Illinois House Floor Debate — May 26, 2019

"The House will be in order, and Members will be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by Imam Junayd Ismail Latif who is the Outreach Director of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Zion. Imam Junayd Ismail Latif is the guest of Representative Mason. Members and guests are asked to refrain from starting their laptops, turn off all cell phones, and rise for the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. Imam Latif."

"We will be led in the Pledge of Allegiance today by Representative Flowers." 10100057.docx 3  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Roll Call for Attendance. Leader Manley for any excused absences on the Democratic side."

"Thank you, Speaker. Let the record reflect that Representative Curtis Tarver is excused today."

"Representative Butler for any excused absences on the Republican side."

"Have all recorded themselves who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. There being 108 Members present, today… answering the roll call, a quorum is present. Representative Slaughter, for what reason do you rise?"

"Point of personal privilege."

"Please state your point."

"All right. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and Gentlemen, can I get your attention just for one moment? It is indeed an honor and a blessing to introduce the two most important individuals in my life, my pride and joy, my inspiration, my motivation. We're joined by my lovely wife Catrena. As many of you know, just back in 2017 we were introducing ourselves as newlyweds, husband and wife. But folks, we're back. Not just as husband and wife but now as momma and dada. That's right. We want to introduce you to our little one, Russell J. Slaughter. He likes… he likes books, 10100057.docx 4  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 he likes to draw. He's running around everywhere, he likes to dance a little bit. He's got one and a half teeth, so I think he likes to eat now. Catrena and I are just having an absolute ball and a lot of fun being parents. We wanted to take a moment just to thank you for your encouraging words and your support. You know, everybody knows that you can't do this without a strong support base back home and I certainly have that in these two. And so, I just wanted to thank you for everything this morning. Russell said that he wants us to finish up so daddy can get back home and get some play time in. So, please give Russell and Catrena a big Springfield General Assembly welcome. Thank you."

"Glad to have you here, Representative, and Misses and little Representative Slaughter. Thank you. Representative Stava-Murray, for what reason do you rise?"

"Point of personal privilege."

"Please state your point."

"So, I'd like to acknowledge my family, which is actually up in the gallery today. My daughter was the vocal 'momma' earlier on introducing herself, boldly. They made… my in-laws are here, Tim and Alisa, my husband Sean, my son August, daughter Millie, and youngest daughter Evelyn who's 11 months today. So a warm Springfield welcome would be nice. Thank you."

Speaker Davis: "Thank you for joining us today here in Springfield. Representative West, for what reason do you rise?"

"Point of personal privilege, Sir."

"Please state your point." 10100057.docx 5  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"As we know, May is Mental Health Awareness Month. And for many years insurance companies have ignored mental health conditions, denying care to patients when they need it. Last year we passed the strongest mental health parity law in the nation to ensure insurance stops these practices. Mental health parity laws require that insurance companies treat mental health conditions as seriously as physical illnesses. However, strong laws are no good without enforcement and implementation. To battle the benign neglect of mental health conditions, we must ensure that we put… push to enforce mental health parity and be a national leader in this area. Thank you, Sir."

"Starting on page 4 of the Calendar, Senate Bills on Third Reading. We have Senate Bill 161, Representative Hoffman. Out of the record. Senate Bill 205, Representative Welch. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Welch."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Happy Sunday to you and the Body. Senate Bill 205 is an initiative of the Cook County Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. It extends the sunset date for the issuance of bonds and notes by the MWRD from December 31, 2024 to December 31, 2034. Again, it’s a sunset extension. This is a bipartisan initiative led by myself and Leader Durkin. I am not aware of any opposition to this extension of the sunset. I would ask for approval."

"This Bill being on Short Debate, Representative Batinick, for what reason do you rise?" 10100057.docx 6  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"He indicates he will."

"That is correct."

"That is correct. At least it's a sunset."

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 205 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Brady. Crespo. Hammond. Meier. Parkhurst. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 82 voting 'yes', 25 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 218, Representative Willis. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Willis."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill is an initiative of the DuPage County State's Attorney's Office. What it does, is it expands a condition in which parental rights could be terminated or be considered when a termination process is being done. First off, let me make it very clear the family must be being investigated by DCFS. And what it does, right 10100057.docx 7  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 now, is under current law, first degree and second degree murder of a child is considered, attempt or conspiracy to commit first or second degree murder of a child is considered. Solicitation to commit murder of a child is considered or solicitation to commit murder of a child for hire is also second degree murder of any child. A heinous battery of any child, an aggravated battery of any child are all conditions that can be considered when we're looking at terminating parental rights. What was left out of there though was a conviction for predatory sexual assault, and specifically predatory sexual exploitation of a child or sexual abuse of a child. With that in mind, this is why the State's Attorney from the DuPage County Attorney's Office has asked for this expansion of things that may be considered by the judge. Be happy to take any questions, and ask for an 'aye'."

