"House will be in order. Members will be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by Wayne Padget, the Assistant Doorkeeper. Members and guests are asked to refrain from starting their laptops, turn off all cell phones and pagers, and rise for the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. Wayne Padget."
"Let us pray. Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the faithful servants you've brought together to fulfill your purpose in this august Body. You have given us willing hearts and desire to proclaim the name of Jesus through word indeed. We ask you to give us wisdom, patience, guidance, and peace as we plan for the future. Jesus taught us to follow you first in all things. He said, 'But seek first his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.' As we begin Session today, Lord, help us to pursue you and your will. Help us to respect one another and work together. We give you the glory for everything that is accomplished. These things we pray, Amen."
"We shall be led in the Pledge of Allegiance today by Leader Bourne."
"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
"Roll Call for Attendance. Leader Greenwood is recognized to report any excused absences on the Democratic side of the aisle."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record show that Representatives Tarver and Blair-Sherlock are excused today." 10200112.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Representative Batinick is recognized to report any excused absences on the Republican side."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On today, Save the Eagles Day, please excuse Representative Bos, Morrison, Ozinga, Welter, and Davidsmeyer."
"Have all recorded themselves who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There being 100 Members answering the roll call, a quorum is present. Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
Clerk Hollman: "Committee Reports. Representative Harris, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on January 10, 2023: approved for consideration, referred to Second Reading is House Bill 4543, Senate Bill 1836, and Senate Bill 2432; recommends be adopted is the Motions to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 2369 and Senate Amendment(s) 3, 4, and 5 to House Bill 5471. Representative Rita, Chairperson from the Committee on the Executive reports the following committee action on January 10, 2023: recommends be adopted is the Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1 and 2 to House Bill 2440 and Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1 and 4 to House Bill 4412. Representative Zalewski, Chairperson from the Committee on Revenue & Finance reports the following committee action on January 10, 2023: recommends be adopted is the Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 268 and Floor Amendment(s) 3 to Senate Bill 2951."
"Representative Bennett is recognized on House Resolution 1037."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death 10200112.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 of Senator Scott Bennett, who passed away on December 9, 2022. We have a picture of Scott in front of the well there. Senator Bennett was born to Dr. Robert and Barbara Bennett in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He moved with his family to Gibson City. He graduated from high school and he went to Illinois State University, studied law at the University of Illinois… or Urbana-Champaign. Whereas, also Senator Bennett began his career in law and politics. And in 1999, he earned an internship at the White House and served the Clinton Administration in the Office of Presidential Gifts. And there he met the love of his life, Stacy. He served as a prosecutor with the City of Chicago, as an assistant state's attorney in Bloomington-Normal in Champaign. Also, Senator Bennett was appointed to fill Michael Frerichs' vacant State Senate seat in 2015. He was known to rise above partisanship to find common ground for the good of Illinois. Senator Bennett served as the chairman of the Higher Education Committee and served on a number of other committees. Senator Bennett instituted protections to keep drinking water in the Mahomet Aquifer safe. He promoted compassionate courtrooms, including authorizing the use of comfort dogs, as we see in the picture in front of us. He worked with Treasurer Michael Frerichs to create the ABLE Act, A-B-L-E, which helped cover expenses for persons with disabilities. He supported the University of Illinois, Parkland College, and Danville Area Community College. Senator Bennett was a beloved family man and was known for his humor and his quick wit. He was a genuine and caring person with friends, family, constituents, and colleagues, his own party and across the aisle. He could bring 10200112.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 a smile to anyone's face and create a space for connection with a laugh. Senator Bennett always found time to take care of his family and to work on his family's centennial farm. He was proud to obtain a CDL, commercial driver's license, so he could hall grain in a semi-truck to the area grain elevator. He took time, though, while the truck was loading, to call constituents to see what's going on, how he could help. He always loved being a part of the family farming operation. Senator Bennett's final act of service was to his beloved family. He safely drove his family home from the airport after a family trip, tucked his children into bed, and kissed his wife goodnight. He was found unresponsive in bed the next morning due to a brain tumor. Senator Bennett is survived by his wife of 20 years, Stacy, and his children, Sam and Emma, and others are in the gallery to my left. To the back in this back corner. Barb and Rob, Mabruka, Naimi, Doug, Casey, Carol, Jerry, Meagan, and Kathy, and Dennis. Also, a good friend, Paul Faraci, is in the front. Paul. And also, a good friend, Treasurer Mike Frerichs. The best of friends. We're so grateful for the outpouring of love and of support. We love you, Scott. We miss you, and may God hold you close. Thank you."
"Representative Marron."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Since the shock of losing Scott Bennett set in, I have struggled with what I would say if I had the opportunity to honor the man. And so, I pray that I'm up to the task. Scott Bennett was my Senator, but Scott Bennett was also my friend. I could talk all afternoon about all the wonderful attributes of the man. He was a loving 10200112.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 father, a loving husband, great family man, hard worker. Worked hard for my constituents and for all the 52nd Senate District. Passionate. Loved people. The accolades could go on and on. He was just a wonderful, wonderful human being. I think Treasurer Frerichs said it best at the memorial service when he said, 'Scott Bennett was the kind of person that made all of us feel special. We all felt like we were his best friend because he was that guy. He made everybody feel like he was their best friend.' I could literally sit here all afternoon and talk about this wonderful man. But I wanted to mention the thing that I think he did for me as a friend, the most important thing that he did for me. Scott was a Democrat. I'm a Republican. And we… we represented the same district. And we found ourselves on different sides of the issue many times, and sometimes we had lively and spirited debates. And once a month, we used to appear together on a radio show in Danville in the morning and we had some very lively debates on that radio show. One of the most contentious issues, one of the most emotional issues that we've faced since I've been here has been criminal justice reform. And it was two years ago, right after lame duck Session, where we appeared together on that radio show and we had a very lively debate. And in fact, the debate got heated and I was worried. I can remember during that debate, worrying that maybe the debate got too heated, that it crossed a line, that potentially it had done damage to our friendship. And it was something that was very, very concerning to me. But I saw Scott a day or two later and he was the same old Scott. Happy to see me, telling jokes, making me feel like we were best friends. He didn't let it 10200112.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 get between us and get between our friendship. And that's something that I'll always carry with me forever. You know, we live in this very politically charged environment where it seems like the fringes continue to pull us apart and there's this widening divide between us and things… we get into these passionate, heated debates. And we are here because we believe that we're right and we believe that our way is best for the future of the state and for the future of the country. And when we get into these lively, passionate debates, it's easy to lose sight of the humanity of the political process, to forget that we're dealing with people that, even though they disagree with us, they're human beings and they're here for the right reasons. Scott never let me lose sight of that. He was that constant reminder to me of the humanity of the political process. And even though I disagreed with him on things, I was reminded that he was a human being that loved his family, that wanted what was best for kids. He wanted what was best for the State of Illinois and for the country. That was the best, best service that he did for me. He made me a better Legislator and he made me a better person. Stacy, and to the rest of his family, thank you for sharing him with us. We're all better off because of it."
"The House will take a moment of silence in the memory of Senator Bennett. Thank you, Members. And the Resolution was adopted on a previous day. Representative Didech, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"A point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point." 10200112.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am very excited to introduce a group, a very, very important persons who made it all the way from Lake County down to Springfield today, sitting in the Speaker's Gallery. First, please give a very warm welcome to one of the best park district commissioners in the business, from Waukegan Park District, Anton Mathews. And second, please give a very warm Springfield welcome to the pride of Mundelein, Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim. And finally, last but not least, please give a very warm welcome to a young man who recently made history as the first Latino ever elected to the Lake County Board, Esiah Campos."
"Leader Greenwood, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Speaker… Mr. Speaker. I stand before all of you today, the last day of the 102nd General Assembly, to welcome the Class 6A Football State Champions, the East St. Louis Senior High School Flyers. It is only fitting that they are my last guests to welcome to our Capitol. And I am excited to honor them with a House Resolution 1038 for their dedication and perseverance to end result of championship. And so, I'm going to read the Resolution. And I would just like to say that my Senator is also on the floor as well. And we were able to speak with the guys a little earlier, before Session started, with Speaker Welch, with Representative and Leader Buckner, as well as with Leader Napoleon Harris over in Room 114. So, I'll go into the Resolution. WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate the East St. Louis Senior High School football team, the Flyers, on winning the 2022 Illinois High 10200112.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 School Association (IHSA) Class 6A State Football Championship on November 26, 2022; and WHEREAS, The Flyers captured another football state championship, the program's 10th overall and its third since 2016, with a dominating 57-7 win over Crystal Lake's Prairie Ridge High School football team, the Wolves, at Memorial Stadium on the University of Illinois campus in Champaign; and WHEREAS, The Flyers scored the most points ever in a Class 6A title game, breaking the old record of 56 set by Naperville Central High School in 1999; and WHEREAS, The Flyers dominated the 2022 football season, outscoring their opponents 523 to 64; and WHEREAS… I’m going to recognize all of our players because it is because of them that we are and remain the city of champions in East St. Louis. Antwon, Leontre, Sael, Christopher, John, Marquise, Taryan, Justin, Jaion, Robert, Jesse, Marlyn, Michael, Charles, Rico, Maleek, Caiden, Derek… Dejerrian, Austin, Leon, Antwon, Bryce, Jamil, Vinaz, Larevious, Ryan, Dillon, Andrew, Raph, Brandon, Dominic, Carnell, Keshawn, Shamon, Timothy, DaRyus, Mytrell, Terrell, Miles, Mario, Paris, Kerwin, Mekhi, Jordyn, Brandon, Marquell, Terran, and Keandre as well as recognizing our outstanding coaching staff, which is led by our outstanding coach, Coach Sunkett and the associate coaches. So, again, I welcome all of you, my Class 6A champions to your Capitol, and thank you very much."
"Representative Mason, for what reason do you seek recognition?" 10200112.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Point of personal privilege, Mr. Speaker."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you so much. Ladies and Gentlemen, my daughter, Julia, is here with me on the House Floor. So, I wanted to welcome her. Julia is getting ready to be a teacher and Saturday is her 23rd birthday. So, please join me in wishing her a happy birthday and saying welcome to Springfield."
"On page 2 of the Calendar, on the Order of Concurrence, appears House Bill 268, Representative Williams. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. Representative Williams on the Concurrence Motion." Williams, A.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move to concur in Senate Amendment #1."
"Representative Williams has moved to concur with Senate Amendment 1. All those in favor vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'no'. Voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 73 voting 'yes', 30 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present', the House does concur in Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 268. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed."
"Leader Andrade in the Chair. House Bill 240, under concurrence. Leader Harris is recognized."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I move to concur with Senate Amendments 1 and 2 to House Bill 240. And let me just briefly explain what those Concurrences involve. This is a omnibus health care package that addresses two major areas. There are several items that are elements of it. The first area is corrections in our FY23 10200112.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 BIMP that will allow funds to flow to health care institutions. And there are several items in here that address the ongoing challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has, you know, inflicted on our health care sector and health care workforce. So, very quickly, the items are a language change for rural emergency hospitals to allow them to receive federal revenues. There is a certificate of exemption extension for a reopening of a previously closed hospital. There are languages about nursing home staffing compliance and enforcement. There is language regarding DHS forensic beds and issues with the county sheriffs. There is language allowing expansion of the number of people who can provide ABA therapy to those who are autistic. Then there is a fee waiver for podiatrists. In previous times, we had given a fee waiver to other health care providers. Podiatrists were inadvertently excluded. This takes care of that. There is language to correct the BIMP that will allow an increase in funds and the funds to be distributed for nursing homes across the state. There is language in the Bill that addresses concerns with the emergency ambulance industry, about the distribution of their ARPA funds. There is additional language that would allow, for the first time, counting nursing homes to participate in the nursing home tax and assessment. And there is language that would provide for one- time emergency workforce funding for crisis intervention services in mental health and substance abuse. I'd be happy to answer…"
"Leader Batinick, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" 10200112.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"He said he… he indicates he will. Please proceed."
"Leader, for a while there… I appreciate you going through the details of the Bill, but I thought maybe you were reading the actual language of the entire Bill because I believe this is your last Bill. Is that correct?"
"I know you hope it was, but that's just not going to work out for you. I've got, like, way more."
"Oh, I'll wait for the next one then. Thank you."
"Okay."
"Representative Bourne, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. As we discussed in committee this morning, there are a lot of parts of this Bill that I think are good and I think are important, but I wanted to talk briefly about the Section that the sheriffs are opposed to. We see in this Bill that DHS is increasing their requirement to take people who are mentally ill from sheriff's… county jails from 20 days to 60 days with the ability to renew. So, sheriffs who have complained to you about overcrowding in their county jails and DHS not taking these folks to take care of them, this is not going to alleviate that problem. I'm very sympathetic to the arguments on both sides, that there are staffing issues and bed issues and capacity issues, but this is just going to add more and more of a burden to our county jails. They did not work with the sheriffs to make this a better Bill. I would urge you to vote 'no'. These are 10200112.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 individuals with mental illness who are only getting worse when in the detention and county jails and not receiving the care that they need. This will not cure that. Your sheriffs are likely opposed. Please vote 'no'."
"Leader Durkin, for what reason do you rise?"
"To the Bill. This is a large Bill, and I know there's one concern, and I do appreciate the thoughts of the sheriffs. I do know a little bit about this because these are mainly people who are deemed to be unfit for trial or people who have been found not guilty by reason of insanity. I would say that's less than probably two percent of those who are in pretrial detention. Now, I do know that some places, it's a little bit longer and I appreciate that and respect that. But here's my recommendation. Don't let this provision kill or change your position on… change your vote on this. It's really a good Bill and my recommendation is very strong that the Sheriffs' Association take this up after tomorrow. And I'm sure this can be resolved. But I understand they have a position, but I will say that it is not… I would just recommend that, let's vote on this Bill, let's get it passed, and I will ask the people who are involved to negotiate a resolution on this for next Session. There's too many other good things in this Bill to let this one provision stand in the way of it passing from the chamber."
"Representative Collins, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. So, I do like everything else that's in the Bill, except for one thing. But I am not going to sink the ship on this because these other 10200112.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 measures are very important. But as a former nursing home worker, I would be remised to not speak about the importance of short staffing and the provision in the Bill about holding off for another two years around the penalties in the Bill. And so, I just want to remind folks in here that having that experience of working in a nursing home, and I'll say the numbers again, of working with 30-plus residents, you cannot give good quality health care. You just can't. Throughout the pandemic, we've been seeing that workers are heroes. I personally helped to fight and tell the story of every day nursing home workers for years to finally see this Bill pass. And we have been waiting for this to actually take place. So, I'm not going to sink the ship on this, but I just want to say we have to find some real solutions to holding this industry accountable for short-staffing our workers, our seniors. Thank you."
"Representative Cassidy, for what reason do you rise?"
"Question of the Sponsor."
"Would the…"
"Leader, have you received a statement of intent from DHS on… on this?"
"Thank you, Representative. Yes. And for purpose of legislative intent, House Bill 240 includes multiple changes intended to ensure access to urgently-needed mental health services and promote the safety of dependents and the staff who serve them in county jails and state psychiatric hospitals. More than 200 people have been awaiting transfer from county jails and IDS hospitals for 60-plus days, an 10200112.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 historically high waiting list. There is a growing need for staff and patient beds in the state-run mental health system. IDH is committed to filling more positions and establishing more capacity and has already done so at McFarland, Elgin, Alton, and Read mental health centers. IDH has seven psychiatric hospitals that for many years helped patients who have completed secure inpatient treatment to begin step-down conditional release to a less restrictive setting after a long period of medication and demonstrated behavioral stability. The intent of the proposed change, the Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Facilities Act is to make explicit that is appropriate under very limited circumstances for a SMHRF to accept a step-down patient from an IDS hospital. This requires the approval of a clinical treatment team, a doctor's order, then an order from a hearing judge. The type of conditional release to the community is possible, not just for those who might SMHRF, but depending on their clinically assessment, back to a family home, a specialized group home, or other appropriate setting. The step-down placement location must agree to accept the consumer and to abide by their conditions of release, which include periodic reporting to the court. A SMHRF is not a setting for secure inpatient care. IDHS remains the primary setting. A SMHRF can only be used for conditional release."
"Representative Stoneback, for what reason do you rise?"
"To the Bill. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Which do you want, to the Bill or for the…"
"To the Bill. To the Bill. Thank you." 10200112.docx 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Okay."
"I rise to express a lot of concerns about this Bill. As stated, while there are portions of the Bill that are laudatory, a major portion of the Bill delays all monetary staffing fines for another two years. This is on top of a year and a half waiver period that was built into the most recent legislative work to demand that nursing homes properly staff their facilities. That means that we will have given for-profit nursing homes a free pass to any real consequences for severely understaffing their facilities for more than four years. The excuse has been given is, of course, COVID- 19. But that's all it is, an excuse. If nursing homes had been properly staffed prior to COVID, that would be one thing, but they weren't for decades. I would like to demand accountability now, or in another two and a half years, I suspect they will be back for another delay with another excuse. We can't have improvements to the… the much-needed improvements to the nursing home industry without real accountability. I urge a 'no' vote."
"Representative Halpin, for what reason do you rise?"
"Just to the Bill, Mr. Speaker."
"Proceed."
"I just want to echo some of the concerns that the sheriffs have, and this is a bipartisan issue. I just want to echo what the Republican Leader said. It's not necessarily something worth voting down this Bill, but I would strongly encourage the Governor and the department to try to resolve this issue as quickly as possible because we are having people 10200112.docx 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 in our jails that shouldn’t be in our jails. We need to really solve this problem. It's been ongoing for several years. So, I'd ask a 'yes' vote, but this is something we really have to pay attention to going forward. Thanks."
"Leader Harris to close."
"Thank you, Ladies and Gentlemen. I would request an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendments 1 and 2 to House Bill 240. This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; all those opposed signify by voting 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 85 voting 'aye', 24 voting 'nay', and 0 voting 'present'. The House does concur in Senate Amendments 1 and 2 to House Bill 240. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative West, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want the record to reflect that I was a… meant to be a 'yes' vote on House Bill 268. Thank you."
"It shall be noted. Representative Yang Rohr, for what reason do you rise? And Leader Harris in the Chair."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like the record to reflect that I meant to be a 'no' vote on HB268."
"Harris in the Chair. Representative Stava- Murray."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd also like to be reflected as a 'no' vote on HB268. Thank you." 10200112.docx 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"The Clerk is in receipt of Motions in Writing to waive the posting requirements for several Bills. Representative Lisa Hernandez on the Motion." Hernandez, L.: "Speaker, I move that the posting requirements be waived so the following Bills can be heard today in committee: House Resolution 1021 in Human Services; Senate Joint Resolution 43 and 39 in Transportation: Regulation, Roads & Bridges; House Resolution 1043 in Executive."
"Leader Hernandez has moved to waive the posting requirements. All those in favor say 'aye'; opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the posting requirements are waived. Representative Weber, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Personal point of privilege."
"Please state your point."
"So, once again, I rise to address a serious problem that our state has. The Department of Children and Family Services, who receive $1.5 billion of taxpayer money, their job is to protect children who are reported to be abused or neglected. The department is in charge of keeping our most vulnerable children, not just alive, but safe. I urge each of you to read the recent inspector general's report on DCFS from last week. I can only describe it as disturbing. You've heard me over time and years talk about some of the children who have lost their lives, but this annual report shows a 40 percent increase in deaths of children who were on DCFS's radar. One child is too many. Two children is too many. But the report shows that 171 children that were on DCFS's radar lost their lives. Governor Pritzker may not want to admit because he 10200112.docx 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 chose Director Smith, his guy to control the agency, but it's clear that there's time for a change. It is time for change. It is time for meaningful legislation and action. It's time for oversight, and it's time for us to work together and address this ongoing issues as we look towards our next year and next Session. So, I urge all of you to please work together with myself and others to hopefully make a difference in a child's life. Thank you."
"Representative Sosnowski, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you. A point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Can the record please reflect that I intended to vote 'yes' on HB268? Thank you."
"The record shall so reflect. Representative Mayfield, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"I'd like to draw your attention to our gallery up top over there. And I'd like to welcome our Lake County board chair, Sandy Hart. Hey, Sandy. And Lake County Commissioner Gina Roberts. Thank you for… welcome to Springfield."
"It sounds like there's no one left in Lake County today. Representative Avelar, what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"It is my delight to welcome a young lady who I've met over a decade ago when she was going to Tibbott Elementary 10200112.docx 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 and who has been helping our legislative office for the past two years. Alizel Cruz is here joining us today. She is my Page for the day. So, I just want to give her a big round of applause and welcome to Springfield."
"Representative Swanson, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"I'd like to make a couple introductions here today. With us in the gallery is Jennifer Russell and her daughter, Lauryn Russell. They can stand up. Jennifer Russell's the executive director for the Illinois Lyme Association. And her daughter, Lauryn, you may recall we passed legislation several years ago on the Lauryn Russell Lyme Disease Prevention and Protection Act. It's great to have them here in the Capitol with us. Thank you."
"Members, if I could have your attention for a moment, please. We have a number of retirement Resolutions that we have that have been filed by both parties and there's an agreement between the Democrats and the Republicans on how we will proceed on these. We will do all the Resolutions that have been filed. There will be one speaker on each Resolution. The Resolutions will be available to review and they will be adopted as a later time. So, one speaker per Resolution. We will not be reading each Resolution out loud. And we will start by… Representative Randy Frese on House Resolution 1063."
"Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to congratulate someone who have… we've known now for just a 10200112.docx 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 little over a year. Everybody will remember with Representative Hamilton came to our Body. She replaced Representative Mike Murphy in the 99th, the fighting 99th. And may I say, it was an immediate upgrade on so many levels. I hope Mike's listening out there. Mike, I hope you are. I was denied the chance of actually being her seatmate because Representative Butler came… moved over and in between… moved in between us. But we were seatmates one day and it was on a trip in a Chinook helicopter to Rantoul to visit the Lincoln's ChalleNGe Academy. And that was a wonderful day, as I'm sure you will recall, being greeted by the band that played. I think you and I shared an exchange and said, 'Man, wouldn't it be nice to be greeted this way where… wherever we went?' So… but that was a wonderful day and a very educational day. And again, I'd just like to say a couple of things. I know you have a very esteemed college career at the University of Illinois. The team accolades speak for themselves. But then… part of that team was not Sandy Hamilton at that time, right? It was Sandy Scholtens. And in her senior year, after carrying the team so many times to so many different victories, she received the Coaches' Award. And the Coaches' Award was for work ethic, attitude, and teamwork. She exemplified those so much that they later renamed it. It's no longer the Coaches' Award, it's the Sandy Scholtens Award. The 99th District was the benefactor of that as well, of all your leadership skills. Your career in real estate showed all of those skills, and we will be missing those skills on the House Floor. We certainly saw that all those attributes were present in the way you carried yourself here in the 102nd General Assembly. You know, 10200112.docx 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 you had more Resolutions for state championships just for family members in the year that… the short year that you were here than I had in the entire eight years that I've been here. But that's what they say. They say that the acorn doesn't fall too far from the tree. You… you've raised a quality, quality family. And I'm happy to say that your son accepted the invitation to come play at Quincy University that's located in the district that I represent. So, I'll be looking forward to seeing you and your husband and your son on regular occasions at the Quincy University Pepsi Arena. And I'll be looking forward and cherishing those moments as well. So, thank you for all you've done for us and for the 99th District. Sandy Hamilton."
"Representative Hamilton, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to thank everybody in this room. Yes, I've only been here a short time, but this has been such an honor to be a part of this and to go through this with all of you. I wish I had more years here and, who knows, maybe I will come back. We have a busy family, like Randy said, with our sports. So, I just wanted to really, truly say I appreciate all of you. And being here in Springfield, I will definitely stop in and go in the gallery and see all of you. So, thank you so much. It's been an honor."
"Representative Guerrero-Cuellar, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Speaker. A point of personal privilege." 10200112.docx 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"State your point."
"I would ask today if my Members can help me in welcoming two very special individuals that I have here with me. This is their first time in Springfield in Session. My wonderful daughters, Alexis and Andrea Cuellar. And also, want to wish Alexis a very happy early birthday because this year is very important. In the Mexican culture, our quinceańera is a very significant step. And Alexis will turn 15 later this month, and I want to wish her a very happy birthday. Mom loves you a lot. Thank you. And then… also, I want to take a moment and to recognize the students and the families that are up in the gallery. I have many from my district. I have two schools from my district. I have St. Nicholas of Tolentine and St. Mary Star of the Sea. And they are also joined by other members from other schools and other networks, the Jewish network, I believe, is here, and the Catholic Confederation of Illinois is here. They're on a very special mission, and I believe many of us have received visits from them in their office. So, thank you and welcome to Springfield."
