Attention, UIUC and Other State Employees: Gov. Rauner Has Implemented Gestapo-Like Powers

On July 1^st the Governor implemented his under-the-radar Executive Order 2016-04. See here.

This policy has the implicit premise that State Employees (he uses capital letters) are corrupt. The "rollout" of the Order is here.

I am particularly struck by this part of the Executive Order, which turns the Governor’s Office of Executive Inspector General [OEIG] into a modern-day Gestapo. My comments are in parentheses.

Consistent with these duties, State Agencies shall consider the OEIG to be a “law enforcement agency.” [THIS PUTS EVERY ETHICS REPORT AND QUESTION TO EMPLOYEES ON THE FOOTING OF A CRIMINAL MATTER.] The OEIG may compel any State Employee to truthfully answer questions concerning any matter related to the performance of his or her official duties. [WHAT POWERS CAN BE USED TO COMPEL SOMEONE TO ANSWER A QUESTION? THIS SOUNDS LIKE A POLICE STATE.] If so compelled, no statement or other evidence derived therefrom may be used against such State Employee in any subsequent criminal prosecution other than for charges of perjury or contempt arising from such testimony. [SO, IT CAN BE USED AGAINST AN EMPLOYEE FOR CRIMINAL CHARGES.] The refusal of any State Employee to answer questions if compelled to do so shall be cause for discipline, up to and including discharge [SO MUCH FOR THE FIRST AMENDMENT AND THE FIFTH AMENDMENT RIGHT AGAINST SELF-INCRIMINATION].