"While this Bill is on Short Debate, Representative Flowers, for what reason do you rise?"

"Will the Lady yield?"

"She indicates she will."

"Representative, did you enunciate all the things that’s applicable to the termination of parental rights, or is there other entities in the Bill?"

"All of the things… let me go through the ones that are expanded. Do you want the ones that are already on record?"

"I need the current."

"Okay. So currently, according to what I have, first and second degree murder of a child could allow for termination of parental rights. Attempt or conspiracy to commit first or second degree murder of a child. Solicitation to commit murder 10100057.docx 8  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 of a child. Solicitation to commit murder of a child for hire. Solicitation to commit second degree murder of any child. A heinous battery of any child. And aggravated battery of any child. Those are the things that are currently under current law."

"Thank you very much. I appreciate that because I just wanted to make sure that parental rights would not be terminated because parents did not go to a parenting class or did not have the money to move to a bigger house. That type of…"

"No, that is not the intent at all. And this does not mandate termination. This is just a factor that the judge can consider. So what I expanded upon, which the courts asked for the expansion, is sexual misconduct for a child. And it does not mandate, it's just another factor that the judge can consider when they're looking at parental rights."

"Thank you very much, Representative. I appreciate that explanation."

"You're welcome."

"And I would urge an 'aye' vote."

"Representative Ammons, for what reason do you rise, on this piece of legislation?"

"Yes, Sir. Thank you. The Sponsor yield?"

"She indicates she will."

"I will."

"I also want to clarify that the addition of these charges do not waive the person's right to appear in court on their parental rights. Is that correct?"

"That is correct, Ma'am." 10100057.docx 9  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"And if a person is charged but not found guilty of these… any of these current or additions, they still have a right to advocate for their own parental rights?"

"Yes, they do. They must… the way this is written is they must be convicted of these additional crimes."

"And even if a conviction is held, they still have the right to due process for their parental rights?"

"Yes, they do."

"Thank you."

"Seeing no further debate, Representative Willis to close."

"I urge an 'aye' vote."

"And the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 218 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Stava- Murray. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 107 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Butler, for an announcement."

"Representative, do you know how long?"

"The Republicans will caucus in Room 118, I believe, for one hour. The House will stand in recess to the call of the Chair. The House will be in order. Mr. Clerk, Rules Report." 10100057.docx 10  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"The Clerk is in receipt of Motions in Writing to waive the posting requirements for several Bills. Is there leave? If there is leave, we will take these Motions together in one Motion. Is there leave? Leave being granted, Leader Manley on the Motion."

"Thank you, Speaker. I move that the posting requirements be waived so that the following Bills can be heard this week in committee. To Public Utilities, Senate Bill 651. To Energy & Environment, Senate Bill 1854. And to Higher Education, Senate Bill 2150."

"Leader Manley has moved to waive the posting requirements. All those in favor say 'yes'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'yeses' have it. And the posting requirements are waived. Returning to page 2 of the Calendar. Mr. Clerk, House Bill 833. Please read the Bill."

"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill for a third time." 10100057.docx 11  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Representative Crespo."

"Thank you… thank you, Speaker, Members of the House. This is something we've been working on now for 5 years, finally we get the opportunity to present this in the House Floor. It basically creates a 5 year pilot program from 2020 to 2024 for seniors to not need to reapply for the Senior Citizens Homestead Exemption in Cook County. It requires an intergovernmental agreement between the Cook County Assessor and the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the Cook County Clerk. It additionally requires that the Cook County Accessor must have a data exchange agreement with the Social Security Administration. It also requires that the Cook County Assessor and the Cook County Recorder of Deeds enter in to an agreement to see any transferred ownership. And it requires the Cook County Assessor to conduct two audits of all senior citizen homestead exemptions in the county no later than December 31, 2022 and December 31, of 2024 for purposes of determining whether any homestead exemption were granted by mistake. This should hopefully solve the problem that was reported by the Cook County Treasurer last year where roughly 21 thousand seniors that received the Senior Freeze Exemption in 2017 did not reapply in 2018. I want to thank the Assessor Fritz Kaegi and his staff for their help in putting this Bill together. I'll be happy to answer any questions."

"This Bill being on Short Debate, Representative Batinick, for what reason do you rise?" 10100057.docx 12  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"The Sponsor indicates he will."

