What does the principle of "separation of powers" in Illinois government emphasize?

The principle of "separation of powers" in Illinois government emphasizes the division of government responsibilities among distinct branches: the legislative, the executive, and the judicial. This framework is designed to prevent any one branch from exerting too much power, thereby promoting accountability and maintaining a system of checks and balances. Each branch has specific roles and functions; for example, the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces them, and the judicial branch interprets laws. This separation not only helps to ensure that power is balanced and distributed but also protects individual rights from potential overreach by any single entity within the government. This principle is foundational to both the Illinois Constitution and the U.S. Constitution, reflecting the belief that a clear delineation of authority is vital for a fair and effective government.