In response to the murder of Sonya Massey last year, State Senator Doris Turner has introduced Senate Bill 1954, a legislative measure aimed at increasing accountability for countywide elected officials. The Sangamon County Board has officially voiced its support for the bill, which would empower counties to establish a recall process for elected officials.
“Sonya’s death should have never happened,” said Senator Turner (D-Springfield). “Since that fatal day, I have worked with state and county officials, law enforcement, and community members to ensure that this doesn’t happen again. Alongside Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter, we created the Massey Commission to address systemic issues in law enforcement practices, mental health responses, and community relations. This bill came directly from the commission’s work.”
Senate Bill 1954 would allow county boards or voter petitions to place a recall question on the ballot for countywide elected officials. The Sangamon County Board’s resolution in support of the bill highlights that for months, residents have called for a way to hold officials accountable, but current state law prevents non-home rule counties from establishing a recall process.
County officials said, The County Board has heard the concerns of residents, who have called for a way to hold elected officials accountable. After consulting with legal experts and the State Board of Elections, it was confirmed that Sangamon County lacks the authority to implement a recall process without state legislative action. While the concept of recall is supported, legal constraints prevented action without changes to state law, and passing a recall measure without the proper authority would be dishonest to the public. If Senate Bill 1954 becomes law, the board is committed to moving forward with a proposal to let voters decide on a recall mechanism for countywide officials.
"The County Board strongly encourages all members of the Illinois General Assembly representing Sangamon County to support this bill," the resolution read. With the board’s formal endorsement, attention now turns to the Illinois General Assembly, where lawmakers will determine the fate of the recall legislation.