"I've been working on this five years, Representative, and I've heard two minutes before it came into committee that they were opposed."

"Representative Crespo to close."

"Well, again, I want to thank all those that were involved in getting to this point. And again, Fritz Kaegi and his staff, the great Mark Jarmer, our staff was… actually did a great job in helping us put this together. And I ask for an 'aye' vote."

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall House Bill 833 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Halpin. Welter. Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 108 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, on page 3 of the Calendar is House Bill 3840, Representative Ford. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill." 10100057.docx 13  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill for a third time."

"Representative Ford."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the Committee. House Bill 3840 amends the University of Illinois Hospital Act and the Hospital Licensing Act. Under the Bill, hospitals shall provide a patient a single dose… dosage of… or a single prescription of an opioid antagonist for opioid overdose, it's called Narcan. The current law does not provide direction as to whether or not a patient receives a free opioid prescription. This Bill would require that anyone that comes before the emergency room that they receive a prescription or NARCAN when they leave the emergency room. That's all the Bill does. But it does help save lives. So I move for the passage of House Bill 3840."

"On that question, Representative Hammond, for what reason do you rise?"

"He indicates he will."

"I can answer your concerns. So the Bill says that you can either dispense a NARCAN upon discharge from the emergency room or provide a prescription."

"Who are you concerned about? The pharmacists or the hospital, I'm not sure who you're concerned…"

"So we don’t have to talk about the grant program, we could simply talk about a prescription because you're concerned about… one, your concerned about the hospitals. We know that when people leave a hospital with a prescription, the hospitals are not responsible for whether or not an individual fills the prescription or not. So there would be no cost to the hospital for writing the prescription. What this Bill would do, it would also help provide and reach out to organizations, pharmaceutical agencies to try to bring NARCAN into your community as donations. Christ Hospital received over 80 thousand NARCAN kits into their emergency room from Chicago Recovery Alliance. It's a perfect way for you in the 10100057.docx 15  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 rural communities to build relationships so that you could get donations to the hospitals. But there's two components to it. You get donations, or you could just simply have the hospital staff write a prescription for the NARCAN. So there's no cost to the hospital, there's no cost to the pharmacist. The only cost would be to the person that survived the overdose because they were provided with a NARCAN in the first place to get to the emergency room."

"I wish you wouldn’t say that. I wish you would really hear what I'm saying. It's no different than any other prescription. This is a prescription that a hospital would write to the individual. The individual would have to take the prescription to a pharmacist and they would have to pay for it themselves. Whether insurance company pays for it or not, this is a prescription like any other. Just like we have many people in this country that get prescriptions written by their physicians, they can't afford it. The hospitals are not mandated to provide them with that prescription. They're just mandated to write them the prescription that they need to help them survive."

"That's right, they don’t."

"Physicians, and nurse practitioners, and other people that provide care." 10100057.docx 16  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Well we can argue this…"

"…but you're not… you're not understanding it."

"Representative Willis, for what reason do you rise?"

"Will the Sponsor yield, please?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative Ford, if we are allowing hospitals to dispense NARCAN to people that come in with presentations of overdoses, are we going to save lives?"

"Yes."

"And does it matter if that person lives in a poor community or a wealthy community when it comes to opioid addictions?"

"No."

"So we want to save everybody's lives, right?"

"That's right."

"And this Bill's going to do that if it gets passed?"

"Yes."

"I strongly urge the Body to vote 'aye' on this."

"Seeing no further discussion, Representative Ford to close." 10100057.docx 17  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Thank you very much for the discussion. And I look forward to the passage of this Bill."

"And the question is, 'Shall House Bill 3840 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 76 Members voting 'yes', 32 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, on page 4 of the Calendar is Senate Bill 246, Representative Willis. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Willis."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill is similar to a House Bill that I carried, but the Senate Bill passed first. So therefore, I'm asking all of my Members to support this. This Bill allows park districts to remove from competitive bidding the requirements for contracts, specifically for fuel, such as diesel, gasoline, oil, aviation, or propane fuel and lubricants and other petroleum products. That market is so fluid that by requiring responsible bidding to take place, we could possibly lose out on the option of getting the lowest prices. It still does require complete transparency once the bid comes through. And therefore, I feel that we're doing a justice in making sure that we do the best for our… with our tax dollars. And therefore, I ask for an 'aye' vote."

"Representative Batinick, for what reason do you rise?" 10100057.docx 18  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"She indicates she will."

"That was House Bill 2096, and it overwhelmingly was supported by this Body. Bipartisanly."

