House leaders Madigan and Daniels wanted to diminish the power of independent bodies like the study commissions, and draw that power to themselves. So, zap, no more continuing study commissions. For example, House committees are a joke. The leaders seem uninterested in developing strong and deep policy expertise among lawmakers and analytical skills among staff. With several exceptions, the staffers, young and bright, lack real depth in their subject areas.
Turnover is high.
Many staffers become more expert at managing campaigns for contested candidates than in parcing the complexities of utilities regulation. But hey, Leaders, there are really tough issues facing you, in addition to the Telecommunications Act. The Legislature should regenerate authoritative, continuing study commissions to prepare thoughtful policy options for consideration when the full Legislature meets. Nowlan served in the Illinois House from 1969-73. He is a senior research associate at the University of Illinois Institute of Government and Public Affairs.