) The requirements of item (3) of subsection (e-1) may be waived by the Executive Ethics Commission.

(f) An Executive Inspector General may be removed only for cause and may be removed only by the appointing constitutional officer. At the time of the removal, the appointing constitutional officer must report to the Executive Ethics Commission the justification for the removal.

(Source: P.A. 96-555, eff. 8-18-09.)

(5 ILCS 430/20-15)

Sec. 20-15. Duties of the Executive Ethics Commission. In addition to duties otherwise assigned by law, the Executive Ethics Commission shall have the following duties:

(1) To promulgate rules governing the performance of its duties and the exercise of its powers and governing the investigations of the Executive Inspectors General. It is declared to be in the public interest, safety, and welfare that the Commission adopt emergency rules under the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act to initially perform its duties under this subsection.

(2) To conduct administrative hearings and rule on matters brought before the Commission only upon the receipt of pleadings filed by an Executive Inspector General and not upon its own prerogative, but may appoint special Executive Inspectors General as provided in Section 20-21. Any other allegations of misconduct received by the Commission from a person other than an Executive Inspector General shall be referred to the Office of the appropriate Executive Inspector General.

(3) To prepare and publish manuals and guides and, working with the Office of the Attorney General, oversee training of employees under its jurisdiction that explains their duties.

(4) To prepare public information materials to facilitate compliance, implementation, and enforcement of this Act.

(5) To submit reports as required by this Act.

(6) To the extent authorized by this Act, to make rulings, issue recommendations, and impose administrative fines, if appropriate, in connection with the implementation and interpretation of this Act. The powers and duties of the Commission are limited to matters clearly within the purview of this Act.

(7) To issue subpoenas with respect to matters pending before the Commission, subject to the provisions of this Article and in the discretion of the Commission, to compel the attendance of witnesses for purposes of testimony and the production of documents and other items for inspection and copying.

(8) To appoint special Executive Inspectors General as provided in Section 20-21.

(9) To review applications and appoint members to the Nomination Panel established under the Riverboat Gambling Act.

(Source: P.A. 93-617, eff. 12-9-03.)

Section 10. The Executive Reorganization Implementation Act is amended by changing Section 3.1 as follows:

(15 ILCS 15/3.1) (from Ch. 127, par. 1803.1)

Sec. 3.1. "Agency directly responsible to the Governor" or "agency" means any office, officer, division, or part thereof, and any other office, nonelective officer, department, division, bureau, board, or commission in the executive branch of State government, except that it does not apply to any agency whose primary function is service to the General Assembly or the Judicial Branch of State government, or to any agency administered by the Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Comptroller or State Treasurer. In addition the term does not apply to the following agencies created by law with the primary responsibility of exercising regulatory or adjudicatory functions independently of the Governor:

(1) the State Board of Elections;

(2) the State Board of Education;

(3) the Illinois Commerce Commission;

(4) the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission;

(5) the Civil Service Commission;

(6) the Fair Employment Practices Commission;

(7) the Pollution Control Board;

(8) the Department of State Police Merit Board;

(9) the Illinois Racing Board; and

(10) the Illinois Gaming Board.

(Source: P.A. 96-796, eff. 10-29-09.)

Section 20. The Illinois Pension Code is amended by changing Sections 14-111, 18-127, and 18-169 as follows:

(40 ILCS 5/14-111) (from Ch. 108 1/2, par. 14-111)

Sec. 14-111. Re-entry After retirement.

(a) An annuitant who re-enters the service of a department and receives compensation on a regular payroll shall receive no payments of the retirement annuity during the time he is so employed, with the following exceptions:

(1) An annuitant who is employed by a department while he or she is a continuing participant in the General Assembly Retirement System under Sections 2-117.1 and 14-105.4 will not be considered to have made a re-entry after retirement within the meaning of this Section for the duration of such continuing participation. Any person who is a continuing participant under Sections 2-117.1 and 14-105.4 on the effective date of this amendatory Act of 1991 and whose retirement annuity has been suspended under this Section shall be entitled to receive from the System a sum equal to the annuity payments that have been withheld under this Section, and shall receive the benefit of this amendment without regard to Section 1-103.1.

(2) An annuitant who accepts temporary employment from such a department for a period not exceeding 75 working days in any calendar year is not considered to make a re-entry after retirement within the meaning of this Section. Any part of a day on temporary employment is considered a full day of employment.

(3) An annuitant who accepts employment as a member of the Illinois Gaming Board may elect to not participate in this System with respect to that service. An annuitant who elects to not participate in this System with respect to that service is not considered to make a re-entry after retirement within the meaning of this Section.

(b) If such person re-enters the service of a department, not as a temporary employee, contributions to the system shall begin as of the date of re-employment and additional creditable service shall begin to accrue. He shall assume the status of a member entitled to all rights and privileges in the system, including death and disability benefits, excluding a refund of contributions.

Upon subsequent retirement, his retirement annuity shall consist of:

(1) the amounts of the annuities terminated by re-entry into service; and

(2) the amount of the additional retirement annuity earned by the member during the period of additional membership service which shall not be subject to reversionary annuity if any.

The total retirement annuity shall not, however, exceed the maximum applicable to the member at the time of original retirement. In the computation of any such retirement annuity, the time that the member was on retirement shall not interrupt the continuity of service for the computation of final average compensation and the additional membership service shall be considered, together with service rendered before the previous retirement, in establishing final average compensation.

A person who re-enters the service of a department within 3 years after retiring may qualify to have the retirement annuity computed as though the member had not previously retired by paying to the System, within 5 years after re-entry and prior to subsequent retirement, in a lump sum or in installment payments in accordance with such rules as may be adopted by the Board, an amount equal to all retirement payments received, including any payments received in accordance with subsection (c) or (d) of Section 14-130, plus regular interest from the date retirement payments were suspended to the date of repayment.

(Source: P.A. 86-1488; 87-794.)

(40 ILCS 5/18-127) (from Ch. 108 1/2, par. 18-127)

Sec. 18-127. Retirement annuity - suspension on reemployment.

(a) A participant receiving a retirement annuity who is regularly employed for compensation by an employer other than a county, in any capacity, shall have his or her retirement annuity payments suspended during such employment. Upon termination of such employment, retirement annuity payments at the previous rate shall be resumed.

If such a participant resumes service as a judge, he or she shall receive credit for any additional service. Upon subsequent retirement, his or her retirement annuity shall be the amount previously granted, plus the amount earned by the additional judicial service under the provisions in effect during the period of such additional service. However, if the participant was receiving the maximum rate of annuity at the time of re-employment, he or she may elect, in a written direction filed with the board, not to receive any additional service credit during the period of re-employment. In such case, contributions shall not be required during the period of re-employment. Any such election shall be irrevocable.

(b) Beginning January 1, 1991, any participant receiving a retirement annuity who accepts temporary employment from an employer other than a county for a period not exceeding 75 working days in any calendar year shall not be deemed to be regularly employed for compensation or to have resumed service as a judge for the purposes of this Article. A day shall be considered a working day if the annuitant performs on it any of his duties under the temporary employment agreement.

(c) Except as provided in subsection (a), beginning January 1, 1993, retirement annuities shall not be subject to suspension upon resumption of employment for an employer, and any retirement annuity that is then so suspended shall be reinstated on that date.

(d) The changes made in this Section by this amendatory Act of 1993 shall apply to judges no longer in service on its effective date, as well as to judges serving on or after that date.

(e) A participant receiving a retirement annuity under this Article who (i) serves as a part-time employee in any of the following positions: Legislative Inspector General, Special Legislative Inspector General, employee of the Office of the Legislative Inspector General, Executive Director of the Legislative Ethics Commission, or staff of the Legislative Ethics Commission or (ii) serves on the Illinois Gaming Board, but has not elected to participate in the Article 14 System with respect to that service, shall not be deemed to be regularly employed for compensation by an employer other than a county, nor to have resumed service as a judge, on the basis of that service, and the retirement annuity payments and other benefits of that person under this Code shall not be suspended, diminished, or otherwise impaired solely as a consequence of that service. This subsection (e) applies without regard to whether the person is in service as a judge under this Article on or after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 93rd General Assembly. In this subsection, a "part-time employee" is a person who is not required to work at least 35 hours per week. The changes made to this subsection (e) by this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly apply without regard to whether the person is in service as a judge under this Article on or after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly.

