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Barrington area state rep moves to abolish lieutenant governor position
State Rep. David McSweeney votes in November at the St. Michaels Episcopal Church polling place in Barrington. McSweeney, who was reelected in the 52nd state House District, is pushing for a property tax freeze. | Brian O'Mahoney~for Sun-Times Media
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Updated: April 15, 2013 6:17AM
BARRINGTON HILLS — State Rep. David McSweeney, R-52nd, of Barrington Hills has sponsored a constitution amendment that would allow Illinois voters to decide whether the state should have a lieutenant governor position.
McSweeney filed the House Joint Resolution (HJRCA 18) as chief sponsor. He explained that the measure is part of his effort for greater government efficiencies. McSweeney has secured 28 additional co-sponsors and state Rep. Jack Franks, D-63rd, of Marengo, and GOP leader Tom Cross, R-84th, of Oswego have signed on as chief co-sponsors.
McSweeney’s proposal was approved in the State Government Committee last week by a 16-4 vote.
According to a news release from McSweeney’s office, the state could save approximately $2 million a year by doing away with the lieutenant governor position.
“I urge my colleagues to join me and get this done,” McSweeney said. “A meaningful budget cut to the bureaucracy is a great start to prove that we’re serious about cutting spending.”
This proposal accompanies other cost reduction legislation filed by McSweeney. To date, McSweeney noted that he declined a legislative pension, proposed to end all legislative pensions and has voluntarily cut his own pay and district office expenses by 10 percent.
If HJRCA 18 is approved by the General Assembly, 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.
