One significant change under this bill is that proposed amendments and their explanations will be printed at the top of the official ballot preceding all nominations of any political party, rather than on a separate ballot. This aims to streamline the voting process by making it clearer for voters. Moreover, when a proposed amendment is presented, it will be required that it includes a notice stating 'CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT' to ensure voters are fully informed of the nature of the votes they are casting.
Summary
SB2268 amends the Illinois Constitutional Amendment Act and the Election Code to modify how proposed amendments to the Illinois Constitution are presented to voters. The bill requires that at least two months before an election involving proposed amendments, the Secretary of State publishes the text of the amendment in a sufficient number of newspapers of general circulation within each county, including their digital equivalents. This change aims to provide better accessibility and awareness regarding constitutional amendments that will be voted upon during elections.
Contention
While the aim of the bill is to enhance transparency regarding constitutional amendments, there may be differing opinions about the change from separate to combined ballots. Supporters argue this approach could increase voter awareness and participation regarding critical amendments. However, some may contend that this method could dilute the significance of constitutional amendments, making them seem less important alongside candidates running for election.
Proposes constitutional amendment to provide registered voters with right to cast ballot in person at polling place on election day; requires mail-in ballot request before voter receives mail-in ballot.
Proposes constitutional amendment to provide registered voters with right to cast ballot in person at polling place on election day; requires mail-in ballot request before voter receives mail-in ballot.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.