SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois Senate has approved a plan to let voters choose a new way to draw legislative districts.

A plan by Democratic Sen. Kwame Raoul of Chicago would keep map-making within lawmakers’ hands based on public hearings.

A deadlock eventually would mean Supreme Court justices would appoint a “special master.” It was approved 39-19.

If the House approves, the question will be on November’s ballot.

The current system often leads to a process in which the name of the party controlling the process is drawn from a hat.

A second amendment by Democratic Sen. Tom Cullerton of Villa Park to eliminate the office of lieutenant governor failed 21-28. Cullerton says it would save the state $1.6 million annually.

 

The resolutions are SJRCA30 and SJRCA29.

 

 

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