SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Legislation is pending in Springfield that would let cities share sensitive financial data with third-party vendors hired to track uncollected taxes.
Democratic state Sen. Michael Hastings of Tinley Park says he introduced the measure because the state shouldn't "limit business" with the vendors. Springfield and other Illinois municipalities use the companies to track revenue owed to them. Current state law allows only certain city employees to access taxpayers' financial information.
The state revenue department is concerned that the companies won't adhere to state and local privacy standards. A measure in the bill would require companies to abide by local rules to possess the information.
Illinois Chamber of Commerce officials say they oppose the legislation because individuals could be at risk for harassment.
