Kirk Dillard resigns as state senator

WESTMONT, Ill. (WLS) -- Kirk W. Dillard resigned his seat as state Senator for the 24th District of Illinois Monday, ending his legislative career to begin work as chairman for the Regional Transportation Authority. The RTA oversees the nation's second-largest mass transit system, moving over 2 million riders daily.

"It has been a true privilege to serve the people of the 24th District," Dillard said.

Dillard began his career in 1977 as an intern for the state Senate, then attended law school at DePaul. He served as Legislative Director for former governor Jim Thompson from 1983 to 1987, as a judge on the Court of Claims from 1987 to 1990 and as Chief of Staff for former governor Jim Edgar from 1990 to 1993. He was first elected to the state Senate in 1995.

"I've greatly enjoyed my work as a lawmaker," he said. "I've worked with many outstanding lawmakers and community leaders over the years and I am grateful for the opportunity to have servde the state of Illinois."