Peoria Standard

State Representative Ryan Spain, along with State Senator Li Arellano, Jr. and State Representative Bradley Fritts, has joined a lawsuit filed in Sangamon County. The legal action aims to enforce the Illinois Constitution’s Three Reading Rule concerning SB 328.

Senator Arellano expressed concerns about the legislative process, stating, “Democrats are once again forcing through reckless legislation and ignoring the Constitution to do it.” He emphasized that bypassing rules and public scrutiny leads to negative consequences for Illinois families.

The Three Reading Rule is a constitutional requirement intended to provide legislators with sufficient time to review and debate bills. According to the rule, bills should be read by title three times on separate days. However, there are allegations that Democrats have frequently circumvented this procedure to expedite legislation without thorough examination.

Leader Spain commented on the situation by saying, “Illinois Democrats have shown time and time again that they will ignore any procedural rule, even our state Constitution, to advance their agenda.” He highlighted the importance of maintaining an open and transparent legislative process for both lawmakers and citizens.

Representative Fritts also criticized what he described as ongoing rule-breaking by Illinois Democrats. He stated, “Breaking the rules that ensure transparency and accountability to the people of Illinois is blatantly wrong and undermines our democracy.”

SB 328 serves as a focal point for this legal challenge. If enacted into law by the governor's signature, it would permit individuals nationwide to sue companies registered in Illinois regardless of any direct connection to the state. Critics argue this could increase costs, burden courts, and negatively impact Illinois’ business environment.