Resolution will give Illinois voters the power of recall

SPRINGFIELD- Today, a measure passed by State Senator Michael Noland (D-Elgin) paves the way for Illinois voters to recall a sitting governor. "Today was a victory for the people of Illinois," said Noland, the resolution’s sponsor. "This constitutional amendment will make certain that Illinois voters have a way to remove a governor who has shown either incompetence or malfeasance."

After the impeachment of Illinois’ former governor, Senator Noland sponsored House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 31 (HJRCA 31). The constitutional amendment provides a way for the voters to recall the governor by petition and for the election of a successor governor.

"Restoring people’s faith in state government has been my number one priority. This measure is one step in accomplishing this goal," Noland said. "As legislators we strive to make a difference for our constituents. This recall will do exactly that and help give greater control to the voters."

HJRCA 31 passed the Senate and it now must be approved by the voters in the 2010 general election. The measure was passed by the House at the close of the spring session.