Illinois House Republicans want more transparency and research after revelations of sky-high debt in some suburbs, but their proposalsstop short of pushing safeguards other states employ.

Calling it a first step in reform, Tom Cross, R-Oswego, and Rep. Ron Sandack, R-Downers Grove, said many taxpayers face ballooning property tax bills with little means to figure out why. That includes suburbs that for years have borrowed big while failing to save enough for pensions.

"People should know, and have a right to know, how much debt is out there," said Cross, House Republican leader.

The pair's legislation would boost the amount of local government data available online on debt and unfunded retiree costs. They also want to create a state panel — stocked with unpaid members appointed by state leaders — to review the taxing, spending and borrowing habits of the thousands of local governments in Illinois.