What is the supreme law of the state of Illinois?

The supreme law of the state of Illinois is the Illinois Constitution. This foundational document establishes the structure of the state government, delineates the rights of its citizens, and serves as the highest legal authority within the state. All state laws and policies must conform to the provisions of the Illinois Constitution; if they do not, they can be challenged in courts and deemed unconstitutional. The Constitution reflects the fundamental principles and values of the state, outlining the organization and powers of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

State statutes, while important, are individual laws enacted by the General Assembly and must align with the Constitution. The Illinois General Assembly itself is the legislative body responsible for creating state laws but operates within the framework set forth by the Constitution. Governor's orders are directives from the state’s chief executive and cannot supersede the Constitution. Thus, the Illinois Constitution holds the highest legal authority in the state, ensuring that all laws and government actions respect the rights and frameworks it enshrines.