August 29, 2008

To the Honorable Members of the

Illinois House of Representatives

95th General Assembly

               Pursuant to Article IV, Section 9(b) of the Illinois Constitution of 1970, I hereby veto

 House Bill 230, entitled “AN ACT concerning imprisonment.”  I appreciate the hard work of the sponsors 

to pass this legislation. However, Article V, Section 12 of the Illinois Constitution of 1970 provides that

 it is the Governor who “may grant reprieves, commutations and pardons, after conviction, for all offenses

 on such terms as he thinks proper.” This legislation stands in conflict with these clearly prescribed duties. 

            For this reason, I hereby veto and return House Bill 230.

Sincerely,

ROD R. BLAGOJEVICH

Governor