Voters File Lawsuit Challenging Ballot Question

A group of voters is challenging the validity of a measure on this fall's ballot that would make it more difficult to improve retirement benefits for public employees.

In a statement Thursday, Republican state Senate candidate John Bambenek of Champaign, said he and 10 other Illinois residents filed a lawsuit arguing the question is unconstitutional.

Bambenek says the form of the question and the amendment are ``deceptive, inaccurate and incomprehensible.''

If approved, the proposed constitutional amendment would require a three-fifths vote instead of a simple majority for any pension increase. Cutting benefits would still require just a simple majority. 

The lawsuit against the Illinois State Board of Elections was filed in Champaign County Circuit Court.

A hearing date has not been set.