Legislation has been introduced to allow Illinois lawmakers to conduct business remotely in the event of an emergency.
Representative Ann Williams of Chicago is sponsoring the bill. She says it is imperative the legislature can act even if they can’t get together physically.
“I think most people agree that the legislature is better and we’re more effective when we can meet face to face in person at the Capitol. That is the way it is supposed to be and the way we want it to be. But there are some situations, like the one we’re facing now, that is going to be impossible and during those times we need to find a way to carry on,” said Williams.
Earlier this year, the State Senate adopted rules letting members meet virtually, but a bill letting the house do the same fell one vote short of passage. Williams says she’d like to see this new legislation passed as soon as they are in session.