"Yes, it was."

"Thank you."

"Correct, Sir."

"Representative Skillicorn, for what reason do you rise?"

"I will."

"She indicates she will."

"It would not require them to go out for the 10 day bidding process, no. But they would still have to have approval by their board, which would be an open session."

"To the Bill."

"Representative Willis to close."

"I urge an 'aye' vote. Thank you."

"And the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 246 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 61 Members voting 'yes', 44 Members voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Stava-Murray, for what reason do you rise?"

"Point of personal privilege."

"Please state your point."

"I'd like to be recorded as a 'yes' for SB218, please."

"The record shall so reflect. Representative Welter, for what reason do you rise?"

"Please state your point."

"Thank you for visiting with us today. Mr. Clerk, on page 4 of the Calendar is Senate Bill 397. Please read the Bill."

"Representative Reitz."

"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. Senate Bill 397 is technical cleanup language to the Court Reporters Act. It makes several technical changes including removing outdated language, salary ranges, replaces outdated terms with the correct ones. The Court Reporters Union is… has signed off on it and it's an initiative of the Court Reporters Association. I'll take any questions."

"Seeing no debate, and the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 397 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 106 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 482, Representative Turner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill. Sorry, Mr. Clerk. Please move that Bill back to the Order of Second Reading for the purpose of an Amendment."

"Representative Turner on Floor Amendment #1."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the Body. Floor Amendment #1 adds two provisions. It repeals to the 2006 County Cyber Gangs Unit that was never used or appropriated for. It terminated in 2012. As well as repeals the forensic science grant that was never used and violated the collective bargaining Personnel Code. It was never put into place and we'd just like to adopt the Amendment and move the Bill on Third."

"Leader Turner moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1. All those in favor say 'yes'; all the opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'yeses' have it. And Floor Amendment #1 is adopted. Mr. Clerk."

"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill for a third time."

"Representative Turner."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the Body. In addition to doing what the Amendment did that we just adopted on the last reading, Senate Bill 482 amends the Criminal Identification Act to extend the sunset date for the Cook County pilot program from January 1, 2019 to January 1, 2021. The pilot program waives the petitioning filing fees for adults seeking to seal and expunge records if those records are related to an arrest that resulted in no charge, charge 10100057.docx 22  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 that was dismissed or acquitted, or a conviction that was reversed or overturned. I'd ask for the support of the Body."

"Thank you, Representative Turner. On that question and this Bill being on Short Debate this time, Representative Batinick, for what reason do you rise?"

"He indicates he will."

"Well there wasn’t much to it, Representative, because it was never used or never appropriated for. So this is just kind of clearing it off the books."

"Yes, Sir, that's right. Basically if you were arrested and there was no charge or it was a charge that was dismissed or acquitted, or a conviction that was reversed or overturned, we're saying that those fees should be waived too."

"I believe so, yes. It's a Cook County pilot program."

"I can get back to you, Representative, with an exact date. But we're… it ended on January 1, 2019 and we're just extending that sunset to the 21st."

"Seeing no further debate, Representative Turner to close."

"I'd ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you."

"And the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 482 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. And on this question, 108 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 528, Representative Hoffman. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Hoffman."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I know of no opposition. This changes the Senate's appointment to the General Assembly Retirement Board to mirror those of the House. Again, no opposition. It just makes the President of the Senate's appointments to GARS the same as what the Speaker has."

"Seeing no debate, and the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 528 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who 10100057.docx 24  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 104 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, on page 5 of the Calendar is Senate Bill 640, Representative Willis. Please read the Bill."

"Representative Willis."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill is a very simple Bill, and it allows townships some flexibility when it comes to their public aid. So it actually clarifies what they can do with monies and in-kind donations as they're working through their food pantries. I know of no opposition of this Bill and I heartily ask for an 'aye' vote."

"Seeing no discussion, and the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 640 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 105 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Senate Bill 726, Representative Morgan. Please read the Bill."

"Representative Morgan."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Everyone, Senate Bill 726 would create a disability training program for individuals with 10100057.docx 25  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 disabilities at state agencies with 1500 employees or more. That would mandatory starting in January of 2020. It would be optional for state agencies with less than 1500 individuals. And it would also be subject to the different constitutional officer's personnel codes and optional for them as well. Happy to entertain any questions. I know of no opposition."

"Seeing no debate, and the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 726 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 107 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1007, Representative Butler. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."

"Representative Butler."