(f) A participant receiving a retirement annuity under this Article who has made an election under Section 1-123 and who is serving either as legal counsel in the Office of the Governor or as Chief Deputy Attorney General shall not be deemed to be regularly employed for compensation by an employer other than a county, nor to have resumed service as a judge, on the basis of that service, and the retirement annuity payments and other benefits of that person under this Code shall not be suspended, diminished, or otherwise impaired solely as a consequence of that service. This subsection (f) applies without regard to whether the person is in service as a judge under this Article on or after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 93rd General Assembly.

(Source: P.A. 93-685, eff. 7-8-04; 93-1069, eff. 1-15-05.)

(40 ILCS 5/18-169)

Sec. 18-169. Application and expiration of new benefit increases.

(a) As used in this Section, "new benefit increase" means an increase in the amount of any benefit provided under this Article, or an expansion of the conditions of eligibility for any benefit under this Article, that results from an amendment to this Code that takes effect after June 1, 2005 (the effective date Public Act 94-4) of this amendatory Act of the 94th General Assembly. "New benefit increase", however, does not include any benefit increase resulting from the changes made to this Article by this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code or any subsequent amendment to this Code, every new benefit increase is subject to this Section and shall be deemed to be granted only in conformance with and contingent upon compliance with the provisions of this Section.

(c) The Public Act enacting a new benefit increase must identify and provide for payment to the System of additional funding at least sufficient to fund the resulting annual increase in cost to the System as it accrues.

Every new benefit increase is contingent upon the General Assembly providing the additional funding required under this subsection. The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability shall analyze whether adequate additional funding has been provided for the new benefit increase and shall report its analysis to the Public Pension Division of the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. A new benefit increase created by a Public Act that does not include the additional funding required under this subsection is null and void. If the Public Pension Division determines that the additional funding provided for a new benefit increase under this subsection is or has become inadequate, it may so certify to the Governor and the State Comptroller and, in the absence of corrective action by the General Assembly, the new benefit increase shall expire at the end of the fiscal year in which the certification is made.

(d) Every new benefit increase shall expire 5 years after its effective date or on such earlier date as may be specified in the language enacting the new benefit increase or provided under subsection (c). This does not prevent the General Assembly from extending or re-creating a new benefit increase by law.

(e) Except as otherwise provided in the language creating the new benefit increase, a new benefit increase that expires under this Section continues to apply to persons who applied and qualified for the affected benefit while the new benefit increase was in effect and to the affected beneficiaries and alternate payees of such persons, but does not apply to any other person, including without limitation a person who continues in service after the expiration date and did not apply and qualify for the affected benefit while the new benefit increase was in effect.

(Source: P.A. 94-4, eff. 6-1-05.)

Section 25. The Riverboat Gambling Act is amended by changing Sections 5, 5.1, 11, and 13 and by adding Sections 5.2, 5.3, 5.5, 5.7, and 9.5 as follows:

(230 ILCS 10/5) (from Ch. 120, par. 2405)

Sec. 5. Gaming Board.

(a) (1) There is hereby established the within the Department of Revenue an Illinois Gaming Board, which shall have the powers and duties specified in this Act, and all other powers necessary and proper to fully and effectively execute this Act for the purpose of administering, regulating, and enforcing the system of riverboat gambling established by this Act. Its jurisdiction shall extend under this Act to every person, association, corporation, partnership and trust involved in riverboat gambling operations in the State of Illinois.

(2) The Board shall consist of 5 members to be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, one of whom shall be designated by the Governor to be chairperson chairman. Each member shall have a reasonable knowledge of the practice, procedure and principles of gambling operations. Each member shall either be a resident of Illinois or shall certify that he or she will become a resident of Illinois before taking office. Notwithstanding any provision of this Section to the contrary, the term of office of each member of the Board ends on the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly and those members shall hold office only until their successors are appointed and qualified pursuant to this amendatory Act. Members appointed pursuant to this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly and their successors shall serve on a full-time basis and may not hold any other employment for which they are compensated.

Beginning on the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly, the Board shall consist of 5 members appointed by the Governor from nominations presented to the Governor by the Nomination Panel and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Board must include the following:

(1) One member must have, at a minimum, a bachelor's degree from an accredited school and at least 10 years of verifiable training and experience in the fields of investigation and law enforcement.

(2) One member must be a certified public accountant with experience in auditing and with knowledge of complex corporate structures and transactions.

(3) One member must have 5 years' experience as a principal, senior officer, or director of a company or business with either material responsibility for the daily operations and management of the overall company or business or material responsibility for the policy making of the company or business.

(4) Two members must be former judges elected or appointed to judicial office in Illinois or former federal judges appointed to serve in Illinois. No more than 3 members of the Board may be from the same political party. The Board should reflect the ethnic, cultural, and geographic diversity of the State. Each member shall have a reasonable knowledge of the practice, procedures, and principles of gambling operations. No Board member, within a period of 2 years immediately preceding nomination, shall have been employed by or received compensation or fees for services from a person or entity, or its parent or affiliate, that has engaged in business with the Board, a licensee, or a licensee under the Horse Racing Act of 1975. Each member shall either be a resident of Illinois or shall certify that he or she will become a resident of Illinois before taking office. At least one member shall be experienced in law enforcement and criminal investigation, at least one member shall be a certified public accountant experienced in accounting and auditing, and at least one member shall be a lawyer licensed to practice law in Illinois.

(3) The terms of office of the Board members shall be 4 3 years, except that the terms of office of the initial Board members appointed pursuant to this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly Act will commence from the effective date of this amendatory Act and run as follows, to be determined by lot: one for a term ending July 1 of the year following confirmation , 1991, one 2 for a term ending July 1 two years following confirmation , 1992, one and 2 for a term ending July 1 three years following confirmation, and 2 for a term ending July 1 four years following confirmation 1993. Upon the expiration of the foregoing terms, the successors of such members shall serve a term for 4 3 years and until their successors are appointed and qualified for like terms. Vacancies in the Board shall be filled for the unexpired term in like manner as original appointments. Each member of the Board shall be eligible for reappointment, subject to the nomination process of the Nomination Panel, by at the discretion of the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.

Until all 5 members of the Board are appointed and qualified pursuant to this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly, the Illinois Gaming Board may not act with regard to any license under which gambling operations are not being conducted on the effective date of this amendatory Act.

(4) The chairman of the Board shall receive an annual salary equal to the annual salary of a State appellate court judge. Other members of the Board shall receive an annual salary equal to the annual salary of a State circuit court judge. Each member of the Board shall receive $300 for each day the Board meets and for each day the member conducts any hearing pursuant to this Act. Each member of the Board shall also be reimbursed for all actual and necessary expenses and disbursements incurred in the execution of official duties.

(5) (Blank). No person shall be appointed a member of the Board or continue to be a member of the Board who is, or whose spouse, child or parent is, a member of the board of directors of, or a person financially interested in, any gambling operation subject to the jurisdiction of this Board, or any race track, race meeting, racing association or the operations thereof subject to the jurisdiction of the Illinois Racing Board. No Board member shall hold any other public office for which he shall receive compensation other than necessary travel or other incidental expenses. No person shall be a member of the Board who is not of good moral character or who has been convicted of, or is under indictment for, a felony under the laws of Illinois or any other state, or the United States.

(6) Any member of the Board may be removed by the Governor for neglect of duty, misfeasance, malfeasance, or nonfeasance in office or for engaging in any political activity.

