Winning Concrete Results
Protecting Illinoisans From Identity Theft
In 2007, an Illinois PIRG-backed policy took effect, allowing consumers to place a “security freeze” on their credit reports. A security freeze requires credit bureaus to get a consumer’s approval before revealing credit information, preventing identity thieves from applying for credit and running up bills in your name.
Keeping Electricity Rates Affordable
In 2007, an Illinois PIRG-backed deal rolled back $1 billion worth of rate increases for Ameren and ComEd customers. The deal also eliminated the unfair “reverse auction” system that led to the rate increases in the first place.
Making Education More Affordable
In 2007 Illinois PIRG and its coalition partners helped convince the U.S. House of Representatives to vote to cut interest rates on federally subsidized student loans in half, saving nearly 130,000 student borrowers over $4,000 each.
Improving Illinois Transit
In 2007, Illinois PIRG helped push a transit bill through the gridlock in the Legislature. The bill provided a permanent funding solution, an end to “doomsday” budget scenarios and also provided more accountability for Illinois transit agencies.
Making Bottled Water Safer
In 2004, the Legislature passed the Illinois PIRG-backed Safe Bottled Water Act, which requires the Department of Public Health to license, inspect and penalize unsafe practices among water bottlers that sell water in Illinois.
Holding Corporations Accountable
In 2004, Gov. Blagojevich signed into law the Illinois PIRG-backed Accounting Act, which requires CPAs to register every three years, toughens education requirements and requires Illinois’ accounting oversight agency to publicly report on its investigation and discipline of accountants and firms.
Smoke-Free Chicago
In 2005, Illinois PIRG helped pass Chicago’s Clean Indoor Air Ordinance in Chicago, banning smoking in workplaces—including bars and restaurants—to protect employees’ and patrons’ health.
Protecting Our Children
In 2007, Illinois PIRG released the 22nd edition of “Trouble In Toyland,” our annual toy safety survey. Since 1986, the report has resulted in over 100 recalls and the implementation of toy safety labeling in 1994.
Reforming Corporate Boardroom Practices
After a wave of corporate scandals, including Enron, WorldCom and Tyco, President Bush approved a landmark Illinois PIRG-backed law that better regulates accountants and holds executives accountable to investors and employees.