"Seeing no debate, and the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1007 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who 10100057.docx 26  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 106 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Senate Bill 1135, Representative Feigenholtz. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Feigenholtz."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 1135 is essentially a trailer Bill to a law we passed in 2014, which addressed issues about allowing prescriptions by licensed clinical psychologists. Really all this does is align credit hours with the way that hours are actually calculated. It was something that came up while people were in this program. This is an agreed Bill with the psychologists, the Psychiatric Society, the Med Society, and IDFPR. I'd be happy to answer any questions. No opposition."

"Seeing no debate, and the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 11'… excuse me, and the questions is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1135 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 106 Members voting 'yes', 1 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1166, Representative Ramirez. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1213, Representative Stuart. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1214, 10100057.docx 27  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 Representative Villa. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1244, Representative Greenwood. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Greenwood on Senate Bill…"

"I think… is there an Amendment on this?"

"Mr. Clerk, status of the Amendment?"

"Mr. Clerk, please take this Bill out of the record. On page 6 of the Calendar is Senate Bill 1246, Representative Meier. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."

"Representative Meier."

"Anything else, Representative?"

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1246 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all 10100057.docx 28  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 107 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1264, Representative Martwick. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Martwick."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 1264 represents language that is agreed to between the Treasurer and the various pension systems that clarifies how pensions are treated in the revised Unclaimed Property Act. I know of no opposition. Ask for an 'aye' vote."

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1264 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 106 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1290, Representative Mah. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Mah."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. SB1290 creates the Immigrant Tenants Protection Act, which would prohibit landlords from evicting 10100057.docx 29  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 tenants based on actual or perceived immigration status. It would also prohibit disclosing or threatening to disclose a tenant's actual or perceived immigration status for the purposes of harassing or retaliating against a tenant. A virtually identical Bill was passed in both chambers in the previous General Assembly. We worked hard to negotiate a Bill that realtors and the Chicagoland Apartment's Association and Rental Property Owners Association would not oppose, and they remain neutral. I know of no opposition. I would appreciate an 'aye' vote."

"Representative Batinick, for what reason do you rise? And this Bill is on Short Debate."

"She indicates she will."

"I don't recall the Bill number from last Session, I apologize."

"Oh, 5519, HB5519."

"Yes."

"Yes."

"We can get back to you on that." 10100057.docx 30  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Sixty-two to forty-eight to one."

"3103."

"Correct. Well… so the Bill actually came out of some real life examples that happened in my district where a landlord was attempting to coerce a tenant to do uncompensated work and threatened this tenant with eviction if she did not perform the uncompensated work. And so, this Bill would prohibit that kind of behavior and that kind of… landlords who act in this manner, using immigration status or perceived immigration status to threaten, or harass, or retaliate against a tenant."

"They're all neutral. They were neutral last year, and they remain neutral."

"Thank you."

"Representative Batinick."

"No, it does not."

"Representative Mah to close."

"I would appreciate your 'aye' vote."

"On that question… seeing no further debate, on that question, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1290 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 67 Members voting 'yes', 35 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. On… and on this question… this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1321, Representative Halpin. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1387, Representative Burke. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."

"Representative Burke."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is a Bill that we passed in House form earlier this Session. It's a cleanup of ABLE… the ABLE account program. It's from the Treasurer's Office and contains some provisions that will help them administer their pool for the Achieving a Better Life Experience accounts for disabled folks. And I know of no opposition, and I ask for an 'aye' vote." 10100057.docx 32  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

Speaker Davis: "This Bill on Short Debate, Representative Batinick, for what reason do you rise?"

"She indicates she will."

"That's correct."

"Yes, it did."

"Representative Burke to close."

"I ask for an 'aye' vote."

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1387 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 109 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1514, Representative Gordon-Booth. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1515, Representative Manley. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."

"Representative Manley."

"Thank you, Speaker. So in Illinois, we are unusually generous to people that don’t live here. There's a taxing situation that if you live in Illinois but you work outside the state and you work long enough in another state, they 10100057.docx 33  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 would do… withhold from your paycheck. But in Illinois we don't let our Illinois residents get a credit on their income tax returns. So, Senate Bill 1515 is like the culmination of years and years of us trying to fix the problem and yet not take revenue out of the state. The Bill, number one, requires nonresidents working in Illinois will be taxed here if they work here more than 30 days… 30 work days, not weekends or travel days. We've carved out disaster relief workers here to repair downed powerlines and things like that. And our own residents will be able to claim a credit for taxes paid on wages earned while working elsewhere. I'll answer any questions."

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1515 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 109 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1657, Representative Walker. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1696, Representative Kalish. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"Representative Kalish."

"Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 1696 is actually a very well negotiated piece of legislation by the different nursing home representatives down here, the Illinois Healthcare Association, HCCI, and Leadingage. As we 10100057.docx 34  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 know, the federal CMS has changed the way that they pay for… how they calculate Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements and payments. What Senate Bill 1696 does is requires HFS, our HFS, Illinois HFS to convene an advisory group in the first quarter of 2020 to make sure that we advert any type of disaster in terms of payment methodology and that the state and the feds are working together."

"The Bill is on Short Debate. Representative Unes, for what reason do you rise?"

"Well, Representative, this is on Short Debate. The Sponsor is the Speaker in support of the Bill."

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1696 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 108 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1743, Representative Edly-Allen. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill. Mr. Clerk, would you please drop this Bill back to Order of Second Reading for the purpose of an Amendment? Mr. Clerk."

Speaker Davis: "Representative Edly-Allen on the Floor Amendment."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Amendment is… was House Bill 3153 that adds language to Senate Bill 1743. House Bill 3153 allows suggestion boxes in DCFS places in the foster care homes."

"Is that it, Representative?"

"That's it. Thank you, Sir."

"Representative Edly-Allen moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1. Representative Flowers, did you want to speak on the Amendment or wait until we adopt it on Third Reading? On the Amendment, Representative?"

"Yes. Yes, on the Amendment, please. I just did not hear the explanation of the Amendment."

"Representative on the Amendment."

"Mr. Speaker, you would like me to read the Amendment? Is that correct? Read the Amendment?"

"She asked a question about understanding what the Amendment does."

"I didn’t hear you, please."

"Okay. The Amendment mandates DCFS to expand where it places suggestion boxes to group homes, shelters, and transitional living arrangements for youth in care. It's an initiative of the Foster Care Alumni of Illinois and is identical to the language of HB3153, which passed unanimously from the House."

"Thank you, Miss Mary. I appreciate that."

"Representative Edly-Allen moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1. All those in favor say 'yes'; all those 10100057.docx 36  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 opposed say 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'yeses' have it. And House Floor Amendment #1 is adopted. Mr. Clerk."

"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill for a third time."

"Representative Edly-Allen, Senate Bill 1743."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 1743 requires the Department of Children and Family Services to develop a process survey for children who are aging out of foster care or have already transitioned out of foster care. The survey shall be developed by DCFS with coordination from Foster Care Alumni of America Illinois Chapter, and the School of Social Work at U of I at Urbana-Champaign, and the DCFS Statewide Youth Advisory Board. DCFS shall conduct the survey every five years and report to the General Assembly regarding the survey's findings. The first report shall be submitted by December 1, 2021 and every five years after. This is the Bill."

"Seeing no further debate, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1743 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 109 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1778, Representative Feigenholtz. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill." 10100057.docx 37  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Representative Feigenholtz."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 1778, as amended, reorganizes a list of mandated reporters just to clarify what professions are responsible for reporting abuse and neglect. Establishes a clear institutional reporting process. Clarifies meanings of professional or official capacity. And highlights anyone may make a report. Requires all mandated reporters to report this same type of abuse. I'd be glad to answer any questions."

"This Bill being on Short Debate, Representative Batinick, for what reason do you rise?"

"This Bill has been moved to Standard Debate. For what reason do you rise, Representative?"

"She indicates she will."

"I have had robust conversations with them. I think, perhaps, you might be able to answer that question better than me. I mean, I think that 40 states have abuse and neglect, not just sexual abuse, for clergy. We thought that in the environment that we're in right now, the more eyes on 10100057.docx 38  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 children the better. And the more reporters we have the better."

"No, 40 states have abuse and neglect for clergy."

"In 40 states clergy are mandated reporters."

"Abuse, neglect, and sexual abuse."

"Yes."

"Only sexual abuse for clergy."

"Representative Skillicorn, do you rise in favor or against this Bill?"

"She indicates she will."

"We're adding abuse and neglect."

"Yes, they are. And they're also defined in ANCRA." 10100057.docx 39  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Correct."

"Confession is privileged."

"Correct."

"Representative Flowers, do you rise in opposition or support of this piece of legislation?"

"It depends on how she answers the question. Thank you. Representative…"

"For what reason do you rise then?"

"To ask questions of the Sponsor. Thank you."

"Sponsor indicates she'll yield."

"Representative, so currently you said the clergies and the ministers are not mandated reporters, but this Bill would make it so."

"Currently, clergy only are mandated to report sexual abuse. In this Bill, we are adding abuse and neglect for clergy." 10100057.docx 40  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"And so, if the clergies not report mandated abuse and neglect… if they do not report abuse and neglect what are the consequences?"

