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Bill

SJRCA 9

CONAMEND-ARTIFICAL PERSONS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Mary Edly-Allen

Illinois constitutional amendment to curtail legal rights of artificial persons, potentially limiting corporate protections and political participation in the state.

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Bill Summary · SJRCA 9

Legislative bill overview

SJRCA 9 proposes a constitutional amendment in Illinois that would restrict the legal rights and protections granted to artificial persons (primarily corporations). The bill seeks to fundamentally alter how Illinois recognizes corporate entities under state constitutional law, likely limiting their ability to exercise certain rights previously afforded to them.

Why is this important

This amendment would represent a significant shift in corporate law at the state level, potentially affecting how businesses operate, their access to legal remedies, and their ability to engage in political activity. The outcome could influence business investment in Illinois, labor relations, campaign finance, and the state's competitive positioning relative to other states with different corporate frameworks.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional takings concerns: Restricting corporate rights could trigger legal challenges under federal constitutional protections (Fifth Amendment takings clause, Fourteenth Amendment equal protection)
  • Business competitiveness: Corporations may relocate to states with more favorable legal environments, potentially reducing tax revenue and job creation in Illinois
  • Free speech implications: If the amendment limits corporate political speech or spending, it could conflict with Citizens United precedent and spark First Amendment litigation
  • Vagueness of scope: Without detailed language available, it's unclear whether all entities (nonprofits, partnerships, small businesses) or only large corporations would be affected

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

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