As lawmaker prepare to return to the Capitol for a special session beginning May 20, I’m calling on the Senate President and Speaker of the House to schedule legislative hearings on the Governor's highly controversial reopening plan. The public deserves to see this debated in an open forum.

Our modern democratic republic requires a system of checks and balances, where one branch of government cannot unilaterally act without limitations or repercussions. Unfortunately, that system of checks and balances has been largely ignored when it comes to the Governor’s response to the ongoing COVID-19 health situation.

Most recently, he put forth his plan to reopen Illinois that limits economic recovery and continues to deny input from the General Assembly. This is not how our government was intended to operate and the consequences will be long lasting.

As we prepare to return to the Capitol on May 20, I respectfully urge the Governor and Democratic leaders to allow for the legislature to engage in this discussion and provide a realistic avenue for public input in reopening our state.

If you agree, be sure to sign the petition below!

Senator Dale Righter

As lawmakers prepare to return to Springfield to take up the critical issues facing Illinois families during this unprecedented public health crisis, they should be provided the opportunity to discuss and debate the governor's Restore Illinois plan. Therefore, we request a public hearing which staff from the governor's office would be invited to attend.

This would allow members from both sides of the aisle to inquire about how they came to the conclusions in their plan, and what revisions they would accept to help get our economy back on track more quickly.

Check the box below to sign the petition, telling the Senate President and Speaker of the House that you believe public hearings on this consequential plan are vital to the public good and Illinois' recovery from COVID-19.

Sign the petition!

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