"The House is in order in regular Session. The Chair recognizes Leader Currie."
"Thank you. Please let the record show that Representative Guzzardi is supposed to have been on the excused list today as well."
"Leader Currie."
"An announcement and a welcome, we have a new Member on this side of the aisle, a replacement for Representative McAsey. His name is John Connor, he hails from Lockport. He's been an Assistant State's Attorney, and I hope the Members will join me in giving him a very happy, healthy Springfield welcome."
"Representative Connor, we're going to get to you in a minute for a few words of welcome. But before we do that, we need to establish a quorum for the regular Session. With leave of the Body, we'll use the Quorum Roll Call for the Sixth Special Session as the Quorum Roll Call for regular Session. Is there leave? Leave is granted, and we do have a quorum for the… for the regular Session. Now, the Chair recognizes our newest Representative, Representative Connor, for a few words."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm honored to have the opportunity to represent the people of the 85th District, down here, with you, my colleagues. I appreciate the kindness I've received from my fellow Legislators, and I look forward to getting to know each of you better, and working with you to address the many challenges that we currently face. Since my appointment Saturday afternoon, I've been hitting the ground running, or trying to. I'm new to holding office, but 10000065.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 I've been fighting for the people of Will County for some time. As an Assistant State's Attorney, I worked to take predators off the streets who used the internet to exploit children, and led the Special Grand Jury, which led to the murder charge against Drew Peterson. I desire to bring the same tenacity and integrity to this chamber as I have brought in my pursuit of justice for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors. I've already heard from many of my neighbors and community members about the issues that are important to them. They are well aware of the issues that we face, but like me, they believe that by working together we can find common ground. It's on both sides to come together and find that common ground and pass a fair and responsible budget, which funds essential services for our seniors, disabled residents, and veterans. Again, I appreciate the warm welcome from everyone, particularly people have come up and introduced themselves, and I look forward to anyone that I haven't met yet. Please come up and introduce yourself. Let's roll up our sleeves and get to work. Thank you."
"Thank you, Representative. Welcome aboard. We're happy to have you here with us. Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
"Representative Andrade, Chairperson from the Committee on Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, & IT reports the following committee action taken on June 26, 2017: recommends be adopted is a Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment 4 and 5 to House Bill 3449. Representative Sims, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary - Criminal reports the following committee action taken on June 26, 2017: recommends be adopted is a Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 10000065.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 2810. Representative Crespo, Chairperson from the Committee on Elementary & Secondary Education: School Curriculum & Policies reports the following committee action taken on June 26, 2017: recommends be adopted is a Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment 1 and 2 to House Bill 2527."
"Leader Currie is recognized."
"Thank you, Speaker. Please add Representative Williams to the list of those who are excused today."
"Thank you, Representative. The House will be in order. Page 7 of the Calendar, Senate Bills-Second Reading, Senate Bill 1402, Mr. Sims. Do you wish to move your Bill, Sir? Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1402, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. This Bill was read a second time a previous day. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Sims, has been approved for consideration."
"Mr. Sims."
"Bear with me, Mr. Speaker."
"We're bearing."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 1402 creates a mechanism for prosecutors to freeze the assets of defendants."
"Excuse me, Representative. This…"
"We have an Amendment."
"…is Second Reading, just the Amendment."
"We have an Amendment. The Amendment established a mechanism for prosecutors to seek relief against the disposal of assets by defendants in cases where the victim is under the age of 10000065.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 18, any offense is a sex offense, or crime of violence. I know of no opposition and ask for its adoption."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Mr. Clerk."
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Senate Bill 1759, Representative Conyears-Ervin. Representative Conyears-Ervin. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1830, Mr. Sims. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1830, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. This Bill was read a second time a previous day. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Senate Bill 1978, Mr. Walsh. Please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1978, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. This Bill was read a second time a previous day. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendments 1 and 2 have been approved for consideration. Floor Amendment #1 is offered by Representative Walsh."
"Mr. Walsh on Amendment 1"
"I'd like to withdraw Floor Amendment 1."
"Amendment 1 is withdrawn. Mr. Clerk."
"Floor Amendment #2 is offered by Representative Walsh."
"Mr. Walsh." 10000065.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Floor Amendment #2 becomes the Bill. And it's an agreed to Bill between the Home Health Care Association, Illinois Chamber of Commerce, and the Department of Labor."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Mr. Clerk."
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Page 3 of the Calendar, House Bills- Second Reading, House Bill 2394, Representative Hernandez. Out of the record. House Bill 2515, Leader Currie. Leader Currie. Out of the record. House Bills-Third Reading, House Bill 1438, Representative Stratton. Out of the record. House Bill 2376, Representative Flowers. Please read the Bill."
"House Bill 2376, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Flowers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 2376 is the Paid Family Leave Bill. This Bill is very important to families across the state. It is… it gives people an opportunity to pay into an insurance plan that would allow them to protect their income if they ever had to take a leave to take care of a family member, to adopt a child, to address an illness of a family member, to take care of an elderly parents. And I know of no opposition to the Bill. And I'll be more than happy to answer any questions. And I would appreciate an 'aye' vote."
"Mr. Andersson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Yes." 10000065.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Sponsor yields."
"Thank you. So Representative, this is a three percent… three percent… point three percent tax on wages of… imposed on employees. Is that correct?"
"That's correct."
"And so, does that come out of the employee's wages, or does the employer…"
"That is it comes out of the employee's wages."
"My employee's wages. You indicated that there was no opposition to it. Our analysis reports that the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, the NFIB, Ameren, Illinois Energy Association, the Illinois Department of Labor, IDES, CMS, and the Illinois… and IRMA are all opposed. Are you aware of that?"
"Well, please forgive me, you're correct except for one. I don't think CMS is still opposed because I took them out of the equation, number one, and the state was already doing it, number two."
"Okay. And I also note that IDES predicts a potential cost of $1.5 billion annually, without a cap on wages. If there is a cap on wages, it might be 311 million. Can you indicate whether there's a cap on wages or not on this."
"Well, first of all, I don’t think it's going to cost that much because we're not really talking about a whole new startup. Where is that we would have to seal the deal with the administration. We have the Department of Unemployment Insurance, and this will be added to that."
"So, I don't think that quite answered my question."
"I'm sorry. What is your question, again?" 10000065.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"That's okay. I'm trying to understand what the exposure is based on whether you… you're treating this as a cap, similar to what we do with unemployment insurance, or whether or not there is no cap, and that affects the number, that affects the cost."
"It would be my intention to place a cap, but let me get back to you on the answer to that, please."
"Can… can we pull that out of the record? It's a critical answer 'cause it's the difference between 311 million and 1.5 billion, annually. That's… I need to know that answer and it needs to be in the legislation. Intent isn't going to do it on something like this."
"Okay. Well, I just want to let you know that it is subject to appropriation, but I'll be more than happy to pull it out of the record until I get that answer."
"Thank you. I appreciate your professionalism and courtesy."
"Sponsor removes the Bill from the record. House Bill 3185, Representative Ammons. Representative Ammons. Out of the record. House Bill 3792, Representative Lilly. Please read the Bill. Representative, I understand you have a Floor Amendment. So, should we… we shall put this Bill back on the Order of Second Reading. And Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"House Bill 3792, a Bill for an Act concerning education. This Bill was read a second time a previous day. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Lilly, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Lilly on the Amendment." 10000065.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Amendment basically adds the language to the Postsecondary Workforce Readiness that we add sixth grade on."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Mr. Clerk."
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Please read the Bill."
"House Bill 3792, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Lilly."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, I rise to present H Bill 3792, basically to address the workforce ethics for our youth starting in sixth grade. We're hoping to add good language that deals with character, professionalism, integrity, trustworthiness, all the aspects that make good employees. And we're adding all of this language to an existing framework, within our existing Act… Postsecondary Workforce Readiness Act. I ask for your 'aye' vote."
"Mr. Pritchard."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative, would you refresh, for the Body, how school districts and teachers, in particular, are going to come up with a curriculum that meet the objectives of your Bill."
"As mentioned, it's already part of an existing Act, the Postsecondary Workforce Readiness Act, in the Amendment of Section 15. And it is important that you know that we are 10000065.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 looking to expand career expectations, as well as establishing a works ethics for our youth. It's already an Act within… our statute."
"So, I was just trying to get a better idea of how you can train work ethics?"
