State and Local Government - Illinois
Illinois state government has grown in size and complexity due to increased services provided to citizens, federal mandates, technological advances and emphasized federalism. Professional legislators work within a system of legislative committees and staffs, organized interest groups, political action committees, administrative agencies and constitutional officer executive staffs – all under the intense scrutiny of a mature media corps and public interest groups.
As the state capital, Springfield is the hub of these governmental activities. Informed and effective Illinois governmental representation of business and trade association clients requires targeted, frequent services. Clients with significant interests to protect and advance may find it daunting to reach decision-makers in a multifaceted government structure; in Illinois, state government embraces 144 distinct agencies, boards, commissions and offices, from Springfield to Chicago.