(7) Before entering upon the discharge of the duties of his office, each member of the Board shall take an oath that he will faithfully execute the duties of his office according to the laws of the State and the rules and regulations adopted therewith and shall give bond to the State of Illinois, approved by the Governor, in the sum of $25,000. Every such bond, when duly executed and approved, shall be recorded in the office of the Secretary of State. Whenever the Governor determines that the bond of any member of the Board has become or is likely to become invalid or insufficient, he shall require such member forthwith to renew his bond, which is to be approved by the Governor. Any member of the Board who fails to take oath and give bond within 30 days from the date of his appointment, or who fails to renew his bond within 30 days after it is demanded by the Governor, shall be guilty of neglect of duty and may be removed by the Governor. The cost of any bond given by any member of the Board under this Section shall be taken to be a part of the necessary expenses of the Board.

(8) The Upon the request of the Board, the Department shall employ such personnel as may be necessary to carry out its the functions and shall determine the salaries of all personnel, except those personnel whose salaries are determined under the terms of a collective bargaining agreement of the Board. No person shall be employed to serve the Board who is, or whose spouse, parent or child is, an official of, or has a financial interest in or financial relation with, any operator engaged in gambling operations within this State or any organization engaged in conducting horse racing within this State. For the 2 years immediately preceding employment, an employee shall not have been employed or received compensation or fees for services from a person or entity, or its parent or affiliate, that has engaged in business with the Board, a licensee, or a licensee under the Horse Racing Act of 1975. Any employee violating these prohibitions shall be subject to termination of employment.

(9) An Administrator shall perform any and all duties that the Board shall assign him. The salary of the Administrator shall be determined by the Board and approved by the Director of the Department and, in addition, he shall be reimbursed for all actual and necessary expenses incurred by him in discharge of his official duties. The Administrator shall keep records of all proceedings of the Board and shall preserve all records, books, documents and other papers belonging to the Board or entrusted to its care. The Administrator shall devote his full time to the duties of the office and shall not hold any other office or employment.

(b) The Board shall have general responsibility for the implementation of this Act. Its duties include, without limitation, the following:

(1) To decide promptly and in reasonable order all license applications. Any party aggrieved by an action of the Board denying, suspending, revoking, restricting or refusing to renew a license may request a hearing before the Board. A request for a hearing must be made to the Board in writing within 5 days after service of notice of the action of the Board. Notice of the action of the Board shall be served either by personal delivery or by certified mail, postage prepaid, to the aggrieved party. Notice served by certified mail shall be deemed complete on the business day following the date of such mailing. The Board shall conduct all requested hearings promptly and in reasonable order;

(2) To conduct all hearings pertaining to civil violations of this Act or rules and regulations promulgated hereunder;

(3) To promulgate such rules and regulations as in its judgment may be necessary to protect or enhance the credibility and integrity of gambling operations authorized by this Act and the regulatory process hereunder;

(4) To provide for the establishment and collection of all license and registration fees and taxes imposed by this Act and the rules and regulations issued pursuant hereto. All such fees and taxes shall be deposited into the State Gaming Fund, unless otherwise provided for;

(5) To provide for the levy and collection of penalties and fines for the violation of provisions of this Act and the rules and regulations promulgated hereunder. All such fines and penalties shall be deposited into the Education Assistance Fund, created by Public Act 86-0018, of the State of Illinois;

(6) To be present through its inspectors and agents any time gambling operations are conducted on any riverboat for the purpose of certifying the revenue thereof, receiving complaints from the public, and conducting such other investigations into the conduct of the gambling games and the maintenance of the equipment as from time to time the Board may deem necessary and proper;

(7) To review and rule upon any complaint by a licensee regarding any investigative procedures of the State which are unnecessarily disruptive of gambling operations. The need to inspect and investigate shall be presumed at all times. The disruption of a licensee's operations shall be proved by clear and convincing evidence, and establish that: (A) the procedures had no reasonable law enforcement purposes, and (B) the procedures were so disruptive as to unreasonably inhibit gambling operations;

(8) (Blank) To hold at least one meeting each quarter of the fiscal year. In addition, special meetings may be called by the Chairman or any 2 Board members upon 72 hours written notice to each member. All Board meetings shall be subject to the Open Meetings Act. Three members of the Board shall constitute a quorum, and 3 votes shall be required for any final determination by the Board. The Board shall keep a complete and accurate record of all its meetings. A majority of the members of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business, for the performance of any duty, or for the exercise of any power which this Act requires the Board members to transact, perform or exercise en banc, except that, upon order of the Board, one of the Board members or an administrative law judge designated by the Board may conduct any hearing provided for under this Act or by Board rule and may recommend findings and decisions to the Board. The Board member or administrative law judge conducting such hearing shall have all powers and rights granted to the Board in this Act. The record made at the time of the hearing shall be reviewed by the Board, or a majority thereof, and the findings and decision of the majority of the Board shall constitute the order of the Board in such case;

(9) To maintain records which are separate and distinct from the records of any other State board or commission. Such records shall be available for public inspection and shall accurately reflect all Board proceedings;

(10) (Blank) To file a written annual report with the Governor on or before March 1 each year and such additional reports as the Governor may request. The annual report shall include a statement of receipts and disbursements by the Board, actions taken by the Board, and any additional information and recommendations which the Board may deem valuable or which the Governor may request;

(11) (Blank);

(12) (Blank) To assume responsibility for the administration and enforcement of the Bingo License and Tax Act, the Charitable Games Act, and the Pull Tabs and Jar Games Act if such responsibility is delegated to it by the Director of Revenue; and

(13) To assume responsibility for administration and enforcement of the Video Gaming Act.

(c) The Board shall have jurisdiction over and shall supervise all gambling operations governed by this Act. The Board shall have all powers necessary and proper to fully and effectively execute the provisions of this Act, including, but not limited to, the following:

(1) To investigate applicants and determine the eligibility of applicants for licenses and to select among competing applicants the applicants which best serve the interests of the citizens of Illinois.

(2) To have jurisdiction and supervision over all riverboat gambling operations in this State and all persons on riverboats where gambling operations are conducted.

(3) To promulgate rules and regulations for the purpose of administering the provisions of this Act and to prescribe rules, regulations and conditions under which all riverboat gambling in the State shall be conducted. Such rules and regulations are to provide for the prevention of practices detrimental to the public interest and for the best interests of riverboat gambling, including rules and regulations regarding the inspection of such riverboats and the review of any permits or licenses necessary to operate a riverboat under any laws or regulations applicable to riverboats, and to impose penalties for violations thereof.

(4) To enter the office, riverboats, facilities, or other places of business of a licensee, where evidence of the compliance or noncompliance with the provisions of this Act is likely to be found.

(5) To investigate alleged violations of this Act or the rules of the Board and to take appropriate disciplinary action against a licensee or a holder of an occupational license for a violation, or institute appropriate legal action for enforcement, or both.

(6) To adopt standards for the licensing of all persons under this Act, as well as for electronic or mechanical gambling games, and to establish fees for such licenses.

(7) To adopt appropriate standards for all riverboats and facilities.

(8) To require that the records, including financial or other statements of any licensee under this Act, shall be kept in such manner as prescribed by the Board and that any such licensee involved in the ownership or management of gambling operations submit to the Board an annual balance sheet and profit and loss statement, list of the stockholders or other persons having a 1% or greater beneficial interest in the gambling activities of each licensee, and any other information the Board deems necessary in order to effectively administer this Act and all rules, regulations, orders and final decisions promulgated under this Act.

(9) To conduct hearings, issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses and subpoenas duces tecum for the production of books, records and other pertinent documents in accordance with the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act, and to administer oaths and affirmations to the witnesses, when, in the judgment of the Board, it is necessary to administer or enforce this Act or the Board rules.

(10) To prescribe a form to be used by any licensee involved in the ownership or management of gambling operations as an application for employment for their employees.

