Metro East Sun

State Representative Amy Elik and State Senator Erica Harriss are advocating for greater transparency in Illinois's legislative process following the conclusion of the spring legislative session. They have expressed concerns over Democratic lawmakers allegedly bypassing constitutional requirements.

Republican members of both the Illinois House and Senate have initiated legal action in Sangamon County Circuit Court. The lawsuit aims to enforce the Third Reading Rule as outlined in the Illinois Constitution, which is intended to ensure comprehensive review and public engagement on legislation. According to the lawsuit, there have been nearly two dozen instances where bills were expedited without adhering to the necessary readings.

“This lawsuit is about restoring integrity to the legislative process,” stated Representative Elik. She highlighted that ignoring constitutional rules allows significant budgets, such as a $55.3 billion budget, to be passed with minimal debate, leaving citizens uninformed. “That’s unacceptable,” she added, emphasizing that this issue extends beyond a single bill and reflects a pattern of power misuse that erodes public trust.

The Third Reading Rule mandates that every bill undergo three separate readings in each legislative chamber before it can be passed. This rule is meant to foster transparency and provide lawmakers and the public with time to evaluate proposed laws.

Senator Harriss remarked on how annually, substantial state budgets and other contentious legislation are approved without adequate time for scrutiny or public input. She criticized the current legislative process in Springfield as being flawed due to frequent suspension of rules by the supermajority, allowing rapid passage of extensive bills without sufficient examination. “It’s incredibly frustrating and deeply unfair to the people we represent,” she said.

The legal challenge specifically addresses Senate Bill 328, which Republicans claim was passed contrary to constitutional procedures. They argue that this legislation could lead to increased legal exploitation and negatively impact Illinois’s economic environment by deterring businesses and job creators.

In a joint statement, Harriss and Elik emphasized that their concern lies not with politics but with ensuring proper procedure. “Regardless of party, taxpayers deserve transparency, accountability, and a fair legislative process,” they stated. Their actions aim at upholding constitutional principles, maintaining public trust, and representing the interests of Illinois residents.