Carbondale Reporter

State Representative Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona) has criticized Governor JB Pritzker's decision to sign SB 328 into law, describing it as a move that will benefit trial lawyers at the expense of Illinois businesses and taxpayers.

“Governor Pritzker signed legislation (SB 328) that greatly expands Illinois courts’ jurisdiction over out-of-state companies. It is “Christmas in August,” a cash gift from JB Pritzker to his Democratic trial lawyer buddies that will be paid for by taxpayers and job creators. This new law will drive up the cost of doing business in Illinois while the costs will be passed on to already cash-strapped working families and consumers," Jacobs said in a statement.

Jacobs also announced that he and other Republican lawmakers have filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County Circuit Court challenging how SB 328 was passed. He argued that the legislative process used—known as "gut-and-replace"—violated constitutional requirements meant to ensure transparency.

“My Republican colleagues and I have filed a lawsuit in Sangamon County Circuit Court challenging the passage of SB 328 because we believe the “gut-and-replace” maneuver used to push the bill forward on the last day of the spring Session violated the Illinois Constitution’s Three Readings Rule. This provision is a key safeguard for transparency and public trust, allowing General Assembly members time to review each piece of legislation,” Jacobs stated.

Jacobs was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois' 118th House District in 2023, succeeding Patrick Windhorst.