Illinois lawmaker files legislation to remove Emanuel from office

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CHICAGO (FOX 32 / AP) - An Illinois state representative has introduced a bill that could remove Mayor Rahm Emanuel from office.

Democratic Rep. La Shawn Ford filed legislation Wednesday outlining a lengthy process for a city special election.

The proposal would allow a recall election to be initiated by a petition with signatures totaling at least 15 percent of the total votes cast in the previous mayoral election, with at least 50 signatures from each Chicago ward. Challengers would need 12,500 signatures to get on the ballot.

Ford's plan faces a difficult road, including approval from the Democratic-majority House and Senate.

There have been regular calls for Emanuel's resignation since officials released footage showing a white police officer fatally shooting a black teenager in 2014.

The legislation is also sponsored by State Rep. Mary E. Flowers. Details of House Bill 4356 are available HERE.