"Representative Keicher is recognized on House Resolution 1064."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It was around about January 1971 where one Bob Keicher, my grandfather, had the opportunity to meet one Dick Lewis, Seth Lewis's uncle. At that point in time, they both became State Farm agents. One in Geneva and one in Sycamore, Illinois. The Lewis and Keicher family have been on fishing trips, excursions, and celebrations over the course of the last 50-plus years, 10200112.docx 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 recognizing the strong bonds that both families have to our local communities. I first became a State Farm agent in 2006, and shortly thereafter I was joined by my colleague and peer, Seth Lewis, who opened his agency shortly thereafter. When I first debated whether I would run and seek a chair in this august Assembly, I went and talked to my dear friend, Seth Lewis, and said, 'What's involved in this contest that we're debating?' He sat me down in his living room and I think we had a heart-to-heart discussion over the course of three some odd hours about the complexity and reality of seeking public office. I was honored when a few short years later he was selected to be on the ballot and represent his district from the City of Bartlett and come and join us here on the floor. I've been honored to call him a colleague and a friend for at least the last 15 years, and we're looking forward to working with him across this build in the Senate chamber for a long time to come. Seth, thank you very much for your service."
"Representative Lewis."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I worked really hard to get here. And I've got to tell you, this chamber delivered. It's been an honor to serve with all of you. Thank you, Rep Keicher, for the kind words. Thank you to my colleagues, Leader Durkin, Speaker Welch, helping me pass my first Bills. Members of the Black Caucus, hopefully one of you become mayor soon. I've enjoyed it, and I look forward to working with you in the Senate and really appreciate it. And oh, real quickly, let me introduce… I forgot, most important, my wife, Bhavna, is here with me and my two sons, Max and Clark Lewis. Thank you, everyone." 10200112.docx 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Leader Spain on House Resolution 1065."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And also, please let the record reflect it was my intention to vote 'yes' on House Bill 268."
"The record shall so reflect."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and Gentlemen, House Resolution 1065 honors a friend of all of us, and someone we've enjoyed getting to know and spending time with over the last two years in the General Assembly, and that's our friend, Representative Mark Luft. I've had the opportunity to know Mark very closely, to work with him closely, both in his capacity as a Legislator just next door to me and then his many years of service to his hometown, the community of Pekin. And whether that's his time serving in leading the JFL programs in Pekin or stepping up to serve on the city council and solving complicated problems for his community. And then, ultimately, serving as the mayor of the City of Pekin, a job that really he was destined for and has excelled at so much. And then when you combine his local experience with his work in Springfield, his advocacy for Tazwell County, for Fulton County, his ability to stand up for law enforcement, to be a tireless advocate for veterans throughout the state, he is someone who we are going to miss. He is someone that brings people together, that is a collaborator, that excels in bipartisan cooperation in a way that we need much more of. And he is someone that I am truly glad to call a friend, who will always continue to be my friend, not only to me but to so many people in this chamber. Let's please recognize, commend, and appreciate for his service in the same spirit that his father, Senator Dick Luft, served in the General 10200112.docx 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Assembly and made people proud for so many years. Representative Mark Luft, we solute you and we will miss you."
"Representative Luft."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I was not expecting that, and I didn't know that was coming. But thank you, Ryan, so much. Kind of took away a little bit of my voice for what I wanted to say, and I'm going to be brief. I know a lot of people have things to say. I was able to say this with our caucus at an event three or four weeks ago, but I wanted a chance to say it on the floor publicly to them. When I was 9 or 10 years old, I walked out onto our driveway at the house and I saw General Assembly plates on my father's car. I thought he was the President of the United States. It stuck with me and a dream set in. When I was in my early twenties, my dad left Springfield, at the same time I went to work for a utility company. It just so happened at that time that utility company was right across the street from our local State Representative Mike Smith's office. So, I saw the symbol on the door and I saw the plates on the vehicle every day I went to work and every day I left work. After that, I watched for 10 years with Representative Mike Unes, seeing the plates and the emblem on the door that had always been this 9-year-old kid's dream. Never thought anything like this would ever happen. It had always just been a dream my entire life. And then I get a call from Leader Durkin and Ryan Spain and Tim Butler who convinced me that I was good enough to come down here and serve on the floor. And I have told each one of them how much I appreciate helping a 56-year-old man's 9-year-old kid dream come true. I will always be grateful for that. It 10200112.docx 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 will always mean something deeper than I can express. And I want to say thank you to everybody on this side of the aisle, on the other side of the aisle, for their kind words, communication with me, open communication with me, their friendship that they have offered, and their support, me being down here. It felt like a very short visit, but I can't complain. To get to experience this dream even for a moment was worth every bit of it. Thank you."
"On Supplemental Calendar #1, under the Order of Concurrences, there appears House Bill 5471, Speaker Welch."
Speaker Welch: "Mr. Speaker, I move to concur with Senate Amendments 3, 4, and 5 to House Bill 5471. That's why I rise today. And before I get into specifics of the Bill, I want to mention who is on the floor sitting to my right. You know, my mom, Willie Mae Welch, is here in town. She's been here for a couple of days for activities going on outside of here, but, you know, sometimes things happen because they're just meant to happen. She was meant to be here today because the final version of a historic assault weapons ban is going to pass the Illinois General Assembly and head to the Governor's desk. Many of you have heard me share the story of how Chicago gun violence changed my family's life forever in 1985. And, you know, it was only five months after my parents bought their first house, in 1985, that that occurred. So, just imagine having three boys of your own, and five months after buying your first house, you lose your sister and now you're raising three girls on top of that. So, when I tell you a lot of what I fight for and believe in comes from watching my mom, the first woman that I ever loved. Watching the values 10200112.docx 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 that she stood for and the principles that she stood for, that's where I get a lot of my fight. And so, it is with tremendous honor that she is with me here today. And today, after continued negotiations between the Leaders, stakeholders, and the advocates, we have reached a deal on one of the strongest assault weapons bans in the country. It's time that we protect Illinois communities. It's time that we protect Illinois families. Let's end families having to change overnight. Let's not lose anymore brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, and children to gun violence. This Bill has my full support, Members, and I actually think improves upon what we sent to the Senate. And I want to thank the Senate President for being a partner in these talks and for the Governor leading the way for us working together to make history happen here today. What's different in this Bill, the key components of House Bill 51… 5471 includes… immediately ends the sale, delivery, and purchase of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. This legislation includes a comprehensive, detail, and updated list of assault weapons subject to the ban. High-capacity magazines are also prohibited. It strengthens assault weapons ban by also allowing the Illinois State Police to update the list as needed. Those already owning guns on the assault weapons list would have to provide information to the Illinois State Police. Immediately bans the possession and use of rapid-fire devices that increase the firing rate of semi-automatic weapons. That's something we should really be proud of. That's historic. Expedites the implementation of universal background checks and does not change the FOID card age. I 10200112.docx 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 can't say it enough. I want to thank Representative Bob Morgan for the work he put in on this. I want to thank Representative Maura Hirschauer for fighting for change. Representative Denyse Wang Stoneback, Representative Willis, Representative Ford, Representative Yednock. Every single person of the working group and everyone who took time week after week to make history happen here today. But I want to thank the advocates in the Speaker's Gallery who dedicate their lives to effectuate positive change in our state. They don't get paid to do what they do. They do it because it's the right thing to do. And so, for them, I ask us to concur with Senate Amendments 3, 4, and 5. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would defer specific questions to Representative Bob Morgan."
"Representative Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have questions of the Sponsor. Will he yield?"
"The Sponsor yields."
"Do we know how many firearms in Illinois will be impacted by this Bill?"
"The State of Illinois does not track firearm sales or what an individual possesses, so we do not know."
"Do we have an estimate of the number of firearms that it will impact?"
"I do not."
"Are you aware of estimates in the United States with regards to AR-15s that have them in the millions or tens of millions?" 10200112.docx 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"There are definitely estimates out there, but similarly, there's no national factual statistics about how many of these weapons are out there."
"So, we don't know how many firearms this will impact?"
"We do not have an accurate number. Correct."
"How many magazines in Illinois will this Bill impact?"
"In a similar fashion, it actually… even worse in the sense of magazines that they do not have serial numbers. There's no way for the government to track the number of these magazines."
"But again, going to the AR-15, using that as an example, there have been estimates of the millions of these magazines would exist in the United States and at least hundreds of thousands potentially exist in the State of Illinois."
"It's probably a fair guess."
"Would you agree with that?"
"Yes."
"Are you familiar with the Heller decision from the U.S. Supreme Court from 15 years ago?"
"I am."
"And are you familiar with the decision statement that essentially guns or firearms in common use are protected by the Second Amendment?"
"There's a lot in the Heller decision as well as the Bruen decision and other Supreme Court cases."
"You disagree with my statement on Heller?"
"There are a lot of elements in Heller. And again, that's not the most recent Supreme Court ruling. So, I… and it also 10200112.docx 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 doesn't really apply to something like this legislation, which is not a conceal carry Bill. So, there are different elements, of course, in Heller that would apply to future gun legislation that's taken up by the Supreme Court. But as you know, as an attorney and a former state's attorney and prosecutor, that every case is held on the merits and is uniquely reviewed by the court."
"The conceal carry issue you mentioned was the Bruen case. Heller dealt with the right to self-defense in the home and the right to possess a firearm in the home. The Supreme Court said that guns in common use are protected by the Second Amendment. So, I guess my question is, if we are potentially banning weapons that exist in the hundreds of thousands in Illinois, wouldn't that violate the constitutional protection to guns in common use as dictated by the U.S. Supreme Court?"
"I look forward to the courts dictating that decision."
"Are you familiar with the Bruen decision, which I believe you said you were?"
"Yes."
"Are you also familiar that when Bruen overturned the New York State law, it also sent back, to lower courts, cases in Maryland, which had a semi-automatic rifle ban; California, which had a large-capacity magazine ban; and New Jersey, which had a large-capacity magazine ban? Are you familiar with that?"
"There are hundreds of cases that are ongoing with regards to firearms and firearm regulation. Yes." 10200112.docx 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"I'm specifically asking you where that the U.S. Supreme Court sent those cases back to lower courts to reconsider decisions in light of the Bruen decision?"
"I would concede there are a number of cases that are being sent to lower courts to review in light of the Bruen decision. Absolutely."
"Are you familiar with instances where the, again, using the AR-15, has been used in self-defense?"
"I think that there are cases in which an AR-15 has been used in self-defense and in mass shootings. Yes."
"To the Bill. Everyone in this chamber is concerned about gun violence. Everyone in this chamber is concerned about violent crime and reducing violent crime. This Bill is not going to reduce violent crime. The people who break the law, the people who commit violent crime are not going to register their firearms, are not going to turn in their magazines. This will not stop that crime. What will happen is law abiding gun owners will be, yet again, impacted by laws from this General Assembly. Yet again, have their Second Amendment rights restrained. We have constitutional rights in our country. They protect our freedoms from the government. They are not rights that are given to us by the government. They protect rights that are sometimes unpopular. We protect the freedom of speech because sometimes speech isn't popular. We protect the freedom of religion because sometimes there are religions that aren't popular. We protect the press because sometimes the press isn't popular. We have these rights that are given to us. We see that in the Declaration of Independence and we have that in the Constitution. And we 10200112.docx 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 should support, protect, and defend our constitutional rights. This Bill violates those rights. It will not reduce violent crime, and I ask for a 'no' vote."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we are going to move to a three-minute timer. Representative Mazzochi."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"One of the things that the Bruen decision made clear is that, when assessing any modern firearms regulations and whether they're consistent with the Second Amendment's text and historical understanding is, you have to be able to find some type of historical analog to justify the regulation. So, when it comes to the mandated transfer record provisions, what evidence do you have that this type of required record of transfers amongst private residents is consistent with the Second Amendment's text and historical understanding?"
"Thank you, Representative. Good to see you. And I would say the Bruen decision, of course, covers a number of elements, as you know. And I'm sure you have read it, as have I. It also alludes to the fact that there is a long precedent of exempting dangerous and unusual weapons as being permitted for constitutional permissible purpose. So, there are a lot of elements in Bruen, as I eluded earlier. This particular legislation, if we are so fortunate as to have… to pass this in the coming minutes, I think that the courts will have their opportunity to review."
"No. Yeah, but that's not really responsive. Is… can you please put into record whatever it is you're relying on to say that the mandated record of transfer provisions are 10200112.docx 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 consistent with the Second Amendment's historical understanding? Can you point out any other historical instance where these types of transfers between private actors were required to be reported to a government agency in the way that Illinois is proposing to do here?"
"Representative, we had over 15 hours of public testimony on this Bill."
"You don't know any?"
"I would refer back to… you asked a question, Representative. I would refer back to the extensive record with regard to this legislation that will be used by the courts."
"Right. Well, the problem is, is that I've listened to that testimony and it's not really going through the historical record in the way that the Bruen decision is basically required for all regulations going forward. And because the Bruen decision specifically took away the intermediate scrutiny standard that Legislators had been relying on and is now going to a standard of you have to actually have concrete, historical evidence that this is consistent, you haven't put that historical evidence actually into the record. It's certainly not contained within the legislation itself as findings. So, consequently, I'm trying to give you the opportunity to actually articulate what that historical record is. Because without it, courts that have already been applying the Bruen decision going forward have been striking all of these regulations down. So, if at the very least you want to help our Illinois Attorney General, I suggest that you identify what those historical provisions 10200112.docx 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 are. Because, frankly, I don't think you're going to be able to get there from most of these provisions. The sheer fact that you've said that here are some weapons… I mean, historically the whole reason why the American Revolution was able to be fought is because people were able to buy and sell weapons of war in the private market. There was no restriction in terms of who was able to buy them and what people were able to do with them. And so, consequently, if you don't actually have a more robust, historical, textual analysis on this, all that you're doing is you're setting this piece of legislation up to, once again, fail. So, to the Bill. In Illinois, historically we've passed all sorts of gun-related legislation and historically courts have repeatedly struck that legislation down. So, if you want to argue, why are we not seeing any change on this type of issue and… when it comes to the State of Illinois? It's because this Legislature continues to enact legislation that is patently unconstitutional, is not going to work, is not going to actually stop violence in this instance. All it's going to do is give the courts an excuse to strike down yet another piece of gun legislation. So, you all keep saying that you want to have commonsense gun legislation. The only way you're going to have legislation that is going to pass constitutional muster is to focus on conduct of an individual, is to focus on things that actually are what… for a lack of a better phrase, outside the historical norm for the Second Amendment. And what you've thrown into this piece of legislation here guarantees it's going to be stricken down. So, because I don’t think it's a good idea for all of us who have up… who have 10200112.docx 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 actually taken an oath to say we are swearing to uphold the Constitution and the standards that it offers, every time you do this, you basically make a mockery of that oath. Thank you."
"Representative Grant."
"Thank you. I understand very well and I have great empathy for what happened in Highland Park. We have a big Fourth of July parade in my town and it could've happened there too. It's very upsetting. During subject matter, Judicial - Crim Committee hearings, I was able to hear testimony from numerous citizens in this state. On one incident during testimonials, I was struck by a distraught woman who was very concerned about gun violence in her neighborhood. Her question was, 'How did these young kids get these guns in their hands, ages 16, 17, and even as young as 14?' Mid November 2022, in Oak Forest, a gun range in a far south suburban neighborhood was burglarized. A group of 4 people had crashed a stolen vehicle into the building and stole over 20 guns. A 15-year-old boy has been charged. Just one of many possibilities to find guns getting into inexperienced hands for violent use. Thank you."
"Representative Stoneback."
"To the Bill. There is an urgent need to address gun violence through legislative action. Today is January 10. 2023 has just barely begun, but already there have been 1,151 gun-violence deaths in our country. Gun violence in the number one cause of death for children in the United States. Gun violence affects all children, but children of color are at greatest risk. This Bill bans assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, and rapid-fire devices, establishes an anti-gun 10200112.docx 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 trafficking strike force, and makes other critically needed changes. However, assault weapons are only one part of an enormous problem. We need to do much more than this Bill. We need more comprehensive measures that tackle the issue from all angles. We need to close the domestic violence gun loophole, which, due to confusion between overlapping laws, is allowing domestic abusers to keep their firearms during the emergency order of protection stage, which is the most dangerous time for a victim who is leaving their abuser. The vast majority of mass shootings involve domestic violence or intimate partner violence. So, it's critical that we make sure we close this loophole and address the deadly intersection of gun violence and domestic violence. Effective background checks require fingerprinting. And currently, Illinois does not require fingerprinting to obtain a FOID card. A Connecticut permit-to-purchase law requiring background checks with mandatory fingerprinting done at local law enforcement agencies was associated with a 40 percent reduction in the state's gun homicide rate. Mandatory fingerprinting was among the top evidence-based policy recommendations made by experts at John Hopkins Center for gun violence solutions in their report for Illinois, published just last November. Another top recommendation… their first recommendation was improving the implementation of Illinois' firearms restraining order. The FRO allows family members and law enforcement to temporarily remove firearms from someone who poses a significant risk to themselves or others. This Bill makes some improvements to Illinois' vastly under-utilized FRO, but much more work needs 10200112.docx 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 to be done to make this law effective. We need an office of FRO coordination with statewide coordinators. We need to add license health care providers as petitioners and direct federal funding to critically needed areas by training judges, state's attorneys, clerks, law enforcement, and victims' advocates. In addition, during this public health crisis, we must provide wrap-around services to address the impact of gun violence, such as medical care, mental health treatment, in-patient and out-patient behavioral health as…"
"Representative, your time has expired."
"…as well as… I'll wrap up. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Nelson Mandela once said, 'There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way it treats its children.' Gun violence is the number one cause of death for children in the United States. I look forward to seeing this Body pass critical life-saving measures in the coming…"
"Your… your time…"
"…weeks and months. I urge an 'aye' vote and much more work ahead."
"Representative Swanson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"Thank you. Where you at? There you are. Thank you, Bob. See you now. Hey, just… since this is a new Bill, I'm going to go through some of the same questions I asked before because I know things have changed and a couple of these are new questions. My first question is, how does this impact gun manufacturers in Illinois and manufacturers of parts for guns in Illinois?" 10200112.docx 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Some of the language is different from the last legislation that we talked about. This language would explicitly exempt Illinois manufacturers that are producing the firearms, their parts, and ammunition from sales to other states, to other countries, subject to Federal Law, and also law enforcement."
"So, a… so, I… what about other states? They could sell to any other state then?"
"That's the way the legislation reads. There's a provision, I believe it's… I believe it's page 101-102 that has an explicit provision of that nature."
"How does this affect sales at the local hunting and fishing store?"
"Well, local hunting and fishing store that is selling a firearm would be subject to this provision of banning… immediately banning sale of any prohibited firearm or ammunition that's defined as a high-capacity magazine."
"And some of the consequences of this Bill then is going to be some direct revenue to our committees… communities and to our businesses here in Illinois when we limit the amount of sales they could have. So, in some of our smaller towns that have the mom and pop's gun stores or some of our communities that have a larger manufacturer of parts or weapons are going to be directly affected. And those communities are going to lose that tax revenue and business tax and potentially employment. So, I see that as a bad outcome. Now, is there any… is there any languages in this legislation that directs or enforces or mandates criminals who commit a crime with a weapon to be punished for that 10200112.docx 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 crime? Or is there still opportunities for that to be pulled off the table?"
"I don't believe there are any references in this legislation dealing with those who have committed a firearm- related violent crime."
"Okay. So, now we're going to continue with the violence because we're not going to punish the criminal for using that particular piece of weapon? To the Bill. My time is running very short here, so I've got to summarize. You know, this is going to directly affect many of my communities within the district. With jobs, tax revenue, opportunities, employment, and just all those revenue things that we try to grow Illinois by doing. But here, we're punishing those businesses. And once again, it's those of us who have guns or those of us who have our FOIDs and CCLs who will be punished and not the criminal for using that as a tool in committing a crime. And with that, I certainly encourage a 'no' vote because, as I believe one of the speakers said earlier, it doesn't go far enough in the court system in punishing our criminals. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"Leader Flowers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I want to take this opportunity to thank Leader Welch for his leadership on this Bill. More importantly, I want to thank the Senate for the additional changes that they made to make a good Bill better. And I want to thank you, Representative Morgan, for the hard work and the time that you put into the Bill. As the… couple of the previous speakers spoke and said, in regards to gun violence and gun prevention, 10200112.docx 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 it… it's more to do than just pass this Bill. And for the soon-to-be 39 years that I've been in this House of Representatives, I have been talking about 2 areas of the state. I've been talking about the South Side, and I've been talking about the West Side. My story has not changed. A lot of things about me has, but my story has not changed. And I said then, and I'll say it now, until such time that we began to make a serious investment in the South and West Side and other poor communities around this state, we'll be back. We'll be back, and we're going to be talking about the same things and we're going to continue to neglect the poor people out there that's begging for jobs. We're going to continue to neglect the poor people out there that we're not educating, not giving them access to health care, not making sure they have a roof over their head to prevent their hunger. Instead of giving them more food stamps or jobs and opportunities, we are taking everything away from them. We're penalizing them. We're locking them up. We're throwing them in jail. But we don't keep them there. We can't keep them there. And so, realistically speaking, I hope everyone… and you mothers up there, I extend my heart out to you. Because if I could have, I could've brought five busloads of mothers from the South and West Side and other parts of this state who's been begging, please help my child, please help me keep my home, please help me get a better job, please give me access to health care. I'm begging you, please. But no one listened. No one heard their cry. But you all are going to walk away today and you're going to feel good about what you've done. But those mothers, it's going to be business as usual. They're 10200112.docx 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 going to continue to go home and cry. They're going to continue to feel fear. They can't walk down the streets. Their kids can't go out in the park to play. They can't do nothing because a mind is a terrible thing to waste and we are wasting young people's lives. So, that being said, I would appreciate… for those of you who believe in this Bill, I'm going to believe with you until the next one. And I would appreciate an 'aye' vote. Thank you."
"Representative Meier."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he'll yield."
"I've been hearing from my gun dealers and they want to know when and specifically how they're going to be notified what the exact rules are because so much has been changing in the last few days."
"Thank you, Representative. I think that there are a number of provisions in here that will require notice to firearm retailers and manufacturers about disposal and transfer of firearms and high-capacity magazines that they currently have. So, there will be, in my conversations with the state police, quite a bit of guidance that will be coming out with regards to implementation."
"But if the Governor signs this tonight, when are they being notified? When is their cut-off date? Is it then? They're not sure of which guns. We need to know these things now."
"Well, for manufacturers, manufacturers are exempt. As we discussed earlier, with any number of manufacturing, participation of the firearms, the magazines, the parts with 10200112.docx 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 regards to the firearms. The retailers themselves will have… will have to stop selling these weapons, which are enumerated in very explicit detail."
"I would like an exact date. Maybe you can get back to me so I can tell them, before the Governor signs this Bill, the exact date and time that the sales have to stop. I'd like a list of the guns sent to them also. We want to make sure they get it. We don't want to turn anymore Illinois citizens into criminals. And, you know, this is something that should've been worked out ahead of time. You've worked on this Bill a long time and you're leaving businesses, mom and pop businesses, in the… stranded there. Now, I also would like to know, what about somebody who dies? Are those guns allowed to go to their children or is that not going to be allowed to be transferred because they are… that's going to be considered a sale?"
"There are multiple provisions in the legislation that deal with passing a firearm to an heir. That also extends to the exemptions for law enforcement and retired law enforcement in their possession transferring to an heir. So, that is in the legislation."
"And so, you're saying that a father can leave his guns to his daughter or his sons?"
"In the event that they complete the endorsement process with the FOID card that we laid out, yes."
"Even if they were named in this? Okay. Now, my next question. We have guns that have been sold, guns that have been bartered, the credit card numbers have already been ran, the money's taken out, the checks have been cashed. What's 10200112.docx 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 going to happen with those? Are they allowed to be delivered afterwards? Because there is a contract, there is a date there. The money's already been paid. How are… how is that going to be addressed?"
"That language is in the legislation to allow those that have already been purchased to continue to be moved to the location for the retail."
"So, if they are purchased, they can be… and they can be sold?"
"Representative, your time has expired."
"Thank you."
