Peoria Standard

During a March 23 news conference, Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) commented on rising crime in Cook County and how House Bill 5712 could be a solution to the problem.

“I think the people of Cook County, when we see what has happened with an out-of-control state’s attorney that puts criminals before victims, the people of Cook County want change and they want it now,” Butler said.

House Bill 5712 creates the Cook County State’s Attorney Recall Act and establishes a procedure in which an election to recall the Cook County State’s Attorney can occur. 

If passed, it would be effective immediately.

“It’s my legislation, House Bill 5712, that would allow the citizens of Cook County to recall their state’s attorney," Butler said. "It’s a very simple recall piece of legislation that’s similar to other bills across the country or in Illinois. The citizens of Cook County would have the ability by signing petitions – registered voters equaling at least 5% of the previous vote for state’s attorney – would be able to go to the Cook County Clerk’s Office and petition for a recall if they meet that threshold  certified by the county clerk. Then a recall election would move forward in Cook County and the citizens of the county would have the ability to at least vote on recalling their state’s attorney. I don’t take this lightly.”

Butler filed House Bill 5712 on March 1 with the House clerk. It was referred to the Rules Committee but has since not been called for debate or discussion.

Reps. Chris Bos (R-Lake Zurich) and Thomas Morrison (R-Palatine) have signed on as co-sponsors.