"When you look at the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act, it's a framework within the Act that tells you exactly how to… and I do have an example of that… how to implement the structure itself, the framework itself."
"I didn't hear all of your answer, your mic must have kicked out."
"Yes, we do have a framework within the Act itself, the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act, that each student and principal should follow."
"So, it's a framework that ISBE's going to work with our schools and our teachers to implement, to give them guidelines and content?"
"Correct. It's Section 7… Section 15, and I have the document here. This Bill is agreed, an agreed Bill…"
"I understand."
"…with all entities. And there is a written framework that was established in the 99th General Assembly, I believe."
"Okay. Thank you. Sounds like a good plan. Thank you."
"Thank you."
"This Bill is on the Order of Short Debate. Those in favor of the Bill will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? This Bill requires 60 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 70 voting 10000065.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 'yes', 32 voting 'no'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Returning to House Bill 3185, Representative Ammons. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"House Bill 3185, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Ammons."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is an agreed Bill. The Bill's purpose has four changes to the Civil Service Act. Most of them are technical in nature, but one of them I want to draw the attention of the Body to. Allows the opportunity for highly regulated professions, like law enforcement and licensed medical professionals, from current employers to transfer into vacant positions at state agencies and the university, but only if the Merit Board introduces rules to that effect, and this allows them to do that. It also clarifies the time line to allow for continuances under appropriate circumstances and discharge and demotion procedures. It changes the reference to an East St. Louis Board that is no longer in operation, in the rules. And it also provides for a pilot and demonstration program, unlimited duration, which will protect the Civil Service rights of current employees to allow the universities and agencies to try new programs to introduce efficiencies in their respective Human Resources Department. And various other small technical changes like changing the word 'executive director' in several parts of the Act. And I ask for an 'aye' vote." 10000065.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Those in favor of the Lady's Bill will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This Bill requires 60 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Moving to Senate Bills-Third Reading. Senate Bill 60, Mr. Demmer. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 60, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Mr. Demmer."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 60 is a cleanup to a Bill we passed in the previous General Assembly that set some parameters for tests to make sure that fair and reasonable rates are charged by water providers."
"Those in favor of the Gentleman's Bill will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This Bill requires 71 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Sims. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 75 voting 'yes', 27 voting 'no', 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 321, Representative Mussman. Please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 321, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Mussman."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. So, Senate Bill 321 amends the Illinois Public Aid Code and to provide 10000065.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 that no later than June 30 the Auditor General shall initiate a performance audit of the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, in order to investigate performance measures related to the Medicaid Managed Care organizations. This passed out of the Senate unanimously; it is supported by the Auditor General. We're just, again, trying to gain more information about how this program works in order that we can make it better."
"Those in favor of the Lady's Bill will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This Bill requires 60 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves, Members. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 105 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 421, Mr. Moylan. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 421, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Mr. Moylan."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill just increases the fine from $200 to $1000, if you fly a drone near an airport."
"Those in favor of the Gentleman's Bill will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This Bill requires 60 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Crespo. Please take the record, Mr. Clerk. There are 107 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 702, Representative Conroy. Out 10000065.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 of the record. Senate Bill 776, Mr. Ford. Please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 776, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Mr. Ford."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. Senate Bill 776… The Amendment is adopted, isn't it?"
"Mr. Clerk."
"Amendment… Amendment #1 was adopted in committee."
"Okay."
"Mr. Ford."
"Okay. So, Senate Bill 776 simply updates the Predatory Lending Bill or law. And it's an initiative of the IDFPR, and it's amended. It amends the Predatory Lending Database Article of the Residential Real Property Disclosure Act by changing some of the required information, either input to, or obtain from the database removing outdated references, and updating the references to the Federal Reporting Requirement. I move for the adoption of Senate Bill 776."
"Those in favor of the Gentleman's Bill will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This Bill requires 71 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1290, Mr. Long. Do you wish to move your Bill, Sir? Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill. Mr. Long, I understand you have a Floor Amendment. Mr. Clerk, 10000065.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 place the Bill on the Order of Second Reading and read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1290, a Bill for an Act concerning education. This Bill was read a second time a previous day. Amendment 1 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative Long, has been approved for consideration."
"Mr. Long on the Amendment."
"Well the Amendment… what Amendment #2 does is it clarifies the Bill, and it cleans it up and it makes sure that the… that the school district cannot come back and increase taxes. And is based… what it does is it bases the debt limit increase, so that they can build their school. And it bases it upon the TIF districts and the IGAs that they have with the TIF districts."
"Representative Stuart on the Amendment."
"No."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Mr. Clerk."
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1290, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Mr. Long."
"As introduced, this Bill will increase the debt limit for Waltham School District 185 from 3.8 million to 9.5 million in order to allow them to build a new facility to house both current schools that facilitates K-6 and 7-8 grade students. 10000065.docx 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 Building a new facility will save the taxpayers nearly $4 million in tax increases, to pay for the much needed repairs on the 50-year-old and 67-year-old buildings. By incorporating Floor Amendment #2, we have made sure that Waltham cannot increase taxes to pay for this debt and have made it contingent upon the three TIF districts that they have IGAs with. I simply ask for a 'yes' vote and I'm happy to answer any questions."
"Representative Stuart."
"I would just like to speak to the Bill."
"Please do."
"So, I was in committee when this was brought up. And Representative Long, I appreciate the Amendment that you came back with, and I understand the desire to not raise taxes, but my problem is kind of with the basis of the Bill. It was said to us in committee, that the whole thing is predicated on that this is what the taxpayers want. And I think that's a misrepresentation. There were actually two advisory questions put forward to the taxpayers, but there was only one that kept getting discussed in committee. The first question was, should Waltham School District make every possible effort to use funding sources to build one new Waltham School building without increasing property tax rates. And not surprisingly, 68 percent of the voters approved and 32% disapproved because when they're asked to not increase property tax rates that’s what most people want. As someone with a background in statistics, I have a big problem with that question because it's what we call 'double barrels'. You're asking two que… two things with one question, so it's 10000065.docx 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 not clear what the people are responding to. The second question on the ballot was, should Waltham School District build one new Waltham School building to replace the current Waltham North and South School buildings. And on that one, 41 percent approved and 59 percent did not. So, 59 percent of the people do not want the one building. So, I appreciate the effort of trying to save taxpayer dollars and I think that's what we should try to be doing, and finding creative ways for schools to improve buildings 'cause I've taught in old buildings, and it's difficult. But to predicate this on the saying that this is what the taxpayers ask for, I think is… is pretty much a lie. And I just think it's a bad idea. Thank you."
"Mr. Cavaletto."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. Will this, Mr. Long… will this, Representative, will this save the district money in the long run?"
"Yes, it will, it will cost this… North School, it will cost them a little over $4 million to rehab the building because it is in much need for repair. Its windows, roof, and many other things. It would save the district a lot of money. By combining the two schools, it would save them a tremendous amount of money."
"So, there's a consolidation here, then?"
"There is, yes."
"How old are those buildings?"
"One's 67 years old and the other one's 50 years old. Now, the one that’s 50 years old had rehab 'cause they had a 10000065.docx 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 tornado that ripped through Utica, back in 2004. It… but it's landlocked; they can't grow any further."
"So, we're putting children in real old buildings then, huh?"
"Absolutely."
"Now, you did state that it was a referendum. Could you explain that?"
"Yeah. It was an advisory referendum that they put on the ballot, and what they wanted to do was find out the pulse of the people. And the one question, like the other Representative mentioned, was would you approve… school… should Waltham School District build one new Waltham School building to replace the current Waltham North and South School building… buildings. Obviously, they are not in favor of that because they don't want the taxes increased. But the other question on the ballot, on the same ballot, was should Waltham School District make every possible effort to use funding's forces to build one new Waltham School building without increasing property taxes won 68 to 32 percent."
"And you… your school district has the money for this, do they not?"
"They are financially sound. As a matter of fact, they've got nearly $4 million in reserves right now; and they have no debt right now. And they have IGAs with all three TIF districts, as a matter of fact, Sarah Hardwick, from Illinois State Board of Education has said that Waltham School District is one of the most financially sound schools in the State of Illinois. They do run a 85 percent adequacy rate." 10000065.docx 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Well, I would urge this that I think these kids deserve a new school."
"Yes, Sir."
"You have the revenue to do it. Your consolidating will save money in the long run and give them a good education. I would ask for an 'aye' vote for this Gentleman. Thank you."