"The same as everyone else, first of all."

"And what is that?"

"I think they receive a reprimand. We're looking that up right now."

"Okay. So while we're looking that up… so if a teacher… is she or he a mandated reporter?"

"They are."

"And so, how many teachers have been reprimanded? Do you know?"

"I have no idea. I could look it… I could find that information out. It is not in any of these documents."

"Okay. Well, my concern is, I didn’t know what the consequences would be for the ministers if they did not report neglect. They're already supposed to report sexual abuse. And my concern is how… what training does a minister have and by whose definition is neglect neglectful? Is it because the kids are poor? Is it because their homeless?"

"No. No. No."

"What is it, please?"

"So in this Bill, Representative Flowers, all mandated reporters have to be trained within three months of becoming a mandated reporter for the first time. A lot clergy are teachers already, so they are already trained. All mandated reporters, except medical personnel, have to be trained every three years. So there is ongoing training and training for new mandated reporters." 10100057.docx 41  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"And so, but the only consequences if they do not report is a reprimand. That’s number one. But my question is, how is… abuse and neglect defined?"

"We have a law called ANCRA in statute, and all of the definitions are in that statute."

"I understand that. I guess my biggest concern is, once again, there's a lot of poor families that's out there. And we do know that in this state abuse and neglect has been a family who had a dirty house or kids who were locked outside, that was considered abuse and neglect when it really wasn’t. So I need to know how is abuse and neglect defined, because we don't need to be hauling or separating families just because their poor. Again, because of the current Federal Law and the services that will be available."

"I believe the concerns that you just articulated were repealed in the 98th General Assembly. It is very clear that poverty is not a reason to remove a child and it is not under abuse and neglect."

"Well, by the courts you would not know that. But I'm glad to hear you say that for the record. Thank you very much."

"Are you done, Representative? So with several other Members wanting to speak on this Bill, the Chair is going to move to a three minute timer. With that being said, Representative Weber, for what reason do you rise?"

"The Sponsor indicates she will yield." 10100057.docx 42  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"Teachers are already mandated reporters."

"They are."

"It's free and it is online."

"Sir, I'm not sure what you're asking me."

"I believe that the churches would…"

"It's the same process that they use under sexual abuse. They work with the churches and the clergy is self- identified."

"I believe, as I said earlier, they work their churches and their ministries."

"That's not how clergy is defined."

"Representative, can you bring your remarks to a close?"

"Representative…"

"…we instituted a three minute timer. Can you please bring your remarks to a close?"

"Thank you very much. Representative West, for what reason do you rise?"

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?"

"Indicates she will."

"As a member of the clergy myself, I just have a couple questions for you. Do I… is this in any way mingling in the separation of church and state?"

"No, Sir."

"Okay. If I have to add measures to my… me being a mandated reporter where will I be taking the classes and how will I take the class?"

"These are done online."

"I'm sorry?"

"Online."

"Okay. And is there… so with this being online does that mean it's free for all ordained ministers to take it?"

"Yes."

"Okay. To the Bill."

"Free for everyone."

"To the Bill."

"To the Bill. I initially was skeptical on this Bill until I talked to clergy members in my city and did some thorough research on my own. This is a good Bill that would be a beneficial for our state. It doesn’t add any undue measures to our members of the clergy, it just makes everyone on one 10100057.docx 45  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 accord when it comes to being a mandated reporter. I urge an 'aye' vote."

"Representative Wheeler, for what reason do you rise?"

"She indicates she'll yield."

"So any person who knowingly and willfully violates any provision of this section. So willful is very different than unknowing."

"This doesn't count for confession or counseling."

"But it's… the standard is willingly and knowingly."

"For willful and knowingly it is… guilty is a Class A misdemeanor for the first violation, and a Class 4 felony for a second or subsequent violation. If the… this person acts as part of a plan or a scheme, having prevention of 10100057.docx 46  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 discovery of this abuse or neglected child, that is when those penalties kick in."

"Are you… are you asking me to define clergy, Representative?"

"Once this clergy person is trained they'll understand how neglect is defined. I will use an example of… 10100057.docx 47  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 first of all, more than 50 percent of the deaths that we have been experiencing in Illinois have been deaths by neglect."

"Representative, your time came to a close. I would allow the Representative to answer that last question. Has she answered that question for you?"

"Representative Moeller, for what reason do you rise?"

"I have a question about the Bill, and I rise in support."

"Please proceed."

"Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"She indicates she will."

"Thank you. Representative Feigenholtz, under the current mechanism and current law, clergy are required to report sexual abuse. Is that correct?"

