BGA

Gov. Pat Quinn signed into law a landmark reform bill backed by the Better Government Association’s policy team, lawmakers and criminal justice advocates.

The owner of Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel is ending the long-standing practice of giving Diamond Cards to Joliet officials following a BGA/CBS2 report that showed the mayor, city manager and city council members had received the free VIP passes.

After CBS2 and the BGA highlight a potentially dangerous ambulance shortage in Chicago, two aldermen call for hearings and more emergency resources.

Following several BGA investigations on potentially illegal patronage hiring at the Illinois Department of Transportation, the head of the agency resigns under fire.

In wake of BGA legal action that forced mayor to release personal emails, Chicago Board of Ethics levies fine against David Plouffe, who lobbied mayor on behalf of Uber.

After the BGA sues CTA pension plan for violating the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, the retirement system turns over records, and makes its web site more user-friendly for those seeking public information.

Several groups, including the BGA, fight back legislation that would have significantly weakened the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, the state’s public records law.

The top ten results from Better Government Association initiatives.

After the BGA and CBS2 broadcast a series of stories on Chicago’s aging and otherwise stressed ambulance fleet, the Emanuel administration proposes hiring more paramedics and adding trauma-ready ambulances to the streets.

After the BGA and CBS2 raise questions about a motorcycle club founded by Melrose Park police.