"Representative Scherer."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Like Representative Stuart, I, too, was a former educator, and I see the value in this. I would appreciate more time on this. I also was in the committee. And the way I feel about it is we do not, if I'm understanding correctly, we do not have all of the letters from the three different TIF districts yet for the intergovernmental agreement. And I know that Representative Long has worked his… his self to death over this Bill. I just want more time to wait for those letters. And if we had the letters, I would be much more considerable of it. But without those, all three letters, from the three different TIF districts, I think it's a presumption that, as a state, we're being fiscally irresponsible to vote for this until the three letters have arrived. Thank you."
"Representative Ives."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative Long, let's just talk about this a little bit… more. So, currently, your… the school district that you're advocating for is actually one of the top five fiscally 10000065.docx 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 responsible school districts in the State of Illinois, out of 860 school districts. Is that correct?"
"That is correct."
"And they've come up with a unique way, in fact… and what they did, they don't actually need to go to referendum to extend their debt limit because they don't actually plan on adding to the property taxes for debt. Is that correct?"
"That is correct. It is a unique way of funding it, and because they wanted to save the burden upon the taxpayers, yes."
"So, your superintendent, who has zero debt right now, has $4 million in reserve, has a debt limit of $3.8 million, and needs to borrow just under 10 to get this deal done has pretty much, if she were to go to her max debt limit, take part of her reserves, she's already half way there. And she's actually asking for permission to exceed the debt limit, simply so that they can use TIF money that is going to be agreed upon, to pay off the debts over a short 12-year time frame. Is that correct?"
"That is correct. And with Floor Amendment #2, it makes sure that she… that they cannot come back and tax the people in the district- on their property taxes. It is directly tied to the TIF districts and the intergovernmental agreements. And responding to the other Representative, I do have the letters of intent right here. I just… was able… I just was able to pull them up at the last minute."
"So, you’ve got two schools in need of $5 million worth of repair. She's going to consolidate those two schools into one brand new facility for this… this district. She's going to 10000065.docx 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 not add to the property tax levy, at all; she just needs permission to extend that debt limit. Is that correct?"
"That is correct."
"And this is a very unique financing way that this superintendent has come up with. So, if in the past… To the Bill. If in the past you have voted to extend debt limits up to 25, 30 years, add to the property tax rolls, and you vote against this Bill, that would be… that would be… you couldn't understand it. That would be a vote that would not make sense. So, if anybody has voted to extend debt limits on other school districts and votes against this very reasonable Bill, not adding to the property taxes, a district that is one of our top five financially responsible ones, consolidating schools, and using a unique way to use TIF funds, which you know… there are plenty of other schools who have… have dipped into TIF funds and asked for it for all sorts of other benefits. I just think that the people should consider all these things, before they vote. Thank you."
"Mr. Pritchard."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative, you've worked long and hard on this particular issue for your school district. Your sense is, is that local people support the consolidation, which we're going to have a panel today to talk about consolidation, and to do it in a creative way that doesn't increase taxes. Is that correct?"
"That is correct. As a matter of a fact, I had a gentleman from Waltham School District down this weekend, while I was 10000065.docx 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 in Session, and we had long, lengthy, conversation about this… And I happen to know that the people in the district are very supportive of this, yes."
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, I want you to keep in mind we have not appropriated money for school districts to build new buildings, as they're required, when they have old dilapidated buildings, or in this case, when they're consolidating some districts. We're asking local districts to use their creativity and to do what's right for their citizens and their students. We have before us a Bill that does that. I would encourage your support and consideration. Thank you."
"Representative Chapa LaVia, we've already had three people speak in favor of the Bill. Are you speaking in favor or in response? You're speaking in favor. Then we're not going to be able to let you speak on this Bill. Mr. Long to close."
"Thank you, Speaker. I appreciate it. And people of the House, I thank you very much for considering this Bill. I think that the kids need a very good education and I think that this is an extremely situation… rare situation. Both schools are… are in need of repair, one more than the other obviously, but… but this would open up an opportunity for this school district to be able to house these… all these students in one building and give them a great opportunity for a good education. And I encourage an 'aye' vote, please."
"Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. This Bill requires 71 votes. Have all… Those in favor of the Bill will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves. Harris, Hoffman, Lilly, Sims, 10000065.docx 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 75 voting 'yes', 28 voting 'no'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1657, Representative Willis. Out of the record. On the Order of Concurrence, House Bill 1542, Mr. Phelps. Please proceed, Sir."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I move to concur with Senate Bill 1542, Amendment 1. It… this oil and gas priority, which proceeds oil and gas mineral interest that are paid to the individuals and entities the amount… owning the interest of the non-trust estates. It passed the House 113-0, and the Senate 54-0. I just ask for its… passage."
"Those in favor of the Gentleman's Motion will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This Bill requires 60 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There are 103 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And the House does concur with Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 1542. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 2771, Mr. Mitchell. Please proceed, Sir." Mitchell, C.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the Body. There is one simple change the Senate made to clarify that folks subject to the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act or the Federal Employers Liability Act are exempt. So, that is folks who work on railways or who work with our airlines. Other than that, this is the same Bill that we passed over to 10000065.docx 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 the Senate. I look forward to any questions and would ask that we concur."
"Mr. Andersson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Thank you. Representative, could you give me a little bit more on the underlying Bill." Mitchell, c.: "Sure. So, this is a… this is the paid sick leave Bill that substantially mirrors the Bill that we had in the City of Chicago and in Cook County. Five days of paid sick leave that accrues at one hour for every 40 hours worked. For people who are not seasonal employees, you have to have worked there for at least six months for it to start."
"And what did the… what did the Senate Amendment do?" Mitchell, C.: "Senate Amendment addressed a concern that was shared by the airline industry, as well as the railways, to make sure that folks who are sort of covered under interstate commerce laws, are not subject to this Act. There was a concern, in some pending litigation, saying that they should not be. So, pending that litigation, we wanted to clarify you are not… if you are with an airline or with a railroad, this Bill does not apply to you."
"Okay. I note that there is a rather huge list of opponents. To your knowledge, are those still opponents?" Mitchell, C.: "That's my understanding, yes. That… that would have… if there were anyone from the airline or railway industry that were opposed, they'd be removed. But other than that, the list has not changed." 10000065.docx 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Yeah. Looks like there's about 30 or 40. I'm not going to read all of them, but it's pretty significant." Mitchell, C.: "It… there has been… there was… look, we… we did all that we could to make sure that we took care of sort of the industry concerns."
"Thank you." Mitchell, C.: "We were unable to alleviate those concerns, but I do believe they made it a better Bill. There was concern about a minimum number of hours that could be used, originally that unit was around two. We made that four hours to be half a day, or half of a retail shift. That's an example of a way that opponents made the Bill better. That said, Mr. Andersson, they are still not on board with the Bill. That has not changed."
"Understood and it looks like the fiscal impact right now is $843 thousand per year. Is that correct?" Mitchell, C.: "That sounds about right. We've got some folks in CMS and a couple of the departments that would be covered. So, yes."
"So, you know my next question. How we going to pay for it?" Mitchell, C.: "Look, the answer to that, Representative Andersson, is that this is a value judgement. I would argue that what is worse for our state's fiscal condition and the ability of folks to pay taxes is having to lose their job because they've got a sick kid. But there is no question there is a small cost to the state. I would argue that that cost is worth it to ensure that we keep our workforce professional, that we keep out workforce happy, that we keep those who work in the 10000065.docx 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 restaurant industry, for example, from infecting customers or fellow workers."
"Thank you very much. I appreciate the answers to the questions." Mitchell, C.: "Thank you, Sir."
"Those in favor of the Gentleman's Motion will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This requires 71 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves. Sente. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 60 voting 'yes', 46 voting 'no'. The Motion fails. Mr. Mitchell, this is a renewable Motion. House Bill 2953, Mr. Evans. Please proceed, Sir."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and the great Members of the Assembly. I'd like to concur on both Amendments #1 and 2 that the Senate did to this Bill. Amendment 1 removes the CTA. It wasn't my intention to have that adopted, but it was. So, the focus should be placed on Amendment 2. And what Amendment 2 does is it makes some small changes to the Bill. We'll still keep the small purchase threshold to mirror the Federal Transit Administration. We're increasing that amount from 40 to 150 thousand. But the key point is that, right now, our standard is at 40 thousand for construction, demolition, rehabilitation, renovation, and billed as maintenance projects. It will remain at 40 thousand, and not be increased, with regards to small purchase. I ask your support."
