NW Illinois News

Tony McCombie, House Minority Leader of Illinois House of Representatives, criticized the repeated issues revealed in audit reports of state agencies. McCombie stated that audit reports are the only source of agency accountability accessible to Republicans. He mentioned several examples of problems plaguing state agencies, including issues with the Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Corrections, Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Department of Employment Security, Department of Human Services, Department of Innovation and Technology, and Central Management Services.

McCombie emphasized the need for access and collaboration, stating that Republicans are shut out of the process and calling for bipartisan efforts to solve the problems facing the state. He suggested holding agencies accountable through budget cuts if they fail to fulfill their responsibilities.

The House Minority Leader highlighted the urgency of addressing these issues, pointing out that delays and lack of accountability have resulted in federal investigations and corruption. McCombie stressed that Illinoisans cannot afford to wait for solutions.

In addition to her role as House Minority Leader, Tony McCombie has a background in real estate and has served as the mayor of Savanna, Illinois, and as a councilor on the Savanna City Council.

According to the Illinois Auditor General's report, the Department of Children and Family Services misreported $2.6 million in funds in 2021 and 2022. The report also revealed failures in maintaining duty segregation and access to important information within the agency.

Furthermore, in 2022, there were almost 50 more child deaths in the custody of the Department of Children and Family Services compared to the previous year.

It is clear that the repeated issues highlighted by these audits require immediate attention and action from lawmakers to ensure the well-being of the people of Illinois and hold state agencies accountable for their shortcomings.