Who can call the Illinois General Assembly into special session?

The Governor has the authority to call the Illinois General Assembly into special session. This power is outlined in the Illinois Constitution, which grants the Governor the ability to convene the legislature outside of its regular session schedule. This function is critical for addressing urgent legislative matters that may arise between the assembly's regular sessions, allowing for timely responses to emergencies or important issues that require legislative action.

The role of the Governor in this context underscores the executive branch's influence over the legislative process in Illinois, enabling the state to respond dynamically to pressing needs. The other options do not possess the constitutionally established power to summon the General Assembly; the positions of Speaker of the House, Senate President, and Chief Justice are not endowed with this specific authority within the state government structure.