"Representative Wilhour."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. Now, I know that a lot of you guys over there despise our founders and you casually cast aside the principles that this country was founded on. But our founding fathers, they… they knew what they were doing. See, they had experienced the tyranny of the majority and they vowed that that was never going to happen in our country. They said never again will an all-powerful central government come in and crush our individual rights and our individual liberty. That's what the Constitution's about, protecting our citizens from a government that oversteps and encroaches on our freedoms. We are the greatest and most just country in the history of the world because we have always understood that our power and our destiny is in the freedom of our citizens, not an authoritarian of government. Our Constitution ensures that. Its Amendments protect the delicate balance between the citizens and government. It's designed to ensure balance and put a check 10200112.docx 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 on a government that's willing to run roughshod over its people. Now, over the past few years, your party has proven its willingness to advance an agenda at the expense of the freedom and the well-being of the citizens of this state. We have lived out the consequences of a government with no check on its power. We all felt what happened during COVID when this Body and Governor Pritzker took advantage of a crisis. You trampled our freedom. You used our children as pawns to perpetuate your political power, destroyed their education, destroyed our economy, and you left behind an entire generation. Never again will we allow our Constitution and our freedoms to be shredded by your political agenda. We don't trust you. Too many citizens in this state don't trust you. A government unchecked, a government willing to defy our Constitution is a government that is completely out of control. So, you can sit here and dictate whatever you want today. Maybe the political winds are in your favor here today. But I can tell you that we will not comply, and you're not going to do a darned thing about it because the law, the Constitution, and the founding principles are on our side."
"Representative Caulkins."
"To the Bill. Ladies and Gentlemen, we've heard very impassioned speeches from the other side of the aisle addressing the needs of the communities that are most impacted by this crime wave. Nothing in this Bill addresses those needs. The only thing in this Bill is a burden… placing a burden on law-abiding citizens, people who have a FOID card who have legally purchased and owned a firearm. That will not help anyone in any of your communities or mine. We need to 10200112.docx 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 address these issues. I commend the speakers. They know. They live it every day. And there is nothing that we're doing in this Bill to improve the education or the economic situations in these disadvantaged communities. All you're doing is passing a Bill to make you feel good, to live up to some promise that you made to a lobbying group. You have a serious… a problem. We do. All of us. We have a serious problem in our communities. Our kids can't read. They can't do math. They have no chance at a future. Nothing in this Bill will make them safer or better. Nothing in this Bill will make the people in these communities safer as they sit on their porch or walk down the street or kids go to school. I urge you to seriously consider what you're doing to a large, large number of law-abiding people in this state. We need to focus on opportunities and education. I know you all probably saw the report on the Chicago public school system, that the abuses that are happening to those children, the hundred thousand kids that are reported as truant. I hope that's not true. But nothing in this Bill is going to improve the lives of the people that you were sent here to help. And I would urge you, please vote 'no' on this Bill. Let's come back next month and let's really do something that's going to have an effect on the people that we were all sent here to represent. I urge a 'no' vote."
Speaker Harris: "The final speaker will be Representative Bennett."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill, please. I've… I really appreciate the conversations on this issue, on this Bill. These are issues we've talked about for really quite 10200112.docx 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 some time. They're passionate. We're very concerned. These are painful events we talk about. We talk about rights of individuals and the pain and the loss of life. It's very concerning to all of us. But I do not believe that this will solve our crime problem. Several counties have come out against, saying they will not support this. We've all seen resolutions from different counties, and this is not done lightly. And we need to be aware of what we're trying to do here today. The Sheriffs' Association does not support this either. Let's think about what that means as well, folks. We just really need to consider what we are trying or considering today. And perhaps… one more thing I need to bring up. This will greatly impact 2.4 million FOID card, law-abiding citizens in the State of Illinois that strongly believe in their Second Amendment rights. Two point four million Illinoisans. I do ask, let's try this again. We need discussion. And I do ask a vote 'no', please, on this Bill. Thank you."
"And the final, final speaker will be Leader McCombie."
"Sorry. Thank you. And as the woman in the room, I have to have the final say. Right? I do have a question, first off, for Speaker Welch, please. We are going to be discussing rules and voting on rules when we come back at the end of January. When this Bill was over in the Senate and it was highjacked to be the carrier of this Bill, myself, Representative Hammond, and Representative Niemerg were on it in the Senate. So, when you're looking at a firearm ban, and it looks like there's three strong 2A advocates on the Bill, 10200112.docx 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 can we look… and this was not in my original letter. Can we look that we will have the power or the ability to remove our names on a Senate Bill rather than waiting for it to come over to the House? Would you be willing to think about that and consider that when we come back?"
"We'll think about it."
"Thank you. I appreciate that. Okay. Now, for Representative Morgan. Representative, in the Bill it states that we are banning 50-caliber rifles, correct?"
"Correct."
"Representative, are you aware of any mass shootings in Illinois that has been… has used a… the criminal has used a 50-caliber rifle?"
"I don't have a specific instance in mind. No."
"Okay. How about in the nation?"
"Again, I don't have a specific instance in mind."
"Okay. So, that makes me want to ask, why put that, the 50 caliber, on the list then? Because I'll… I'll give you the answer. The answer is no. So, why put that gun on there?"
"There's a long… Leader, as you know, there's a long list of firearms that are listed here, some of which are facsimiles. They're similar and comparable. They're copies, almost identical to an AR-15 or similar weapons. So, there are a lot of different types of weapons, as you know, that are similar to other types of weapons that have been used in mass shootings."
"So, you're saying a 50 caliber is similar to an AR?"
"You're asking about all the types of weapons in this legislation. I was saying, generally speaking, there are a 10200112.docx 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 lot of different types of Bills… types of firearms in this legislation that are similar."
"Okay. I was speaking just about the 50 cal, that's all. And it's not similar at all. Also, somebody was speaking, they were talking on your side of the aisle that they have the full support of the Members and their constituents. The fact of the matter is there is not full support within this chamber or within the State of Illinois. So, unfortunately, this Bill, again, is not going to stop gun violence. It is not going to protect our most vulnerable neighborhoods or our most vulnerable children. Vote 'no'."
"Speaker Welch to close. Representative Morgan to close."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the people of the great State of Illinois have been waiting decades for legislation just like this. Let them wait no longer. I urge an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendments 3, 4, and 5 to House Bill 5471?' This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; all those opposed signify by voting 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. With 68 voting 'yes', 41 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present', the House does occur… concur in Senate Amendments 3, 4, and 5 to House Bill 5471. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Leader Greenwood for an announcement."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Democrats would request a caucus meeting immediately in Room 114." 10200112.docx 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Representative Batinick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Republicans will caucus in Room 118."
"Mr. Clerk, committee announcements."
"The following committees will be meeting this afternoon right after caucus ends. Human Services will meet in Room 114. Transportation: Regulation, Roads & Bridges will meet in Room 115. And the Executive Committee will meet in Room 118. Those will meet immediately after the caucuses are finished."
Speaker Harris: "Democrats will caucus immediately in 114. Republicans will caucus immediately in 118. The House stands in recess to the call of the Chair. House will be in order. Representative… Representative Halbrook on… Representative Halbrook."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you. Kind of a two-part privilege. Today, in Representative Morrison's absence, he has three Pages here today. They're down near the press box on our side of the aisle. We have his son, Tyler Morrison, as a sophomore at William Fremd High School. We have Joshua George, a sophomore at William Fremd High School. And Joanna George, a freshman at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, studying information and data sciences. Let's give them a warm welcome to the Springfield Capitol."
Speaker Harris: "Welcome to your Capitol. Representative Halbrook." 10200112.docx 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to say a few words for the Gentleman that usually sits behind me, Representative Morrison. There would've been a Resolution to honor his service here today, but he is not feeling very well. And so, he wasn't able to come down. But I just want to recognize him for his years of service, his dedication to the family and family ideals, and faith in our country. And so, with that, Ladies and Gentlemen, let's just give, in Representative Morrison's absence, a warm round of appreciation for his years of service in his retirement. Thank you."
Speaker Harris: "Representative Marron and Frese on House Resolution 1074. Representative Marron."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm honored to present a Resolution honoring my friend and colleague in his retirement from the Illinois House of Representatives. I would say that he's being promoted, but I don't think we can call it a promotion to the Senate. I would say that's more of a demotion to that chamber. But I did want to say a few words. He has been a great friend and… he's been a great friend to all of us. I think if you polled this House, everyone would probably say the nicest guy here is State Representative Tom Bennett. He's not only the nicest guy here, he's maybe the most hard- working State Representative in the entire Body. So, he's always… I can hear him calling constituents. He's up working Bills. He's building bipartisanship. And, of course, Representative Bennett and myself were neighbors. His district is just to the north of mine. So, he has a huge geographic district and numerous times I would see him in Danville at 7:30 in the morning for a breakfast meeting. And 10200112.docx 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 then he would have to be, by mid-morning, all the way over in Woodford County. And then I would see him after he made stops up in Livingston County and all around his district, back in Danville that night. And so, I can't imagine anybody who works at this job harder than Tom Bennett. So, it's been a great pleasure. I really appreciated when I was a freshman my first term here, we were seatmates. And it was really convenient 'cause I got to meet almost everybody in the entire House of Representatives because they came over to get Oreo cookies from him. So, Tom, it's been great. We're going to miss you. And you keep them honest over there in the Senate."
"Representative Frese."
"Mr. Speaker, thank you very much for allowing… I know we're trying to keep everything short. Thank you for allowing a couple of people to speak on the behalf of Representative Bennett. Representative Bennett, is your wife, Kathy, here? Is she with us today? She appoint… she up here?"
"She was…"
"Oh, she's no longer…"
"…but I think they… they headed home after the family… this morning."
"Okay. Well…"
"But thanks. She'll be back tomorrow."
"Okay. Is she going to bring brownies? She makes the…"
"Oh, we hope so."
"…best brownies that I've ever tasted in my life. But when… when I came down as a freshman, and then I started rooming with Representative Bennett, and the first thing he'd come to me and say, 'Hey, you want to have breakfast?' I said, 'Well, 10200112.docx 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 sure. We'll go… I'll go to breakfast with you.' He said, 'Oh, we're going to go with…', and then he'd have a list. He'd have a list. He started right away. 'We're meeting with people across the aisle. We're meeting with some of our fellow Democrats and we're going to get to know them.' Tom would set up a breakfast meeting, sometimes lunch meetings, and from that point on… you've just never stopped, Tom. You have never ever stopped. I think… we all have our own stories of how we've worked, maybe, to get elected to get here, and I've… sometimes you wonder, once you're here, what… why did I… why did I want it? Why am I here? Well, I guess I'm here because I was supposed to meet and become friends with Tom Bennett. It'll be a lifetime. It's been… already been a life change getting to know you and your influence on me. And I just can't say enough about you, Tom. If they… as it was said about your constituent service, if they ever have an award for superior constituent service, it should be called the Tom Bennett Award for Constituent Service. You're the best. You never stop. You don't slow down. From Sandhill to Idlewild, to (unintelligible) Road, your friends Mark, Grant, Keith, and Randy thank you so much for your service and we ask you to please, please be careful on your route to the Senate. God bless you very much."
"Representative Sosnowski on House Resolution 1061."
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, one of our distinguished Members is leaving us in the upcoming hours here. He is an advocate for the taxpayers of Illinois. He is a proponent of freedom in the State of Illinois. He is 10200112.docx 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 ruthless and relentless on behalf of his constituents, helping them out, servicing them in any way that they can as they navigate the issues of State Government. We are also losing an order of great esteem in this chamber. Now, he's moving on to the House of Lords, as some call it, and I'm sure they will benefit from his ability to speak and orate on particular issues. He will certainly bring down the median age of our chamber across the hall. He'll be able to have more nap time, as we know the Senators definitely need more rest. And he'll have a much easier schedule working in the Senate. But nonetheless, we will miss a dear friend of ours, as we lose Representative Andrew Chesney to head over to that higher-esteemed chamber that we know, but there'll be a lot of great opportunities, great efforts, and great issues in front of you. But we want to wish him a continued success and continue to work on behalf of your constituents the best of your ability. And I think he is a guaranteed passage for any of our legislation that we pass over to that chamber. He just needs to Sponsor it in that… in that esteemed venue. But we wish you the very best. We'll miss you. Godspeed, God bless, and enjoy. Thank you."
"Leader Hernandez on House Resolution 1049." Hernandez, L.: "Yes. Thank you, Speaker. Just like to recognize our former Representative Delia Ramirez. I always often kid around with her. She would leave out the Hernandez, her married name. She is someone to reckon with, now in Congress. We're going to see the good work that she will be doing there. She certainly has left her imprint here in Illinois with… especially most recently passing the Bill that expanded 10200112.docx 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 health care for those who, in particular, are undocumented. A huge, huge success there. And not to mention all her efforts in the housing area. She really led the fight there to bring more funding and serve families that are in great need. Her work here in Illinois will be left with us much to… with much to admire. And we're looking very… certainly looking forward to her doing great work in Congress. We will miss her and wish her all the best."
"Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
"Committee Reports. Representative Rita, Chairperson from the Committee on Executive reports the following committee action taken on January 10, 2023: recommends be adopted is the Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 2870, House Resolution 1042, and Floor Amendment(s) 4 to Senate Bill 208. Representative Moeller, Chairperson from the Committee on Human Services reports the following committee action taken on January 10, 2023: recommends be adopted is House Resolution 1021. Representative Moylan, Chairperson from the Committee on Transportation: Regulation, Roads & Bridges reports the following committee action taken on January 10, 2023: recommends be adopted is Senate Joint Resolution 39 and Senate Joint Resolution 43."
"Representative Bennett, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Mr. Speaker, if I may just speak for a moment. I really appreciate the comments from Mike and Randy. And if I would, for just a moment, do a couple of moments of thanks, if I may. Is that okay? Thank you, Sir. I'll be brief, but I wanted 10200112.docx 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 to… I wanted to respond a little bit. I really appreciate the comments from… from Mike and Randy, and I want to thank everyone so much. Eight years I've served as a State Representative and it has gone so, so very quick. It's very special. It's wonderful memories we're going to have. And it's been an amazing experience to… to see how State Government works in Springfield, Illinois and Chicago and in our state. And I really appreciate the good conversations, the meals, the dinners, the fun aspects of this. And we're not going far. We're not going far. Look forward to seeing you soon. God bless you, and this is going to be a great day. So, thanks everyone."
"On page 2 of the Calendar appears Senate Bill 2951, Representative Zalewski. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2951, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #3 is offered by Representative Zalewski."
"Representative Zalewski on Floor Amendment 3."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor Amendment #3 becomes the Bill. I'm happy to read it on Third Reading. It's a revenue omnibus package with a significant amount of new programs in it. So, let's get to it."
Speaker Harris: "Representative Zalewski has moved for the adoption of Floor Amendment #3 to Senate Bill 2951. All those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. The Amendment is adopted. Anything further, Mr. Clerk?" 10200112.docx 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 2951, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Zalewski on Senate Bill 2951."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 2951 is a revenue omnibus package that contains three separate items. First is a reinvigoration of the Governor's economic development plan, including the enacting legislation of what's referred to as a closing fund. We authorized the creation and the deposit of the monies in separate legislation, but this would be the enacting language for a fund which would allow for the Governor to recruit businesses to the State of Illinois. It would make significant revisions to the EDGE and REV programs, including striking the 'but for' clause in EDGE agreements, which basically says a company has to go out and seek better offers. And then come back to DCEO and say, we wouldn't have left had it not been for your package. We get rid of that because the department would say it finds itself having to fend off more… fend off attacks from other states when the 'but for' clause is invoked. It makes changes to the REV Act and makes changes to high-impact business zones. It extends high-impact business zones, and it makes technical changes to enterprise zones. In addition to that, it makes changes to the Film Tax Credit and extends the sunset to January of 2033. And it creates the sustainable aviation fuel tax purchase credit, which will allow Illinois to become a leader in the Midwest in producing sustainable aviation fuel, which is effectively a biofuel that helps airplanes burn a cleaner 10200112.docx 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 form of fuel. I… this is a landmark piece of legislation that will help Illinois' business climate into the 21st century. And I would ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Leader Durkin."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor indicates he'll yield."
"Representative Zalewski, before we get into it, it's been a pleasure working with you. And I wish you… we're both Midwest suburbs and we have exciting legal careers ahead of us. Right?"
"We do."
"Looking forward to billing a lot of hours. So…"
"I look forward to… good luck to you, Leader Durkin. You've always been a friend and I… those people of the State of Illinois are going to miss you dearly. So, thank you."
"As well to you, Mike. Thank you so much. One question that's on this closing fund. Could you give me just a… just a small idea of how this is going to be… how it's going to operate? I was told that there would have to be legislative sign-off…"
"Yes."
"…for any of these funds to be disbursed. It would require both… does it need one? I mean, how… what I see is that it's only the Speaker and the President, correct?"
"Correct. We talked about this with Representative… the Lady from Western Illinois this morning. We mirrored the language off of an IEMA provision which effectively creates oversight in the following way. What we heard is, if Members have discomfort with this and we're not in Session, how would 10200112.docx 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 the Legislature have the ability to weigh in? And we mirrored language from IEMA which says, when the Legislature's not in Session, the Speaker and the Senate President get a letter and they certify whether they've seen the prospective agreement, whether they have any objections to it. So…"
"Is there any … is there any reason why Republican Leaders in both chambers were not included in that sign-off process?"
"Again… again, the Lady from Western Illinois asked that question. The best answer, which is in an… I'm, like, guessing isn't acceptable to… to you, but is the honest answer, is we based it off of the IEMA language. And in that language, it's only the two caucus… two caucus principles, the Speaker and the Senate President. So, we're just trying to create a form of accountability. I would say your Members are going to be able to see DCEO reporting, quarterly reports, and will be able to weigh in. It just won't be in the same manner that is prescribed in times when we're not in Session."
"All right. Thank you very much. I just wish there was going to be an inclusion of this… of our incoming Leader and also in the House and in the Senate. Thank you very much."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, for this Bill and the rest of the Bills we'll be doing tonight we'll be on the three- minute timer. Representative Keicher."
"Representative, thank you for bringing this. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"So, Representative, thank you for bringing this. I greatly appreciate it. I think the… the Gentleman from Western Springs spoke significantly about my concerns about the 10200112.docx 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 approval process and where those are there. But one of the things I want to talk to the chamber about is the significant benefit that the area that I currently share with Representative Demmer and will be taken over partially by the Gentleman from LaSalle has benefitted significantly from expansive development due to the economic incentives that Republicans helped to introduce in the 2019 package. I'm excited about the additional opportunities that this could be there, but the frank reality is we continue to pass onerous rules, laws, and stipulations on businesses that do work in Illinois and are considering Illinois for a place to be. So, I think in the grand scheme we wouldn't need this if we could be a little bit more business friendly in the future, but thank you for bringing it. I think it brings some great opportunities in manufacturing, specifically for the State of Illinois. Appreciate it. I urge…"
"Mr. Clerk, Rules Report."
"Rules Report. Representative Harris, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on January 10, 2023: recommends be adopted, referred to the floor is Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 1836; and recommends be adopted is the Motions to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 5285 and Senate Amendment(s) 5 and 6 to House Bill 4664."
"Representative Ugaste."
"Thank you. To the Bill. I'll make this brief. Much as the last speaker from my right over here, Representative Keicher, mentioned, there are a whole host of Bills that are out there pending that I hope the Members of the next General 10200112.docx 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Assembly will give some consideration to. They have to deal with work comp reform, property tax relief, and other issues. Many of which all of you have indicated a willingness to work on at some point in time so that maybe in the future we won't have to pass Bills such as this, ones that have to give out money to corporations to come here. Illinois has a lot going for it. And if we just make this a more business-friendly climate, not taking advantage of our employees, not making certain our citizens aren't safe, but just making it somewhat more business friendly, we could avoid having to make cash handouts."
"Representative Davidsmeyer, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr… thank you, Mr. Speaker. For… can we have some order in here first? Thank you. First, I want to let you know that Representative Hamilton as well as Representative Luft will be excused for the rest of the day."
"And?"
"And… and second, question of… will the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor indicates he'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative, I… I just want to say that I really appreciate working with you over years. You've been a reasonable voice and a reasonable person to bounce things off of. We haven't always agreed on a whole lot, but… but I do appreciate your common sense, your willingness to talk across the aisle and talk about issues that affect the entire state. I just want to thank you for all your work throughout the years. Thank you." 10200112.docx 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, C.D."
"Representative Meier."
"Thank you, C.D."
"Representative Meier."
"Will the Speaker yield?"
"He'll yield."
"I, too, want to say it's been a pleasure to work with you the last 10 years. Working with you, we've always got honest answers, and I appreciate it. And I've got questions about this Bill, and I don't know if I'm voting 'yes' or 'no' yet on this Bill. I like economic development. I like what we've done with… with the data centers, which I've worked with you for many years to get a data center Bill through. My problem is, we could… we could build a big doll house out of leftover, great big checks that the State of Illinois has come down and promised Southern Illinois that this money is coming to these different Representatives' districts. And two and three times that money is still not there. Is there anything in there saying that there'll be any money from Interstate 64 and south for Illinois? Or Interstate 80 and south, that some of this money is divided up? Because I like a lot of parts of this Bill, but… yeah, I can't even get stop lights for intersections. I can't get turn lanes for interstates. Any business coming in has to pay that out of their own pocket because the State of Illinois will not pay for that in our district, in District 8. Any other district in Southern Illinois, those things are paid for, but not in District 8. So, I'm just wondering, is there any guarantees for us?" 10200112.docx 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"There's… there's no geographic guarantees, Charlie, for the area you described. I… I think, in speaking for the Governor's Office and DCEO, they understand the inherent value in bringing jobs, especially modern jobs, manufacturing jobs, jobs related to electric vehicles, to Southern Illinois. They want your region to succeed just like they want the Rockford region to succeed and they want the Chicago region to succeed. So, there's no guarantees, but I think this is a good Bill for the State of Illinois and I hope you can vote for it."
"I… I'm still struggling with it and I just wish that… and I'm not saying that it was just this Governor. I'm saying Republican Governors and Democrat Governors. We have a stack of great big checks that have been promised. Millions of dollars, 400 and some jobs sitting in there waiting for the one batch to come through, promised by two different Governors. Still not there, so we don't have those 432 jobs. So, you know, when we vote… poll this vote, I still don't know what I'm going to do. It's just a struggle to watch broken promises. Thank you for all you've done for the State of Illinois. I hope we can continue to be friends."
"Thank… of course, Charlie."
"Representative Reick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. First of all, Mike, I'd like to echo what everybody else has said. As the Minority Spokesperson on the Revenue Committee, I have found you to be a very good person to work with. You run a good committee and I learned a lot in your committee and I wish you nothing but the best in the future. To the Bill. There's one aspect of 10200112.docx 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 this Bill that I just don't understand. I talked about it in committee and I'm going to talk about it here, and that's the aviation fuel tax credit. What we're trying to do here is establish the development of an alternative type of fuel for aircraft so that we can get away from petroleum products. Which okay, that may be fine. But the fact remains is that by giving the money to the end user instead of the producer of that does not allow the producer to expand operations, except beyond… except to the point where they're being purchased by particular airlines. And it doesn't allow them to expand production, and thus expand markets. I believe that this Bill is… this aspect of this Bill is absolutely misguided. It's a giveaway to the airline industry. And there are… if we're going to try to develop a new commodity, we shouldn't be giving it to the very states whose airline… who have the biggest stake… where the airline industry has the biggest stake, which is California and Illinois. The only two states that grant these types of credits are California and, if this Bill passes, Illinois. And guess where all that fuel is going? That fuel is going to California and Illinois. It doesn't help fixed-based operators with their fuel needs. It doesn't allow the producers of these fuels to expand their markets into other places that don't offer the credit. So, basically, what we're looking here is a giveaway to the airline industry at the expense of the possible expansion of a product that may have a broader market than just what the airline industry wants. Therefore, on behalf… with regard to the objections that the Gentleman from Western Springs made and on this one, I will be a 'no' vote on this Bill. Thank you." 10200112.docx 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Representative Wheeler."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he'll yield."
"Mike, I'd echo everybody's comments here, you're an amazing person to work with."
"Thank you, Keith. You as well."
"And I want to just, like, make this kind of a little bit of a testament to that. About five years, a little more than that, I think it came down to pretty much you and me reviving the EDGE tax credit program for our state. One of the most important economic developmental tools we have had gone dormant in the middle of a budget impasse and other things that were going on. And I was still a pretty new Rep at the time and you trusted me to work with you and get that done, and that's been an important tool for people across the story… across the state to create more jobs. Mike, can you just walk me through real quick the steps we're implementing today that improve the EDGE program?"
