Governor George H. Ryan Signs Tollway Reform Legislation, Appoints Board Member Arthur Philip As Next Chairman

CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan today signed two bills designed to continue reforms at the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (ISTHA) and announced 13-year Toll Highway Board member and Finance Committee Chairman Art Philip to be the next Authority Chairman.

House Bill 2772, sponsored by Rep. Renee Kosel, R-New Lenox and Sen. Dave Sullivan, R-Park Ridge, requires the Authority to present its plans for revenues and expenditures to the Illinois House and Senate for review. Senate Bill 1033, sponsored by Sen. Thomas Walsh, R-Westchester, and Rep. Jeffrey Schoenberg, D-Wilmette, allows the Authority to request suspending the driving privileges or vehicle registration of motorists who have failed to pay fines for five or more toll violations.

"This legislation will help ensure that the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority continues to serve the people of Illinois and the Midwest region well," Ryan said. "We will have appropriate oversight by the legislature and we will have a fair toll system that discourages violators taking advantage of the system."

Governor Ryan also announced that ISTHA board member Art Philip will be appointed board Chairman, effective August 1, replacing attorney Julian D'Esposito who is stepping down from the post. Philip, 67, is a Korean war veteran and a public servant of more than 30 years.

Philip has served as an educator at Joliet Junior College for 18 years, a village trustee in Oak Brook for 12 years and, for the past 13 years, a board member for the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority. He is the longest serving member of the board.

"I am grateful for the dedication and commitment shown by Julian D'Esposito who worked hard as chairman to build public trust in the Tollway System," Ryan said. "I now look forward to continuing his efforts to improve the Tollway with the leadership of Art Philip, who has served the Authority with distinction."