Republicans File Lawsuit, Urge Veto of SB 328
This week, members of the Illinois House and Senate Republican caucuses joined together to call on Gov. Pritzker to veto Senate Bill 328, legislation that would serve only to enrich trial lawyers at the expense of jobs and economic growth. They also filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County court to enforce the Illinois Constitution’s Three Readings Rule, due to the blatant unconstitutional manner the Democratic Majority rammed the special interest proposal through the General Assembly after midnight on the last day of session.
The legislation would overhaul Illinois’ judicial system and allow out-of-state businesses to be sued by out-of-state plaintiffs in Illinois courts for incidents with no connection to the state. A lesser-known provision in the law allows foreign businesses registered in the state to be sued as well. It was passed using a variety of procedural gimmicks to avoid constitutional requirements and public scrutiny.
“We are answering the call of job creators, good government watchdog groups, and most importantly, our constituents, to stand up for transparency and against this job-killing legislation,” House Minority Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) said. “Governor Pritzker must veto SB 328 and show not only the people of Illinois, but also businesses around the world, we want to put all of our people to work, not just trial lawyers.”
Despite Democrats’ super majorities in both the House and Senate Chambers, major pieces of legislation continue to bypass the constitutionally required Three Readings Rule to avoid due process, transparency, and public engagement. Senate Bill 328 was passed after midnight with a gut-and-replace maneuver that allowed the majority party to avoid proper due process such as committee hearings and public input, violating the Three Readings Rule required in the Illinois State Constitution.
The bill itself was designed to make it easier to file frivolous lawsuits in Illinois, even in situations where the case has nothing to do with the state. Any out-of-state business could be sued in Illinois as long as the company is licensed to operate in the state. The legislation would encourage businesses not to expand to Illinois, while only serving to help those who make their living through lawsuits.
SAFE-T Act Fails Again
This time, a former teacher accused of sexually abusing a student could not be held pre-trial because of provisions in this misguided law.
The judge in the case stated, “While this case is horrific in nature — it’s shocking, it’s appalling, it’s garnering lots of attention — I do believe under the SAFE-T Act I am tied to whether there are any conditions I can set to mitigate the risk she poses to [the boy] right now.”
Read more from the Chicago Sun-Times.
Ethics Reforms Needed
It is unfortunate, but not surprising, that a list like this even exists for our state. Earlier this year, Democrat leaders stated that ethics reform wasn’t a priority. Even as their ex-boss Mike Madigan stood trial for corruption. This toxic culture can’t be allowed to continue. We need sweeping ethics reforms now.
Honoring Our Fallen Troopers
Last week, the names of two Troopers who died in the line of duty were added to the wall at the Illinois State Police Memorial Park in Springfield. May their bravery, service, and sacrifice never be forgotten.
Agriculture Update
Here is a closer look at the status of Illinois’ crops as June comes to a close.
Fireworks Safety
Please keep safety in mind this Fourth of July when organizing fireworks displays.
Around the District
I was honored to attend the Grand Re-Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the newly renovated Lacon DMV! The renovations allow for the facility to be a ‘One Stop Shop’ to better serve customers’ needs. The facility is now more visually appealing and easier to navigate. These upgrades are a wonderful addition to Lacon!