State Representative Bradley Fritts (R-Dixon) has joined fellow Republicans, including Representative Ryan Spain (R-Peoria) and Senator Li Arellano, Jr. (R-Dixon), in a lawsuit filed in Sangamon County. The legal action seeks to enforce the Illinois Constitution’s Three Reading Rule concerning SB 328.
“The continued rule-breaking on behalf of Illinois Democrats needs to end,” stated Representative Fritts. He emphasized that ignoring rules designed for transparency and accountability undermines democracy and harms constituents.
The Illinois Constitution mandates that every bill be read on three separate days in each chamber. However, Democrats allegedly bypassed this requirement with SB 328, compromising transparency and public accountability.
Leader Spain commented, “Illinois Democrats have shown time and time again that they will ignore any procedural rule, even our state Constitution, to advance their agenda.” He stressed the importance of the Three Reading Rule in ensuring an open legislative process for both citizens and their elected representatives.
Senator Arellano expressed concern over the legislation process: “Democrats are once again forcing through reckless legislation and ignoring our Illinois Constitution to do it.” He argued that such practices lead to increased costs for families when constitutional safeguards are overlooked.
SB 328 exemplifies why bills should undergo multiple readings. If enacted by Governor Pritzker’s signature, it would permit lawsuits against companies registered in Illinois regardless of case relevance to the state. This could potentially increase costs, burden courts, and negatively impact business conditions within Illinois.
While Republicans pursue legal remedies, Governor Pritzker retains the option to veto SB 328.