"Mr. Andersson."
"Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields." 10000065.docx 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"So, Representative, all we're doing is we're increasing the threshold for bidding, correct, from 40 thousand to 100 thousand?"
"That's what we did in the initial Bill. So, that Bill passed. What we’re doing here, they want some clarification that construction projects won't be included. And if you really think about it, what construction projects are going be under the small… small purchase threshold anyway. I just think some of our labor partners, for whatever reason, wanted clarity in a language that this wasn't going to be used to avoid any bidding process, is not, there's still a bidding process, it's just not as arduous for small purchase bidding."
"Right. They get through… they get a couple of quotes or something to that effect, instead of the full blown bidding process, right?"
"For sure. There's still a bidding process. But they just wanted a clarification language. I didn't think it was necessary, but now there's no misunderstanding at this point."
"Thank you very much. Appreciate it."
"No, thank you."
"Those in favor of the Motion will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. This requires 71 votes. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Members, please record yourselves. Please record yourselves, Members. Please take the record. On this question, there are 70 voting 'yes', 36 voting 'no'. And the Motion fails. And Mr. Evans, this is a renewable Motion. House Bill 3691, Representative Gabel. Representative Gabel. Out of 10000065.docx 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 the record. Under the Order of Resolutions, HJR17, Mr. Evans. Please proceed, Sir."
"All right, thank you. House Resolution I think is pretty simple. I've passed… we know who Barack Obama is; we know what he stands for. He is a President. We could wait 'til after he's deceased and honor him, but I have a belief personally that we should honor people while they're still here. So, I request your support. We have named expressways. If you come to the Transportation Committee, we name tollways, expressways, exits. Why not honor our President from the State of Illinois? I request your support."
"Mr. Andersson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"I just want to… make sure, I thought for a while there were two competing Bills, for two different highways, to get the designation. Has that been resolved?"
"I don't want to use the word 'competing' because I think the plan is to honor our President. I believe we can pass both and my focus is on this Resolution. I don't… I don't know exactly what Mr. Ford is doing with I-55. But I have no opposition to tollways, fine. I have cosponsors. I worked it, so I would…
"Right."
"…you would have to talk to Representative Ford to find out what he… what he plans to do with that one."
"Well, I just… I think he… I don't know that we have any other highway in the state, or two highways that have the same name. That's the only thing I'm wondering about." 10000065.docx 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Yeah, I'm not sure. I guess…"
"Is he here?"
"…again, we could have that conversation. My focus is, I would like to name the tollway after the President. I…"
"Whose…"
"…request your support."
"…whose Bill is the competing Bill?"
"Excuse me?"
"Whose Bill is the other Bill, the other highway naming Bill?"
"As you can see, if you check the record, it's Rep… the great Representative Ford, from the west side of Chicago."
"Well, since as you name him has been used in debate, I would love to hear the answer to my question, from him maybe. But I'm just wondering if we've got two competing Bills?"
"And again, competing. I don't… I don't know what that… the context of that. What I do know is that the tollway, I think, would be the better option and represents what Barack Obama stands for, bringing communities together, connecting various communities, connecting your community to my community. So…"
"Yup."
"…I request your support for this one."
"Well… well, I tell you what, I'm only speaking for myself, you got it to the floor first, so I'm going to vote for your Bill."
"I appreciate it."
"Mr. Morrison." 10000065.docx 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Thank… thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative Evans, in your Joint Resolution, the first line, it's appropriate and right to honor those great American figures who have served our nation in public office. Clearly we have… we have honored great American figures. We have named highways and… and byways after individuals. The thing I'm wrestling with is, should we do this to someone who is still living?"
"Representative Morrison, I think we should. And I think, you know, why do we wait to individuals to be diseased before we honor them? I mean, I don't have an answer to that question, and maybe we could be the beginning of stopping that. Let's honor individuals, let them know that we appreciate their service. Their service without scandal, their service that they did in an appropriate manner. They left with dignity and pride from the office, conducted themselves in a standard of which I would approve, that my church family would approve. So, I would just request your support. And let's honor him together. Maybe we can do an event somewhere on the tollway together to and bring… and bring him there."
"Okay. At least for the major interstates around Chicago, we have the Eisenhower, obviously, we have the Stevenson, on the western suburbs, it's the Reagan tollway. But I'm pretty sure that those were named after those individuals passed away. The Kennedy, obviously."
"Reagan was alive. Yeah, Reagan was alive when he was honored." 10000065.docx 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Are you certain of that?"
"Yup."
"You are certain… Okay. All right. Well, Representative, I stand corrected, but as a matter of principle, I don't think we should be doing it for people who are still living. And it's not just about Republican or Democrat. I think there's a road near Peoria that was named after Congressman LaHood. I don't think that was a good idea. I think we… we owe it to the citizens of Illinois to wait and if we're going to give honor, let's give some time to really reflect on… on who we want to give honor to. So, thank you."
"Representative Wallace."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"So, this will be a tollway and not the highway, or other regular interstates, correct?"
"It would be the tollway, yes, 294."
"That's perfect; 294 runs through the south side, or toward the south side, correct?"
"It runs through a variety of communities. And I think symbolically, it's one of the reasons why I was so excited to… to the selection of that thing. Barack Obama represents a variety of people, variety of races, variety of educational… places. He's just really a great person as far as connecting the various communities. Gained support throughout all of his communities and ran for office. Was just one who deserves something that connects folks, and he was about connecting different folks, and I think this does that." 10000065.docx 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Thank you. To this particular measure. I think it's interesting to hear some of the debate, as to whether or not the individual is alive or has passed away or what have you. I think that we do quite a bit of recognizing and honoring people here with stretches of road. We've recognized organizations with special license plates over the years. We've done all these things, yet, we cannot accept the wonderful and tremendous historical feat that it was, for an individual of African descent, to rise to the highest office in our nation. I know… I know we want to say that, oh, it's not about race, it's not about this, it's not about that, but that in and of itself, given the nature and the history of our country, was one of the largest feats that we will witness in our lifetime. And that is why this is so important. I encourage everyone in this chamber to honor the 44th President by voting 'yes' to this measure. Thank you."
"Mr. Martwick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative Evans. I wanted to briefly ask you just a couple of questions on your Bill."
"Please."
"So, this… the idea for naming this, 294 as the expressway, came from a mutual colleague of ours, by the name of Patrick Stephans. Isn't that right?"
"Yes, Sir."
"And he came to us with the idea that the tri-state tollway was a tollway that… that the reason they call it the 10000065.docx 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 tri-state is that it joins the tri-state area of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana. Is that right?"
"Yes, it is. Yes, Sir."
"And… and the idea behind naming this expressway after Barack Obama was that his path to victory, as you mentioned, was largely uniting that tri-state area, winning victories in those three states, by bringing a message of unity, and hope, and change, and ideas that… that really brought that tri- state area together. And that was his path to the White House."
"Yes, it was. Yes, Sir."
"And… and clearly over the eight years that he served in the White House, he did it with… with really such, whether you agreed with him or disagreed with him, such utmost respect and dignity for that office. I think this is a great idea; that's why I'm happy to support your Bill. And I encourage everyone to vote 'aye'. Thank you."
"Thank you."
"Representative Bellock. Representative Bellock."
"Excuse me. Thank you very much. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"I… so in reading this, it's a little unclear in our analysis. So, are you talking about the entirety of the 294 tollway, Representative?"
"Yes, the entirety of the tri-state, yes. 294, tri-state, whichever you'd like to name, yes, the entirety of it."
"The entire tollway? Now… because on here it says something about something going into the Eisenhower system. 10000065.docx 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 And I've never heard the 294 referred to as the Eisenhower system of the tollway."
"Yeah."
"So, I wanted to make it clear. Are we talking about the Eisenhower or, by itself, or 294. Well, you wouldn't be the Eisenhower. So, are you talking about the part just feeding into the Eisenhower, or all the way from the mile long bridge, all the way up to Wisconsin."
"Just to be clear, I've said it already…"
"I'm sorry."
"…it's the entire tri-state. Not the Eisenhower, I don't want to go to any other… the entire tri-state, from the top of the state connecting Indiana, all the way down to my district, all the way down connecting to I-80 and Harvey, and the various communities in the southland…"
"Okay."
