League of Women Voters of Illinois^®

Note: The ballot question of whether a Constitutional Convention should be called will be voted upon at the November 4, 2008, General Election.

The League of Women Voters of Illinois opposes holding a constitutional convention at this time. We believe the present constitution is serving the citizens of Illinois and may be changed using the amendatory process where necessary.

A constitutional convention opens the entire constitution to revision with the risk of losing many of the important gains achieved in 1970. It is estimated that the convention would cost at least $78 million, and this money could be put to better use at a time when state resources are limited.

The serious lack of preparation and public information by Illinois government officials on a constitutional convention means that there is insufficient time to educate the public adequately on the complexities of the issues.