(11) To revoke or suspend licenses, as the Board may see fit and in compliance with applicable laws of the State regarding administrative procedures, and to review applications for the renewal of licenses.

(11.5) To The Board may suspend an owners license, without notice or hearing, upon a determination that the safety or health of patrons or employees is jeopardized by continuing a riverboat's operation. The suspension may remain in effect until the Board determines that the cause for suspension has been abated. After such a suspension, the The Board may revoke the owners license upon a determination that the licensee owner has not made satisfactory progress toward abating the hazard.

(12) To eject or exclude or authorize the ejection or exclusion of, any person from riverboat gambling facilities where such person is in violation of this Act, rules and regulations thereunder, or final orders of the Board, or where such person's conduct or reputation is such that his presence within the riverboat gambling facilities may, in the opinion of the Board, call into question the honesty and integrity of the gambling operations or interfere with orderly conduct thereof; provided that the propriety of such ejection or exclusion is subject to subsequent hearing by the Board.

(13) To require all licensees of gambling operations to utilize a cashless wagering system whereby all players' money is converted to tokens, electronic cards, or chips which shall be used only for wagering in the gambling establishment.

(14) (Blank).

(15) To suspend, revoke or restrict licenses, to require the removal of a licensee or an employee of a licensee for a violation of this Act or a Board rule or for engaging in a fraudulent practice, and to impose civil penalties of up to $5,000 against individuals and up to $10,000 or an amount equal to the daily gross receipts, whichever is larger, against licensees for each violation of any provision of the Act, any rules adopted by the Board, any order of the Board or any other action which, in the Board's discretion, is a detriment or impediment to riverboat gambling operations.

(16) To hire employees to gather information, conduct investigations and carry out any other tasks contemplated under this Act.

(17) To establish minimum levels of insurance to be maintained by licensees.

(18) To authorize a licensee to sell or serve alcoholic liquors, wine or beer as defined in the Liquor Control Act of 1934 on board a riverboat and to have exclusive authority to establish the hours for sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor on board a riverboat, notwithstanding any provision of the Liquor Control Act of 1934 or any local ordinance, and regardless of whether the riverboat makes excursions. The establishment of the hours for sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor on board a riverboat is an exclusive power and function of the State. A home rule unit may not establish the hours for sale and consumption of alcoholic liquor on board a riverboat. This amendatory Act of 1991 is a denial and limitation of home rule powers and functions under subsection (h) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution.

(19) After consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to establish binding emergency orders upon the concurrence of a majority of the members of the Board regarding the navigability of water, relative to excursions, in the event of extreme weather conditions, acts of God or other extreme circumstances.

(20) To delegate the execution of any of its powers under this Act for the purpose of administering and enforcing this Act and its rules and regulations hereunder.

(20.6) To appoint investigators to conduct investigations, searches, seizures, arrests, and other duties imposed under this Act, as deemed necessary by the Board. These investigators have and may exercise all of the rights and powers of peace officers, provided that these powers shall be limited to offenses or violations occurring or committed on a riverboat or dock, as defined in subsections (d) and (f) of Section 4, or as otherwise provided by this Act or any other law.

(20.7) To contract with the Department of State Police for the use of trained and qualified State police officers and with the Department of Revenue for the use of trained and qualified Department of Revenue investigators to conduct investigations, searches, seizures, arrests, and other duties imposed under this Act and to exercise all of the rights and powers of peace officers, provided that the powers of Department of Revenue investigators under this subdivision (20.7) shall be limited to offenses or violations occurring or committed on a riverboat or dock, as defined in subsections (d) and (f) of Section 4, or as otherwise provided by this Act or any other law. In the event the Department of State Police or the Department of Revenue is unable to fill contracted police or investigative positions, the Board may appoint investigators to fill those positions pursuant to subdivision (20.6).

(21) When all 5 members of the Board are appointed and qualified pursuant to this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly, to review all contracts entered into by owners licensees authorized under this Act. The Board must review and approve all contracts entered into by a owners licensee for an aggregate amount of $10,000 or more or for a term to exceed 365 days. If a contract has been entered into prior to Board authorization of a requested action, including without limitation a contract for a construction project for expansion of a facility, or for construction of a relocated facility, then the contract is not valid until the Board approves both the requested action and the contract itself.

(22) (21) To take any other action as may be reasonable or appropriate to enforce this Act and rules and regulations hereunder.

(d) The Board may seek and shall receive the cooperation of the Department of State Police in conducting background investigations of applicants and in fulfilling its responsibilities under this Section. Costs incurred by the Department of State Police as a result of such cooperation shall be paid by the Board in conformance with the requirements of Section 2605-400 of the Department of State Police Law (20 ILCS 2605/2605-400).

(e) The Board must authorize to each investigator and to any other employee of the Board exercising the powers of a peace officer a distinct badge that, on its face, (i) clearly states that the badge is authorized by the Board and (ii) contains a unique identifying number. No other badge shall be authorized by the Board.

(f) Except as provided in subsection (h) of Section 5.4, all Board meetings are subject to the Open Meetings Act. Three members of the Board constitute a quorum, and 3 votes are required for any final determination by the Board. The Board shall keep a complete and accurate record of all its meetings. A majority of the members of the Board constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business, for the performance of any duty, or for the exercise of any power that this Act requires the Board members to transact, perform, or exercise en banc, except that, upon order of the Board, one of the Board members or an administrative law judge designated by the Board may conduct any hearing provided for under this Act or by Board rule and may recommend findings and decisions to the Board. The Board member or administrative law judge conducting such hearing has all powers and rights granted to the Board in this Act. The record made at the time of the hearing shall be reviewed by the Board, or a majority thereof, and the findings and decision of the majority of the Board constitutes the order of the Board in such case.

(g) The Board shall carry on a continuous study of the operation and administration of gaming laws that may be in effect in other jurisdictions, literature on this subject that may from time to time become available, federal laws that may affect the operation of gaming in this State, and the reaction of Illinois citizens to existing and potential features of gaming under this Act. The Board is responsible for ascertaining any defects in this Act or in the rules adopted thereunder, formulating recommendations for changes in this Act to prevent abuses thereof, guarding against the use of this Act as a cloak for the carrying on of illegal gambling or other criminal activities, and insuring that this Act and the rules are in such form and so administered as to serve the true purposes of this Act.

(h) The Board shall file with the Governor and the General Assembly an annual report of (i) all revenues, expenses, and disbursements, (ii) actions taken by the Board, and (iii) any recommendations for changes in this Act as the Board deems necessary or desirable. The Board shall also report recommendations that promote more efficient operations of the Board.

(i) The Board shall report immediately to the Governor and the General Assembly any matters that in its judgment require immediate changes in the laws of this State in order to prevent abuses and evasions of this Act or of its rules or to rectify undesirable conditions in connection with the operation and regulation of gambling operations.

(Source: P.A. 96-34, eff. 7-13-09; 96-37, eff. 7-13-09; revised 8-20-09.)

(230 ILCS 10/5.1) (from Ch. 120, par. 2405.1)

Sec. 5.1. Disclosure of records.

(a) Notwithstanding any applicable statutory provision to the contrary, the Board shall, on written request from any person, provide information furnished by an applicant or licensee concerning the applicant or licensee, his products, services or gambling enterprises and his business holdings, as follows:

(1) The name, business address and business telephone number of any applicant or licensee.

(2) An identification of any applicant or licensee including, if an applicant or licensee is not an individual, the state of incorporation or registration, the corporate officers, and the identity of all shareholders or participants. If an applicant or licensee has a pending registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, only the names of those persons or entities holding interest of 1% 5% or more must be provided.