"…all the way up north, the entire tri-state."
"Thank you very much, Representative."
"Mr. Skillicorn."
"Will the Speaker… the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative, I'm going to end up supporting your Bill, but I've got just got a couple, brief questions here. And it's just to the idea of can we give this honor out to people while they're still alive. I do want to bring up an example. We have a Dennis Hastert expressway, and how well did that work out? I would say it's not very… in that situation, it was not very good. So, I think it might be good, in the future, for us to withhold a little bit until someone 10000065.docx 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 does pass, and we can honor them appropriately. But… furthermore, to the Bill. I am going to support this, even though I do oppose the idea of having tollways, just in the suburban and Chicago areas of the state. You know, unfortunately, the people who live in the suburbs, in Chicago, also pay motor fuel taxes and unfortunately, it's just a way that they… they're double taxed on the same roads. So, I hope this passes, but I just want to make that new point known."
"Mr. Breen."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative, I'm… I'm not necessarily, just to clarify your point about President Reagan. It's my understanding, just doing some research here on Google, that he died on June 5 of 2004, and that the tollway wasn't renamed at least, the report of The Tribune, until June 15."
"What was that?"
"So, it was renamed shortly after his death, but he was deceased at the time, just as a point of clarification. I didn't know if that was… Is that incorrect?"
"Okay. That was my understanding. I'm willing to… We can…"
"Okay."
"…make a determination after Session."
"Fair enough. Just…"
"Whether or not…"
"…June 15, 04."
"…was my understanding."
"Now it's the Reagan tollway, from the Chicago…
"Yeah." 10000065.docx 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"…Tribune, so. Thank you."
"Mr. Evans to close."
"Yeah, again, I truly request your support. This is not a promotion of President Obama's policies. I didn't agree with all of his policies. This is just an honor of a President who represented Illinois well. I request your support."
"Those in favor of the Gentleman's Motion will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 84 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And the Resolution is adopted. HJR36, Mr. Ford. Mr. Ford, there's an Amendment, I understand."
"Yes."
"Mr. Clerk."
Clerk Hollman: "Floor Amendment #1 has been approved for consideration. It's offered by Representative Ford."
"Mr. Ford on the Amendment."
"I would like to adopt an Amendment for HJR36. And it simply reduces the mileage for the Obama 55 renaming."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Now, Mr. Ford, on the Resolution."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We know that President Obama traveled 55 on his way to Springfield as a State Senator. And it's my intention to congratulate the previous Sponsor of the Resolution that he passed. But I also have a Resolution that I believe is important to rename portions of 55. We know that when we drive down 55, it's a historic drive. You see lots of 10000065.docx 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 different landmarks where history has been planted, and I believe 55 would be ideal for renaming portions of it after President Obama. So, what we have now is, we're going to start, if this Resolution should pass, it will pick up at the tri-state, and it will proceed and go through to Pontiac, Illinois. So, we… we're are going to name all of 55, but it is the recommendation of the IDOT that we not overlap because I think Paul Simon also has some dedications on the road; and we also have Stevenson, which has some dedications on 55. There has been a lot of discussion already about renaming, so I just ask for the adoption. I have a Senate Sponsor and they’re ready to pick it up in the Senate to move this forward. Ask for the passage of HJR36."
"Mr. Andersson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. So, Representative, like I said in the last Bill, I just don't agree with two highways having the same name. He beat you, he got there first, so he got my vote. So, I respect what you're doing, I actually support it, but I just don't support two highways with the same name. So, I'm not going to vote against you, but I'm respectfully not going to vote."
"Mr. Reick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor Yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"I have one question as somebody who comes into the city only rarely from his country side home. I listen to the radio reports, you know, traffic reports, who's backed up where, and what road to take and all this. And I hear Bishop Ford and I hear Reagan, and I hear all these things, I don't here 10000065.docx 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 numbers anymore. LaShawn, how am I going to know what road I want to take, when somebody says the 'Obama Expressway' is backed up all the way to Mars."
"Well, thank goodness, there… it's just going to be placards. It will not really be renaming 55 to Obama, but it will be a designation. And that's what's important…"
"Yeah…"
"…about this."
"…but when you listen to Felicia Middlebrooks on the radio, and she's telling you that the Obama Expressway is backed up instead of I-55, you're confused."
"I won't be."
"You're a better man than I."
"You said it."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"Mr. Batinick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"I don't know exactly where to start. There's really no good out, in this scenario. I don't think anybody wants to vote against an expressway being named after, you know the historic nature of the Obama Presidency. It's obviously incredibly confusing to have a tollway and an expressway that crisscross named after the same person. I'm just asking if maybe you would take this out of the record… if you'd take this out of the record, so that you guys can work this out and you can find one tollway expressway to name after… name after the former President. We're all going to look bad today, no matter what we do on this. We're going to have two roads 10000065.docx 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 named after the former… after the former President, or I don't know what. At a time in a budget impasse, I just think it would be great to take this out of the record, start focusing on our committee hearing that we have coming up this afternoon, and maybe work with the Sponsor of the previous Bill. I don't know where this goes… back to the Senate. But it probably makes sense to have one road named after the former President."
"One is a tollway, one is a… not a tollway. But by a show of hands, if you want me to take it out of the record, the majority rules."
"Yeah."
"So, I tried."
"I… I appreciate you doing that, thank you. That's all I could ask for. Thank you."
"Gentleman removes the Resolution from the record. Gentleman does not remove the Resolution from the record. I couldn't… just couldn't understand your hand signals, Sir. Mr. Ford to close."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Sorry about the confusions. I've never been good at hand signals."
"Those in favor of the Gentleman's Resolution will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 63 voting 'yes', 10 voting 'no', 1 voting 'present'. And the Resolution is adopted. HR45, Mr. Ford. Proceed, Sir."
"Gracious." 10000065.docx 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"There's an Amendment on this one as well. Mr. Clerk."
"No, no Amendment on this one."
"Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Ford, has been approved for consideration."
"You like this one?"
"Mr. Ford on the Amendment."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. The Resolution speaks for itself. I move for the adoption of… Well first, I need to adopt the Floor Amendment."
"Tell us what the Amendment does, Sir."
"And the Floor Amendment… Okay. So, the Floor Amendment… My computer is moving slow, but my recollection is that it's simply makes sure it's not that an automatic study… automatic reparations. It doesn't automatically grant reparations, but it does say that there should be a study, and if the study requires it, then we should consider reparations in this country."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Now, Mr. Ford on the Resolution."
"My computer is not working. Okay. This is for requesting President Trump to commission a study to detail the economic impact of the slave trade and the use of slave labor, and how the emancipation, while freeing slaves, really did not complete the job. We did the same Resolution for President Obama. President Obama didn't commission the study, so we asked that President Trump commissions the study. And I think I have support from one of the Members on the other side of 10000065.docx 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 the aisle that we commission the study to see the impact of slavery has had on America and continue to have on our country. So, I move for the passage of HR45."
"Those in favor of the Resolution say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. HR114, Representative Feigenholtz. Mr. Clerk, is there an Amendment?"
"Floor Amendment #1 is offered by Representative Feigenholtz."
"Representative Feigenholtz on the Amendment and your Resolution. Out of the record. HR115, Representative Fine. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Resolution talks about the importance of immigrants and refugees to our country, and encourages the President to uphold the values of the people of the United States, which was founded on these principles."
"Those in favor of the Resolution say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. HR261, Mr. Sosnowski. Please proceed, Sir."
"Sorry about that. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is simply a Resolution that encourages the State of Illinois and the General Assembly not to impose any more restrictive measures on energy drinks. I'd ask for 'aye' vote. Thank you."
"Those in favor of the Resolution say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. HR326, Representative Flowers. Out of the record. HR381, Mr. Welch. Please proceed, Sir."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. House Resolution 381 is a very important Resolution. It urges President Trump and the United 10000065.docx 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 States Congress to permanently reauthorize the Perkins Loan Program. This is an initiative of the coalition of Higher Education Assistance Organization. This loan plays a critical role in low-income students being able to afford college. And I would ask that the Members promote college affordability and urge President Trump to continue permanently authorizing the permanent… the Perkins Loan Program."
"Those in favor of the Resolution say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. HR386, Representative Gabel. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Resolution just asks that dental care is taken out of the larger Medicaid RFP because dental care is better served if we have a separate company doing that rather than the health care HMOs."
