Illinois General Assembly facts for kids
The Illinois General Assembly is the group of elected officials who make laws for the state of Illinois. Think of it like a big team that decides the rules for everyone in Illinois. It has two main parts: the Illinois House of Representatives and the Illinois Senate.
This law-making group was first created way back in 1818, when Illinois became a state. Illinois is divided into 59 special areas called legislative districts. Each district sends two people to the House of Representatives and one person to the Senate.
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What is the General Assembly?
The Illinois General Assembly is the main law-making body for the state. Its job is to create, change, and remove laws that affect people living in Illinois. These laws cover many things, like schools, roads, and public safety.
Making Laws for Illinois
Members of the General Assembly work together to propose new laws. They discuss these ideas in meetings and committees. If a new law is approved by both the House and the Senate, it then goes to the Governor of Illinois. The Governor can sign the law, making it official, or veto it (say no to it).
How the General Assembly Works
The General Assembly is made up of two separate groups. This is called a "bicameral" system.
The Illinois House of Representatives
The House of Representatives has 118 members. These members are called representatives. They are elected by the people in their districts. Representatives serve for two-year terms.
The Illinois Senate
The Senate has 59 members. These members are called senators. They are also elected by the people in their districts. Senators serve for either two-year or four-year terms.
History of the General Assembly
The Illinois General Assembly started in 1818. This was the same year Illinois officially became a state. The first state constitution set up this system. It has been making laws for Illinois ever since.
Legislative Districts
Illinois has 59 legislative districts. Each district is a specific area of the state. The people living in each district vote for their representatives and senator. This makes sure that different parts of Illinois have a voice in making laws.