(3) An identification of any business, including, if applicable, the state of incorporation or registration, in which an applicant or licensee or an applicant's or licensee's spouse or children has an equity interest of more than 1% 5%. If an applicant or licensee is a corporation, partnership or other business entity, the applicant or licensee shall identify any other corporation, partnership or business entity in which it has an equity interest of 1% 5% or more, including, if applicable, the state of incorporation or registration. This information need not be provided by a corporation, partnership or other business entity that has a pending registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

(4) Whether an applicant or licensee has been indicted, convicted, pleaded guilty or nolo contendere, or forfeited bail concerning any criminal offense under the laws of any jurisdiction, either felony or misdemeanor (except for traffic violations), including the date, the name and location of the court, arresting agency and prosecuting agency, the case number, the offense, the disposition and the location and length of incarceration.

(5) Whether an applicant or licensee has had any license or certificate issued by a licensing authority in Illinois or any other jurisdiction denied, restricted, suspended, revoked or not renewed and a statement describing the facts and circumstances concerning the denial, restriction, suspension, revocation or non-renewal, including the licensing authority, the date each such action was taken, and the reason for each such action.

(6) Whether an applicant or licensee has ever filed or had filed against it a proceeding in bankruptcy or has ever been involved in any formal process to adjust, defer, suspend or otherwise work out the payment of any debt including the date of filing, the name and location of the court, the case and number of the disposition.

(7) Whether an applicant or licensee has filed, or been served with a complaint or other notice filed with any public body, regarding the delinquency in the payment of, or a dispute over the filings concerning the payment of, any tax required under federal, State or local law, including the amount, type of tax, the taxing agency and time periods involved.

(8) A statement listing the names and titles of all public officials or officers of any unit of government, and relatives of said public officials or officers who, directly or indirectly, own any financial interest in, have any beneficial interest in, are the creditors of or hold any debt instrument issued by, or hold or have any interest in any contractual or service relationship with, an applicant or licensee.

(9) Whether an applicant or licensee has made, directly or indirectly, any political contribution, or any loans, donations or other payments, to any candidate or office holder, within 5 years from the date of filing the application, including the amount and the method of payment.

(10) The name and business telephone number of the counsel representing an applicant or licensee in matters before the Board.

(11) A description of any proposed or approved riverboat gaming operation, including the type of boat, home dock location, expected economic benefit to the community, anticipated or actual number of employees, any statement from an applicant or licensee regarding compliance with federal and State affirmative action guidelines, projected or actual admissions and projected or actual adjusted gross gaming receipts.

(12) A description of the product or service to be supplied by an applicant for a supplier's license.

(b) Notwithstanding any applicable statutory provision to the contrary, the Board shall, on written request from any person, also provide the following information furnished by an applicant for a owners license or owners licensee:

(1) The amount of the wagering tax and admission tax paid daily to the State of Illinois by the holder of an owner's license.

(2) Whenever the Board finds an applicant for an owner's license unsuitable for licensing, a copy of the written letter outlining the reasons for the denial.

(3) Whenever the Board has refused to grant leave for an applicant to withdraw his application, a copy of the letter outlining the reasons for the refusal.

(c) Subject to the above provisions, the Board shall not disclose any information which would be barred by:

(1) Section 7 of the Freedom of Information Act; or

(2) The statutes, rules, regulations or intergovernmental agreements of any jurisdiction.

(d) The Board may assess fees for the copying of information in accordance with Section 6 of the Freedom of Information Act.

(Source: P.A. 87-826.)

(230 ILCS 10/5.2 new)

Sec. 5.2. Separation from Department of Revenue. On the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly, all of the powers, duties, assets, liabilities, employees, contracts, property, records, pending business, and unexpended appropriations of the Department of Revenue related to the administration and enforcement of this Act are transferred to the Illinois Gaming Board.

The status and rights of the transferred employees, and the rights of the State of Illinois and its agencies, under the Personnel Code and applicable collective bargaining agreements or under any pension, retirement, or annuity plan are not affected (except as provided in the Illinois Pension Code) by that transfer or by any other provision of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly.

(230 ILCS 10/5.3 new)

Sec. 5.3. Nomination Panel.

(a) The Nomination Panel is established to provide a list of nominees to the Governor for appointment to the Illinois Gaming Board. Members of the Nomination Panel shall be appointed by majority vote of the following appointing authorities: (1) the Executive Ethics Commissioner appointed by the Secretary of State; (2) the Executive Ethics Commissioner appointed by the Treasurer; (3) the Executive Ethics Commissioner appointed by the Comptroller; (4) the Executive Ethics Commissioner appointed by the Attorney General; and (5) the Executive Ethics Commissioner appointed to serve as the first Chairman of the Executive Ethics Commission, or, upon his or her disqualification or resignation, the longest-serving Executive Ethics Commissioner appointed by the Governor. Provided, however, the appointing authorities as of the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly shall remain empowered to fill vacancies on the Nomination Panel until all members of the new Gaming Board have been appointed and qualified, regardless of whether such appointing authorities remain members of the Executive Ethics Commission. For appointing authorities who were appointed to the Executive Ethics Commission by a Constitutional officer other than the Governor, in the event of such appointing authority's disqualification, resignation, or refusal to serve as an appointing authority, the Constitutional officer that appointed the Executive Ethics Commissioner may name a designee to serve as an appointing authority for the Nomination Panel. For the appointing authority who was appointed to the Executive Ethics Commission by the Governor, in the event of such appointing authority's disqualification, resignation, or refusal to serve as an appointing authority, the longest-serving Executive Ethics Commissioner appointed by the Governor shall become the appointing authority. The appointing authorities may hold so many public or non-public meetings as is required to fulfill their duties, and may utilize the staff and budget of the Executive Ethics Commission in carrying out their duties; provided, however, that a final vote on appointees to the Nomination Panel shall take place in a meeting governed by the Open Meetings Act. Any ex parte communications regarding the Nomination Panel must be made a part of the record at the next public meeting and part of a written record. The appointing authorities shall file a list of members of the Nomination Panel with the Secretary of State within 60 days after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly. A vacancy on the Nomination Panel due to disqualification or resignation must be filled within 60 days of a vacancy and the appointing authorities must file the name of the new appointee with the Secretary of State.

(b) The Nomination Panel shall consist of the following members: (i) 2 members shall be former federal or State judges from Illinois, (ii) 2 members shall be former federal prosecutors from Illinois, (iii) one member shall be a former sworn federal officer with investigatory experience with a federal agency, including but not limited to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, or any other federal agency, (iv) 2 former members of federal agencies with experience in regulatory oversight, and (v) 2 members with at least 5 years of experience with nonprofit agencies in Illinois committed to public-interest advocacy, after the appointing authorities' solicitation of recommendations from the Campaign for Political Reform, the Better Government Association, the Chicago Crime Commission, the League of Women Voters, the Urban League, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, the Citizen Advocacy Center, and any other source deemed appropriate. Each member of the Panel shall receive $300 for each day the Panel meets.

(c) Candidates for nomination to the Illinois Gaming Board may apply or be nominated. All candidates must fill out a written application and submit to a background investigation to be eligible for consideration. The written application must include, at a minimum, a sworn statement disclosing any communications that the applicant has engaged in with a constitutional officer, a member of the General Assembly, a special government agent (as that term is defined in Section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act), a director, secretary, or other employee of the executive branch of the State, or an employee of the legislative branch of the State related to the regulation of gaming within the last year.

A person who provides false or misleading information on the application or fails to disclose a communication required to be disclosed in the sworn statement under this Section is guilty of a Class 4 felony.

(d) Once an application is submitted to the Nomination Panel and until (1) the candidate is rejected by the Nomination Panel, (2) the candidate is rejected by the Governor, (3) the candidate is rejected by the Senate, or (4) the candidate is confirmed by the Senate, whichever is applicable, a candidate may not engage in ex parte communications, as that term is defined in Section 5.5 of this Act.

(e) For the purpose of making the initial nominations after the effective date of the amendatory Act of the 96th General Assembly, the Nomination Panel shall request the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to conduct the background investigation. If the Federal Bureau of Investigation does not agree to conduct the background investigations within 120 days after the request, the Nomination Panel may contract with an independent agency that specialized in conducting personal investigations. The Nomination Panel, however, may not engage the services or enter into any contract with State or local agencies. The Nomination Panel shall conduct a background investigation on eligible applicants prior to nomination.