"Representative Ives."
"Mr. Speaker, I just wanted to rise for a point of personal privilege. I'll do it after you're done with this Resolution."
Speaker Lang: "Thank you, Representative. Representative Bellock."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Is HFS still opposed to this?"
"I don’t know."
"I know they were."
"I don't know."
"Well, they… they were before. I mean, because we were interested in this, but they did not want to change that at 10000065.docx 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 the time. And on my analysis, HFS is still opposed to this. Thank you."
"Those in favor of the Lady's Resolution will say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Now, the Chair recognizes Representative Ives."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I do rise for a point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. We've been talking about naming roadways for folks and I just want to invite everybody else to a very important naming ceremony that will happen in Wheaton. The College of DuPage will honor Wheaton resident… actually Glen Ellyn… the College of DuPage will honor Wheaton resident and Medal of Honor recipient Staff Sergeant Robert J. Miller during a dedication ceremony from 2:00 to 3:20 p.m. on Thursday, July 6, on the west side of the Staff Sergeant Robert J Miller Homeland Security Education Center. It's located at the college's campus in Glen Ellyn. In addition, the college will also honor former students and alumni who have paid the ultimate sacrifices, fire fighters, police officers, and military service members, with their own memorial inside the AGC. This event is free and open to the public. Participants are asked to RSVP at COD. Born in 1983, Miller grew up in Wheaton, Illinois, where he attended Wheaton North High School. In 2003, he joined the U.S. Army and spent 18 months completing the training and qualifications required for Special Forces. In 2007, Miller received two Army Commendation Medals, for Valor, for Courage Under Fire after an eight-month deployment in Afghanistan. Miller was killed 10000065.docx 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 in action in January 2008 and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama in October 2010. This is an important ceremony. His parents are flying in from Florida to attend this ceremony. And you are all invited as we rename the Homeland Education Security at College of DuPage in honor of Staff Sargent Robert Miller, Medal of Honor recipient. Thank you very much for your time."
"Thank you, Representative. Mr. Costello."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Earlier, I believe I was recorded as a 'yes' on House Bill 2771. I'd like to be recorded as a 'no'. Thank you."
"The record will reflect your intention. Mr. Olsen is recognized."
"A point of personal privilege."
"Proceed, Sir."
"Thank you. I want to just second what Representative Ives just said, inviting the Body and all Members, not just Members who live in DuPage, but throughout the state to come and join us for that dedication. I was a… the vice chairman of the College of DuPage Board prior… until just last April. And this is such an important step to recognizing the importance of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. And I think it's one way… it’s a great way that we are doing that locally. And so, I just urge everyone to come out and join us for that important ceremony. Thank you."
"Thank you, Sir. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolution. House Resolution 516, offered by Representative Meier." 10000065.docx 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Leader Feigenholtz moves for the adoption of the Agreed Resolution. Those in favor say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Agreed Resolution is adopted. On page 16 of the Calendar, HR395, Representative Fine. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Resolution declares May 14 through May 20, 2017, as Food Allergy Awareness Week. The point of this week is to help raise awareness and understanding about food allergies."
"Those in favor of the Resolution say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. HR430, Mr. Sauer. Proceed, Sir."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to introduce HR430 which recognizes the Lions Club Organization, which was founded in the State of Illinois and continues to be headquartered in the State of Illinois. It was founded by Melvin Jones, who was a Chicago businessman, a hundred years ago on June 7. Their international convention is this year in Chicago, coming up. And it would… this Resolution would make July 2, which is the first day of their convention, Lions Day in Illinois. I'd ask if there are any Lions Club Members or any friends of the Lions to be added as cosponsors. And I'd ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Those in favor of the Resolution say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. HR490, Representative Gabel. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So this… this Resolution urges Governor Rauner to be part of the U.S. Climate Alliance to… with… There are nine other states in that Alliance. And it simply asks that we continue addressing the Paris Climate 10000065.docx 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 Agreement. When we passed the Renewable Energy Bill last year, that already sets Illinois in pace with meeting the Paris Climate Agreement. So, we're already there."
"Mr. Morrison."
"Mr. Speaker, will there be… will there be a Roll Call on this?"
"Not unless you ask for one."
"Okay. Thank you."
"Those in favor of the… Mr. Costello, do you rise on this Motion."
"Yes, Mr. Speaker."
"Please proceed."
"I actually would request a Roll Call on this."
"Roll Call will be acknowledged. Representative Gabel to close."
"So, I'd appreciate an 'aye' vote. This Bill is… is pretty much what we're doing in Illinois anyway and it will lead us forward. Thank you."
"Those in favor of the Lady's Motion will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 54 voting 'yes', 29 voting 'no'. And the Resolution is adopted. SJR2, Mr. Beiser."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is a Resolution that designates part of Illinois Route 143, in my district, after Lance Corporal Chris Totora, after Lance Corporal Richard Bennett, and Private First Class Jim Stassi. All three of these gentlemen went to East Alton Literal High School. And 10000065.docx 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 all three of these gentlemen died in the line of duty, in Vietnam, in the year 1967."
"Those in favor of the Resolution will vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves. Mr. Turner. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 107 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And the Resolution is adopted. SJR10, Representative Harper. Please proceed. There is a Floor Amendment, Mr. Clerk."
"Floor Amendment #1 is offered by Representative Harper and has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Harper on the Amendment."
"Yes. I wish to adopt the Amendment, which simply specifies a home for the task force in the Department of Human Services."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Now, on the Resolution, Representative."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to present for you Senate Joint Resolution 10, which would create a task force on developing opportunities to reengage, educate, and train youth and young adults who are jobless and out of school. I encourage an 'aye' vote."
"Those in favor of the Lady's Resolution will vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves. Mussman, Gordon-Booth. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 100 voting 10000065.docx 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And the Resolution is adopted. SJR16, Representative Bellock. Representative Bellock."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. And SJR16 designates the last week of October in 2017 as Dyslexia Awareness Week in the State of Illinois. Thank you. I appreciate your support."
"Those in… Excuse me. Those in favor of the Resolution say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. SJR20, Mr. Unes. Please proceed."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. SJR20 designates the section of Illinois Route 98 from its intersection with Illinois Route 29 to its intersection with McNaughton Park Drive as the 'Sergeant Dean Russell Shaffer Memorial Highway.' Sergeant Shaffer was a graduate of Pekin Community High School in 2007. And on January 9, 2012, the 25th Infantry Division was deployed to Afghanistan. On April 19, 2012, Sergeant Shaffer's crew was running a standard escort mission for Med-Vac. Later that evening, the Black Hawk helicopter he was on crashed, killing all four members on board. It is highly fitting that the Illinois General Assembly pays honor and respect to the truly great individuals who have served our country. And I ask for a favorable vote of this Memorial Highway Resolution."
"Those in favor of the Resolution vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Turner, Yingling, Davis. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. 10000065.docx 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 And the Resolution is adopted. SJR37, Representative Scherer. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I stand for SJR37. This Resolution designates Sheriff Roger Walker Memorial Drive. And it's in commemoration of his time as the first African- American sheriff elected in Illinois and in Macon County, and also in his time as director of the Department of Corrections."
"Those in favor of the Resolution will vote 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Please record yourselves. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 103 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. And the Resolution is adopted. On page 17 of the Calendar, under Motions in Writing, there are three Motions to Table. HR130, Feigenholtz; HR364, Parkhurst; Senate Bill 771(sic-Senate Bill 771 not meant to be read into the record), Soto. With leave of the Body, we will take these on one Motion. Those in favor of the Motions to Table will say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And all three Bills will be tabled. Page 8 of the Calendar, Senate Bill 1759, Representative Conyears- Ervin. Representative Conyears-Ervin, do you wish to move this Bill to Third Reading? Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1759, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. This Bill was read a second time a previous day. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Conyears-Ervin, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Conyears-Ervin." 10000065.docx 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill is to address the loitering with criminal intent."
"Those in favor of the Amendment say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Mr. Clerk."
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. DeLuca is recognized."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Back in the district office today, my assistant Ruby Flores, is celebrating her 18th wedding anniversary. So, Ruby, just want to wish you a happy anniversary from Springfield."
"Happy anniversary, Ruby. The Chair recognizes Mr… Well, before we get to that, Representative Flowers is recognized."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like for everyone to take this opportunity to give my daughter, Makeda Coutee, a happy birthday congratulations. She was born in Springfield 26 years ago. So, would you all please join me in wishing her a happy birthday?"