"Sure. I… the big-ticket item, the highlight, is removing the 'but for' clause. I… the Governor's Office, I said in my opening remarks, would say that they are losing options when they have a business that wishes to stay in the state and they tell them, well, you have to show up, that if it not for EDGE, you would leave. And they go out and they seek solicitations from other states. And the other states say, well, come here and we'll do this, and come there and we'll do that. And then, in the process of showing up, that they would lose them if not for the EDGE, they actually end up going away. That's a very risky endeavor. And in a modern 10200112.docx 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 economic recruit environment, it's just too risky and they're losing opportunities. So, we're striking that language. There's still accountability at EDGE, there's still quarterly reporting, but… but we don't do what we… in this Bill, we don't do what we otherwise would've."
"Right. And in fact…"
"And the other item is, I… I think the closing fund is (unintelligible) with EDGE. I think EDGE is our best economic recruitment tool, thanks to you. And when they are going to go and they have to make the final pitch, the close, they've got to go ahead and use this money to lure the business and bring the deal home. And so, those are the big-ticket items in the Bill."
"So, we're… we're taking away weakness of EDGE by removing the 'but for', which drove companies into the arms of other states."
"Correct."
"And now, we're going to sweeten it with an ability to actually make a stronger case for Illinois…"
"Correct."
"…in the process of keeping them just here in their economic development incitement. Mike, thank you for all that. I'll just go very briefly to the Bill. I know there's some things that aren't perfect in this Bill for a lot of folks, but we all want to see Illinois succeed. This is a process that, since I was a freshman Rep back in 2015, EDGE was up for some renewal processes. It fell apart. We brought it back in a way that made it better for small business, made it better for taxpayers with clawback provisions. Now, we're 10200112.docx 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 making it better for the businesses we're trying to help. I really appreciate your work, Mike. Thank you."
"Representative Hammond."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he'll yield."
"Representative… or may I call you Riverside?"
"You may, Norine."
"Riverside, is this your last Bill?"
"This is my last Bill."
"Well, God bless you. I just want to tell you that it has been a pleasure working with you, not just on legislation, but on… on other issues as well. And I think you've got a great piece of legislation here. We've got a couple things that we probably don't agree with on this side of the aisle. But rather than let this be your last Bill, I would like to put in a special request. There's a little something that you and I have been working on now for about three years called Endow Illinois."
"Yes, Ma'am."
"I'm going to continue that quest, and I would like to also request that you be with me when we present that Bill in committee."
"I will. I will be there."
"Thank you."
"You call me, and I'll be there."
"I appreciate it. Thank you very much."
Speaker Harris: "The final speaker will be Representative McCombie."
"Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield?" 10200112.docx 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Indicates he'll yield."
"Thank you. Today I had the pleasure of subbing in Revenue. And one of the things I want to just reiterate for the record, when Leader Durkin asked the question about the oversight, you had mentioned that it was because of the policy in place through IEMA, correct?"
"Correct."
"So… so, only if there is a disaster is the Majority Party the ones with oversight. Is that correct?"
"I would characterize it slightly different. Only if there's an instance where the full Legislature… it would be overly burdensome to go to the full Legislature, there's a mechanism in place for the two Leaders to weigh in. And that's what we mirrored here."
"Okay. But… but to have only four people weigh in is probably not very burdensome."
"Sorry, Tony. Say that again."
"But only four people… so, two people's not burdensome. Four people would be?"
"I think, given the circumstances, the two caucus principals should have the ability to weigh in in a way that allows the administration to proceed or not. You and I are going to disagree on that. I don't begrudge you the idea that it should be all four caucus Leaders. I'm just telling you the reason the impetus for the Bill."
"Right. And… here's the thing. This is a… this is a great economic development Bill and there's certainly… can we have some… it's kind of loud in here." 10200112.docx 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Right. Mr. Speaker… Mr. Speaker, I'm having a hard time hearing the Leader."
"Members, Mr. Zalewski's getting a little long in the tooth and can't hear."
"Oh, no, no. I was just… I was having a hard time hearing the Leader's question. I'm sorry."
"Thank you. Thank you. We're almost done here. So, in committee, Michigan was used as an example, so stating that we're modeling after Michigan. But I just wanted to… to let you know. We've done a little research on the board… there's a board in Michigan, and it's a… it's quite detailed of who gets to say yes to how funds are spent. The director of Department of… director's designee from within the department, State Treasurer or a designee, the Department of Transportation, the chief executive officer of Michigan Economic Development, seven residents of the state appointed by the Governor. So, it's a pretty heavy bit of oversight. My question is… and remind me again. Did you say this is 400 million is in this program for the closing?"
"We… in a… in a separate…"
"In a…"
"…we voted on the BIMP to authorize the transfer. I think we're preparing to vote on the supplemental to actually fund it."
"Okay. So, for our Members, to be clear, this is not an approps Bill. This is just to set up the program."
"Right. It's enabling legislation."
"Okay. Well, as much as I would love to vote for this, I think there's going to be a real problem with not having 10200112.docx 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 oversight. And like I said in committee, I would like the Governor and the Majority Leaders to have the common courtesy to pick up the phone to the… Leader Curran and myself in the future for any of these… just out of courtesy so we can communicate that to our Members."
"I… I will pass that along to the Speaker for sure."
"Thank you. Appreciate it."
"Representative Zalewski to close."
"Thank you. This is my last Bill. It's a very good Bill. I do want to take the opportunity for some thank yous, specifically and generally. I want to thank Representative Vella for his hard work on this Bill. He sat through working group meetings over the holiday to get this done. It's important to his district. I want to thank my staff, present and past, specifically Mark Jarmer. Nobody in this building works harder than Mark Jarmer. And the Revenue & Finance Committee wouldn't have run the way it ran if not for the management of Mark Jarmer. So, I'm going to miss him dearly. I'm going to miss Sean McConnell and Ben Szalinski. I had… these guys are incredible. They do incredible work. The 103rd is blessed to have them on the Revenue & Finance Committee. I've been previously blessed with Ryan Trevor and Jessica Basham. I was mentored by Barbara Flynn Currie. This has been the honor of a lifetime. I know we're doing goodbye Resolutions, but I really enjoyed working on these types of Bills. And I would ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you very much."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 2951 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all those opposed vote 'no'. 10200112.docx 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 86 voting 'yay', 23 voting 'nay', 0 voting 'present', Senate Bill 2951, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Croke, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege, Mr. Speaker."
"Please state your point."
"I want to take a moment to say what a lot of people have said already, that this is Representative Zalewski's last Bill. That Bill, just like sports betting, the Earned Income Tax Credit, or a bunch of other business tax incentives, have and will continue to impact the State of Illinois for the better. But I just want to say, Z, you are kind, thoughtful, and a problem solver. You're eager to help your colleagues. And over the… over the past three years, you've become my mentor and my best friend. You are the person I ask for advice. And I'm not alone in that. I mean, Tim Mapes got you a bench right next to your chair because everyone wants to talk to you. So, like, obviously people love you. And I'll just… I'll really quickly just end with a quote that I read today that I think sums you up very well. 'Representative Mike Zalewski is likely the most impactful loss on either side of the aisle this year. Zalewski is one of the few lawmakers who could get big stuff done, speak moderately about fiscal issues, and get along with Members on both side of the aisle. I know he was the guy Republicans knew they could talk 10200112.docx 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 to if they really want to get something done.' We need more people like Z, not fewer. Thank you."
"On page 3 of the Calendar, on the Order of Concurrence, appears House Bill 2369, Representative Kifowit."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move to concur with the Senate on House Bill 2369. The Bill is a technical Bill. It's a change-up Bill. We passed the Veterans Assistance Commission Bill in the spring and we promised to do a cleanup Bill with oversight. This is mostly language from the AG's Office with regards to oversight for the Veterans Assistance Commissions. In addition to that, there were other some considerations, such as ensuring that the Veterans Assistance Commission employees receive benefits and also gives the county a seat at the table on the Veterans Assistance Commission. And I'm available for any questions."
"Was your description, Representative Kifowit, for Amendment #1?"
"Correct."
"Thank you. Representative Swanson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. I just wanted a little clarification, if you would, Representative Kifowit. I think one of the big concerns we had on the previous Bill, and now this trailer Bill, was the fact that the counties didn't have representation. The funds to fund our VACs comes out of those counties. And in the original legislation, they did not have the opportunity 10200112.docx 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 for oversight. Has that been cleared up in this piece of legislation?"
"The… we do have oversight with regards to mandatory reporting to the county. What this culminates is a lot of legislative intent in re… in addition to a lot of court cases. So, with the legislation that goes back decades, multiple decades, it states is that the VACs is… is a bit of a separate entity from the county. And that still maintains today. What this legislation does is give the county a seat on the VAC board so that they can participate and be more in line. But the legislation written back in, I believe, the 60s designated as… as a separate, not under direct oversight of the county, but kind of working together with the county."
"Okay. Thank you."
"So, that doesn't change. That was…"
"Thank you."
"…that's going back decades."
"All right. Thank you."
"Representative Kifowit to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The Motion is, 'Shall the House concur with Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 2369?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; all opposed vote 'nay'. This is final action. All voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Barbara Hernandez. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 110 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present', the House concurs with Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 2369. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 3 of the Calendar, under the 10200112.docx 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Order of Concurrences, is House Bill 4412, Representative Gabel."
"Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move to concur with Senate Amendment 1 and 4. This Bill is a energy omnibus Bill with four parts to it. The first part is a… rebates to Ameren customers. It's the individual customers in small commercial. It sets up a mechanism to rebate up to $200 million. The second piece is amending the climate work hub's portion of CEJA. An entity can now oversee more than one of these work hubs. The third piece is with the Illinois Power Agency, where the director now must have worked in the renewable industry. The fourth piece is the siting… siting Bill. This Bill sets up reasonable guideposts and provides consistency throughout the state on siting for solar and wind construction. It's supported by labor, by environmental groups, and even by the Farm Bureau. The Farm Bureau supports the statewide siting. This Bill is necessary because over a dozen counties have enacted zoning ordinances that effectively ban wind energy projects and seeing… and we've seen several states do the… several counties do the same for solar. This Bill, it protects individual property rights, so individuals will be able to lease their farms if they want to and if it's approved by the counties. This is important to meet CEJA's decarbonization goals to improve reliability, tackle rising energy cost downstate, and we need to increase the scale and pace of our renewable energy buildout. With the projects comes substantial economic benefits across the entire State of Illinois, new tax revenue for schools, additional revenue for Illinois landowners, thousands of union jobs, and new job 10200112.docx 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 opportunity for equity eligible communities. I urge an 'aye' vote."
"Representative Yednock."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Great. Leader Gabel, thank you. It's my understanding that the Illinois Farm Bureau is in agreement with the statewide zoning standards, however, they are against it based on the ability of a county board to ultimately say yes or no to a wind or solar project. Is that correct?"
"No. The Farm Bureau told me that they are against it because they have some issues with the drainage and the agricultural impact mitigation that they want to meet about."
"Okay. I had a different story from them, but I'll take your word on that. But I'm… I believe I'm correct in saying then the Farm Bureau does not disagree with the concept of siting provisions for the Bill. However, they… they had that… the technical reasons that you just stated there. So, maybe I was just a little bit incorrect about that and I apologize. One last thing. I've been told that the Senate Sponsor and the proponents of the Bill will be committed to working together to work on those issues the Farm Bureau was against with the goal of maybe bringing it back in the spring. And so, they're asking if we would have a commitment from you to work on a couple of those issues."
"Yes. I spoke with the Farm Bureau and I told them I'd be happy to meet with them about these issues."
"Great. Thank you, Leader Gabel. I will be supporting this Bill." 10200112.docx 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you."
"Representative Bourne."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative, I know that we had a long discussion on this Bill in committee twice, so I will be as brief as the three-minute timer allows me. Could you clarify for the Body how many counties in Illinois are opposed to this Bill?"
"I believe we talked about it in committee that 78 had posted against the Bill."
"Yes. And do you know how many… so, 78 of our counties in Illinois. Do you know how many counties in Illinois already have zoning standards that would fit within the criteria in this Bill?"
"I don't know exactly how many, but I know that we base these guidelines on the… on a number of counties that do have these… these guideposts."
"Okay. The testimony in committee was that a majority of counties that have zoning already comply with this Bill, which begs the question of, why pass it? To the Bill, Mr. Speaker. This Bill strips away county authority to zone wind and solar projects. Two years ago, this Body passed House Bill 2988. I would encourage you to look up your vote. And in that testimony in the Senate and in the House, the Sponsors of the Bill, Senator Cunningham and Representative Williams, reiterated over and over throughout the debate that the intention of the Bill was to leave the zoning and siting decisions to the county level. Something that your counties 10200112.docx 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 agreed with and my counties agreed with, and we had broad bipartisan support. Now, two years later, you're not seeing the policy outcomes that you wanted. Your counties aren't complying with what you wanted to have happen in CEJA, and now this Body is deciding to overrule the authority of local governments. That is wrong. I cannot express to you the frustration counties will feel knowing that their hard efforts to talk to their constituents, to negotiate local siting that's agreed upon, will be overruled. It should not be allowed that unaccountable Legislators in a lame duck Session vote on a Bill that will overtake the authority of duly-elected locally accountable county board members. I've had much more to say on this in committee, but let me tell you, this is more than just restrictive zoning. This takes away the ability of counties to decide if other economic development is better in other parts of their counties. They can't exempt land that's commercially or agriculturally zoned. Meaning, if they had plans for broad economic development, this overrides it. If they've worked with their counties and their communities to find siting rules that work for their county, like one of my counties that has a 1.25 of the maximum blade height setback and a one and a half miles from schools, overruled. I want you to come and talk to my county board members who have put in hundreds of hours on this issue and come to a resolution, who understand the importance of bringing this into our counties in a smart way. This is not the way to do it. Please vote 'no'."
"Representative Halbrook."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A question of the Sponsor." 10200112.docx 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"The Sponsor will yield."
"And, Mr. Speaker, if I would exceed my time, I would ask that one of my colleagues yield me some time in this discussion. So, Representative, on the bottom of page 23, paragraph (d), we hear a lot about local control. And I'm just curious here, in this Section, it says, 'A county with an existing zoning ordinance in conflict with this Section shall amend the zoning ordinance to be in compliance with this Section within 120 after the effective date of this amendatory Act of the 102nd General Assembly.' Can you tell me where the local control is when we have this mandate from Springfield?"
"Well, the local control in fact is that the counties do ultimately have the say on zoning and… zoning wind and solar projects. They have the ultimate say on the Bill… the project still has to go through the Zoning Board of Appeals, the full county board, they have to receive a road use agreement, receive building permits from the county, and… and they still have to abide by the agriculture impact mitigation agreements. These are guardrails. There is just a… they can't go below… they can't go above."
"So, as we move along here, on page 28, paragraph (h), it says, 'A county may not adopt zoning regulations that disallow, permanently or temporarily, commercial wind facilities or commercial solar energy facilities from being developed or operated in any district zoned to allow agriculture or industrial uses.' Again, where is the local control when you mandate these type of stipulations?" 10200112.docx 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"I believe that is just until they change their ordinances."
"So, on the page… the bottom of page 33, paragraph (t), it says, 'Not withstanding any other provision of law, a facility owner with siting approval from a county to construct a commercial wind energy facility, commercial solar energy facility is authorized to cross or impact a drainage system, including, but not limited to, drainage tiles'… and it goes on and on talking about drainage. But then it concludes here that they can fix these things whenever they want. Where is the local control? Where is the protections for property owners, for farm owners, for the community citizens? Where's the protections for road districts in all of this?"
"As I said, these permits have to be passed by these county organizations. It has to be passed by the Zoning Board of Appeals, the full county board. It has to receive a road use agreement and building permits from the county."
"Thank you for that. Ladies and Gentlemen, this Bill falls extremely short on these protections for the property owners at every level. In conclusion… to the Bill, Mr. Speaker. There's a document circulating around advocating for this Bill. It says, 'Energy supply shortfalls driving electrical bills higher can be remedied when more wind and solar projects are built.' And I asked the question, why is that? It's because the Illinois General Assembly is implementing policies that affect aging coal and natural gas electrical generating facilities that drive up costs. This is a math equation and it leads to the mothball of these facilities. The state and federal governmental mandates have 10200112.docx 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 increased costs. Granted some of these facilities have been in operation for some time, but there's always a need for maintenance and upgrades. The state and federal mandates are accelerating the costs to the point of no return, thus these plans are shuttered, again, by the regulations, not because of their operations. Not all plants are old. The Prairie State Energy Campus in southwestern Illinois is an example of that. Coming on line in 2011, 2012, it's a 4 or 5 billion dollar facility built under the Obama era air standards. This was one of the cleanest coal plants in the state, in the nation, and in the world. But with the passage of CEJA, it will cause a premature closure of this state-of-the-art facility. This all becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Allowing local governments… another quote in this document, it says, 'Allowing local governments to determine energy policy jeopardizes grid reliability and threatens the state's economic competitiveness.' I asked, what about local policy? We have…"
"Representative, are you getting close to the end of your remarks?"
"…locally elected officials to make these decisions with the input of their constituency that makes the decisions that are right for themselves. CEJA contains nation-leading incentives to grow and diversify the clean energy workforce. However, these…"
"Representative. Representative."
"…policies are at odds with at least 15 counties."
"Representative." 10200112.docx 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"You know, the situation is this. A former speaker here, Representative Bourne, talked about that there's counties that are extremely friendly to this. And because they're working it out, they're trying to figure out what best fits their needs."
"Representative, we've been very generous in allowing you to speak. Could you bring your remarks to a close?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My question is, what's next? Not all the counties have adopted strict standards. Some counties, with proper planning, are allowing this development. This continued one-size-fits-all approach fails us. This language may harm counties that are very friendly to alternative energy solutions. We simply do not know the true downstream effects of this alternative energy production. With that, Ladies and Gentlemen, I know the developers come to town, they make lots of promises…"
"Representative, please conclude your remarks."
"…they break lots of commitments. With that, I would ask for a 'no' vote. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"Representative West, for what reason do you seek recognition? Ladies and Gentlemen, you know, we're trying to be respectful of folks, but please stick with as close to the three minutes as you can or we will put on the auto-mic cancel. So, next up is Representative Caulkins."
"Mr. Speaker, will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"Thank you very much. We're going to switch gears here just a little bit, Representative. We've already talked about 10200112.docx 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 how bad this Bill is for the local zoning ordinances that our counties have. I want to go to another piece to your Bill. I heard say that this could be up to $2 million in this Bill for Ameren customers. Is it up to 2 million? Is it 2 million? What's the number, please?"
"The total number…"
"Two-hundred million. I apologize."
"…that can be distributed… that can be distributed to all the Ameren ratepayers is 200 million."
"So, it's not up to 200 million. It is exactly $200 million?"
"I believe the… I believe the word is 'up to'."
"So, it could be a million?"
"It could… you know, I was in a work group and we kind of committed to reaching the 200 million."
"And that $200 million is subject to appropriation?"
"Correct."
"So, if you wanted this $200 million funding, why didn't you put it in House Bill 969? Why… why didn't you appropriate that money today so that the ratepayers for Ameren, who are suffering from extremely high power bills, would know for sure that they're going to get some rate relief?"
"We… we need to work with the Governor's Office and figure out exactly where this 200 million's going to come from."
"So, there's no guarantee that this money is going to be available?"
"I'm committed to making sure it happens."
"I understand committed. So am I. Do you understand that Ameren can't just decide to give this money to their 10200112.docx 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 ratepayers? They must go through an ICC approval process. How long will that take? Is it guaranteed? Will the ICC give them… are you committed to the ICC giving them the approval process?"
"Yes."
"Excellent. Do you know, Ma'am, how much this will be for every Ameren customer in our district? How much money will each customer get in a rebate?"
"Yes. Approximately $170."
"That's $30 a month times five months, that's $150. Six months, is that about? I mean, that's if they get the full 200 million."
"Correct."
"So, you know… so, we… in my office, we get phone calls, emails, text messages from customers in Ameren. People in my district have seen their electric bills go from $120 to $180. I had a lady on a fixed income send me a text message. Her Ameren bill for the month of December is over a thousand dollars a month."
"That's exactly why we're… we're doing this."
"But this money won't be available till when? When could the customers see a rebate? What's the earliest time?"
"You know, we're committed to working on it as quickly as we can. At the worst, it would happen during a June… in June, July, and August when it's the hottest months of the year."
"So, we're going to pass a budget. This money is going to be in the budget, goes into effect July 1. Ameren can't do anything until we actually give them the up to $200 million."
"Representative, your time has expired." 10200112.docx 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"They must then go to the ICC to get approval…"
"Well, actually, they're going to have to spend it first and then we're going to reimburse them."
"I don’t believe they're willing to do that."
"Well, it was in the… it's in the Bill."
Speaker Harris: "Representative, your time has expired. Representative Meier. Meier."
"Several years ago, I worked with Scott Bennett on the IEMA agreement for this Bill, for a Bill like this for wind and solar. We worked two years on that Bill, Democrats and Republicans. Wind, solar, Ag, county boards, everybody working together. We worked as a… as a State Representatives and the State Senate working together. This Bill is doing away with that. Why can we not sit down in a room with all groups and try to do the same thing again for every citizen in the State of Illinois? We were able to do it. We came to an agreement. Why are we being pushed here, only a month after Scott's loss, and having this shoved down our county boards' necks? You talk about what's… what's not changed, but things have changed. Decommissioning is changed in this Bill. If you're a landowner and with decommissioning changing… and when you do tweaks, major things happen. How is this land going to be returned back to its natural site? It takes away the Department of Agriculture to have anything to say about it. Can you tell me right now how many acres of wind and solar are in Illinois?"
"I don't know off the top of my head. I can get that information for you." 10200112.docx 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"That would be good to know. Just for closing down Prairie State, only one power plant in the State of Illinois, takes away 122 thousand acres in the solar farms to replace that. You're taking the food away from 60 thousand people in the State of Illinois because of that plant closing. And multiply that past the other plants. So, think about that. Our county boards had zoning for many years to protect agriculture so we could feed the American public and the world. You want to take that zoning away and let it be where we can have wind and solar shoved down our throats right next to us. I hope that there's an Amendment in here that states that the windmills that are proposed for Lake Michigan, which I pushed for, for a long time, are situated within 150 feet of the shore so we can get as many on the lake as we can, right by Chicago, so you can be as close to this as our houses are, and our farms, and our constituents that are living next to it. I have faith and I put on programs helping people figure out what it's going to take for wind and solar. I'm not against wind and solar, but I'm against our rights. You know, have you ever negotiated to lease your ground out for this? Do you know they have the right to tell you where you can plant trees on your ground and where you can't plant trees on your ground? And if you buy a piece a ground attaching to this, that those rules for what you already had leased apply to the new piece of ground? You have no say on that. You have no guarantee that ground's going to be returned back to the way it was before."
"Representative, could you bring your remarks to a close?" 10200112.docx 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Well, I wish that you would pull this Bill, sit down with everybody, and let's work as what's best for the State of Illinois. Let's come up with a plan that everybody can do it. Because we did it before. We're able to do it. Republicans and Dems can do a Bill together if we're allowed to. What… what you're doing now…"
"Representative."
"…dropping it in, voting on it at night, it's… it's against democracy. You know, if you've got…"
Speaker Harris: "Representative, could you complete your remarks?"
"…such a great plan, I'm sure we can come up with a plan to make it work. I wish you'd work with us and hold this Bill. Thank you."
"Representative Swanson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A few comments. I'll go right to the Bill. Some of the more scary parts of this legislation affects those of us who farm, those of us in the agricultural world, those of us who till our soil, those of us who deal with it every day, those of us who live in the country and drive on township roads, those of us who live in the country and drive on county blacktops, those of us who live outside of Chicago where we have the wind turbines and the solar farms. Let me share with you some of what this says. Some of this legislation takes the responsibility away from the wind turbine companies and puts it back on the townships. I hear in here every day… I hear in here often about property taxes. Well, guess what? When the wind turbine companies start tearing up the township roads, guess who pays for that? Me, 10200112.docx 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 the property tax owner. And here we're going to cause more of a burden in rural Illinois on our property tax… burden on our farmers, on our landowners, on those residents out in our country. Another thing that's very disturbing in here, the President just signed the Waters… Waters of the U.S., where waters in the U.S. will be a part of the Federal Government's requirements to maintain. Within here, it says if a company wants to tear up a drainage ditch to put in their turbines, or to put in their solar farms, no permission is required, and no repairs is required to repair it once they've done the damage. Whether it be a field tile on my farm or whether it be a drainage ditch going across a farm or even a stream or local river. It says that they can damage it without asking permission. Right now… previously I served on a county zoning board and that would be a no-go from the start. If something like that happened, that would not be allowed. It would be required to be fixed. But this legislation, it just gets at the gut of what our land and what us, as farmers, believe is not right when someone else can come in and tell us how to run our county business. This is far from being friendly at all to downstate Illinois. Once again, this is not fair to anyone in downstate Illinois when it comes to renewable energy, when it comes to telling me how I must use my farm or how someone else can damage my farm with their heavy equipment or with their turbines or solar panels. I urge a 'no' vote because this goes way beyond the rights of this legislation. Thank you."