(f) The Nomination Panel must review written applications, determine eligibility for oral interviews, confirm satisfactory background investigations, and hold public hearings on qualifications of candidates. Initial interviews of candidates need not be held in meetings subject to the Open Meetings Act; members or staff may arrange for informal interviews. Prior to recommendation, however, the Nomination Panel must question candidates in a meeting subject to the Open Meetings Act under oath.

(g) The Nomination Panel must recommend 15 candidates for nomination to the Illinois Gaming Board. The Governor may choose only from these recommendations. The Nomination Panel shall deliver a list of the nominees, including a memorandum detailing the nominees' qualifications, to the Governor. After submitting the names to the Governor, the Nomination Panel shall file a copy along with a statement confirming delivery of the list and memorandum to the Governor with the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall indicate the date and time of filing.

(h) After reviewing the nominations, the Governor may select 5 nominees for the Illinois Gaming Board to be confirmed by the Senate. The Governor shall file the names of his nominees with the Senate and the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall indicate the date and time of filing.

The Governor has 90 days from the date the Nomination Panel files with the Secretary of State to select nominees for confirmation by the Senate. If the Governor does not select all nominees within 90 days, the Nomination Panel may select the members or remaining members of the Board. The Nomination Panel shall file the names of nominees with the Senate and the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State shall indicate the date and time of filing.

(i) Selections by the Governor or Nomination Panel must receive the consent of the Senate by two-thirds of members by record vote. Any nomination not acted upon within 30 calendar days after the date of filing with the Secretary of State shall be deemed to have received the advice and consent of the Senate.

(j) When a vacancy occurs on the Illinois Gaming Board, the Nomination Panel shall use its best efforts to recommend at least 3 candidates for that vacancy within 90 days after the vacancy, and the Governor shall respond within 90 days or the Nomination Panel may make the appointment. Vacancies shall be confirmed in the same manner prescribed in this Section.

(230 ILCS 10/5.5 new)

Sec. 5.5. Ethics provisions.

(a) Conflict of Interest. Board members, members of the Nomination Panel, and employees may not engage in communications or any activity that may cause or have the appearance of causing a conflict of interest. A conflict of interest exists if a situation influences or creates the appearance that it may influence judgment or performance of regulatory duties and responsibilities. This prohibition shall extend to any act identified by Board action that, in the judgment of the Board, could represent the potential for or the appearance of a conflict of interest.

(b) Financial Interest. Board members, members of the Nomination Panel, and employees may not have a financial interest, directly or indirectly, in his or her own name or in the name of any other person, partnership, association, trust, corporation, or other entity, in any contract or subcontract for the performance of any work for the Board of any licensee. This prohibition shall extend to the holding or acquisition of an interest in any entity identified by Board action that, in the judgment of the Board, could represent the potential for or the appearance of a financial interest. The holding or acquisition of an interest in such entities through an indirect means, such as through a mutual fund, shall not be prohibited, except that Board may identify specific investments or funds that, in its judgment, are so influenced by gaming holdings as to represent the potential for or the appearance of a conflict of interest.

(c) Gambling. Except as may be required in the conduct of official duties, Board members and employees shall not engage in gambling on any riverboat licensed by the Board or engage in legalized gambling in any establishment identified by Board action that, in the judgment of the Board, could represent a potential for a conflict of interest.

(d) Outside employment. A Board member or an employee may not, within a period of 5 years immediately after termination of employment, knowingly accept employment or receive compensation or fees for services from a person or entity, or its parent or affiliate, that has engaged in business with the Board that resulted in contracts with an aggregate value of at least $25,000 or made a decision that directly applied to the person or entity, or its parent or affiliate. Board members and employees shall not hold or pursue employment, office, position, business, or occupation that conflict with his or her official duties. Board members shall not engage in other employment. Employees may engage in other gainful employment so long as that employment does not interfere or conflict with their duties and such employment is approved by the Board.

(e) Gift ban. Board members and employees may not accept any gift, gratuity, service, compensation, travel, lodging, or thing of value, with the exception of unsolicited items of an incidental nature, from any person, corporation or entity doing business with the Board.

(f) Abuse of Position. A Board member, member of the Nomination Panel, or employee shall not use or attempt to use his or her official position to secure, or attempt to secure, any privilege, advantage, favor, or influence for himself or herself or others.

(g) Political activity. No member of the Board or employee, shall engage in any political activity. For the purposes of this subsection, "political activity" means any activity in support of or in connection with any campaign for State or local elective office or any political organization, but does not include activities (i) relating to the support of opposition of any executive, legislative, or administrative action (as those terms are defined in Section 2 of the Lobbyist Registration Act), (ii) relating to collective bargaining, or (iii) that are otherwise in furtherance of the person's official State duties or governmental and public service functions.

(h) A spouse, child, or parent of a Board member or an employee may not:

(1) Have a financial interest, directly or indirectly, in his or her own name or in the name of any other person, partnership, association, trust, corporation, or other entity, in any contract or subcontract for the performance of any work for the Board of any licensee. This prohibition shall extend to the holding or acquisition of an interest in any entity identified by Board action that, in the judgment of the Board, could represent the potential for or the appearance of a conflict of interest. The holding or acquisition of an interest in such entities through an indirect means, such as through a mutual fund, shall not be prohibited, expect that the Board may identify specific investments or funds that, in its judgment, are so influenced by gaming holdings as to represent the potential for or the appearance of a conflict of interest.

(2) Accept any gift, gratuity, service, compensation, travel, lodging, or thing of value, with the exception of unsolicited items of an incidental nature, from any person, corporation or entity doing business with the Board.

(i) Any Board member, member of the Nomination Panel, or employee or spouse, child, or parent of a Board member, member of the Nomination Panel, or employee who violates any provision of this Section is guilty of a Class 4 felony.

(230 ILCS 10/5.7 new)

Sec. 5.7. Ex parte communications.

(a) For the purpose of this Section:

"Ex parte communication" means any written or oral communication by any person that imparts or requests material information or makes a material argument regarding potential action concerning regulatory, quasi regulatory, investment, or licensing matters pending before or under consideration by the Illinois Gaming Board. "Ex parte communication" does not include the following: (i) statements by a person publicly made in a public forum; (ii) statements regarding matters of procedure and practice, such as format, the number of copies required, the manner of filing, and the status of a matter; (iii) statements regarding recommendation for pending or approved legislation; (iv) statements made by a State employee of the agency to the agency head or other employees of that agency.

"Interested party" means a person or entity whose rights, privileges, or interests are the subject of or are directly affected by a regulatory, quasi-adjudicatory, investment, or licensing matter of the Board.

(b) A constitutional officer, a member of the General Assembly, a special government agent as that term is defined in Section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act, a director, secretary, or other employee of the executive branch of the State, an employee of the legislative branch of the State, or an interested party may not engage in any ex parte communication with a member of the Board or an employee. A member of the Board or an employee must immediately report any ex parte communication to the Inspector General for gaming activities. A violation of this subsection (b) is a Class 4 felony.

(c) A constitutional officer, a member of the General Assembly, a special government agent as that term is defined in Section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act, a director, secretary, or other employee of the executive branch of the State, an employee of the legislative branch of the State, or an interested party may not engage in any ex parte communication with a nominee for the Board. A person is deemed a nominee once they have submitted information to the nomination panel. A nominee must immediately report any ex parte communication to the Inspector General for gaming activities. A violation of this subsection (c) is a Class 4 felony.

(d) Any ex parte communication from a constitutional officer, a member of the General Assembly, a special government agent as that term is defined in Section 4A-101 of the Illinois Governmental Ethics Act, a director, secretary, or other employee of the executive branch of the State, an employee of the legislative branch of the State, or an interested party received by a member of the Nomination Panel or employee assisting the Nomination Panel must be immediately memorialized and made a part of the record at the next meeting. Report of the communication shall include all written communications along with a statement describing the nature and substance of all oral communications, any action the person requested or recommended, the identity and job title of the person to whom each communication was made, all responses made by the member. A violation of this subsection (d) is Class A misdemeanor.

