Quinn proposes change to state constitution

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Pat Quinn is calling for the public to be given the power to enact ethics reforms without going through the Illinois Legislature, a constitutional change he’s marketing as the “Lincoln Amendment.”

The amendment would let Illinois voters put new ethics laws on the ballot for a statewide vote. The measures, which could apply to any branch of state or local government, might address legislative conflicts of interest, “pay to play” abuses in contracting, campaign funding and more.

“There is no greater force than everyday people banding together for a cause they believe in,” Quinn said Sunday, Abraham Lincoln’s 203rd birthday. “Our citizens must always have a role in keeping our government honest and ethical.”

But ethics groups were cautious about endorsing the idea. Both the Better Government Association and the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform said Monday that they want to review Quinn’s proposal carefully before commenting.