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SJR 55

AUDITOR GEN-APPOINTMENT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Laura Ellman and 2 co-sponsors

SJR 55 proposes a constitutional change to how the Illinois Auditor General is appointed, aiming to strengthen independence and clarify term length, qualifications, and removal.

Resolution Adopted 097-001-000
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Bill Summary · SJR 55

Summary of Bill: SJR 55 (104th Illinois General Assembly)

Purpose and intent

  • SJR 55 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Illinois. As a "Senate Joint Resolution" (SJR), it seeks to modify the Illinois Constitution rather than pass a typical statute.
  • The bill is titled “AUDITOR GEN-APPOINTMENT,” indicating a reform related to the Office of the Auditor General—specifically, how the state auditor is selected or appointed.
  • The sponsors include three co-sponsors: Bob Rita, Laura Ellman, and Chapin Rose, signaling bipartisan interest in revisiting the appointment process.

Key provisions (high-level expected changes)

  • Appointment Method: The resolution would alter who appoints or selects the Auditor General, shifting appointment authority away from the current method toward a proposed alternative (e.g., appointment by the Governor with Senate confirmation, a joint legislative appointment, or an independent appointment process). The exact mechanism would be defined in the text of the amendment.
  • Term and Qualifications: The amendment may set or adjust term lengths for the Auditor General, eligibility criteria, and grounds for removal. It may also specify qualifications or experience required for the office.
  • Independence and Accountability: The change aims to strengthen or clarify the independence of the Auditor General from political influence, while preserving accountability to the Legislature or the people, depending on the chosen framework.
  • Constitutional Alignment: As a constitutional amendment, provisions would be embedded in the Illinois Constitution, requiring ratification by voters if enacted, and would supersede conflicting statutory provisions.

Who would be affected

  • Office: Auditor General of Illinois, including its selection/appointment process, term, and related duties.
  • State government: Legislative and executive branches that interact with the Auditor General’s office, including oversight, audit standards, and reporting requirements.
  • General public: Taxpayers and government program beneficiaries who rely on independent audits for transparency and accountability.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • As a joint resolution amending the state constitution, SJR 55 would follow constitutional amendment procedures:
    • Passage by both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly (Senate and House) in at least one regular session, and typically needs a supermajority vote.
    • After approval, the measure would be placed on a statewide ballot for voter ratification in the next eligible election.
  • If voters approve, the amendment would become part of the Illinois Constitution, altering the foundational framework for appointing the Auditor General.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Governance: The bill could centralize or decentralize control over the appointment process, potentially enhancing the independence of the Auditor General from political cycles.
  • Transparency: A clearer, possibly more insulated appointment process may improve public trust in state audits.
  • Stability and continuity: Constitutional changes can provide longer-term stability for the office’s tenure and mandate, but also reduce flexibility for future legislative reforms.
  • Implementation: If enacted, statutory changes would be needed to operationalize the new appointment process, define overlapping duties, and outline transition provisions.

Note: This summary reflects the substantive aims suggested by the bill’s title and sponsor information. For precise language, exact appointment mechanics, term lengths, and transition provisions, consult the bill’s text and any fiscal or legislative analyses accompanying SJR 55.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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