"It is."

"And under the current requirement it would seem that the definition of who is a clergy, for the purposes of reporting sexual abuse, would be defined, correct?"

"Yes."

"And I would assume that clergy who are in their current roll and required to report such sexual abuse would be trained, or at least notified as to how they would report that sexual abuse. Is that correct?"

"Certainly, yes." 10100057.docx 48  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019

"And what… all we're doing with this Bill, or all you're doing with this Bill, is adding the requirement that if a clergy also or in addition to, suspects neglect or abuse of a member of their church or a child that they've come into contact with is a victim of abuse and neglect that they would follow a similar procedure. Is that correct?"

"It is."

"Okay. Thank you. To the Bill."

"To the Bill."

"We… as we are all very aware we are in the midst of reforming and addressing some very significant challenges within our child welfare system. And it seems to me that adding concerned adults who are working and around children as presumably clergy who have been given a place of responsibility within their community as one more responsible adult who can protect the welfare of children under their… and within their community, I think is a benefit. And some of the… and the arguments that have been presented in opposition don't… are not… don’t rise to the level of truly preventing something like this that can provide so many benefits from happening. So with that, I urge an 'aye' vote. And I thank you for bringing this Bill to the General Assembly."

Speaker Davis: "Seeing no further debate, Representative Feigenholtz to close."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Children under the age of five, especially in smaller communities around Illinois, sometimes the only people they really see are members of their church, their ministers. And coming from a faith community they are the go to people. They 10100057.docx 49  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 are the ones that witness problems in families. Closing this gap will only help us put an extra set of eyes on these kids so that we can further protect them from bad incidents and bad outcomes. So I would appreciate a strong 'aye' vote on this matter."

"And on this question, 'Shall Senate Bill 1778 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, 191… on this question, 91 Members voting 'yes', 14 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Edly-Allen, for what reason do you seek recognition?

"Point of personal privilege, Mr. Speaker."

"Please state your point."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to bring awareness to the fact that the month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month. One in five people struggle with their mental wellness, and I would like to assure Illinoisans that their mental health is as important, if not more important, than their physical health. Our society has been programmed to believe a myth. That a personality weakness or a character flaw causes mental health unwellness and that people with mental health struggles can snap out of it if they just try hard enough. There is a stigma that seeking help for mental wellness is a moral failing or character flaw. And not fixing your own problems is viewed as weak. I rise to challenge this stigma. The fact is, mental health issues have nothing to do with 10100057.docx 50  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 being lazy or weak. The fact is many factors contribute to mental health problems, including biological factors, such as genes, physical illness, injury, or brain chemistry, life experiences such as trauma or a history of abuse, including physical, sexual, and emotional, and family history of mental health challenges. I would submit that seeking help means you're taking action. Asking for help often requires more strength than passively staying stuck. I bring attention to the following list of people you might of heard of who have come forward to share their own stories of struggle and the importance of seeking help from a therapist. Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, singer Katy Perry, tennis great Serena Williams, actor Jennifer Aniston, author J.K. Rowling, lead singer of my favorite band Imagine Dragons, Dan Reynolds. And I add my name to this list. For I would not be here today had it not be for my therapists Lynn and Debra Ann, who over the years helped me work through my own experience of trauma and abuse. I know I have become stronger from the work I have done with a therapist. My friends, mental health is a bipartisan issue. I challenge this chamber to continue the important work of making mental health issues a priority. Thank you."

"Representative Demmer, for what reason do you rise?"

"Please state your point."

"Representative Stava-Murray, for what reason do you rise?"

"Point of personal privilege."

"Please state your point."

"To those across the aisle who stomp and clamp and to say that the voice of the Illinoisans has not been heard on this issue must not have been answering the phones at their district offices for the past several months. Because for months it has been clear that this would be an issue taken up by us and likely in this term. And I've talked to many in my district. I know that for those… I'm sure on both sides of the aisle have been hearing from people in their district. The Bill has been out there. To imply that somehow we're not doing our due diligence in our jobs is insulting to say the least. So I think the people of my district have been heard. I've talked to them and informed them that if this were to come up they know that I've listened to them and heard them on both sides of the issue. So I feel confident that my 10100057.docx 53  STATE OF ILLINOIS 101st GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/26/2019 district, and I assume the majority of us have heard from our people."

"Mr. Clerk, committee announcements."

"And now, allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Leader Harris moves that the House stand adjourn until Monday, May 27, at the hour of 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 27, at the hour of 10:30 a.m. All those in favor vote 'aye'… say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the House stands adjourned."