What is the process for amending the Illinois Constitution?

The process for amending the Illinois Constitution is established in Article XIV of the Constitution itself. An amendment must first be proposed by a three-fifths vote in both chambers of the General Assembly. This significant level of support ensures that proposed changes to the Constitution have considerable legislative backing.

After passing the General Assembly with this required majority, the proposed amendment is then submitted to the voters for ratification. Only if the majority of voters approve the amendment during an election does it become part of the Constitution. This process reflects the importance of both legislative support and direct public approval in significant constitutional changes, safeguarding against hasty alterations and requiring a broad consensus to modify the foundational legal document of the state.

The other options do not accurately depict the established procedure in Illinois. The Governor does not propose amendments by themselves; citizen suggestions do not directly lead to amendments; and the Supreme Court does not have the role of determining constitutional amendments through unanimous votes. The necessity of a three-fifths vote coupled with voter ratification is central to ensuring that any amendments reflect the will of both the government and the populace.