(230 ILCS 10/9.5 new)

Sec. 9.5. Contractor disclosure of political contributions.

(a) As used in this Section:

"Contracts" means any agreement for services or goods for a period to exceed one year or with an annual value of at least $10,000.

"Contribution" means contribution as defined in this act.

"Affiliated person" means (i) any person with any ownership interest or distributive share of the bidding or contracting entity in excess of 1%, (ii) executive employees of the bidding or contracting entity, and (iii) the spouse and minor children of any such persons.

"Affiliated entity" means (i) any parent or subsidiary of the bidding or contracting entity, (ii) any member of the same unitary business group, or (iii) any political committee for which the bidding or contracting entity is the sponsoring entity.

(b) A bidder, offeror, or contractor for contracts with a licensee shall disclose all political contributions of the bidder, offeror, or contractor and any affiliated person or entity. Such disclosure must accompany any contract. The disclosure must be submitted to the Board with a copy of the contract prior to Board approval of the contract. The disclosure of each successful bidder or offeror shall become part of the publicly available record.

(c) Disclosure by the bidder, offeror, or contractor shall include at least the names and addresses of the contributors and the dollar amounts of any contributions to any political committee made within the previous 2 years.

(d) The Board shall refuse to approve any contract that does not include the required disclosure. The Board must include the disclosure on their website.

(e) The Board may direct a licensee to void a contract if a violation of this Section occurs.

(230 ILCS 10/11) (from Ch. 120, par. 2411)

Sec. 11. Conduct of gambling. Gambling may be conducted by licensed owners or licensed managers on behalf of the State aboard riverboats, subject to the following standards:

(1) A licensee may conduct riverboat gambling authorized under this Act regardless of whether it conducts excursion cruises. A licensee may permit the continuous ingress and egress of passengers for the purpose of gambling.

(2) (Blank).

(3) Minimum and maximum wagers on games shall be set by the licensee.

(4) Agents of the Board and the Department of State Police may board and inspect any riverboat at any time for the purpose of determining whether this Act is being complied with. Every riverboat, if under way and being hailed by a law enforcement officer or agent of the Board, must stop immediately and lay to.

(5) Employees of the Board shall have the right to be present on the riverboat or on adjacent facilities under the control of the licensee.

(6) Gambling equipment and supplies customarily used in conducting riverboat gambling must be purchased or leased only from suppliers licensed for such purpose under this Act.

(7) Persons licensed under this Act shall permit no form of wagering on gambling games except as permitted by this Act.

(8) Wagers may be received only from a person present on a licensed riverboat. No person present on a licensed riverboat shall place or attempt to place a wager on behalf of another person who is not present on the riverboat.

(9) Wagering shall not be conducted with money or other negotiable currency.

(10) A person under age 21 shall not be permitted on an area of a riverboat where gambling is being conducted, except for a person at least 18 years of age who is an employee of the riverboat gambling operation. No employee under age 21 shall perform any function involved in gambling by the patrons. No person under age 21 shall be permitted to make a wager under this Act.

(11) Gambling excursion cruises are permitted only when the waterway for which the riverboat is licensed is navigable, as determined by the Board in consultation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This paragraph (11) does not limit the ability of a licensee to conduct gambling authorized under this Act when gambling excursion cruises are not permitted.

(12) All tokens, chips or electronic cards used to make wagers must be purchased from a licensed owner or manager either aboard a riverboat or at an onshore facility which has been approved by the Board and which is located where the riverboat docks. The tokens, chips or electronic cards may be purchased by means of an agreement under which the owner or manager extends credit to the patron. Such tokens, chips or electronic cards may be used while aboard the riverboat only for the purpose of making wagers on gambling games.

(13) Notwithstanding any other Section of this Act, in addition to the other licenses authorized under this Act, the Board may issue special event licenses allowing persons who are not otherwise licensed to conduct riverboat gambling to conduct such gambling on a specified date or series of dates. Riverboat gambling under such a license may take place on a riverboat not normally used for riverboat gambling. The Board shall establish standards, fees and fines for, and limitations upon, such licenses, which may differ from the standards, fees, fines and limitations otherwise applicable under this Act. All such fees shall be deposited into the State Gaming Fund. All such fines shall be deposited into the Education Assistance Fund, created by Public Act 86-0018, of the State of Illinois.

(14) In addition to the above, gambling must be conducted in accordance with all rules adopted by the Board.

(Source: P.A. 93-28, eff. 6-20-03.)

(230 ILCS 10/13) (from Ch. 120, par. 2413)

Sec. 13. Wagering tax; rate; distribution.

(a) Until January 1, 1998, a tax is imposed on the adjusted gross receipts received from gambling games authorized under this Act at the rate of 20%.

(a-1) From January 1, 1998 until July 1, 2002, a privilege tax is imposed on persons engaged in the business of conducting riverboat gambling operations, based on the adjusted gross receipts received by a licensed owner from gambling games authorized under this Act at the following rates:

15% of annual adjusted gross receipts up to and including $25,000,000;

20% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $25,000,000 but not exceeding $50,000,000;

25% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $50,000,000 but not exceeding $75,000,000;

30% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $75,000,000 but not exceeding $100,000,000;

35% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $100,000,000.

(a-2) From July 1, 2002 until July 1, 2003, a privilege tax is imposed on persons engaged in the business of conducting riverboat gambling operations, other than licensed managers conducting riverboat gambling operations on behalf of the State, based on the adjusted gross receipts received by a licensed owner from gambling games authorized under this Act at the following rates:

15% of annual adjusted gross receipts up to and including $25,000,000;

22.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $25,000,000 but not exceeding $50,000,000;

27.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $50,000,000 but not exceeding $75,000,000;

32.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $75,000,000 but not exceeding $100,000,000;

37.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $100,000,000 but not exceeding $150,000,000;

45% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $150,000,000 but not exceeding $200,000,000;

50% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $200,000,000.

(a-3) Beginning July 1, 2003, a privilege tax is imposed on persons engaged in the business of conducting riverboat gambling operations, other than licensed managers conducting riverboat gambling operations on behalf of the State, based on the adjusted gross receipts received by a licensed owner from gambling games authorized under this Act at the following rates:

15% of annual adjusted gross receipts up to and including $25,000,000;

27.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $25,000,000 but not exceeding $37,500,000;

32.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $37,500,000 but not exceeding $50,000,000;

37.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $50,000,000 but not exceeding $75,000,000;

45% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $75,000,000 but not exceeding $100,000,000;

50% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $100,000,000 but not exceeding $250,000,000;

70% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $250,000,000.

An amount equal to the amount of wagering taxes collected under this subsection (a-3) that are in addition to the amount of wagering taxes that would have been collected if the wagering tax rates under subsection (a-2) were in effect shall be paid into the Common School Fund.

The privilege tax imposed under this subsection (a-3) shall no longer be imposed beginning on the earlier of (i) July 1, 2005; (ii) the first date after June 20, 2003 that riverboat gambling operations are conducted pursuant to a dormant license; or (iii) the first day that riverboat gambling operations are conducted under the authority of an owners license that is in addition to the 10 owners licenses initially authorized under this Act. For the purposes of this subsection (a-3), the term "dormant license" means an owners license that is authorized by this Act under which no riverboat gambling operations are being conducted on June 20, 2003.