"Happy birthday. Chair recognizes Mr. Welch on a point of personal privilege."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Recently, a Sun Times reporter, wrote a story where Governor Bruce Rauner talked about how happy he is these days. Here is Governor Rauner, in his own words, on happiness. 'It's really wonderful when people describing themselves as Democrats tell me to stay the course, that I'm doing the right thing'. He said, 'That energizes me, 10000065.docx 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 and I know it sounds strange, but my wife tells me she hasn't seen me this happy in 20 years. I feel totally honored and humble to get the opportunity to improve the future of 13 million people. It may sound weird, but my wife tells me she hasn't seen me this happy in 20 years.' Really? Really? The Governor is happy while our state burns. Is he happy because he's spending millions on TV commercials? Is he happy because he's sending mailers in my colleague's districts all across the state? This makes our Governor happy. Really? Is he happy because our universities are crumbling and they have junk bond status, and the state is headed that way soon? Really? Is he happy because violence has increased all across the state due to a lack of a budget? Come on. All of us, Republicans and Democrats, we need to stand up. We need to stand up now. June 30 is five days away. Enough is enough. Your Leader, the Minority Leader, recently said, and I'm going to quote him, 'I'm not going to point fingers today unless that I feel that it's absolutely necessary. But it's time to move away from that', Leader Durkin said on Connected to Chicago. 'There will be a Governor's election in a year and a half, let the chips fall where they may. But the fact is, everybody needs to lay their arms down for a little bit, put things aside, and think about the welfare of our state.' I agree with Leader Durkin. It's time to put the campaign rhetoric aside and spend the next five days working out a budget. A budget, a moral document for our state, for our districts. Let's stand up, today. It's time to tell the Governor to put his personal happiness aside and do the right thing for the state. So, Leader Durkin, please today, go down 10000065.docx 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 to the second floor and ask the Governor to put down his arms. Let's get a budget for our great state. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"Mr. Wehrli."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed, Sir."
"So, last fall the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute gave out some interesting statistics. Forty-seven percent of registered Illinois voters want to move out of our fine state, 21 percent of them citing higher taxes as their top reason. For the third year in a row, Illinois has lost more residents than any other state. Chief Executive Magazine ranks Illinois 48th as a place to do business, a position it's held since 2011. A major contributor to all those facts are high property taxes. Illinois has the second highest property taxes in the nation. You know, high property taxes, they affect all of us, families, senior citizens, low income, those on fixed income, and businesses. High property taxes are not discriminatory, they impact everyone. No, you know what, that's not true. In Cook County, they are discriminatory; Chicago Tribune just exposed how the tax… property tax system in Chicago just puts those of minority, in low income, at a disadvantage. They pay high property taxes, but they don't have the ability to appeal it. But if you're affluent and live on Astor Street, you can appeal your property taxes, by simply removing the toilets and you get a $230 thousand property tax break, all while the poor and low-income people continue to pay higher and higher taxes. This system was put in place by Speaker Madigan, and it's overseen by his minions. It’s a system that's rigged. 10000065.docx 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 It's a system that doesn't favor those that are less fortunate. So, Mr. Speaker, if ensuring its families, seniors, and those living on fixed incomes can stay in their homes and communities, like Waukegan and Decatur, and throughout our fine state, is something you're not for, if you think that's an extreme right wing agenda, then guess what, I stand for that. I stand for helping people around this fine state to be able to stay in their homes, and afford to stay there on a fixed income. In this newfound era, when your side continues to lecture us on a daily basis, like we just saw, about lying down arms… laying down arms, maybe instead we can work together and come up with some policies that can help those people that can't afford to stay in their homes due to high property taxes. It's time we come together and work together for businesses in Illinois, for seniors, for all of us so that we can make Illinois a great state again."
"Mr. Reick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Proceed."
"Expanding on the Gentleman from Naperville's comments, last night I decided I was going to go online and do some research. The Speaker's house in Chicago is valued at $294 thousand and in 2016, he paid a tax bill of $4600, one and a half times… or one and a half percent of his fair market value. I took that same property and applied it to what would the tax bill be, if he lived in Woodstock, Illinois, where I live. I ran it using the same exemptions. His tax bill in Woodstock, Illinois on a house of $294 thousand would have 10000065.docx 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 been over $11 thousand last year, two and a half times what the Speaker paid in the City of Chicago. We're doing a lot of arguing today and this week, and this month, and this Session over education funding. Our friends from the City of Chicago are clammering that we give them block grants, special exemptions, all those kinds of things that those of us in the other part of the state have been paying for, for years. I do believe that it's time for the City of Chicago to be taxed the same way the rest of us are. It's time for the City of Chicago to ante up. And I will promise you that if any education Bill comes through this chamber, if it gives one thin dime of the people of my district to the City of Chicago, when they're not willing to pay for it themselves, they will not get my vote. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"Representative Chapa LaVia."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Proceed, please."
"You know, I think we should move back a couple steps. I think we need to work together and… on both sides, our side and your side. I think we need to see more where we're holding each other's hands and going forward. Let's stop with this disparaging remarks about anybody's Leader. I mean, people send us here to represent us and they're Republican, they're Democrat, they're black, they're white, they're Hispanic, they're Asian, you know, they're atheist, they're pro-life, pro-choice. They want us to just get something done together. Do not… don't… don't fall into these traps, okay? We need to work together to move forward. So, I'm begging you and I'm praying for all of us because it's 10000065.docx 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 never been about us 118 here. It's about the people we represent that vote for us to send us here, okay? So, don't forget the real people that are our bosses are the ones that vote for us back in our district. And they don’t want us doing this, I know this. They don't want us doing this. So, please, from the bottom of my heart, and you know I'm an extremely loving person. I try not to get mad, and I know Mr. Phellops… I mean, Mr. Phillips over there, and sometimes Jeanne, we don't see eye to eye on stuff, but it doesn't mean I don't love you. And if you needed me on a vote, that I wouldn't try to help support you. So, please, don’t allow the negative… negativity in this state drown you and swallow you whole because I've been here for 15 years, and that one piece of advice I got from Mr. Black is don't take anything personal down here, and just definitely don't take it home. We all represent different people, but I'm telling you, together we can get this done by the 30th, and we need to get this done. We need to show people that we're above the politics and policy. And this is not what it looks like, 20 minutes ago of all the discussion. So, please, from the bottom of my heart. You know, we need to get on to doing the people's work and what the founding fathers of this country allowed us to do, is to go forward for we the people. So, please, don't… let's stop that and let's work together and get this work done for the state. Thank you."
"Representative Ives."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise for a point of personal privilege."
"You may proceed." 10000065.docx 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"So, I want to know what the endgame is. Where does this all end? What I mean is that whoever's in power after 2018, they're going to still be faced with monumental debt, fleeing population, businesses that aren't competitive, and that's no place for our state to be. So, what's the endgame? More and more escalating taxes, no reform on property taxes. Is that the endgame? Because that's a failure. That will be our demise. That will put the nail in the coffin. So, the very rational, reasonable reforms that have been put aside, frankly by both sides of the aisle to some degree, especially on consolidation procurement reform, we need to do more of that. Because it doesn't matter who's in power in 2018, these festering problems are going to sit here and the market's going to make a determination for us, rather than us making a determination and becoming more marketable. So, I want to know what your end game is 'cause it doesn't matter anymore. You have no choice but to stomp the growth of government and to implement reforms to make us competitive. There is no other path, none. Thank you."
