About the Institute for Legislative Studies

The Institute for Legislative Studies generates and disseminates information on the legislative process and state politics to policy makers, political scientists, and the public through a variety of methods: applied and academic research projects, training seminars, public forums, and media contacts. Faculty and staff conduct research of statewide and national importance on political campaign finance, lobbying, voter turnout, legislative redistricing, and term limits, among other subjects.

The Institute, in conjunction with the Legislative Research Unit, also administers the Illinois Legislative Staff Intern Program for the Illinois General Assembly. This program coordinates the placement of up to 24 interns in 10.5-month paid internships with the partisan staffs of the Illinois legislature and the Legislative Research Unit.