Metro East Sun

State Rep. David Friess (R-Red Bud) opposes the new Illinois House Rules for the 102nd General Assembly.

Friess insists that the proposed rules are similar to what is already in place.

“The rules of the past are unfortunately the same as the rules of the present,” he said. “We can make the change to be better today.”

The rules, according to him, can be improved if the members will be allowed to do what they are supposed to do, that is to be the voice of the district they represent – to speak on the House Floor whether in favor of or in opposition of the matter, as well as question the legislation, and not be afraid to have a battle of ideas.

“The constituents sent us here to be their voices and we are denying them that right when we don’t allow members to debate on key issues.”

"If we want to be the best legislators we can, we need to be as much informed as possible before we vote,” Friess added. “A strong and vigorous debate allows that to occur.”

He also said that the Democrats do not want the public to know how much their legislature would cost the taxpayers.

“The taxpayers we represent are counting on us to ask questions and take the time needed before we vote on legislation that would impact their livelihood.”

He argued that those who will be voting yes “to rubber stamp” the rules of the past are clearly sending the message that they don’t care about the taxpayers.