Speaker Harris: "The final speaker will be Representative Keicher." 10200112.docx 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"All right. Leader, can you share with me… I was absolutely fascinated and enthralled with Leader Evans' Bill concerning wind turbines getting sited in Lake Michigan. Can you share with me why that isn't included in this comprehensive package?"
"There was still some… it was still being worked out."
"Okay. What areas… what areas are being worked out? Because I would think something as broad-based as this, where we are comprehensively impacting wind turbines, we wouldn't want to leave the people out on the South and West Sides of Chicago from the good opportunities of employment that these types of facilities would provide."
"Offshore wind is… does not have the same kind of history that onshore wind does. And so, there was still questions about transferring the energy issues and some other issues."
"I disagree, Madam. Norway, the UK, Ireland, East Coast of the United States have proven a significant benefit from offshore wind generation as well as the benefits to aquatic life and the ability to lessen the impact to our resources that are on land."
"Well, I support that Bill, and I'm hoping we can get that Bill done in the next General Assembly."
"Folks, in DeKalb County… to the Bill, please. In DeKalb County and Boone County and Ogle County, we have had a sad history of wind turbine organizations siting and not disclosing properly to adjacent property owners. If none of you have been to a wind turbine installation and been 10200112.docx 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 subjected to the flickering that happens when you are within the shadow of the wind turbine's long shadow crossing across the field, you have no idea of the devastating impact that this will have to adjacent land owners. They can't sell their house. They can't get rid of their property. And there are no provisions in this Bill to protect the rural property owners that this elitist Bill is seeking to subject wind turbines onto. We have a situation where, because we can't locate it in Lake Michigan, we… like Ted Kennedy did… said, it's unfeasible to put it in the water. Instead, we're going to go out west and we're going to put it in the farm fields 'cause nobody's really out there. It's wide open. It doesn't matter what happens in the farm fields. And that type of elitist arrogance regarding wind and solar has gone too far. And you are cutting out the local decision makers who know best what's available in their city, while at the same time denying residents of the South and West Side of Chicago the opportunity for readily available high-paying labor jobs in the City of Chicago, adjacent to where they reside. I urge a strong 'no' vote on this measure."
"Leader Gabel to close."
"So, this Bill will provide reasonable guideposts based on best practices to provide consistency throughout the state on siting these solar and wind projects. I have to tell you that this Bill protects individual property rights. There are now 15 counties where farmers have come to us and said, I would like to lease my land and I am not allowed to. So, this Bill protects individual property rights. It will allow us to 10200112.docx 88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 implement CEJA and meet our goals for renewable energy. Please vote 'yes'."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur with Amendments #1 and 4… Senate Amendments #1 and 4 to House Bill 4412. All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. 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. With 73 voting 'yay', 36 voting 'nay', 0 voting 'present', the House does concur in Senate Amendments #1 and 4 to House Bill 4412. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative West, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"I want to direct my colleagues to the Speaker's Gallery. Up there you will see my parents. And I'm glad to see brother La Shawn Ford up on the floor. That's Pastor West, Maurice West. I'm not. But I want to have my parents stand, and please help me welcome Pastor Maurice and Evangelist Sharon West. Thank you so much."
"Representative Davidsmeyer, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I know we're on our last day of the 102nd General Assembly. We've still got a number of big Bills that are still coming through and I know that a lot of people are having trouble hearing. I know that there's a lot of excitement about the 103rd General Assembly starting tomorrow, but I hope we can bring the… the conversations down 10200112.docx 89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 just a little bit so we can hear the important legislation that we're trying to pass today."
"And I… I'll amplify that, Representative. It is getting a little hard to hear in the chamber. So, if you have conversations, if you could take them to the back, that would be helpful. Representative Batinick, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the record reflect that Representative Stephens is excused for the rest of the evening?"
"The record shall so reflect. On Supplemental Calendar #1 appears House Bill 2870, Representative Walsh."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I move to concur with Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 2870. What this Amendment does is… is a trailer Bill to the Regional Water Commissions Act that we passed in Veto Session last year. It allows renewals of water supply contracts with the municipality at the end of the term of the contract and allows for revision beyond the 101-year period that the contract is currently authorized by statute by agreements of the party. Allows for the water commission to use alternative delivery methods for construction if the commission determines it's in its best interest. The alternative methods include design-build or construction manager at-risk delivery methods. The Amendment also allows for inter-governmental agreements that establishes the regional water commission to be amended by the corporate authorities if all members of the municipalities approve in agreement. And finally, it gives the water commission authority to reimburse a member of 10200112.docx 90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 community of the commission by various methods, including allowing future credits on advancing members' payment obligation. I know of no opposition, and I would ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Representative Batinick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he'll yield."
"Representative, this… this went through… catching up. This went through committee unanimously, I believe."
"Yes. It went out on leave."
"Okay. Okay. And are you happy with your chief cosponsors?"
"I'm thrilled with them. I'm sorry you won't be here the next go around so you could be on some of… more of my Bills."
"Thank you. No further questions."
"Representative Walsh to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur with'… the question is, 'Shall the House concur with Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 2870?' This is final action. All those in favor vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'nay'. Voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 104 voting 'yay', 2 voting 'nay', 0 voting 'present', the House does concur in Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 2870. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Ann Williams on House Resolution 1051." 10200112.docx 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Williams, A.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So, when you leave the General Assembly, I think both you and others try and sum you up in a legacy, a few words or an issue that you might've worked on. But we all know that each and every one of us has impacts on our communities, constituents, and colleagues in so many ways. Kathy Willis is no exception. Kathy Willis is hard working, committed to her community, and she has not lost her energy to be engaged in her community since she started many years ago. Kathy, as chair of Adoption & Child Welfare and Child Care Access & Early Childhood, is an unwavering champion for children and families, especially those most in need. But for me, her role in gun violence prevention is particularly noteworthy and game changing. To give it a little context, even before I was a Representative, advocates have been trying to pass gun safety legislation with very little success. It wasn't until the Parkland tragedy that things began to change. And with Kathy Willis at the helm, we passed two groundbreaking Bills, the firearm restraining order and the gun dealer licensing. The passage of these Bills marked a watershed moment for the gun violence prevention movement. And under Kathy's leadership, our momentum continues. Her work in this space has helped to get us where we are today, just having passed a historic and groundbreaking assault weapons ban. Kathy, thank you for our service. We wish you only the best as your next chapter upfolds, whatever that may be. But I can guarantee you, it'll be lots of quality time with those beautiful grandchildren. Good luck, Kathy."
"Representative Willis." 10200112.docx 92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Ann. Thank you, Members of this chamber on both sides of the aisle. I have truly felt as part of the family for the last 10 years. I appreciate all of the work we've done, partisanly and bipartisanly, and I look forward to whatever the future brings to us. Thank you, everybody."
Speaker Harris: "Representative Swanson on House Resolution 1058."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It's my honor, and I feel the most blessed here on the House Floor to be able to say a farewell to Avery. But it's going to be a deeper farewell to Marshall. Marshall, we've enjoyed having you on the floor here, from the time we could just carry you in our arms to… to now, to play with you. And I see you've got the Play-Doh out now. But what a blessing it's been. Avery's been… was sworn in eight years ago on 20 February 2015 as the youngest State Representative to ever serve in the Illinois State Legislature. Representative Bourne's legacies are numerous, but one that rises to the top was in 2016. Representative Bourne was appointed to the House Education Funding Task Force and the Illinois School Funding Reform Commission to work on a bipartisan statewide solution to fund disparities within the public education system. The passage of comprehensive and historic education funding reform was achieved in 2017 in large part to Representative Bourne's passion, commitment, and leadership in transforming education for the better across Illinois. Representative Bourne served as the chair of the Legislative Ethics Commission, working to create a… stronger laws to identify and remove bad actors and close loopholes that enabled corruption to run rampant in the 10200112.docx 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 statehouse. On behalf of the people of Illinois, I want to thank Representative Avery Bourne for her years of dedicated service as a 95th District State Representative and wish her the very best in her future endeavors. Also, best wishes to Aaron, son Marshall, and little baby, to be named later. We will miss you both. Marshall, I'll miss you grabbing for that microphone and sharing your words of wisdom with us. Thank you and God bless."
"On page 2 of the Calendar, under the Order of Concurrence, appears House Bill 1688, Representative Lisa Hernandez." Hernandez, L.: "Thank you, Speaker. I motion to concur with Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 1688. It simply just… adding a deadline of January 1, 2024 for the Secretary of State to develop a separate classroom course and refresher… refresher course for the school busing. This is a recommendation by ISBE and the Secretary of State."
"Representative Batinick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Representative, I believe the original Bill passed unanimously and the only change was a date change pushing it out, correct? Okay. Thank you." Hernandez, L.: "Yes."
"Representative Hernandez to close." Hernandez, L.: "I ask for your 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 1688 pass?' This is final action. All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. Voting is open. All 10200112.docx 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 106 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present', the House does concur in Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 1688. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. And, Members, I forgot the most important part of Representative Swanson's speech, which was hearing from Leader Bourne. So, I… my apologies. So, Leader Bourne."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This… this child…"
"Thank you. Thank you."
"…this child's pretty sure he just got a standing ovation and that you recognized to speak. But really, I just want to thank you all for taking me in. As your youngest Member, when a lot of people underestimated me, people on this floor did not. And thank you for inviting my family and… to be a part of your lives. Thank you. It's been an honor to serve here and, more than that, it's been an honor to serve the 95th District. And I would…"
"Hi. Thank you."
"And I also need to thank our amazing staff and my amazing district director, Holly, for keeping the ship afloat."
"Thank you. Thank you."
"Thank you so much."
"On the top of Calendar… top of page 2, under Senate Bill-Second Reading, is Senate Bill 208, Representative Gordon-Booth. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 208, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. The Bill was read for a second time previously. 10200112.docx 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #4 is offered by Representative Gordon-Booth."
"Representative Gordon-Booth on Floor Amendment #4 to Senate Bill 208."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I could not think of a more fitting time to bring forth House Amendment 4, which becomes the Bill, then following up behind Leader Bourne and her beautiful son that we all saw… that we have all watched grow up here in this chamber. And it's important because as a working mother myself, there are so many working parents here in this chamber that we are very blessed to have the benefit that if, for whatever reason, if something were to happen to our children, if something were to happen to our families, whatever the case may be, whatever that emergency might be, if something comes up in our lives, we have the benefit of knowing that we have the time to take away from this ever-important job to handle that very real adulting responsibility and not have worry about how we might cover our rent, cover our mortgage, cover the very important things that we have in our lives. And so, so many Illinoisans, millions of low-wage workers in this state do not have that kind of economic security, which is why we're bringing forth Senate Bill 208, which is a bipartisan piece of legislation that is also an agreed Bill between the labor community, the business community, and the advocate community. Senate Bill 208 establishes the Paid Leave For All Workers Act. And just to bring a point of clarity, it provides that all workers, part-time and full-time workers with a minimum of 40 hours, paid leave to be used for any purpose with… within a 12-month 10200112.docx 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 period. An employee earns the paid leave provided under the Act by accruing 1 hour of paid leave for every 40 hours worked, up to a minimum of 40 hours. An employee is also entitled to carry up to 40 hours per 12-month period. Employees begin to accrue time on the first day of employment but are entitled to use the leave until 90 days have passed. I think it's incredibly important to mention that this piece of legislation… I personally have worked on this legislation since 2019, but this legislation has been around for more than five long years. And through the patience and dedication of organizations like the AFL-CIO, SCIU, Women's Employed, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, UFCW, the Illinois Manufacturers' Association, AFSCME, the Shriver Center, the Illinois Manufacturers' Association, all of these organizations have been painstakingly working at the table to ensure that we have the ability to bring millions of Illinois… Illinoisans this much-needed benefit. The reason why… some of you may ask, well, what are those organizations like IRMA and IMA and the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, what are those organization doing being in support of a Bill such as this? They're in support of this Bill because, quite frankly, they understand that this is not simply a social issue, but this is an economic issue. Paid leave is often framed as a social issue, but to the end that it boost… specifically to the (unintelligible) Institute… to the end that it boost the labor force participation and productivity, it should be seen as an economic lever. This is an inclusive paid-leave policy that ensures that folks do not have to come to work when they are too ill to work. It ensures that folks have the ability to 10200112.docx 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 operate in a way with dignity. And it also brings operational consistencies, which is why so many in the business community are in support of this legislation. I hope that we will have a vigorous debate. I'm open… I'm open for any questions that you may have."
"Mr. Clerk, Rules Report."
Clerk Bolin: "Representative Harris, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on January 27, 2023: recommends be adopted is the Motion to Concur with House Bill 969, Senate Amendment(s) 4 and 5."
"Representative Davidsmeyer."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Leader, I just wanted to kind of rehash a few of the things that we discussed in committee. You know, I… I think I understand exactly where you're trying to go. You're trying to provide opportunities for everybody at every level of the workforce to be able to be there when their family needs them, to be able to help when a friend needs help, or something of that sort and they can't get away from work. My ultimate concern is that we… in this Body, we pass millions and millions and millions of dollars of incentives for large corporations. And on the other hand, we pass mandates on small businesses. And I know this isn't just for small businesses, but my… my major concern are the little guys. It's the mom and pops that have 5, 10, maybe 13 employees that this… this is a significant impact on… on their budgets. You know, somebody who has a donut shop or… or a cake decorating business or something of that sort. This is… this will have 10200112.docx 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 a severe impact. And I'm certainly concerned that the impact on the large corporations that we continue to spend millions of dollars on is much less than on the little guys that are throughout my district and actually are the number one employers in the State of Illinois. So, with that, I want to urge everyone to think about the little guy. Think about the small businesses, the startups, the guys that are just getting started, the ladies that are just getting started, the BEPs, the… you know, whatever it may be. The people that are trying to get going, we continue to pass things that have a large impact on a very small bottom line. So, at the end of the day, we need to really look at how this impacts growth of our number one employers in the State of Illinois. Thank you."
"The final speaker will be Representative Haas."
"Thank you. Does this legislation apply to all businesses? That would include, also, not-for-profits."
"Yes."
"Thank you."
Speaker Harris: "Leader Flowers, we're going to adopt the Amendment and then we'll move on to a question. Is that all right with you? So, Representative Gordon-Booth moves the adoption of Floor Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 208. All in favor say 'aye'; opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Anything further, Mr. Clerk?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 208, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." 10200112.docx 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Leader Gordon-Booth."
"I look forward to continuing to debate this on Third."
"I believe we're on Third now. Yeah, we're on Third. Gordon-Booth."
"Senate Bill 208 is the Paid Leave For All Act, and I'm open for any questions that any Members may have at this point in time."
"And Leader Flowers."
"To the Bill, Mr. Speaker. I want to enjoin the Lady in support of her Bill. To the speaker on the other side of the aisle when he said take into consideration the small employer. You know, we all just finished running for re-election and every last one of us talked about our families and how important our constituents' families are. And we were going to come back to Springfield, and we were going to make this place a better place for all the families of the State of Illinois. And I just want to close by saying that we could do exactly that. We can finally keep our word in a small way on behalf of all the families. That means the small business family man who would understand that it… his employee had to leave because he or she has a family matter. You would not allow anyone to stand in your way, and we should think likewise. So, with that being said, I would respectfully urge an 'aye' vote. Thank you very much."
"Representative Ugaste."
"To the Bill. We keep talking about the need for opportunity within the State of Illinois. And I appreciate the Leader's work on this and her desire to get paid family 10200112.docx 100 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 leave. It's something important, and I understand that. And I would hope that most employers would work with their employees on that. And to the extent they don't these days, especially when employees and labor… the labor force seem to be in such short supply, you would think, well, maybe there's a very valid reason. Maybe they just can't afford it. Maybe there's no one else to keep the business running. Something might be happening which would prevent them from doing something like this in order to stay afloat, maybe to keep that person employed. The bottom line is that we, as a state, and… and I know we just see some things differently. We're trying to get at a lot of the same goals. But we, as a state, keep going down this path to where we keep telling businesses how they have to run themselves, what they have to do, and costs… costs they are going to incur, which do impact whether they can do business or stay in… decide to stay in this state. And then we wonder why we don't have as many opportunities. And so, instead of coming up with $400 million to put to our schools that we want to put… to give more money to, to give to mental health that we all say is in need of serious attention right now, we're doing it… we're giving it to the Governor so that he can lure businesses to come here because we all know we need that. We need those businesses here to provide jobs and opportunity. And then in the next breath, a few Bills later, here we are again. We're telling the business community, well, while we're trying to get you to come to our state, while we're trying to get you to locate here, and maybe if you're big enough to attract the Governor's attention, this one won't be on your radar. But to all the other 10200112.docx 101 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 businesses, the smaller ones, it is going to be on their radar. And this is going to keep us from having opportunity in everyone's community. I'm very fortunate. My community has a lot of opportunity. I know not everyone on either side of the aisle comes from that situation though. I think we need to start thinking about what we're doing, especially in this time when businesses are struggling with supply-chain issues, costs, and other things, and telling them here's one more cost you're going to have to incur. I urge a 'no' vote."
"Representative Batinick."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates she'll yield."
"Representative, just one quick question, if I may. Does the employer have to… like, is there accrued hours after 40 hours? So, if the employee earns 40 hours, how… what happens with those once… once the employee gets over 40?"
"It's up to the employers' policy, which is stated specifically in the legislation, that it's up to 40 hours."
"Okay. So, once it gets up to 40 hours accrued, the employer can decide to have it accrue…"
"Yes."
"…or they can stop it there?"
"Yes."
"Okay. Thank you for that clarification."
"Representative Jimenez."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. I want to thank Leader Gordon-Booth for putting this forward. This has been years in the making. And I'm stepping up here because I really want to thank the Leader and everybody and the advocates who 10200112.docx 102 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 had been working on this Bill for so many years. When I first started working in a labor union, I was working with low-wage workers who had to fight just to have one to three days of sick leave, of leave to be able to just go to the doctor or take their son or daughter to the doctor. And I know how important it is because my dad was a low-wage worker and he has zero sick leave, paid leave, or any leave. And it was really, really difficult. I think that employers who are good employers provide benefits to their workers and are able to retain their workers. And in that way, they become better employers. And they become more successful employers if they partner with their workers and they provide them some basic supports, such as being able to take a day off when your child is sick, which is what my father was not able to do. So, I want to thank everyone who's been working on this Bill, and I urge a 'yes' vote."
"Representative Weber."
"To the Bill. I cannot tell the chamber how many small businesses have came up to me and had closed their doors due to lockdowns. We now have increased taxes. We have workman's comp prices going up. Minimum wage, going up. Forced closing of our businesses during the pandemic. Fuel for small businesses, even a small business like myself with 2 employees that has a large truck is costing me between 3 to 500 dollars just on the increase in fuel cost. The cost of supplies. I continue to get emails and letters from businesses saying, I'm sorry, there'll be a 12 percent increase on products due to shipping cost and everything else. These are the things that continue to hit our small businesses and to continue to 10200112.docx 103 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 close their doors. And it continues to make these mom and pop shops let go of their employees and continue to ask family for help because there's nowhere else to look to because the State of Illinois continues to try to tax them out of existence. Vote 'no'."
"Representative Mazzochi."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. My father was a small business owner. And he was an individual who… he never got to take off to take his kids to the doctor. He never got to take off when he was sick because, as a small business owner, you are the one who is probably going to be working the hardest for your small business. When you are a small business owner and you are a job creator, the typical small business in… small business owner in Illinois is only grossing about $56 thousand a year. Less than $20 an hour. So, I appreciate that you think that small business owners, who you've carved out no exception for, that you think that somehow there's this pot of money that's available for people to not work on a given day. Small business owners try to be flexible with their employees. They really do. They don't want to have to go through the process of having to rehire and retrain because it's very difficult for employers to spend the time on that when they have a good employee. But they also can't ignore economic realities either, which is that some days if someone doesn't show up to work, it means no one gets paid. If someone decides they're not going to show up to work, whether it's a good reason or an ill reason, that means that the business is not earning income that day. The store can't be open. Labor can't be done. A product can't be 10200112.docx 104 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 serviced. You care nothing about the people who are putting other people to work. In the State of Illinois, roughly 25 percent of our jobs are in the hands of these types of small business owners. And what you're doing here… there are days where my father actually went without a paycheck so that his employees could get paid. He didn't get any kudos from the State of Illinois. He didn't get any state support. If this is something that the State of Illinois thinks it wants, then let the State of Illinois actually subsidize and pay for it. But the fact of the matter is, your small business owners, they don't have the margins to be able to do this. And for this Body to, once again, arrogantly assume that you know best when hardly anybody on your side of the aisle has ever run a business, certainly not competently, has never managed to actually make payroll, keep people working on small margins, on smaller profit businesses. This is, once again, too much, too greedy, not recognizing the practical reality. And what it's going to mean is more businesses close, more businesses can't survive, and the very people you're trying to protect won't have jobs at all."
Speaker Harris: "The final speaker will be Representative Collins."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. First, I'd like to say, thank you, Leader Booth, for all your hard work on bringing this Bill to the forefront. I know how hard you work, and all of the stakeholders at the table. And I'm looking at all the proponents, and I will tell you, as a former health care worker who actually had protections on a job and could bargain my wages and my sick time and my paid leave and set 10200112.docx 105 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 those standards, it's sadden to hear where folks in the… in the General Assembly is saying today. That predominantly a work field that is held by women do not deserve time off of work, whether it's to take care of their children or their family members, or to even go to a meeting at the school. Those are the things that the people here in the State of Illinois have to deal with and the sacrifices that they have to make every single day. And it just seems as though people keep forgetting that. The people who are driving the economy are the ones who are constantly going to work. And for those who are not protected, who do not have bargaining rights, they're working and they're afraid to even call off. Because, one, they aren't making enough money or they're threatened to lose their jobs. And then we talk about how we should be invested in mental health or we should be invested in small businesses. We voted 'yes' for that, you voted 'no'. So, while you were busy trying to keep Illinois back, we were moving Illinois forward, in case you forgot the pandemic when we gave all that relief money to small businesses to keep the doors open or to keep folks in their houses. We did that on this side of the aisle. So, Leader Booth, thank you, again, for making sure that this field of workers will have some time off. Because the wear and tear on their bodies, they deserve it just like everyone else. And so, this is a start. This is a start. We're not done. Because those workers deserve the same type of equality and inclusion in the work industry as everyone else across the State of Illinois. I urge a 'yes' vote. Thank you."
