PALATINE — Two Republican lawmakers have introduced bills that would require Governor Pritzker's recurring disaster declarations to those that are agreed upon by the General Assembly. The measures could be considered next week, when the Illinois legislature will meet in Springfield.
State Senator Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods) and State Rep. Tom Morrison (R-Palatine) filed the bills because state statutes specifically allow one 30-day disaster proclamation – and the governor has extended his powers into the end of May despite his first proclamation starting March 9.
“The idea that a governor can repeatedly and unilaterally continue to issue disaster declarations and exercise unparalleled power and authority over nearly every aspect of our lives – without any oversight from the legislative branch, is truly troubling,” Senator McConchie said. about his bill.
Senate Bill 3987 would require that after an initial disaster proclamation, the governor could only extend that declaration or make further proclamations concerning the same disaster if the General Assembly passes a resolution to approve the extension.
Rep. Morrison filed the same legislation in the Illinois House. The legislation, HB5776, requires the General Assembly to pass a House resolution within five calendar days to approve the extension of the Governor’s emergency declaration, or additional proclamations.
“We need to preserve checks and balances of power," said Morrison. "A governor shouldn't be able to make unilateral decisions for as long as desired. As lawmakers, we are elected to represent the people, local governments, institutions, and businesses of our districts. We need to be back in Springfield as a co-equal branch of state government to weigh in on these decisions that are so gravely affecting the lives and livelihoods in our communities."
Under the parameters of the bill, if for health or safety concerns the General Assembly could not convene in Springfield, the extension of emergency declarations could continue until the legislative session is able to convene.
Lawmakers haven't been in session since March 5, but they are re=convening next Wednesday, May 20th.
