To begin the recall process, an elector must file an affidavit of intent to circulate petitions to recall a Governor no sooner than 6 months after the beginning of the Governor's term of office. The affidavit must include signatures of the proponent of the recall petition, at least 20 members of the House of Representatives, and at least 10 members of the Senate, with no more than half of the signatures in each chamber from the same political party. After filing the affidavit with the State Board of Elections, the proponent has 150 days to circulate a petition. The petition must include signatures equal to 15% of the total votes cast for Governor in the preceding gubernatorial election, with at least 100 signatures from a minimum of 25 counties. Within 100 days, the State Board of Elections must certify or reject the petition, and if the Board certifies the petition, a special election must be held within 100 days after the certification. The special election ballot shall include the question, "Shall (name) be removed from the office of Governor?". The Governor is immediately removed if a majority of the electors voting on the question vote to recall the Governor.

Persons seeking to be elected to serve as the successor Governor may circulate nomination petitions. A petition must be signed by 5,000 electors. If multiple candidates of the same party file petitions, a special primary election will occur on the same day as the recall election.

If a Governor is recalled, a special election to elect the successor Governor must take place within 60 days. An Acting Governor, as determined by the order of succession, shall assume the duties of the Governor until the electors choose a new Governor. The special election ballot will include the names of the candidates nominated at the special primary election, as well as any independent or new party candidates, on a special election ballot. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected Governor for the balance of the term.

Voters that believe the Illinois Constitution should be amended to provide for a special election to recall a Governor and for a special election to elect a successor Governor should vote "YES" on the question. Three-fifths of those voting on the question, or a majority of those voting in the election, must vote "YES" in order for the amendment to become effective. Voters that believe the Illinois Constitution should not be amended to provide for a special election to recall a Governor and for a special election to elect a successor Governor should vote "NO" on the question.