"Leaser Gordon-Booth to close." 10200112.docx 106 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Paid Leave For All is about the dignity of work. It's about humanizing and honoring the realities that we know that adult workers have in our daily lives and providing a space for folks to just do what it is that we all have the luxury and are so blessed to do. We know that small businesses are the backbones of all of our communities, regardless of where we live at geographically. But those employees are the backbones of those small businesses. And I really want to give a… there's been a lot of conversation today, but I really want to give the business community a lot of credit for stepping up to the plate. Because although you may listen to this debate and you might think from the debate that the business community is against this Bill, but, Ladies and Gentlemen, they are not. They are supportive of this legislation. The NFI… the NFIB, who came to testify in committee, began their testimony by talking about all of the good things that are in this Bill. And I gave him my commitment that, as we continue into the implementation side of this Bill, that we're all going to continue to work together collectively. Because this… the idea that we have to play this zero-some game… oh, you either support businesses or you support employees. I refuse to accept that that is our reality. I believe that we can show… and we have shown, with this negotiation, that you can support employees, all the while supporting employers by providing the consistency and the implementation of a policy such as this. I would be remised… I have the blessing of being able to bring this Bill forward, but I did not give birth to this idea. I was honored to be able to take over this legislation 10200112.docx 107 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 when our former colleague, Representative Christian Mitchell, who is now Deputy Governor Christian Mitchell, went on to the administration. This actually was his Bill before it became… before it was put into my care. So, I want to give him a big shoutout for bringing this to the point that it was at in 2019 when I picked that legislation up. But I want to call a couple of people out by name because any time you work on a policy for five years, you deserve to hear your name in debate. And so, I want to acknowledge many of the women… and I want to start with the women because the women are… the women who brought this Bill to the table are the ones who have been most steadfast on this legislation. And I want to acknowledge the women that work for Women Employed, and that is Miss Rudy Hancock and Sarah Labadie. I want to give a lot of credit to someone who many of us all know. Formally with the UFCW, Zach Koutsky, Steve Campbell. I want to recognize the Shriver Center and all their work, and Wendy Pollack and all of the years of work that she's put in to legislation and bringing progressive policies forward for our working men and women in the State of Illinois. AFL-CIO President Tim Drea, who has been at the table consistently. And none other than SEIU's queen, Miss Erica Bland, who has the most profound stories about the women who work in the health care industry that Chairwoman Collins spoke about, who are oftentimes at their very last and there is nowhere to turn. But we can tell them, in the State of Illinois, that we hear them and we see them. Dave Lewinsky, also with SEIU. To Alec Laird and Rob Karr with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, thank you for leaning in and staying at the table and working hard 10200112.docx 108 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 for years to bring this to fruition. To the folks in the Illinois Manufacturers' Association, Mark Denzler, Donovan Griffin, thank you for not leaving your workers behind. Thank you to the folks at AFSCME. Thank you to Emily Miller in the Governor's Office. Ann Spillane, legal counsel. We want to acknowledge Brad Tietz with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. And, Ladies and Gentlemen, if you don't know, we have some of the most amazing lawyers on our team that show up to this job before many of us walk into this building and they leave after many of us go home, go to receptions. And that's none other than my good girlfriend right here, Miss Kendra Piercy, who worked feverishly on this legislation from the time that she showed up in this job. And I am just so proud of the work that she had done in crafting elegant strategies every time a problem showed up. She has an incredible brain that has had the ability to understand these issues from a multitude of prospectives. And I would be remised if I also did not acknowledge Mr. Sam McGee, who was also a very elegant wordsmith, who has had the ability to really craft the right language that has helped to bring this to the agreed Bill process. And someone who is also often forgot in these policy measures when we are able to bring these Bills to fruition is the folks who actually do the drafting. And I want to acknowledge Stephen Spence at LRB for drafting and drafting and drafting to get us to this place. And so, I want to give a huge thank you to all of those folks because without your work and I… one more, I'm sorry. Former Senator… former State Senator Toi Hutchinson, who also was incredibly… leaned in on this issue. I share all of these 10200112.docx 109 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 names because, although my name might be on that board, it was not just me who did this work. There are so many people that have brought this to the point that it is today, and it is only right that they get the rightful recognition because it is because of their work that millions of Illinoisans will be able to get paid sick leave January 1, 2024. I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 208 pass?' All those in favor vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'no'. Voting is open. All voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 78 voting 'yes', 30 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present', Senate Bill 208, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On Supplemental Calendar #2 appears House Bill 4664, Representative Cassidy."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. House Bill 4664… I need to adopt the Amendments, right?"
"This is a Motion to Concur."
"Oh, okay. Sorry. Thank you. I move to concur in Amendments 5 and 6 to House Bill 4664. This represents the culmination of the work on the Patient and Provider Protection Act, which we had pretty lively debate on here the other day. So, I'm just going to highlight some of the differences between the language that we sent over the other night. There is language protecting patients from being charged out-of- network cost. When a provider invokes the Health Care Right of Conscience Act, so that if that patient has to go out of network, they should not be penalized. It… it is more explicit… it explicitly creates countersuit provisions for 10200112.docx 110 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 folks who are harmed by out-of-state bans on the care that we support here in Illinois. It changes the way data reports are compiled for the Department of Public Health to grant greater anonymity to patients. And it creates a program to support nonprofits that facilitate abortion training for health care professionals. And then the other major difference between what we sent over and this is that it removes the language from Representative Barbara Hernandez's Bill that we have incorporated that would create Plan B vending machines on college campuses. And I look forward to your questions."
"Representative Hauter."
"Mr. Speaker, to the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"As a pro-life physician, I rise to oppose the expansion of abortion procedures and scope of practice to nonphysicians. As a physician, I understand life is fragile and sacred and patient's safety is of paramount importance. It's drilled into us every minute of every day as you go through the long years of medical school residency and practice. We take an oath and we devote our lives to the lives of our patients. As a physician, you are trained in the procedures, but more importantly, you're trained in the rapid recognition and response to complications. Anyone can be trained to do the procedure. They're called technicians. I am a physician for the complications. The pro-choice side… and I'm not even speaking to the pro-abortion activists who aren't listening. The pro-choice side has always used the phrase, safe, legal, and rare. We understand it's legal. You've done everything in your power to make it common and celebrated in 10200112.docx 111 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Illinois. But I must ask, why make it less safe? Aspiration and surgical abortions all require the instrumentation of the uterus, curettage, suction, and disruption of the uterine lining and evacuation. The procedure has serious risks. Any time you instrumentate the uterus, you risk tear or puncture. Any time you disrupt the uterine lining, you risk bleeding, infection. We also see incomplete evacuation, and I've seen it many times, subsequent morbidity and even mortality. These are complications that have serious complications… or serious consequences for future fertility and the very life of the mother. A physician has a unique education, training, and experience to rapidly recognize, respond, and rescue a patient from serious complications. A physician has the accountability of his peers, his specialty societies, medical boards, and as last resort, the court system. A physician is trained in complications, rare comorbidities like coagulopathies, which are excessive bleeding or excessive clotting, or even abnormal anatomy that would make it more likely to puncture the uterus. For 25 years as a physician, I have had the extreme privilege to take care of patients in their worse conditions on their worse day. It is a real privilege. I ask that you don't make abortion less safe. I ask you don't expand the practice of unaccountable technicians. I ask for a 'no' vote. Thank you."
"Rep… Representative Wilhour."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Representative Cassidy, I just want to clarify… clarify a point from last week when we talked about this. As it stands 10200112.docx 112 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 right now in Illinois law, a minor child cannot get gender- affirming drugs without parental consent. Is that correct?"
"It's not spoken to in this Bill at all. No. It's not in the Bill."
"You said last week that something…"
"This issue is not in this Bill."
"You said last week about the… relying on the standard of the care on this."
"Is that a question?"
"Yeah, yeah. You did. You said…"
"I am again telling you that there is nothing in…"
"…you said… you said that the…"
"…this Bill addressing the question that you're raising. Nothing in this Bill addresses that."
"It does. It does indirectly, according to what you said last week."
"Nothing in this Bill addresses that."
"So, a minor child… this does not open the door for a minor child to get gender-affirming drugs without parental consent? Because the standard…"
"There is nothing in this Bill that speaks to this. We are not…"
"…the standard of care that you referenced…"
"…addressing this at all."
"…the standard of care that you referenced last week says… says that they can."
"There is nothing in this Bill that addresses the question you're asking. I'm not sure how many more times you want me to say it, but I'll say it till I lose my voice." 10200112.docx 113 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Okay. Well, I think that… I think that you're wrong on that and we're being disingenuous on that. And, folks, this Bill is very, very dangerous. Allowing this to go forward with minor children to be able to get gender-affirming drugs without parental consent is way beyond the pale. I would encourage a 'no' vote on it."
"Representative Grant."
"Thank you, Speaker. To the Bill. Everyone here knows that there are always a few bad apples in any profession. That's just the way of the world. And so, when you sat down with a blank sheet of paper and you have the votes over there to pass anything you want, you said to yourselves, let's write a Bill to attract only the bad apples to our state to operate on our women and girls. You wrote a Bill to only invite those who have broken the law in other states to come to Illinois. You could have written any Bill to take care of shortage of medical providers. You could have written a Bill to provide incentives to have the best and most caring medical providers to come to this state and to take care of your shortages, but you didn't. And this is what you want us to vote for? This is the respect you have for women and girls? Thank you. Vote 'no'."
Speaker Harris: "The last speaker will be… oh, I'm sorry. Representative Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative Cassidy, I had a few questions about page 252 in the Bill. It relates to extradition. And I think as you know, extradition is the 10200112.docx 114 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 process by which someone who commits a crime in one state, and then is not in that state but has a warrant for their arrest, is returned to the, what we call the demanding state, for extradition. I would… it appears on page 252 that we are changing the, what is known as the Uniform Extradition Act that has been adopted by most every state in the nation. And I was wondering what the purpose was for changing the Uniform Extradition Act."
"This… the language in this has to do with activities that are lawful in this state. As you are well aware, there are extradition orders that are mandatory and those that aren't. This only addresses those that are not."
"There are many things that are perhaps legal in one state and not legal in another state. But under the…"
"For behavior in this state. It is only when the… when the activity occurred in this state and another state attempts to criminalize that behavior, even though it didn't occur within their borders."
"It says, 'However, the Governor of this state shall not surrender such a person if the charge is based on conduct that involves seeking, providing, receiving, assisting… assisting in seeking, providing, or receiving, providing material support for, or traveling to obtain lawful health care, as defined in the… the Act that is not lawful… unlawful under the laws of this state, including a charge based on any theory of vicarious, joint, several, or conspiracy liability.' The Act, the Uniform Extradition Act, is based on crimes that occur outside of our jurisdiction, not inside of our jurisdiction. So, the way… by amending the Uniform 10200112.docx 115 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Extradition Act, you are saying that someone who violates the laws in, say, Missouri, comes to Illinois and a warrant for arrest is made in Missouri, our Governor is not authorized to transfer that person to Missouri. That is in direct violation of the Uniform Extradition Act. It's in direct violation of the U.S. Constitution. It's in direct violation of 18 USC 3182. It's in direct violation of the 1987 case Puerto Rico v. Branstad. So, my question is, why are we violating the U.S. Constitution, violating Federal Law, and amending the Uniform Extradition Act?"
"Once again, this is about activities that are legal in this state or any other state that a third state wants to criminalize. These are discretionary. This was written in consultation with the person who's going to defend it. The Attorney General is very comfortable with this language."
"So, I… I think we just have a difference…"
"We're not doing anything about any extradition that is required by the U.S. Constitution. So, your read of this is incorrect, Sir."
"I appreciate you saying that, but I believe your reading is incorrect because this is the Uniform Extradition Act. This is not some Act that only Illinois came up with. This is the Act that applies basically throughout the United States and we're amending that."
"Representative, could you bring your remarks to a close?"
"I will. I think I made the point clear. We are, again today, going to be passing a Bill that violates the U.S. 10200112.docx 116 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Constitution. Violates, here, Federal Law. This is not the right direction, and I'd urge a 'no' vote."
"The final speaker is Representative Mazzochi."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. For years we've tried to get the Illinois nursing compact passed because we've recognized that we want to have out-of-state nurses be able to practice in Illinois so that we can try to deliver better patient care in the context of patient services. We haven't managed to pass that piece of legislation. But yet, with this piece of legislation, we're going to make it easier for nurses to… out-of-state nurses, and nurse practitioners, and physicians' assistance to practice here in the State of Illinois as long as they want to perform an abortion. Is that really showing good prioritization in terms of how we want to conduct medical care policy in the State of Illinois? So, the only time we're willing to let out-of-state people come in is to perform an abortion but not for other critical health care in the State of Illinois. When it comes to abortion-related issues, I have repeated pledged that I would vote where my district is on these issues. My district is not in favor of saying we're going to lower the standards of care for women who want to seek an abortion. You… you spent all kinds of money during the campaign talking about how it was awful for Republicans to dare come between any conversation between a woman and her doctor on abortion-related issues. Well, now what are you enshrining into law with this Bill, HB4664? You're saying woman doesn't even get a right to talk to her doctor at all on these issues. She can be shoved off by her insurance company to a lower standard of care. I don't know 10200112.docx 117 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 how you think that is acceptable. And moreover, we know full well that when it comes to where women are going to be shoved into substandard levels of care, it's not going to be in the rich, white suburban neighborhoods. It's going to be in poor, low-income neighborhoods. So, for all of your discussion on the other side of the aisle on how interested you are in equity, you're going to enshrine into law substandard care for the people in your community. Shame on you."
Speaker Harris: "Leader Flowers, then Kelly… Representative Cassidy to close."
"Representative Cassidy, how will the patient know the type of doctor or medical person that's working on them? How would they know? If this is a temporary person or the background of the person, how would they know? Considering the situation that they're under."
"In the same way that you would be able to look into any caregiver that you might encounter. For example, my… my time in the dermatology surgical suite is well documented. I'm disappearing millimeter by millimeter. A different surgeon does it every time, but I'm able to ask questions of the… my main doctor about who's going to do the… the surgery."
"Well, I think this is just a little bit different. When you take into consideration that giving birth is a life-or- death situation and sometimes having an abortion can be equally as dangerous. And so, we need to have… the patients need to have the right to know. And most of these people that you're talking about are temporary workers from out-of- state." 10200112.docx 118 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"No, this isn't temporary. It… that's a very… that's not…"
"Oh, so…"
"These are not temporary workers. This would be somebody who relocated to Illinois and… and brought their license with them."
"No. So, they're getting a temporary license here. They are getting the…"
"While the process… while the full process continues, yes."
"Okay."
"So, they will ultimately get… this is the same thing that happens with… right now we're in a compact for doctors who come in under every… and the nurse compact that one of the previous speakers talked about would do the same thing. So, this is… this is just using a tool that we've been using for a very long time to address some challenges with our licensing system."
"Are these nurses coming from states that may prohibit abortions, so they'll be coming over here temporarily to help out because this is… I think I read someplace that this is an emergency… what is it? You have something about… I'm sorry. I lost the page. An emergency situation."
"Oh, there's emergency rulemaking for the department to do the temporary permits. That's all. They'll go to JCAR with the specifics."
"Okay. So, you're saying that these professional people that's coming over here that the department is going to give temporary license to will be permanently working…" 10200112.docx 119 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"That… that is what… that's the process. This will allow them to start to work while their licensing process, which we've well documented how challenged IDFPR is in the licensing area. We all get calls into our district offices about the length of time it takes to process. So, this is a… this is an opportunity to address an emergency, to address the shortfalls. It's similar to what we did with COVID as well."
"Okay. My final question, I think, is why does the law… if there's a lawsuit brought, that this has to commence within two years. Why is that?"
"It was… it was not clear in the RHA. It's language that was in there, but it's being restated for clarity purposes because there has to be a statute of limitations for everything. So, this is…"
"Well…"
"And these are claims under the RHA, so this would be somebody's denied care."
"…is… no, is there a statute of limitation now? Because depending on what the…"
"Yes, there is. This is restating it for clarity."
"Okay. Let… let me just slow down for a minute. So, if you were operated on two or three years ago…"
"This is… this is a completely different thing. This would be… claims under the RHA would be somebody being denied care because we've made it a fundamental right. This is not about medical malpractice at all."
"Okay. So, this person here, under what circumstances and why is there limitation of two years? Maybe there's other problems. Maybe there's mental problems or other problems 10200112.docx 120 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 that will cause them to have to go a little further than two years."
"It's consistent with… with current law and it's just being restated. This is making it consistent with similar provisions. And it's… to be very, very clear, this is not about medical malpractice cases. This is claims of denial of care under the Reproductive Health Act."
"Claims of denial of care?"
"Yes."
"Okay. So, give me an example…"
"Leader, could you bring your remarks to a close?"
"After she answers this question. Give me an example of claims of denial of care. And why would there be a statute of limitation and is there… obviously, there's not one in the law now. Why is it necessary that you put it into law?"
"I'm sorry, Representative. We're trying to come up with one. It… this is just boilerplate language. We don't anticipate any claims under it. It just has to be restated."
"Well, I mean… but you say this is boilerplate language…"
"The…"
"…but this is new language."
"No, it's not. It's not. It is being restated because it wasn't clear that the same statute of limitations that applies to all the other concepts applies to this as well. But the belief is that it did apply so they wanted it to be restated. So, for example, under the RHA, a government cannot deny, restrict, interfere with, or discriminate against an individual's exercise of the fundamental rights provided by the RHA. So, if somebody… right. So… so, this is about being 10200112.docx 121 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 able to pursue that but doing so in a timely fashion, consistent with the rest of our statutes. Under current law, it wasn't clear. The question was whether it was one year or two years. So, we're going with two years."
"So, are there any carveouts? Is… are there any exceptions to the rules for what some outside reason that we are not aware of right now?"
"Again, this is not about malpractice claims. This is not about folks getting made whole after an injury. This is… this is administrative."
"And so, once again, why is this needed? I just…"
"Because it's unclear in the law whether it's one year or two, and that's how most of these apply. And we went with two to make sure that it was as much time as… as we could. The menu was one or two."
"Is this patient protected under any other law?"
"Yes. The entire… the entirety of the Reproductive Health Act provides those protections as well as the Patient and Provider Protection Act that's… that we are contemplating right now."
"Thank you."
"Representative Cassidy to close."
"Thank you. In our… our haste the other night when we… when we did the first version of this, I neglected to thank some amazing humans. When the Dobbs decision came down earlier this summer, the Governor and the Speaker and the Senate President pledged to get to work immediately. That took the shape in many… in our chamber of the Dobbs working group. And so, I want to start by thanking the Members of the working 10200112.docx 122 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 group who put in countless hours. We met… we met a lot. We heard from dozens of advocates to get this right. So, I want to thank Leader Harris, Leader Greenwood, Representatives Avelar, Collins, Croke, Costa Howard, Moeller, and Williams, the Speaker and the Governor, the Attorney General, the Senate President. Our staff has been amazing. My chief of staff, Torrence Gardner, has been a map-making monster and created so much content for folks to be able to follow the work of the working group and be a part of it. Kendra, you… you've not slept in six months, I think. So, I should add an Amendment that you get a month off to nap. Thank you for the endless revisions that have gone into this. And similar to Leader Gordon-Booth, Lauren Smith at LRB is… should be elevated to sainthood at this point. And then the many advocates from Planned Parenthood of Illinois and St. Louis, ACLU, Equality Illinois, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the Medical Society, the Trial Lawyers, Blue Cross Blue Shield, the Nurses Association, and then finally, Emily Miller with the Governor's Office and Caitlyn McEllis with the Attorney General's Office. They were de facto members of this working group and really just stayed with it until we got it right. So, I want to thank everyone who was a part of this and urge an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur with Senate Amendments 5 and 6 to House Bill 4664. This is final action. 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? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 70 voting 'aye', 39 voting 'nay', 0 voting 10200112.docx 123 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 'present', the House does concur in Senate Amendments 5 and 6 to House Bill 4664. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed."
"Manley in the Chair. On Supplemental Calendar #1, Senate Bills on Second Reading, Senate Bill 1836, Leader Hoffman. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1836, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1 is offered by Representative Hoffman."
"Leader Hoffman on the Amendment."
"Madam Speaker, I would ask that we adopt the Amendment and we ask to debate this on Third Reading."
"Representative Hoffman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1. All those in favor say 'aye'; opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Any further Amendments, Mr. Clerk?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1836, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Leader Hoffman."
"Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, last Session we passed House Bill 4666, which ultimately became a Public Act. That Bill sought to address the significant cost and predatory practices of nurse staffing agencies upon health care facilities through accountability and transparency provisions. However, there was unforeseen circumstance as a result of this legislation that 10200112.docx 124 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 international nurse staffing agencies were no longer assigning more nurses to hospitals here in Illinois. As you know, we have a nurse in health care… health care worker shortage here in Illinois that is significant and getting worse every day. This Amendment is supported by the Association of Communities Safety Net Hospitals, the Illinois Health and Hospital Association, and the American Association of International Health Care Recruitment. What it does is it provides the ability for these agencies to once again begin to provide needed nursing… needed nurses, foreign nurses, who desire to live and work in the U.S. I ask for a favorable roll call."
"Chair recognizes Leader Batinick."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates that he will."
"Representative, this is flying through today. We actually don't have everything… I don't think we have the most updated analysis. But this is a trailer Bill to the Bill last year that we did about staffing agencies and how much they could charge, correct?"
"Last year, we did a… yes, a Bill on staffing agency to cut down on the abuses that were happening in the health care and the nursing home settings."
"Okay. And in doing that, somehow international staffing agencies stopped placing nurses in Illinois because why?"
"A couple reasons. But the main reason is in order to… in order to ensure that a foreign nurse is properly trained, there are significant expenses. Staffing agencies require that the foreign nurse to commit to a minimum term of 10200112.docx 125 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 employment so they can recruit these expenses. These expenses are everything from providing training, to getting… getting the ability to come to this country, to getting individuals to the country and acclimating to our country. They would include employment, assignment, or referral from the requirement. And what it does, it says, basically you can't have a… you can have a noncompete for these long-term placement nurses for the time that they are under contract. But it keeps the safeguards in place and the requirements for short-term contracts so that the staffing agencies can't go back to what they were doing prior to our Bill last year."
"Okay. I'm going to go ahead and yield the remainder of my time to Representative Spain."
"Leader Spain is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. And I appreciate the floor Leader yielding me the balance of his one minute. No, this will be plenty of time. Madam Speaker, to the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"The Sponsor indicated the work that was done on this topic previously during this General Assembly. And we all know the crisis that is taking place within nursing right now in the field of health are and how precious and difficult it has been to find nurse staffing. And so, our previous actions made important strides forward to address some of the challenges experienced with some of the traveling agency nursing activities. But this Bill here is really an important companion fixing an oversight that I don’t think that we intended. An important component of our nursing workforce are the individuals that Leader Hoffman mentioned. And so, this 10200112.docx 126 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 is a important cleanup, an important fix. It's supported by health care organizations, and I would urge a 'yes' vote."
"The Chair recognizes Representative Hammond."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. And… to the Sponsor, if the Sponsor would yield."
"He indicates that he will."
"Kind of tripping over myself the later it gets. Representative Hoffman, I know that you have put a lot of work into this and I appreciate that very much. I just want, for a point of clarification, this… this does not exempt these foreign nurses from any aspects under the Nurse Accountability Act. Is that correct?"
"That's correct."
"Okay. And… and I appreciate it very much and I… and I appreciate the work in what we hope will be a very good outcome for many of our facilities that are struggling to put nurses in place. So, again, I would encourage an 'aye' vote."
"Thank you."
"Leader Hoffman to close."
"I ask for a favorable roll call."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1836 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? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 109 voting in 'favor', 0 voting 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. The Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On Supplemental Calendar #2, under Order of Resolutions, House Resolution 1021, Leader Flowers." 10200112.docx 127 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I bring to you House Resolution 1021. Cardiovascular disease are the leading cause of death in the United States, surpassing all types of cancer and unintended injuries. Cardiovascular disease prevalence is expected to rise, affecting a projected 45 percent of the U.S. population by 2035. According to the Center for Disease Control Web site, Illinois currently ranks 34 among the U.S. states with cardiovascular disease. Illinois is above the national average for deaths from cardiovascular disease with 427 deaths per 100 thousand Illinois residents. Furthermore, when this data is broken down to the Illinois African American population, the death per 100 thousand residents increased dramatically from 427 to 628. Cardiovascular disease impacts communities, small and large, across Illinois. According to the Center for Disease data, the 5 counties in the state with the highest cardiovascular disease hospitalization rates among Medicare enrollees have a population below 100 thousand. The counties are Vermillion, Cole, Henderson, Williamson, Cumberland… and Cumberland Counties. The 3 Illinois counties with the largest and the highest cardiovascular disease death rates also have a population below 100 thousand. That's Marion, Alexander, and Clay County. Illinois only spent $4.5 billion on direct medical expenses for cardiovascular disease care for each year. Illinois can do better. Cardiovascular disease are a challenge of unprecedented magnitude. We need to take a wholistic approach and work collectively with the entire health care community, including patients, health care 10200112.docx 128 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 providers, state health care agencies. This Resolution make three requests. That the Illinois state agencies should explore ways to collaborate with the federal and national agencies and organizations to establish and expand a comprehensive cardiovascular screening program. That the Illinois Department of Public Health should update their heart disease and stroke in Illinois' state plan, which has not been updated since the Blagojevich administration. State plans outside opportunities to collaborate with federal agencies and national health organizations for program alignment and funding. Illinois can and must update their plans. The relevant action… Illinois state agencies should support the creation of policies to decrease the rising number of deaths of America as a result of cardiovascular disease. Lastly, this Resolution further stipulates that, once passed, civil copies of this Resolution will be delivered to the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the director of the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, and the secretary of the Department of Human Services. And I would move for its adoption. Thank you."
