(The Center Square) – Republicans continue to challenge what they say is an abusive process employed by Illinois Democrats to pass controversial legislation with little oversight.
Last week, several Illinois Republicans filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County Circuit Court to challenge how the budget was approved. The allegation is that the Democratic supermajority short circuits the three readings rule in the Illinois Constitution by gutting one bill late in the process and replacing it with an entirely different measure at the last minute, allowing for quick passage.
The Illinois Freedom Caucus said Wednesday its lawsuit is set to be heard July 3.
“We have five months to follow the Constitution and vote on the budget the right way,” a statement from the group said. “What the leadership in the House and Senate are doing is not just wrong, it is unconstitutional, and we are calling them on it.”
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the budget Monday. At $55.2 billion, the largest spending plan in Illinois history takes effect July 1.
Separately, state Rep. Travis Weaver, R-Peoria, said there are at least two dozen examples this year alone of alleged three readings violations.
“We found at least 24 instances where the three readings rule was violated this spring. Senate Bill 328 is just the worst example,” Weaver said during a news conference announcing separate litigation from the budget challenge.
SB 328 contains language that would change Illinois from a “specific jurisdiction” state to a “general jurisdiction” state, expanding Illinois courts’ reach over out-of-state businesses.
The American Tort Reform Association called the measure one of the worst bills of the year. ATRA said in a statement it would saddle Illinois families with “astronomically higher costs” and send a message that businesses are not safe in Illinois.
Weaver said gaming the three readings rule last minute instead of having hearings on measures through the earlier parts of spring session is “like organized crime theft, absolutely no redeeming qualities.”
“It’s stealing for sport and self advancement,” Weaver said. “It’s time that Illinois people are made aware of the extent of which Illinois Democrats are willing to go to pass unwanted legislation.”
Aside from the lawsuit challenging the budget’s passage, Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, and House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, are suing over the passage of SB 328.
Curran said if enacted, the measure will increase frivolous lawsuits and further hurt Illinois’ business climate.
“Should Gov. [J.B.] Pritzker choose the special interests over the best interest of Illinois and intend to sign this law, we have stepped in. Our next step in the process is to seek a preliminary injunctive relief to stop this bill in its tracks.”
Their lawsuit challenges House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and Senate President Don Harmon’s handling of the legislation.
A spokesman for Welch, D-Hillside, said the office doesn’t comment on possible litigation.
If Gov. J.B Pritzker signs Senate Bill 328, it would take effect immediately.
Jim Talamonti contributed to this report.
