Lawsuit Filed by Green and Libertarian Parties Over Petitioning Issues Because of Stay at Home Order – wcsjnews.com

The Associated Press reports that the Green and Libertarian parties in Illinois have filed a federal lawsuit claiming Gov. J.B. Pritzkers stay-at-home order has impeded the petition process necessary to get on the November ballot.

AP reports that the lawsuit, filed last week in Chicago, alleged the order intended to curb the spread of coronavirus and social distancing recommendations have made it practically impossible to collect signatures safely in person.

Under Illinois election rules, candidates not from established parties have to collect signatures from March 24 until June 22 for the general election. They also need more required signatures.

State and federal officials have recommended social distancing for weeks. Pritzker issued an order March 20, requiring most residents to stay home with few exceptions.

The parties argued that even if the order was lifted in May, little time would remain to get signatures.

According to the lawsuit, "requiring in-person contact to satisfy Illinois petitioning requirements is not presently possible and will be problematic for weeks to come after emergency measures are lifted."

The lawsuit seeks to have the signature requirements waived or suspended for this election.

The lawsuit named Pritzker and the Illinois State Board of Elections. Pritzkers spokeswoman didnt return a request for comment Tuesday. An elections board spokesman said the board doesnt have legal authority to change state law.

Story by the Associated Press.

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Lawsuit Filed by Green and Libertarian Parties Over Petitioning Issues Because of Stay at Home Order - wcsjnews.com