If Illinois State Rep. David McSweeney (photo right) and 28 of his House colleagues are successful, voters will get to decide if Illinois continues to have a Lieutenant Governor.
In an effort to make state government more efficient, McSweeney (R-Barrington Hills) sponsored legislation (HJRCA 18) that would abolish the post. The legislation passed the State Government Committee today by a vote of 16-4. Representative Jack Franks (D-Marengo) and Leader Tom Cross (R-Oswego) are the chief co-sponsors.
“We need to have the courage to make our government leaner, smarter and more efficient,” said McSweeney. “We are in a fiscal crisis and we can't afford the luxury of having a Lieutenant Governor.”
According to House Republican staff, the state could save approximately $2 million a year by doing away with the office. If HJRCA 18 is approved, it would be placed on the 2014 ballot for voters to decide. Under the legislation, the Attorney General would be next in line to assume the duties of Governor if necessary.
