State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) is calling on Gov. JB Pritzker to allow public hearings on the state's COVID-19 response since the state legislature has had zero public hearings regarding the response. âThe constitution relies on a system of checks and balances designed to limit the authority of any one person,â Barickman said in a statement. âEvery day we hear issues from our constituents, from unemployment problems to mental health concerns to the tragic situation at assisted living facilities. However, it's the governor who isn't listening.â Barickman held a press conference in Bloomington-Normal Tuesday to hear from people and businesses to highlight issues they are facing in community and hopefully provide legislative input on the Pritzker's executive orders.