"Leader Flowers moves for the adoption of House Resolution 1021. All those in favor say 'aye'; opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Moving on to House Resolution 1043, Representative Lilly. Representative Lilly."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the General Assembly. I rise to present House Resolution 1043. I would like to thank the Speaker, Speaker Welch, Governor Pritzker, the firearms working group, and the advocates for 10200112.docx 129 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 the work that they have done on HB5471. It's one more tool in the tool kit to reduce gun violence in Illinois. As I pray and as I push, we want to make sure… we need to make sure that any Bill that we present, whether it's before legislation or after legislation, on gun violence, it is important that we continue to address public safety in a comprehensive approach through an equity lens. HB1043 (sic-HR1043) is a comprehensive companion Bill to HB5471. We must continue to address the root causes of violence and gun violence in Illinois. When we do it in a comprehensive way, we do reduce violence and we do address public safety for all people. We have had many champions over the years on gun violence in our General Assembly, such as Representative Ford, Representative Willis, Hirschauer, Harper, Collins, Stoneback, Slaughter, Greenwood, Welch, Gordon-Booth, Flowers, Morgan, Hernandez, Nichols, Mayfield, Evans, Davis, Buckner, and many more. And of course, the Governor of our great state, Governor Pritzker. Billion dollars have been allogated to… allocated to assist victims and communities at risk of violence. The Governor and state agencies have implemented programs and have provided services to thousands and has committed a comprehensive approach to deal with violence in Illinois. The billions that have been allocated is an investment towards addressing the underlining causes of violence in Illinois. We must continue to invest in the efforts and other opportunities and other issues annually. Our appropriations and the funding and resources is a must. If we are looking to rid violence in our community, we have to eliminate the silo approach of violence initiatives. A comprehensive approach includes… through an 10200112.docx 130 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 equity lens is the only way we will continue to champion the lives and save lives here in Illinois. We have facts upon facts that was stated when we did the debate of the two Bills, not just one, two Bills to address violence. And these facts are alarming to many, alarming to all. I, too, am a victim of violence here in the State of Illinois. I lost my brother to gun violence here in Illinois, in the suburbs of Illinois. And we went without any services to address and how to deal with a loss. But if we continue as a collective, on both sides of the aisle, to invest in the services and resources needed to address the trauma of violence here in Illinois, we all will be better. We all will have hope. The fact of the matter is, in the U.S. gun violence is a public health issue. It's an epidemic. Violence and gun violence is a major public health crisis. It is the leading cause of premature death in our country. Gun violence is the number one cause of death for children in the U.S. Over 110 people are killed every day in Illinois, in the U.S. Gun violence is a public health issue. When a child loses… and shot… loses his life and shot and killed due to gun violence, he or she loses the potential to grow up in her state or his state and have he and his family to contribute to society. We must understand that statistics such as, in 2018, deaths account for almost a million losses of life here in our great… before the age of 65. This is more than diabetes, stroke, and liver combined. The cost of gun violence takes a toll on our economy. Gun violence cause the U.S. somewhat of $557 billion annually. Gun violence cost in Illinois is $18.6 billion each year. Gun violence disproportionately affects the black community. Gun 10200112.docx 131 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 violence affects all children, but children of color is at great risk. Black children are at risk. And these deaths that are go… annually go unmentioned in our national discord. Disproportionately blacks are impacted by gun violence in every community in our country and in our state. Again, statistics note that black men are 20 times more likely to be killed by gun violence than young, white men. Gun violence or gun deaths and homicides among black people are 39.5 percent greater, including the number of black women killed by guns have increased over 50 percent. In 19… excuse me. In 2019, black women represent 14 percent of the nation population, yet account for 52… excuse me, black Americans represent 14 percent of the nation population, yet account for 52 percent of all homicide victims. Illinois was number two in the entire nation in 19… in 2019. Gun violence, along with violence, devastates our communities. And blacks and black teens are afflicted more than any other group in our society. And our policy makers, over the years, continuously state this fact and have been addressing it over and over again. The critical part of ending gun violence will include reducing homicides in black communities by addressing the root causes of violence in a comprehensive matter, eliminating the silos that allow us to look at this issue through the equity lens. Investments will make a difference. At least $1.5 billion have been put into our budget over the years. We need to put at least $1.5 billion-plus to address the needs that allow the opportunity for all Americans to have, and all Illinoisans, to have quality life. Wraparound service to address the impact of gun violence and prevent future gun violence. We must ensure that 10200112.docx 132 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 they have access to medical care, they have access to mental health treatment, they have access to affordable housing, nutrition, economic empowerment through jobs and day care and cultural awareness, nutrition, education, public safety. All of which are basic essentials of life. Services must be accessible and education awareness must be the effort that will make the difference as we serve the people of Illinois. The General Assembly shall strive to provide consistent appropriation for the state agencies to provide support services and wraparound services to Illinois through the basic essentials that will reduce the current violence in our communities. It is so important that we continue to state over and over the comprehensible approach to gun violence and violence is the key to addressing what is happening in our great state and in the nation. When we deal with comprehensive violence through a lens of equity, with community involvement and community engagement, we can put forth initiatives through the communications and messaging that brings awareness to all citizens of what's available to them. Education and training is key to giving individuals and community the ability to empower themselves. Treatment and counseling will address the trauma that each and every one of us are experiencing. Grant income programs, trauma center, and family resource centers will make the difference in every community where those things are available. Affordable housing, health care, and leadership. Allowing the community to be engaged and provide the leadership to address these issues in an inclusive investment manner will make a difference. Outreach and awareness all wrapped up in a bow 10200112.docx 133 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 will allow us to bring the services, the resources that allows each and every one of us in this General Assembly to address the needs and the issues that we're facing in our communities. The General Assembly (unintelligible) voices it support for a continual appropriation intended to stem the ever-rising incidents of violence in our Illinois. This is a companion Bill to the HB5417… I'm sorry, 71… 5471, where that's only one tool in the tool kit to address violence and gun violence in our community, to increase safety for all Illinoisans. I will continue to push and pray for the hearts and minds in this General Assembly to address the concerns of Illinoisans, all Illinoisans. With that, I ask for your support of House Resolution 1043. And blessings to you all."
"Representative Lilly moves for the adoption of House Resolution 1043. All those in favor say 'aye'; opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Supplemental Calendar #3, under Concurrences, House Bill 969, Leader Harris."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Members of the House. In response to a question from a Member on the other side who… he seems to have left 'cause he thought he would look cheap by asking me this. But I feel good saying this, that this supplemental is divided into two pieces. House Bill 969, which we're talking about now, is what we would traditionally think of a supplemental budget. Senate Bill 2801, which is the next Bill we'll be discussing after this, is the Bill that finishes paying off the debt in the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. So, I just wanted to be sure to say that at the beginning. So, this is Senate Bill 969 and I would like to move to concur 10200112.docx 134 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 with Senate Amendments 4 and 5. And let me briefly describe what is in those Amendments. The bulk of the Bill is the appropriation language that backs up and supports those items that were in the BIMP that we discussed the other day. There are some additions that were not in the BIMP that are in this Bill, so I'd just to like to highlight some of those. In this Bill, there are two major investments in mental health services. The first to fund the college mental health program for all the colleges and community colleges across the state. And the other is to provide emergency workforce funding for crisis intervention folks for both mental health and substance abuse across the state. This Bill also invests $75 million in more affordable housing funds. Importantly, it also provides a emergency increase for DD workers, which I know has been on the mind of a lot of Members. It provides money for the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to finish their IT upgrade, which will be a… really a sea change in how our licenses will be processed for medical folks, realtors, bankers, everyone whose license… getting it down, hopefully, to about a seven-day period. You'll see some large numbers in there in other state funds. Those represent the enhanced federal match that the state needs to account for since the sunset of the public health emergency. And the match has been moved out to the end of December of 2023, and we had not budgeted for those funds. And those are some of the major things. I'd be happy to answer any questions."
"We're going to be using a three-minute timer on this as well. Chair recognizes Leader Batinick." 10200112.docx 135 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Let the record reflect that Representative Tony McCombie will be excused for the rest of the evening."
Speaker Manley: "Thank you. Chair recognizes Representative Crespo for three minutes."
"Thank you, Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates that he will."
"Hey, Greg. I have three minutes. I'm going to use 10 seconds to say that I've enjoyed working with you the last 16 years. You'll be really missed and you're a great asset to the state and did things for the welfare and the betterment of our… of our great state. Thank you for that. Quick question. This Bill has some funding for the refugees or asylum seekers coming into the state, correct?"
"Yes, it does."
"And can you… well, let me… tell me if I'm wrong or… or right. It does have some dollars for the Department of Human Services?"
"Yes."
"And it has some dollars for IEMA?"
"Yes."
"For the sole purpose of helping that population coming in, correct? It also has, I believe, $20 million for the City of Chicago."
"Yes."
"So, a request was made to staff about our suburban areas. Two-thirds of the students from that group are actually in our schools outside of Chicago, suburban… suburban districts. And some of these school districts are not equipped to deal 10200112.docx 136 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 or handle and manage those students. We have one district that is a Tier 1 district, has like 900 students in the district. And I think they have… they've added like 50 students from this population, which is like a 5 percent. The school district does not have a large Latino student population so they're really struggling. So, we made a request. Says (unintelligible) we're going to help the City of Chicago, IEMA, and the Department of Human Services. And it's unfortunate that that request just… I'm not accusing you. I'm not sure who worked on the budget. The request, yes, fell on deaf ears. Our school districts are not prepared to deal with this. I guess we can talk about this in 90 days when we look at what the feds are going to do, but that's 90 days a little bit too late. So, I'm disappointed that the suburban districts were not taken into account in this supplemental. My last question, Leader, what's the net… net GRF dollar amount for this supplemental Bill?"
"About $512 million."
"Okay. So, I'm not criticizing what we're doing here. These are great initiatives. I'm just hoping that, for the 103rd General Assembly, we acknowledge that these things do add up. We have $530 million for the supplemental. We just passed a Bill that will probably add another $200 million for Ameren. The Governor's business incentive, is that included in this supplemental?"
"Yes, it is."
"Okay. And we have another supplemental coming back from the Senate that's going to add more dollars or more pressure to our GRF. So, again, I ask my colleagues in the future, 10200112.docx 137 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 just be cognizant of the fact that these things do cost money and we do have to talk about that as well. Thank you, Speaker."
"Chair recognizes Representative Keicher for three minutes."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates that he will."
"All right. Leader Harris, it's been a true pleasure to serve with you in the General Assembly. I thank you for all the work and the service you've done. You left an amazing career behind you. Question for you. How and in what manner did solicitations come to get entries onto this appropriation list?"
"They came from a variety of areas, different advocacy groups, different state agencies, different Members."
"Okay. Well, here's… here's what I'd like you to do. 'Cause as I've looked over the list, what I'd like you to do is, I'd you to intentionally interrupt me when I hit one of these entities that's located within a Republican district. Greater Auburn Gresham CDC, 40… 450 thousand. Urban Growers, 150 thousand. 2 Femme, 150 thousand. Target Area Development, 150 thousand. Kindness Campaign, 150 thousand. RAGE, 100 thousand. Englewood First Responders, 150 thousand. A Knock At Midnight, 250 thousand. Teamwork Englewood, 350 thousand. Public Equity, 150 thousand. GoodKidsMadCity, 250. TGI Movement, 150 thousand. Ex-Cons for Community Social Change, 250 thousand. Stay Lit Youth Services, 150 thousand. Teatro Tariakui Dance and Theater, 150 thousand. Community Youth Development Institute, 250 thousand. Inner-City Muslim Action 10200112.docx 138 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Network, 150 thousand. Woodlawn Restorative Justice Hub, 150 thousand. Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation, 150 thousand. Southside Together for Organizing Power, 250 thousand. LaTanya & The Youth, 150 thousand. Grove Greater Englewood, 150 thousand. Team Englewood, 150 thousand. Greater Englewood CDC… Englewood seems to be a popular place… 150 thousand. Le Penseur Youth, 150 thousand. Purpose Over Pain, 150 thousand. Bounce for Joy, 150 thousand. Simeon 2000, 150 thousand. Gresham Community Center, 150 thousand. House of James, a million. Outreach Christian Community, a million. Christian Community, a million. Positive Moves NFB, a million. After Game Inc., a million. Ada S. McKinley must've done something really good, $5 million. African American Museum at the England Manor, 200 thousand. Black Chamber of Commerce of Lake County, 200 thousand. Lake County Chamber of Commerce, 200 thousand. Cory Douglas Scholastic Academy, 250 thousand. Lions Math & Science Christian Academy, 250 thousand. West… I still haven't been interrupted with a Republican located entity. Right?"
"Well, you also didn't mention the rural hospital funding that we passed. You didn't mention…"
"I'm asking about violence interruption, Sir. I represent part of the City of DeKalb, and we have been plagued with issues for the past 15 years. And we have continued to be ignored and locked out of the rescue that we need for our citizens that are trying to make a better and safer life. The fact that we weren't consulted on this side of the aisle…"
"Representative." 10200112.docx 139 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"…to help folks in our community solve the problem and violence interruption, I think is a serious touchpoint that the other side needs to consider. We still represent, in the next GA, a third of the people of the State of Illinois. Thank you. I urge a 'no' vote."
"Chair recognizes Representative Hammond for three minutes."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates that he will."
"Representative Harris, just on a side note, I want to thank you for the work that you have done over your years in this General Assembly and in this chamber particularly. And for the 7:00 Thursday morning meetings that we have done over the last several years, great insight, my friend. Thank you very much. I do… I do have a question and more of a comment, I guess, on the same area that the previous speaker was referring to and that is the funding for the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in Article 5, specifically the $45 million appropriated for DCEO for violence interruption, community development… and here's my rub… operational expenses. So, you and I were both here when, under the Quinn Administration, what's referred to as the NRI, the Neighborhood Recovery Initiative. That was a $50 million program that was an absolute disaster. It did absolutely nothing to help with the violence that it was intended to address. My fear is that, once again, we are appropriating $45 million and we haven't learned a lesson. We haven't learned the lesson of the husband of the then Cook County clerk that pocketed 7 percent of $2.1 million for a program 10200112.docx 140 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 that he was the program coordinator. Or another group that spent $2 thousand for gifts cards for contractors. Is there anything in this Bill, Representative, that is going to provide prevention for that history to repeat itself?"
"As you know, as of a result of what happened at NRI, this General Assembly passed a Bill that does tighten those controls. It's called GATA. We've all participated in that. And that's in place. That's working right now. There are deliverables that are required. They're inspections and audits by the different agencies. So, I don't think, and I certainly hope, we will not see an incident like the one you're referring to. But I also think it's important to say that there are folks out on the street right doing really important work in our community and doing it well. We have violence interrupters in my neighborhood and they're doing a great job in defusing violence across the state. So, I hope we are incentivizing the right people and weeding out any bad actors we found."
"And… and I am hopeful for that also, Representative. And maybe what we can do is look at this as a $45 million pilot program for the northern part of the state. And if it works, we can perhaps find money for the rest of the state. Thank you."
"Leader Harris to close."
"Thank you, Madam Chair, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. So, obviously, I'm going to ask for an 'aye' vote. But there's just one thing I wanted to point out to Members. You know, I think in another debate we had on gun violence here, we heard a lot of people say, it's not the guns, it's the 10200112.docx 141 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 people and they need mental health care. So, here is the Bill that funds mental health care. So, if you believe in those things you said, vote 'yes' on this Bill to increase mental health care, not just in the City of Chicago, not just in Northern Illinois, but in every one of the 102 counties all across the State of Illinois. This is your chance to show that you were sincere about supporting mental health increases across this state. I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur with Senate Amendments 4 and 5 to House Bill 969?' This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. 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, there are 71 voting in 'favor', 36 voting 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. The House does concur with Senate Amendments 4 and 5 to House Bill 969. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Chair recognizes Leader Batinick."
"Thank you… thank you, Madam Speaker. Please excuse Representative Andrew Chesney from the rest of the 102nd General Assembly."
"Thank you. On page 2 of the Calendar, Senate Bills on Second Reading, Senate Bill 2801, Leader Harris. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 2801, a Bill for an Act concerning appropriations. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed." 10200112.docx 142 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Leader Harris. Excuse me, Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 2801, a Bill for an Act concerning appropriations. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Leader Harris."
"Thank you, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This is the second piece of the supplemental package. This Bill appropriates 1.37 billion of GRF to the Department of Security to pay down the debt in the Illinois Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund. And also, another $450 million from the General Revenue Fund also to the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund solely for purposes of paying unemployment insurance benefits with the accrual of interest to be repaid pursuant to the provisions of the Unemployment Act. I…"
"Chair recognizes Leader Batinick."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates that he will."
"Leader, just making sure we're all caught up to speed here. This is just money to UI Trust Fund, nothing else. You got two sources of revenue that are going back into the UI Trust Fund, correct?"
"You are correct."
"Thank you. Let me just say, it's been an honor working with you the last eight years that I've been here. And I certainly feel honored to walk off the floor with you. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Leader Demmer."
"Madam Speaker, will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates that he will." 10200112.docx 143 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Leader Harris, you've done a number of appropriation Bills throughout the years. How much money have you appropriated in your career?"
"A big pile."
"Would you be amenable to me filing a fiscal note to ask for the total appropriations of the entire term of…"
"I'd just move to rule it inapplicable and we'd go on."
"Fair enough. Madam Speaker, to the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"This is a good Bill to pay down some of the liabilities that we incurred during this incredible time that we all went through during the COVID-19 pandemic. A number of people were laid off unexpectedly. The Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund took a huge hit. But I'm glad that after, maybe a little too long of working on this, we finally came to a conclusion. We're able to pay down the debt that we incurred there. We're able to do so with a combination of some federal funds and some unexpectedly high revenues. This is a responsible move to ensure that Illinois employers and Illinois employees don't pay the price for this… the pandemic and put us back on a more stable footing for the unemployment program going forward. I'm glad to, on this final appropriation Bill, urge a 'yes' vote."
"Thank you. And for the last time, Leader Harris to close."
"Please vote 'yes'."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 2801 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? 10200112.docx 144 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 103 voting in 'favor', 0 voting 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Chair recognizes Representative Cassidy on House Resolution 1046."
"So, for anybody familiar with this guy's social media, I'm going to paraphrase. Today is Greg Harris Day. Please celebrate responsibly. It is impossible to overstate the size of the hole Greg is going to leave. He's the Encyclopedia Brown of our caucus. His focus and his work ethic are unmatched. His ability, which we all just saw on display, to distill incredibly complex issues into approachable and understandable explanations has benefitted so many of us. From balanced state budgets to Medicaid reform to the many historic legislative victories of the LGBTQ community and beyond, Greg's been central to all of that. He and I have spent decades working together, both here and in our previous lives, and we'll continue to after on behalf of our community in multiple roles. For the last 11 years, as his seatmate, as his partner in shenanigans, have been amazing. I'm sure our partnership won't end here, but it's definitely going to be weird not having him right next door to ask to define an acronym that we aren't… that isn't familiar, obscure program that only he knows everything about. I can stand here all night and list his accomplishments, but I'm not going to do that. I'm going to sum it up with the way Greg signed off on his letter thanking me for our work together on marriage equality. He thanked me for all the cookies, and I knew that 10200112.docx 145 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 meant a whole lot of other things. So, Greg, thanks for all the bacon. I'm going to miss you, friend."
"Chair recognizes Leader Gordon-Booth."
"The chamber has changed quite a bit since you passed marriage, Leader Harris. But one thing I will never forget is the night in which many folks thought marriage was going to pass and it didn't. And you see, Ladies and Gentlemen, controversial legislation oftentimes takes time. Not because the controversy isn't… not because the juice isn't worth the squeeze, but sometimes, in a collective body, you have to move a large group of people to a place that some folks may be a little uncomfortable moving to. You see, in those days, lots of Bills came over to the House of Representatives to die. Many good Bills would come over here to die. And that particular year, February 14, on Valentine's Day, Senator Heather Steans ran marriage equality. And many folks in this chamber assumed that that Bill, like many other Bills, weren't going to be called. But I will never forget, on that May 31, this gallery that you see before us was full of activists and advocates from the LGBTQ+ community. Behind us, in the gallery to the rear, literally, CNN, MSNBC, every television camera from around the entire State of Illinois was here for one reason, and it was to watch Leader Harris pass marriage. And there were a group of Members that were a little squeamish at that time. They weren't… it isn't the day we live in today, I can tell you. And there were a group of Members that pulled Leader Harris to that back watercooler room and they shared with Leader Harris… and at the time, he was Representative, he was rank and file like everybody else. 10200112.docx 146 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 And at the time, Representative Harris met with those Members who told him that they would be with him, but they just weren't ready that day. And Leader Harris, as he always does, he sucked it up, he swallowed it, he certainly didn't like it, and he came out to his seat. He swallowed his pride. He swallowed all ego, and he said, 'Ladies and Gentlemen, we were not going to pass marriage today.' And there were probably two dozen of us that broke down in tears watching you look at your people, the people who you put on your back because you were the first. You blazed a trail that will never be blazed again, and you had some very hard conversations. And I remember waking up June 1 to articles in which people were attacking you because you gave your colleagues the space to get to a place that they were trying to get to. I share this story because we operate in a time right now that is incredibly polarizing. And we all have issues that we care about so deeply, people that we put on our backs because we know that nobody knows them and nobody sees them the way that we see them. But we want people to see them the way that we see them. And sometimes, it takes time. I share this story of Leader Harris because that is real leadership of what it means to serve in a deliberative Body with an incredibly diverse group of folks that don't always think alike. But you did what it took. You took a bunch of arrows. You took some public beatings. But ultimately, you succeeded. You were able to bring… we were the last state before the Supreme Court made their decision. And I don't think there was any other person in this chamber that could've done what you did on that day. And I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for being 10200112.docx 147 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 able to watch you and the leadership that you have exhibited and shown and my time being able to watch you in the way that you gently allow people to get to the place that they need to be. Because one way or another, they're going to get there. But you give people the space to get there in their time and that is something that is going to be so sorely missed. And I want you to know that, Leader Harris, I love you. We're going to miss you. And thank you for all that you have done for all of us."
Speaker Manley: "Back to Supplemental Calendar #2, under Concurrences, House Bill 5285, Representative Ford."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Members of the House, I move for the concurrence of House Bill 5285. The Bill comes from work in the Senate. It is now agreed. It passed out of the Senate with all 'yes' votes. And I ask that the House follow the Senate in this case. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Leader Batinick."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Representative, so this Bill, sounds like you got it pretty significantly changed from when we voted on it previously in the House, correct?"
"That's right."
"And I think you mentioned in your opening remarks it was unanimous in the Senate. Let's get into the meat of… of what it does. I believe previously this made it a little bit more difficult for principals to fire employees. But now, it just… it's about the hiring process. It's not about the firing process. Is that correct?" 10200112.docx 148 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"That's right, Representative. It's about the hiring process and not about termination. It doesn't take away any power from the LSC of these schools in Chicago Public Schools. It brings transparency to the hiring process for principal and assistant principal hiring."
"Okay. And this specifically is just for Chicago Public Schools, correct?"
"That's right."
"Okay. No further questions. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall House… shall the House concur with Senate Amendment 1 on House Bill 5285?' This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. 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, there are 104 voting in 'favor', 0 opposed, 0 voting 'present'. The House does concur with Senate Amendment 1 on House Bill 5285. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Leader Harris is recognized. We got so swept away we didn't give you your chance to say a few words."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. And as I said to Kelly just a minute ago, sometimes a cookie is just cookie. So, don't overanalyze that. All I can say is just how proud I am to have had the chance to serve with all of you, and especially those of us who have been here for a while. It's been an honor to get to know you as people and to work side by side. You know, when I was in Boy Scouts, they told us always leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. And I think because 10200112.docx 149 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 of a lot of work we've done here, we're leaving Illinois a lot better than we found it. So, thank you very much and good luck next year in the 103rd."
"Leader Harris in the Chair."
"Leader Hammond brought me cookies. So… on Supplemental Calendar #2 appears Senate Joint Resolution 39, Representative Elik."
"Tonight I'm presenting Senate Joint Resolution 39, a memorial highway naming Resolution which names Illinois Route 111 in Pontoon Beach from Timberlake Drive to Pontoon Road as the 'Officer Tyler Timmins Memorial Highway'. Officer Tyler Timmins served and protected Pontoon Beach and its surrounding areas under various titles such as chief of police, cadet, patrolman. His 14-year career in law enforcement was cut short while in the line of duty. On October 26, 2021, Officer Timmins succumbed to gunfire injuries obtained when approaching a suspected stolen vehicle. Not only is Officer Timmins' passing mourned by his surviving wife, daughter, father, grandmother, step-mother, brother, nieces, and extended family, but he is also mourned by his brothers and sisters in blue and all of the communities he selflessly served. Lovingly referred to as a man who never met a stranger and had a servant's heart of gold, we wish to have a highway memorializing his tremendous sacrifice and service to his community. And we ask for your 'yes' vote." Speaker Harris: "The House will take a moment of silence. Representative Elik moves for the adoption of Senate Joint Resolution 39. This will be a recorded vote. All those in favor vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'no'. Voting is open. Have all 10200112.docx 150 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 105 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present', Senate Joint Resolution 39 is adopted. Also, on Supplemental Calendar #2 is Senate Joint Resolution 43, Representative Caulkins."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We had originally passed a Resolution honoring Officer Chris Oberheim. At the request of his widow and family, the Senate has presented us with a Senate Resolution to supersede the one that we passed. This designates a section of I-72 between Decatur and Champaign as the 'Officer Oberheim Memorial Highway'. As we noted before, on May 19, 2021, at approximately 3:21 a.m., Champaign Police Office Christopher Oberheim, badge #703, was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call in an apartment complex on North Neil Street. Officer Oberheim was a highly-respected, loved family man who has left behind not only his wife, Amber, but his children, his four daughters. And he is still greatly missed. But this is an opportunity for us to honor his memory on Interstate 72, and I would ask for your support on Senate Joint Resolution 43."