(a-4) Beginning on the first day on which the tax imposed under subsection (a-3) is no longer imposed, a privilege tax is imposed on persons engaged in the business of conducting riverboat gambling operations, other than licensed managers conducting riverboat gambling operations on behalf of the State, based on the adjusted gross receipts received by a licensed owner from gambling games authorized under this Act at the following rates:

15% of annual adjusted gross receipts up to and including $25,000,000;

22.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $25,000,000 but not exceeding $50,000,000;

27.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $50,000,000 but not exceeding $75,000,000;

32.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $75,000,000 but not exceeding $100,000,000;

37.5% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $100,000,000 but not exceeding $150,000,000;

45% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $150,000,000 but not exceeding $200,000,000;

50% of annual adjusted gross receipts in excess of $200,000,000.

(a-8) Riverboat gambling operations conducted by a licensed manager on behalf of the State are not subject to the tax imposed under this Section.

(a-10) The taxes imposed by this Section shall be paid by the licensed owner to the Board not later than 3:00 o'clock p.m. of the day after the day when the wagers were made.

(a-15) If the privilege tax imposed under subsection (a-3) is no longer imposed pursuant to item (i) of the last paragraph of subsection (a-3), then by June 15 of each year, each owners licensee, other than an owners licensee that admitted 1,000,000 persons or fewer in calendar year 2004, must, in addition to the payment of all amounts otherwise due under this Section, pay to the Board a reconciliation payment in the amount, if any, by which the licensed owner's base amount exceeds the amount of net privilege tax paid by the licensed owner to the Board in the then current State fiscal year. A licensed owner's net privilege tax obligation due for the balance of the State fiscal year shall be reduced up to the total of the amount paid by the licensed owner in its June 15 reconciliation payment. The obligation imposed by this subsection (a-15) is binding on any person, firm, corporation, or other entity that acquires an ownership interest in any such owners license. The obligation imposed under this subsection (a-15) terminates on the earliest of: (i) July 1, 2007, (ii) the first day after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 94th General Assembly that riverboat gambling operations are conducted pursuant to a dormant license, (iii) the first day that riverboat gambling operations are conducted under the authority of an owners license that is in addition to the 10 owners licenses initially authorized under this Act, or (iv) the first day that a licensee under the Illinois Horse Racing Act of 1975 conducts gaming operations with slot machines or other electronic gaming devices. The Board must reduce the obligation imposed under this subsection (a-15) by an amount the Board deems reasonable for any of the following reasons: (A) an act or acts of God, (B) an act of bioterrorism or terrorism or a bioterrorism or terrorism threat that was investigated by a law enforcement agency, or (C) a condition beyond the control of the owners licensee that does not result from any act or omission by the owners licensee or any of its agents and that poses a hazardous threat to the health and safety of patrons. If an owners licensee pays an amount in excess of its liability under this Section, the Board shall apply the overpayment to future payments required under this Section.

For purposes of this subsection (a-15):

"Act of God" means an incident caused by the operation of an extraordinary force that cannot be foreseen, that cannot be avoided by the exercise of due care, and for which no person can be held liable.

"Base amount" means the following:

For a riverboat in Alton, $31,000,000.

For a riverboat in East Peoria, $43,000,000.

For the Empress riverboat in Joliet, $86,000,000.

For a riverboat in Metropolis, $45,000,000.

For the Harrah's riverboat in Joliet, $114,000,000.

For a riverboat in Aurora, $86,000,000.

For a riverboat in East St. Louis, $48,500,000.

For a riverboat in Elgin, $198,000,000.

"Dormant license" has the meaning ascribed to it in subsection (a-3).

"Net privilege tax" means all privilege taxes paid by a licensed owner to the Board under this Section, less all payments made from the State Gaming Fund pursuant to subsection (b) of this Section.

The changes made to this subsection (a-15) by Public Act 94-839 are intended to restate and clarify the intent of Public Act 94-673 with respect to the amount of the payments required to be made under this subsection by an owners licensee to the Board.

(b) Until January 1, 1998, 25% of the tax revenue deposited in the State Gaming Fund under this Section shall be paid, subject to appropriation by the General Assembly, to the unit of local government which is designated as the home dock of the riverboat. Beginning January 1, 1998, from the tax revenue deposited in the State Gaming Fund under this Section, an amount equal to 5% of adjusted gross receipts generated by a riverboat shall be paid monthly, subject to appropriation by the General Assembly, to the unit of local government that is designated as the home dock of the riverboat. From the tax revenue deposited in the State Gaming Fund pursuant to riverboat gambling operations conducted by a licensed manager on behalf of the State, an amount equal to 5% of adjusted gross receipts generated pursuant to those riverboat gambling operations shall be paid monthly, subject to appropriation by the General Assembly, to the unit of local government that is designated as the home dock of the riverboat upon which those riverboat gambling operations are conducted.

(c) (Blank). Appropriations, as approved by the General Assembly, may be made from the State Gaming Fund to the Department of Revenue and the Department of State Police for the administration and enforcement of this Act and the Video Gaming Act, or to the Department of Human Services for the administration of programs to treat problem gambling.

(c-5) Before May 26, 2006 (the effective date of Public Act 94-804) and beginning on the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 95th General Assembly, unless any organization licensee under the Illinois Horse Racing Act of 1975 begins to operate a slot machine or video game of chance under the Illinois Horse Racing Act of 1975 or this Act, after the payments required under subsections (b) and (c) have been made, an amount equal to 15% of the adjusted gross receipts of (1) an owners licensee that relocates pursuant to Section 11.2, (2) an owners licensee conducting riverboat gambling operations pursuant to an owners license that is initially issued after June 25, 1999, or (3) the first riverboat gambling operations conducted by a licensed manager on behalf of the State under Section 7.3, whichever comes first, shall be paid from the State Gaming Fund into the Horse Racing Equity Fund.

(c-10) Each year the General Assembly shall appropriate from the General Revenue Fund to the Education Assistance Fund an amount equal to the amount paid into the Horse Racing Equity Fund pursuant to subsection (c-5) in the prior calendar year.

(c-15) After the payments required under subsections (b), (c), and (c-5) have been made, an amount equal to 2% of the adjusted gross receipts of (1) an owners licensee that relocates pursuant to Section 11.2, (2) an owners licensee conducting riverboat gambling operations pursuant to an owners license that is initially issued after June 25, 1999, or (3) the first riverboat gambling operations conducted by a licensed manager on behalf of the State under Section 7.3, whichever comes first, shall be paid, subject to appropriation from the General Assembly, from the State Gaming Fund to each home rule county with a population of over 3,000,000 inhabitants for the purpose of enhancing the county's criminal justice system.

(c-20) Each year the General Assembly shall appropriate from the General Revenue Fund to the Education Assistance Fund an amount equal to the amount paid to each home rule county with a population of over 3,000,000 inhabitants pursuant to subsection (c-15) in the prior calendar year.

(c-25) After the payments required under subsections (b), (c), (c-5) and (c-15) have been made, an amount equal to 2% of the adjusted gross receipts of (1) an owners licensee that relocates pursuant to Section 11.2, (2) an owners licensee conducting riverboat gambling operations pursuant to an owners license that is initially issued after June 25, 1999, or (3) the first riverboat gambling operations conducted by a licensed manager on behalf of the State under Section 7.3, whichever comes first, shall be paid from the State Gaming Fund to Chicago State University.

(d) From time to time, the Board shall transfer the remainder of the funds generated by this Act into the Education Assistance Fund, created by Public Act 86-0018, of the State of Illinois.

(e) Nothing in this Act shall prohibit the unit of local government designated as the home dock of the riverboat from entering into agreements with other units of local government in this State or in other states to share its portion of the tax revenue.

(f) To the extent practicable, the Board shall administer and collect the wagering taxes imposed by this Section in a manner consistent with the provisions of Sections 4, 5, 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5g, 5i, 5j, 6, 6a, 6b, 6c, 8, 9, and 10 of the Retailers' Occupation Tax Act and Section 3-7 of the Uniform Penalty and Interest Act.

(Source: P.A. 95-331, eff. 8-21-07; 95-1008, eff. 12-15-08; 96-37, eff. 7-13-09.)

Section 99. Effective date. This Act takes effect upon becoming law.