What is the main responsibility of the Illinois General Assembly?

The primary responsibility of the Illinois General Assembly is to make laws for the state of Illinois. This bicameral legislature, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate, is tasked with the creation, amendment, and repeal of state legislation, which affects a wide range of issues, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety. The lawmaking function is central to its role, allowing it to respond to the needs and concerns of Illinois residents through legislation.

While enforcing state laws is typically the responsibility of the executive branch, and managing state finances falls under the purview of the budgetary process led by the legislature, these are not the main duties of the General Assembly. Similarly, judging state cases is the role of the judicial branch, which operates independently of the legislative functions. Thus, lawmaking remains the core function that defines the General Assembly's responsibility in the governance of Illinois.