"Representative Flowers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I really had no intention of saying anything on this subject matter today. But the question is, what is the endgame? The endgame should be what's best for the people of the State of Illinois. That… that is the endgame and as long as we keep what's best for the people of the State of Illinois in our minds and in our forefront, we can't go wrong. The endgame need to be a better education for our children. The endgame need to be more affordable college. The endgame should 10000065.docx 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 be job creation, not businesses benefitting off the backs of working poor people, keeping them poorer. Keeping working people, that pay taxes, working three and four part-time jobs to make ends meet. The endgame should not be corporation benefitting from tax breaks, from our poor people's money or working peoples money, while we work harder and they're getting fatter because of the money that we're giving to them and we're becoming… becoming poor. The endgame should not by that we apologize for having a pension and playing by the rules. That should not be the endgame. So, when are we going to start talking about what needs to be? And when are we going to start telling the truth? The truth of the matter is, when this Governor came to this State of Illinois, we were fine. We were able to pay our bills. We were able to pay our bills. We were able to pay our bills. We were not behind like we are now. No, we did not have a balanced budget, but this state hasn't had a balanced budget in a very long time, in a very long time. And we've only had two Democratic Governors. Two or one, I can't even remember it's been so long. We've had two Democratic Governors. The first one was Blagojevich. The second one was Quinn. But prior to that, it's been a very long time since this state has had a balanced budget. So, the fact of the matter is that we don't have a balanced budget, but you can say that we had more money than we have now. And as a result of this Governor, he came to us and asked us to please do away with the tax increase that we had. Trying to work with the Governor, we acquiesced, we did, we gave the Governor just what he wanted. And now, our coffers have been depleted. And now, the people that have most benefitted from 10000065.docx 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 us acquiescing to the Governor, it's been his friends. We've had to borrow at a higher rate, and we've had compounded interest, and more borrowing and more borrowing and more borrowing… and then what? And then when we do try to present a budget, what does the Governor do? He not only rejected once, twice, three times, four times. When is the Governor going to come to the table? When is he going to make a budgetary offer as opposed to political offers? When the Governor talk about term limits, that's not putting food on anyone's table, none whatsoever. When the Governor talks about property taxes, I agree, something does need to be done about property taxes, and we're working with you on that. Workmen's comp, the insurance companies haven't given anything back; their rates haven't gone down any. So, what should families do when their loved ones get hurt? Who do they turn to? Oh, their loved one should be a burden on the state and so… and so the businesses don't have to pay? I don't think so, that's not fair. So, the only thing that I'm asking all of us to do is to, please, think about the people. Let's talk about health care. Can we talk about health care? Can… can we talk about putting together some type of working plan that would not allow people to go into bankruptcy, that would not allow a family have to choose between putting food on their table and taking care of their loved ones? Can we talk about some type of affordable prescription drug for people? What about the… our children that's crying out. Our children are begging us. Can you help us, please? Please help us get off this opioid. Please help us get unadd… where's the drug programs? Where's the mental health facility? Where is it? 10000065.docx 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 Where are the activities for our children to enjoy life? What is with all this depression? Here's a time when our kids have everything that we never had. And you would think they would be happy, but the playgrounds are empty. There's no laughter. There's no playing. What's going on with our children, Ladies and Gentlemen? Are we working too hard? Are we investing in too many things and stuff, and not enough love? We can't take off work because we have to go to… we have to… we can't take off work to be with our families because we have to go to our jobs, for fear if we don't go to work, we're going to miss a paycheck, we're going to miss a mortgage, we're going to miss a car note. Where is our priorities? Mr. Governor, I don't want to do the name calling, I really don't, but I will say… I will say that we need revenue in this state in order to have a real conversation, in order to fund education, in order to fund health care. In order… to these roads and bridges that we travel, the infrastructure, it is crumbling beneath us. We need to create jobs. And no, I don't want to tax the poor; I don't want to do that. I don't want to just raise revenue to be raising revenue. I want to raise revenue on a group of people that's not paying their fair share of transaction tax. I didn't say… I didn't say taxes. I said they're not paying their fair share of transaction tax. The only thing that I'm asking everyone to do, if I have to pay taxes on this pen, everyone should have to pay taxes on this pen. And so, I think, as I've said to the Governor on numerous of occasion, Mr. Governor, can you please call your friends to the table so we can talk? I just want to talk. I just want them to understand that we need their assistance to help us. 10000065.docx 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 They love this great state, they love our City of Chicago, and so, everyone should have some skin in this game, everyone. So, let's call all our friends to the table and ask them to make the same sacrifices that we're asking the working poor people to do. Let's have a financial transaction tax. Let's do like North Dakota. Let us have our own State Bank. Let me tell you, when North Dakota need to borrow money, they don't have to go to Wall Street. Guess what? Guess what? We are going to Wall Street to borrow money, and guess who bailed them out? The taxpayers. The taxpayers bailed out Wall Street, but yet, we have to pay these high interest rates. So, I want a financial transaction tax. I want to be like North Dakota. They… they are able to send their children to school and once the kids graduate, they're not burdened with these high… very… very high tuition loans that they had to take out in order to help better the state. These young people are making a sacrifice, Ladies and Gentlemen. Some of us didn't have to have these high loans. But these young people will never be able to get that monkey off their back because of the compounded interest on the loans. Can't we help the children? Can we at least give them a way out? North Dakota, they're not having that problem. And finally, finally, Medicare for all. New York just passed a Medicare for all. They have taken the insurance companies out of the equation. Why are we giving all of this money to the insurance companies? They have nothing to do with access to care. We need to pay the hospitals, the doctors, the nurses. Those are the providers. So, please, will you join me in asking the Governor to come to the table, so we can talk about a financial transaction 10000065.docx 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 tax, so we can talk about having our own State Bank, so we can talk about having a Medicare for all? Then that way, guess what we're doing? We're putting the people first. Thank you all very much. I appreciate you."
"Mr. Andersson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"You may proceed, Sir."
"Thank you. This is probably a mistake. I was also not intending to talk. Representative Flowers, I appreciated your comments and some of them I agree with greatly, and some of them I vehemently disagree with. And that's the nature of what we do here. Particularly, I would point out that I so vehemently agree with you on the opioid crisis, and the need for additional funding for that, and the mental health crisis. There's so many things that you said that are right, but there's also things I don't agree with. But let's get back to what these points we're trying to say, and I heard them on both sides of the aisle, is everyone is saying let's compromise and cooperate. And that I think needs to be the message that we all hear today. I did… I did a town hall and I outlined four different budgets. I outlined the no budget budget, where we just keep going the way we've been going, and showing the implications of that, which are very immediate and are going to hit us in the next month, if we don't do anything. I propose… I showed a austerity budget, and the cuts that would need to be made. I proposed… or I outlined the grand bargain, 'cause that's what we had at the time, as that compromise. And then I even threw a new one in that no one… no one that I know of has proposed, which is just all… 10000065.docx 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017 increased spending but no cuts, no reforms, no nothing. I don't think anyone has proposed that, but I said that’s the… that's the spectrum of what we have. But here's the thing that I pointed out to that town hall, that the… the people there seemed to appreciate, said it's a question of math. And it's not the math of the budget; it’s the math of the votes. In each of those scenarios I said, do you have the votes? 'Cause right now the votes are 71, 36, and quite frankly, 0, not 1. And guess what? For those who want to keep going the way we're going, I don't think there's votes for that. For the people who want to cut only, while it might be mathematically possible to do so, I'm certain there is not the votes to do it. And I don't think anyone is going for the fourth one where we're just going to raise revenues. So guess what; we're left in the middle. We're left in the world of compromise. But I know what option is not available to us, and that's to do nothing. We've done that for 2 years, 2 and a half years. It's not working. It's not working. So, the compromise does lie in the middle and I've been reported in the paper, so I'm not afraid to say it, it's going to require cuts, it's going to require revenue, and it's going to require some reforms. It has to have all those pieces. We're close, Ladies and Gentlemen, I can sense it. I can sense it that we're close. I know the people in this Body want to do the right thing. So, we can do the back and forth, it's okay, we all have pretty thick skins. But fundamentally, when we go back to our offices, when we talk to our Leaders, we're close. Let's get it done. Thank you." 10000065.docx 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 65th Legislative Day 6/26/2017
"We're going to suspend further comment now. Each Party is going to its respective caucus; Democrats immediately to Room 114, Republicans immediately to Room 118. When we return to the floor, we'll have a Committee of the Whole on Local Government Consolidation. The House will be in recess 'til 1:00 or until the call of the Chair. House will be in order in regular Session. Mr. Clerk, committee announcements."
"The State Government Administration meeting will be meeting in Room 114."
"And now, leaving perfunctory time for the Clerk, Leader Currie moves that the House stand adjourned until Tuesday, June 27 at the hour of 10 a.m. Those in favor say 'yes'; opposed 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. And the House stands adjourned."
"House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Introduction and First Reading of House Bills. House Bill 4073, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act concerning finance. House Bill 4074, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act concerning appropriations. First Reading of these House Bills. Committee Reports. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on June 26, 2017: approved for consideration, referred to Second Reading is House Bill 139, House Bill 171, House Bill 200. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned." 10000065.docx 62