Who has the power to amend the Illinois Constitution?

The power to amend the Illinois Constitution lies with the General Assembly or through a constitutional convention. This reflects the structure of government and the participatory process built into the state’s constitutional framework.

Amendments can be proposed by a three-fifths majority vote in both houses of the General Assembly or by a constitutional convention that is called specifically for the purpose of making amendments. This ensures that any changes to the constitution involve thorough consideration and representation from elected officials, as well as an opportunity for broader citizen engagement during a convention.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the process established in the Illinois Constitution. For example, while citizens can ultimately vote on proposed amendments, they do not have the authority to initiate amendments independently. The Governor's role is to execute laws rather than initiate constitutional changes, and the State Senate alone cannot make such amendments without the involvement of the General Assembly as a whole or a convention.