Another election, another Illinois Constitution question on the ballot.

In November, for the third consecutive general election, voters are being asked whether to change the state’s 1970 Constitution. This time, it’s a request to increase the number of votes needed to increase pension benefits.

The proposed amendment, backed by powerful House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, is aimed at addressing the state’s crushing, unfunded pension debt. It’s at least $83 billion for the five state-run pension systems for teachers, state employees, college teachers, judges and legislators.