Illinois House Bill HJRCA0009

Illinois 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

CONAMEND-OFFICE OF COMPTROLLER

Impact

The bill proposes significant amendments to Article V of the Illinois Constitution, specifically changing Sections 1, 3, 7, and 18, while repealing Section 17. By eliminating the Comptroller's office, the measure is expected to simplify the hierarchy and responsibilities within the executive branch of Illinois government. The Treasurer will gain additional powers and duties previously held by the Comptroller, which could lead to increased efficiency in managing the state's finances.

Summary

HJRCA0009 is a proposed constitutional amendment introduced by Rep. Dan Ugaste that aims to eliminate the Office of the Comptroller in Illinois. The amendment seeks to transfer the responsibilities of the Comptroller to the Treasurer, thus consolidating fiscal management within a single office. This restructuring is intended to streamline the state's financial operations and ensure that the Treasurer assumes the vital roles of maintaining central fiscal accounts and overseeing payments from state funds.

Contention

Notably, the proposal to abolish the Office of the Comptroller could spark debate regarding the implications for governmental oversight and fiscal accountability. Critics may argue that merging these offices could lead to a concentration of power and lessen checks and balances within the state's financial administration. Furthermore, there will be a transition period until the current Comptroller's term concludes in 2026, after which no Comptroller would be elected again, effectively reshaping the landscape of fiscal governance in Illinois.