South Central Reporter

Today, Illinois Republicans have urged Governor Pritzker to veto Senate Bill 328, claiming it benefits trial lawyers at the cost of jobs and economic growth. The Republicans also filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County court to enforce the Illinois Constitution's Three Readings Rule. They argue that the Democratic Majority pushed the proposal through after midnight on the last day of session without following constitutional procedures.

The bill aims to reform Illinois' judicial system, allowing out-of-state businesses to be sued by out-of-state plaintiffs in Illinois courts for incidents unrelated to the state. It also permits foreign businesses registered in Illinois to be sued. The legislation was passed using procedural methods that allegedly bypassed constitutional requirements and public scrutiny.

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) stated, “We are answering the call of job creators, good government watchdog groups, and most importantly, our constituents, to stand up for transparency and against this job-killing legislation.” He called on Governor Pritzker to veto SB328.

Despite Democrats holding super majorities in both chambers, Republicans claim major legislation often bypasses the constitutionally required Three Readings Rule. Senate Bill 328 was passed using a gut-and-replace maneuver that avoided proper due process such as committee hearings and public input.

“This special interest proposal was passed by the Democratic Majority using a shady process that clearly violates the substance and spirit of the Illinois Constitution,” said Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran (R-Downers Grove). He urged Gov. Pritzker to veto what he described as anti-business legislation.

The bill has similarities with previous proposals twice vetoed by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Various business groups have echoed calls for a veto.

State Representative Travis Weaver (R-Peoria) noted there was no urgency to pass SB328 without following constitutional procedures. He emphasized accountability for all General Assembly members and citizens of Illinois.

The bill could potentially make it easier for frivolous lawsuits in Illinois even when cases are unrelated to the state. Businesses licensed in Illinois could face lawsuits regardless of their actual operations within state borders.

“SB 328 is government at its worst and sends a clear message that Illinois is hostile to job creators and due process,” said State Senator Jason Plummer (R-Edwardsville), citing concerns about its impact on local employment and its benefit primarily to trial lawyers.

Republicans are calling for Gov. Pritzker’s veto while seeking legal action to prevent SB328 from reaching his desk initially.

A copy of the lawsuit can be found online along with footage from a press conference discussing these developments.