A controversial contract Gov. Blagojevich's administration signed last year giving Pepsi exclusive rights to sell soft drinks on state property will be probed after lawmakers unanimously asked Illinois' top government auditor to investigate the deal.
Auditor General William Holland will look into allegations made by Pepsi's chief rival, Coca-Cola, that the contract was tainted because the administration accepted Pepsi before hearing Coke's best offer.
The Illinois House voted 104-0 earlier this month to have Holland investigate the Pepsi pact, worth an estimated $130 million to the state and the soft drink company over the 10-year life of the contract.
"We have an obligation to make sure this state is getting the best deal and to make sure we're getting the most income for the residents of the state," said Rep. Jack Franks (D-Woodstock).
Monday, March 24, 2008
Blagojevich's Pepsi Deal to be Probed
The Chicago Sun-Times reports:
