The rules for the 104th Illinois General Assembly are now in place despite House Republicans urging for changes to make things more fair for the minority party.
The new 104th General Assembly elected in November was seated Wednesday. Thursday, the first order of business was to approve the rules of how both chambers operate.
Normally there is a two week time period between inauguration and establishing the rules, but House Democrat leadership chose to change that this time around and establish the rules immediately.
House Republicans believe the Rules adopted by House Democrats ensure that the failed status quo will remain in place and the interests of the more than 4 million Illinoisans represented by House Republicans will suffer as a result of House Democrats passing these Rules.
House Deputy Leader Ryan Spain (R-Peoria) said the rules that gave former House Speaker Michael Madigan his immense power, haven’t changed.
Attached are his comments during floor debate.