CITIZENS EMPOWERMENT ACT

The Citizens Empowerment Act (SB1347) allows Illinois voters to petition for a referendum to dissolve a local government unit. If the referendum passes, the dissolving unit's assets, liabilities, and personnel are transferred to a designated receiving unit of local government. The bill also amends the Election Code to accommodate these changes and takes effect immediately upon passage.

Supporters argue that SB1347 empowers citizens to streamline local governance, potentially reducing redundancy and improving efficiency by allowing voters to dissolve unnecessary or underperforming government units.

Critics contend that the bill could lead to the dissolution of essential local services, particularly in smaller communities, and may result in job losses for public employees. They also express concerns about the complexities involved in transferring assets and liabilities between government units.