Sheriff, to authorize use of credit card or debit card
Summary
HB220 is a local act applying only to St. Clair County and authorizing the St. Clair County Sheriff to establish procedures for using a credit card or debit card to make approved purchases of tangible personal property or services. The bill defines the terms “credit card” and “debit card” for this purpose and allows the sheriff’s office to use such cards for convenience in carrying out authorized purchases.
The bill requires the sheriff to adopt written policies governing card use. Those policies must include spending limits, controls ensuring the sheriff or a designee has sole access to the cards and security information, recordkeeping and audit review procedures, monthly review of statements, and timely full payment to avoid fees or interest. The sheriff must also consider issuer fees, rewards, interest rates, termination penalties, and other relevant factors when selecting a card provider. Any rewards or rebates earned must be deposited into the sheriff’s office discretionary account.
Impact
HB220 amends local law for St. Clair County by creating express authority for the sheriff’s office to use credit or debit cards for official purchases and by setting guardrails for how those cards may be issued, used, tracked, and paid. It does not expand spending authority beyond amounts already appropriated by law and specifically states that it does not create debt for the St. Clair County Commission. The act becomes effective June 1, 2025, and affects the sheriff’s office, county accounting and audit practices, and any vendors or card issuers used by the office.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been received very favorably and without recorded opposition. It passed the House of Origin and the second house unanimously, with all recorded votes showing 63-0 in the House and 31-0 in the second house, indicating broad bipartisan support for the measure. The lack of committee transcript material also suggests there was little public controversy or debate in the available record.
Contention
There is little evidence of substantive contention in the available materials. The main policy issue embedded in the bill is fiscal control: allowing the sheriff to use cards for efficiency while requiring strict internal controls, auditability, and monthly payment discipline. Any potential concern would likely center on oversight, discretionary spending, and ensuring the county commission is not exposed to unauthorized debt, but the bill expressly addresses those points and the unanimous votes suggest those concerns were not divisive.