Kankakee Times

My fellow Illinoisans:

Our state needs your help.  I hope you'll share this message and support our efforts.

Over the past 10 weeks, Governor Pritzker has issued at least 37 Executive Orders.  These Executive Orders have touched on all aspects of our lives, whether at the workplace and determining what businesses are "essential", mandating postponement or cancellation of certain medical procedures, prohibiting evictions, extending the dates for cannabis applications, determining the process for remote notary services and even changing the manner in which certain marriage ceremonies are conducted.  I could go on.

These 37 Executive Orders were enacted unilaterally by our duly elected Governor, but without any approval of the General Assembly.  Governors have extraordinary powers, but they do not pass laws.  That is a power given to the Legislature.  In fact, constitutional scholars often discuss the "Separation of Powers" required under our Constitution.  Plainly, that the Legislature's job is to make the laws and the Executive's (Governor's) job is to enforce them.  But if that's true, how is it that this Governor has enacted 37 Executive Orders without the Legislature having taken a single vote?

There are lots of views on Gov. Pritzker's EOs.  But whether you like them or not, there is no legitimate argument for why the Legislature doesn't take a vote on them.  Our form of government relies on a mutual respect for the Legislative branch and Executive branch - two co-equal branches of government.  Moreso, the public expects us to play an important oversight role - its the system of checks and balances - and not to just sit idly by as we watch events unfold in our communities and our state.

It's time for the Legislature to do its job.  

Many of you have asked how to help.  The truth is, we're in an uphill battle and all of your efforts are necessary if we're going to have a positive impact on the outcome.  Here's my suggestions, which I hope you'll share with others.

1. Call for public hearings on Governor Pritzker's EOs.  Lawmakers should be asked to vote "up or down" on his plan.  This is how our legislative process is supposed to work.  In fact, our Constitution requires it.

2. Call for a vote on SB 3987 (McConchie).  This bill limits the Governor's ability to make emergency declarations that extend beyond 30 days without legislative approval.

3. Oppose upcoming legislation imposing civil penalties on those who disobey these unilateral orders.  As you know, the Guv withdrew his controversial rule change that would have criminalized violations of his orders.  Now he's pursuing this legislation which will call for civil penalties.  I'm glad this issue is working through the legislative process, but before the legislature enacts any penalties, they need to first give an "up or down" vote to the underlying law (in this case, the Guv's EOs).

I continue to have no doubt that, if we were able to have a serious discussion based on a mutual respect for our co-equal branches of government, we can come together on a plan that best protects the health of our people and the future of our state.  Thank you for your support and sharing this message!

Jason Barickman

State Senator

– State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) represents the 53rd District which includes Ford, Iroquois, Livingston, McLean, Vermilion and Woodford counties.