Illinois § 20-1
Full text of Illinois Illinois Compiled Statutes § 20-1, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-1.
The following words and phrases contained in this Article shall be construed as follows: 1. "Territorial limits of the United States" means each of the several States of the United States and includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands; but does not include American Samoa, the Canal Zone, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands or any other territory or possession of the United States. 2. "Member of the United States Service" means (a) members of the Armed Forces while on active duty and their spouses and dependents of voting age when residing with or accompanying them, (b) members of the Merchant Marine of the United States and their spouses and dependents when residing with or accompanying them and (c) United States government employees serving outside the territorial limits of the United States. 3. "Citizens of the United States temporarily residing outside the territorial limits of the United States" means civilian citizens of the United States and their spouses and dependents of voting age when residing with or accompanying them, who maintain a precinct residence in a county in this State and whose intent to return may be ascertained. 4. "Non-Resident Civilian Citizens" means civilian citizens of the United States (a) who reside outside the territorial limits of the United States, (b) who had maintained a precinct residence in a county in this State immediately prior to their departure from the United States, (c) who do not maintain a residence and are not registered to vote in any other State, and (d) whose intent to return to this State may be uncertain. 5. "Official postcard" means the postcard application for registration to vote or for a vote by mail ballot in the form provided in Section 204(c) of the Federal Voting Rights Act of 1955, as amended (42 U.S.C. 1973cc-14(c)). 6. "Federal office" means the offices of President and Vice-President of the United States, United States Senator, Representative in Congress, delegates and alternate delegates to the national nominating conventions and candidates for the Presidential Preference Primary. 7. "Federal election" means any general, primary or special election at which candidates are nominated or elected to Federal office. 8. "Dependent", for purposes of this Article, shall mean a father, mother, brother, sister, son or daughter. 9. "Electronic transmission" includes, but is not limited to, transmission by electronic mail or the Internet. (Source: P.A. 98-1171, eff. 6-1-15.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois § 20-1
What does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 20-1 cover?
Section 20-1 is part of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutory law of Illinois. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Illinois § 20-1?
A common citation format is "Illinois Compiled Statutes § 20-1" (Illinois). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Illinois law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Illinois official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Illinois attorney.
How does Illinois § 20-1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Illinois can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Illinois.