"And before we vote, Members, let's take a moment of silence in memory of Officer Oberheim. The question is, 'Shall Senate Joint Resolution 43 pass?' This will be a recorded vote. All those in favor vote 'yes'; opposed vote 'no'. Voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 105 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present', this Resolution, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby adopted. Mr. Clerk." 10200112.docx 151 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
Clerk Bolin: "Committee Reports. Representative Harris, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on January 10, 2023: recommends be adopted, Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 2 for House Bill 1563."
"Leader Hoffman on House Resolution 1047."
"Thank you… thank you, Mr…"
"Just one second, Leader. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This Resolution is something I really wish I wasn't doing because we're going to miss, here in the House, in the 103 General Assembly, a person who is one of my favorite people in the entire world. She is a person who has governed here and served here with grace, compassion, caring. She's represented the residents of the Metro East area and she is a partner, a true, dear partner. She has supported Bills addressing issues of concern for her constituents, including social justice, equity and opportunity, job creation, economic growth, education funding, and improving wages for working families. LaToya Greenwood is a true statesperson. She's the chairwoman of the Health Care Availability & Access Committee and championed landmark legislation focusing on areas concerning infant mortality and access to quality and affordable health care. She served admirably as our caucus chair. As a matter of fact, as a former caucus chair, she served a heck of a lot better than me 'cause she pronounced all the names correctly and timely. She's the heart and soul of East St. Louis, her and her family. I'm going to miss her 10200112.docx 152 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 turning around, looking at me on the House Floor with the eye roll saying, 'You see what I'm saying, Jay.' I could never say enough about what an honor it's been to serve with you here in the General Assembly, LaToya. I… I think that there's nobody in this chamber who doesn't like you. And there's not a lot of people in this chamber that we can say that about, including me. So, LaToya, I'm lucky because I live close to you and I'll get to see you. And although I'm going to be one of the last to tell you farewell from this chamber, someday I'm going to be the first to tell you welcome back. So, with that… first of all, tomorrow is LaToya's birthday. So, let's all wish her a happy birthday. And with that, please, please let's all join together in thanking LaToya Greenwood, Leader LaToya Greenwood, for everything she's done, her friendships and her great service. Thank you, LaToya."
"Leader Greenwood."
"Thank you. I don't know where to begin. I just want to thank all of my colleagues, all of my staff, Heather and Tammy upstairs, and just everyone in this chamber for all of the love and support. Thank you."
"Representative Costa Howard on House Resolution 1048."
"Thank you, Speaker. This Resolution speaks to Representative Conroy, who… man, I couldn't do it the last time either. I'm going to take this time, though, to thank Representative Conroy for her service here. She is a glass ceiling breaker in DuPage County, as you know, is the first Democrat Chair. But also, more importantly, the first female, which in DuPage County is a shocker. She is one of the… she's 10200112.docx 153 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 somebody who stays behind the scenes. A lot of people don't realize that about her. The work that she's done in the mental health space was done in places that most people don't realize that it was going on. I had the good fortune to be nicknamed her sidekick. It was kind of a funny thing and it really became an honor. But today's a bitter sweet day. We've done some amazing work over the last four years, and I'm really lucky. And those of us from DuPage have been very lucky over the years to have some incredible leaders. Representative Conroy and my other big sis, Representative Willis. So, I want to thank everybody today for the hard work that they've done and… the Ladies of DuPage, we've got a lot of work to do and we've got a lot of big shoes to fill, but we're ready for the task. Let's do this."
"Leader Wheeler on House Resolution 1056."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. What a privilege it is to take a few minutes to honor our friend, my neighboring Rep, my roommate in Springfield, fellow Illini and small business owner, and our debater and chief, Mark Batinick. There's… there's three characters of Mark I want to talk about very briefly here. One, Mark has a little bit of ambition in him. He arrived in Springfield with a 29-page plan. Before he got here… thirty-nine? I must've skipped the last 10, sorry, to fix property taxes, higher ed, small business, pension reform. Name it, it was in the plan. And he began his illustrious career passing his first Bill that changed an obscure reporting requirement from 6 months to 180 days. Using that legislative triumph as a springboard, he began drafting his own budget in the middle of the budget impasse. I said 10200112.docx 154 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 he's ambitious and we needed it. But impactful is another way I want to describe Mark Batinick to all of us. In the middle of a debate on the floor one day in 2017, I showed him this online translation system that I was looking at in the middle of a Bill that was being presented. And he said, 'That works.' And he pushed my speak button and he walk away. And that was a… kind of a… no, not really protocol, but at the same time, it worked. We actually got a better Bill out of the whole deal. And every time you go into ILGA Web site, you can see the impact that Mark Batinick has by pushing my speak button that day. But in a much more serious note, when it comes to impact, Mark was creative enough to put together some real pension reform ideas, which we now all refer to as the Batinick Buyout. And he is also instrumental in the consolidation of a Bill we passed that, all told, will save Illinois taxpayers billions of dollars while still respecting the State Constitution. That is impact. That's true impact. Mark's also very thoughtful. If you look back in… when COVID hit, no one knew what to do. Mark put together an idea for supporting small business that Governor Pritzker chimed in on. He created a very innovative helping hands program in his district that helped a lot of seniors. And who knows, that may have saved some real lives there. He's also thoughtful enough to put together a real property tax reform plan that leverages future pension savings into real property tax relief. That's the kind of thoughtfulness that Mark Batinick thinks. Now, you might now know that Mark's ultimate job, he says, is Lieutenant Governor, for reason that are not quite clear sometimes. His real ultimate job, as we've all seen, is 10200112.docx 155 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 to be House Republican Floor Leader and he's done an incredible job with that. He also got to serve on virtually no committees and no approps. So, well played, Mark. Mark's ideas, energy, passion, and quest for solutions are really without bounds. And I am so grateful that he is here with all of us. I want to thank Ellen and all their kids for sharing him with us. Mark, thank you for just being who you really are. And all of us, this chamber, and the entire State of Illinois are better off for Mark Batinick having served here in the Illinois House. Thanks, Mark."
"Representative Batinick."
"Thank you. I'm going to be… I'm going to be real quick with some… some quick thank yous. I… number one, thank you to BlueStream for that angle on the top of my head. It's fantastic. Last few years, the clips have been awesome. I… I got to give a big thanks to the gentleman next to me here. Dane, get a little closer so you can get in the camera here. He's… he's the one that really does the hard work that makes this what it is. I'd really like to thank… thank you to everybody in the well. Chris. To you, Chris. I know you're still working. It's been… I know you're on the other side of the aisle. It's been… it's been a great relationship. I'd like, you know, thank you to Jessica Basham, who was there before… before you were, Tiffany. You know, I have to mention the Memphis sign. Yeah, you saw that coming. We'll get a next time. We'll get a next time. Big, big thank you to the caucus for allowing me to try and protect your votes and… and do this job. It was definitely an honor to support you through those efforts. Thank you to all of you on the other side of 10200112.docx 156 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 the aisle that had to listen to me incessantly. I really appreciate your… your patience. Obviously, thank you to my family. I want to say hello… I don't know when I'll be able to this again. I wanted to say hello… I just found out I'm going to be a grandfather, so hello to my future grandchild. Want to get that on the floor. And it has been a ride of a lifetime. It was an honor to do this. And if I wanted to part… you know, leave everybody with a little bit of advice that is four simple words that always ring in my head and that is, bad Bill, vote 'no'. Thank you."
"Oh, boy. Representative Batinick, again, on House Resolution 1056."
"Well, this is to honor Keith Wheeler, and thanks for making what was the toughest speech of my life tougher. I appreciate that. Unlike… unlike you, I have a bunch of chicken scratch here because it was just so hard to, really, put together what I wanted to say and have a speech that honors you as much… as much as you deserve. So, I actually went around and started soliciting advice from other Members on what to say. And they're like… same sort of words kept coming up. Genuine, loyal, kind, giving, thoughtful. You've been a role model to everybody here. You've been a role model as a Legislator. Your current district… current district is a red- meat district, we'll call it. And you could've packed it in, won election after election by throwing the red meat to the base, but you rolled up your sleeves and you did the work that actually gets things done here that people back in the district don't notice. I noticed it because, as you mentioned, you were my roommate. And while you might've been a role model 10200112.docx 157 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 to everybody here as far as how to be a Legislator, watching you, you became my role model. He didn't have to go to those dinners with the freshmen. He didn't have to do the work on JCAR that most people don't know what the acronym means. He didn't have to be involved in negotiations. Keith didn't have to do all that work, then come back to our house, spend an hour or two Facetiming with your daughter or sons and wife, then staying up through the night to get your private sector work done. I don't know how you do it. It was amazing to watch. I'm a better person because of you. The State of Illinois is a better state because of you. This Body will not be as great of a place without you. I don't know what else to say. You're the best. Thank you."
"Leader Spain on House Resolution 1062. Oh, okay. Wheeler. I'm sorry. Leader Wheeler."
"Thank you, Speaker. I just need a minute to say thank you. When you arrive here in the House, you're told your word is your bond and this is a relationship business. And I really couldn't agree more. I feel like I'm walking out of here a much richer person for my time here and for having had the chance to work with all of you. All of our staff, everyone in my district. This has been a great, wonderful experience. I have to say thank you first and foremost to my wife who has put up with more than she should have to. My sons, Matt and Chad, and my daughter, Ava, who you all welcomed here so many times. I'm so grateful for that. I have to thank staff and… I mean, you know, this is all about staff, you guys. At home, Ben Marcum ran my district office for eight years. Did an impeccable job. Rusty Corneils has joined me recently. Josh 10200112.docx 158 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Wessell's been my comms guy my whole time. Again, perfect person to work with. Here in Springfield, Mary Wallace ran my office as my secretary and did more work because of JCAR then maybe anyone would ever realize. I have to thank Leader Durkin and our entire caucus for the support and the trust they've given me. Andrew Freiheit, Scott Reimer, our chiefs of staff. Derek Persico, Dane Thull, Jim (unintelligible), all of our staff. And I… and let me say all of our staff past and present, but including the Democratic staff. I've gotten to work as a spokesperson on three committees for the last four years. That means you have to work with both sides to get things done and get it done right. I have to talk about JCAR for just a minute because it's been most of my life in this Body for the last six years as the cochair. The GOP Members that I want to point out to you, Tom Demmer, Steve Reick, Peter Breen, who was here before and was on JCAR with us, Sue Rezin, Don DeWitte, and John Curran in the Senate. That's a team of people that were very, very collaborative and were… stood by me in a lot of really interesting process they go through in JCAR. JCAR has so much untold weight and influence in this building and in this state. I have to also thank my… my cochairs. Now Senate President Don Harmon and Senate President Pro Tempore Bill Cunningham, amazing people to work with. Really, really helped me lead and also just be collaborative and the effect of that. I also have to point out that Frank Staus was my staffer on that entire time and he is an amazing resource for all of us. Thanks also to Vicki Thomas, Kim Schultz, who ran JCAR. If you think back to the pandemic, JCAR was the point of… of the rubber meets the road 10200112.docx 159 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 in this state for about two years of actual governing. We didn't meet as a Body very much, so a lot of things happened through JCAR. With that, I want to say, also, thank you to the Governor's staff for both the Rauner Administration and the Pritzker Administrations because I worked with all of them in JCAR and they were both very kind to me. And there was… I appreciate their willingness to listen to someone who they didn't necessarily have to listen to, but they did and I'm grateful for it. This is truly the people's House and it's been such an incredible honor to serve here with all of you and I will treasure this forever. I am grateful to the trust that Leadership put in me and the committees that I had to serve on with so many of you and the support from my district. I am just so grateful."
"Leader Spain on House Resolution 1062."
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity. And it's so great to have the honor to recognize my seatmate, who I'm not sure if you recognize from the photos behind me. Although he doesn't look too different from that right now. Of course, we're talking about our Deputy Republican Leader, my seatmate, Tom Demmer. And I'm glad, frankly, to have these funny pictures of a young Tom Demmer behind me to bring a smile to my face and what otherwise is… is really going to be a difficult tribute to get through. We're so lucky and we've been so blessed to have been joined in service by Tom Demmer here in the House of Representatives for the last 10 years and even before that where he served on the Lee County Board as a 22-year-old doing the work of being a young elected official before it was ever cool and became 10200112.docx 160 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 ever so popular. Tom has been serving his community and our State of Illinois for so long. He's been a leader in our caucus for so many years serving as Republican Conference Chairman, then moving on through his strength and abilities as a Legislator to serving as our Deputy Republican Leader. And then, of course, running now statewide in… in the effort to seek the office of Treasurer for the State of Illinois. But it's not just his service to Republicans and to our caucus that I think even rises to near the top of the list. It's the service that Tom Demmer has given to the State of Illinois. We all recognize Tom through his leadership on budget negotiation, advancing health care principles, ensuring that economic development and competitiveness can be front and center for the State of Illinois. I will always get a kick out of the fact that Mr. Fiscal Notes, and all things legislative notes, was someone who never used a note, never had a script, never needed one because Tom Demmer is… is truly one of the smartest, most thoughtful, and most hard-working people in public service that I think any of us have ever come across before. And so, Tom, we salute you. We appreciate your incredible service. We… we know that your family has been part of this service. Your wife, Becca, your daughter, Katie, your young son, John, are all so incredibly proud of you. We all know that this General Assembly, and especially here in the House, is truly a family. Sometimes a dysfunctional one, but we all are a family together. We're united together. And to my seatmate and really to the brother that I've never had, I can't thank you enough, Tom, for your friendship, your leadership, your positive force for 10200112.docx 161 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 effecting and driving change for the State of Illinois. This House and this state will miss you. This chamber will be a lesser place with your absence, but the mark that you made on the State of Illinois will be one of great improvement. And I know, and it brings me just a glimmer of hope and a smile to my face, I know for sure that this is not the last that we will see of our good friend Tom Demmer. Tom, congratulations on your retirement. We will miss you so much here in the House."
"Representative Demmer."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I need to start off this evening by saying a very special happy birthday to my wife. Today's her birthday. For the last 10 years, it's been inauguration day or the last day of Session or whatever. I promise, Becca, next year I'll be home for your birthday. But to all of you, I… I want to say thank you too. This has been a absolute privilege to serve in the House of Representatives. We've had many good debates. We've had the good back and forth, I think, that makes better policy here in Illinois. We're all privileged and honored to serve here. And while my term is coming to an end today, there will never be an end to the memories that I made here. And there will never be an end to the respect that I have for this House as an institution and to each one of you as friends and colleagues. Thank you so much and God bless you."
"Representative Rita on House Resolution 1054."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I know there's been a lot said about this individual already, but it wouldn't be right to not say a few words on 10200112.docx 162 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 the Resolution, the official Resolution, that was filed for Mike Zalewski. You know, as I was thinking, what am I going to say about Mike. As we listened here today, and the last few days as we come to an end, you know, here's a Legislator that was trusted. His word meant something. He worked with both Democrats and Republicans to try to achieve their legislative goals. That's what we're supposed to be here. He's a… he served as a model to us as to… you know, served as a model to me. We worked very well together as our personalities are maybe a little bit different. Mike likes to rush to a decision and I say let's wait. He… he did a lot of tough Bills outside, as we heard about all the… the things that he did with revenue. But, you know, when the… as times change, like the taxi and Uber, as Uber was coming here to regulate them, he was on the forefront of that Bill. You guys… those that were here if you remember that. FanDuel and fantasy sports, for a number of years, he's tackled that, which led into where we worked, really, hand in hand together. I think we were on the opposite sides of both them other issues with sports betting. You know, he took a lead. He became an expert in it. And it was something that we were able to work together when, along with working with the Republicans, Keith Wheeler and what's his name, the railroad. See how far we… we forget that someone left. It's only been a couple weeks. Butler. And… and we worked together and… we forgot about you already, Tim. But, you know, I looked at all the different… as we said here, what do we say about Mike? Mike is a model Legislator that we should strive to be. Now, I remember you coming here in 2008. You replaced my mentor and the person that… the 10200112.docx 163 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Legislator that brought me here, Bob Morrow. And it was a sad day when Bobby was leaving, which he didn't leave far, but you took his spot. And I can't help to remember to say, who is this young guy coming in? He's… his tie don't match his shirt, it's untucked. His jacket looks like it was rolled up in the back of his car. I said, he reminds me of Chapin Rose. This must be a… a former prosecutor thing. But as I got to know Mike, he was a genuine… very genuine and wanted to help people. And that's what we're here to do as… all of us when we get elected, help our communities, help our districts, help people achieve their goals. And so, Mike, I've learned a lot from you. I know as a door closes, as I told you, others open. I know this next door that's going to open for you is going to be a great one, Mike, 'cause I know how you were for the 14 years that you spent here in tackling the tough issues and… and making them very easy as you explained them, as you did today. No. We did have a plan to have you have your last Bill, but it fell a little short because of… we're going to blame the Senate because they didn't send us the stuff what they were supposed to or they had to change a bunch of things. But you know, we wanted to give you the century club for your last Bill. And we were working on it, but we got a little derailed. Now, as it's 9:30, is it, and nobody wants to hear me continue to go on and on because we're all hungry and we want to get to our families that are coming down. So, Mike, good luck. I know you're going to be successful but I know you're not going to be far. My friend, Mike Zalewski. Let's hear it for Mike."
"Representative Zalewski." 10200112.docx 164 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"I'm finally sick of people talking about me. I'll be very brief. My family is watching at home. I have a spouse that has put… endured a lot over 14 years and 4 children are waiting for me with bated breath. So, they're watching, it's passed their bedtime. Go to bed, kids. This place is so meaningful to me and the people in it are so meaningful to me. I'm a big movie buff. And if you know Saving Private Ryan, in the movie, Matt Damon at the end asked Tom Hanks if… Tom Hanks tells Matt Damon at the end of the movie, 'We've gone through this whole thing. You have to earn this.' And Matt Damon, later in his life, questions whether he's earned it. And I question every day the earning of this job. And if you don't question it, you're not doing it well because it's such a privilege. The people in here are amazing. Democrats, Republicans, downstaters, city, progressives, mods, Black Caucus, Latino Caucus, you're all so amazing. You all… I've never met a person whose heart isn't in the right place in this building, and I'll miss you all dearly. And know that this place has its own oxygen and its own adrenaline. And it'll… it'll bring you to your knees and humble you when you think you have it figured out. And it's… but it's an incredibly special place that the people are proud of. I will be watching. I'm only a phone call away to all of you. Good luck to you and it's been an honor to serve with all of you. Thank you very, very much."
"Representative Hirschauer on House Resolution 1050."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honor my friend and colleague, Denyse Wang Stoneback, and to thank her 10200112.docx 165 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 for her service in the 102nd General Assembly. Representative Stoneback is a community leader and a trailblazer. She has always used her voice and power to effect change. After the deadly shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, she founded a nonprofit organization called People for a Safer Society, which still continues to do good work today. Since joining the General Assembly, Representative Stoneback has passionately addressed issues that are important to the 16th District. She has championed legislation that protects victims of domestic violence and she promotes awareness of firearm restraining orders and increases training on their implementation. She has also helped to pass legislation to increase student access to mental health. And, of course, she cofounded the Gun Violence Prevention Caucus to advocate for legislation that would protect all Illinoisans. Representative Stoneback, as we all know, has a heart as big as our dome and is an example of perseverance, resilience, and dedication to the service of her constituents. Denyse, we know your work is not done. I have no doubt that you will continue to be a fierce advocate and to make good trouble on behalf of your community. On behalf of all of our colleagues here, I wish you well and look forward to seeing what you do next."
"Representative Stoneback."
"Thank you, Representative Hirschauer. And thank you every single Member here and staff person. I was trying to collect my thoughts on how I would say goodbye to this place. I've learned so much and I think it's an incredibly humbling place. It's an incredible… amazing place with amazing people. 10200112.docx 166 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 And I have to say, I want to thank, not just our Leaders in this chamber, everyone who's… more experienced Members who've mentored me and really tried to bring me in and teach me so much. My fellow colleagues that have stood by me and offered kindness and friendship. My… my fellow freshman that entered with me and we bonded. Everyone who's participated in the Gun Violence Prevention Caucus. And all the caucuses that I've had the honor to… to be in, and the firearms safety working group. And I also want to thank my seatmates, Bob Morgan and Lamont Robinson, who always had my back, and everyone in this little area. It's just been such an honor and a privilege to represent my district and learn from all of you, serve with you, do amazing things for the public service of Illinois. I know you will continue to do amazing things. And I… it's been incredibly amazing to… to end passing the Protect Illinois Communities Act. A huge accomplishment. Thank you to everyone who helped make that happen, and there's a lot more to do. And I am only a phone call away for whatever you need, and I think I'll leave it there. Thank you so much."
"Representative Mason on House Resolution 1052."
"Mr. Speaker, friends, I rise today to celebrate and honor my neighbor, my friend, Representative Sam Yingling. Sam… Sam grew up, actually many of you may not know, working in his grandparents' and parents' restaurants. We like to talk about how he was serving tables at the age of three. And some of you may not know that where his office currently is, is actually in the building of his family's former restaurant, the heart of the community where he grew up serving and continued to serve. I first met Sam way back. I was working 10200112.docx 167 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 at the Lake County House Authority and I was asked to set up a conference room because the local State Representative was coming in to hold, like, a listening session with constituents. Now, that wasn't my district, but I had never met a State Representative before because mine sure didn't ever knock on my door. But some staffers came in, and then this guy came running in, very casual, so friendly, so kind, and then I learned that that was the State Representative. And I was so amazed. And then I watched him sit down at a table with all of these constituents that had come in. And I sat, you know, in the corner of the room and listened to him, listened and talked with them and discuss issues. And I was so incredibly impressed by the way he listened and the way he responded and how thoughtful he was to even the most difficult questions. And that, Ladies and Gentlemen, was really my first experience around a State Representative. And I'm glad that it was Sam that I got to see as that first example for me. Sam has served in the Legislature for the past 10 years. And I think it's because of the way that he treats his constituents, the way that he listens, the way that he responds. Every single day when I talk to him, he's meeting with people and answering people and talking with them. And I remember going home that day after that meeting and telling somebody, wow. I met a State Representative today. And he was really normal. He was really cool. Like, he was just like a regular guy. And I think that that's one of the things that people love about Sam, that he listens and he cares, and he's a regular guy. And he's very relatable. So, Sam started off as a supervisor, a township supervisor. And that experience 10200112.docx 168 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 and that knowledge has grown and shown in his work in the Counties and Townships Committee that he has chaired. I know certainly he's been my go-to guy to learn about committee and township issues and legislation and rules and… and all of those good things. So, but you guys know all of that. You know he works to reform local government, do consolidation, save taxpayers money. He is known for his big exclamation points and his even bigger tax cutting scissors. But he also has a very big heart and he's a wonderful father. He loves his kids. He fought fiercely for marriage equality to pass. And I will never be able to return to the Governor's Mansion again without looking at the spot that he proposed to his husband, Lowell, right after marriage equality passed because he proudly shows it to me every single time we've been there. And I can just… I can feel the love and the pride of that moment. It will always be carried at that spot for me. His parents, Tom and Judy, were my constituents and I've gotten to know them over the years. And some of you may know that Sam recently lost his dad this year. And the last time that I had the opportunity to see Tom, we were sitting in Sam's conference room and they had stopped by to say hello. And Sam went off to his other office to do some things and his dad sat there and told me how very proud he was of… of Sam, sorry, and how much it meant to him, the work that he did in the community. And that was the last… last time I saw him, and that will always stay in my heart. And, of course, I know Judy, your mom, is so incredibly proud too. And, you know, your family just loves you so much. So, anyway, I appreciate your friendship. I appreciate your mentorship. And I 10200112.docx 169 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 appreciate all that you have done for our collective community. And I wish you well. I know you're going to do amazing things… continue to do amazing things. And I ask everybody to join me in congratulating Sam on these last 10 years and the next adventure that he goes on."
"Representative Yingling."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you, Representative Mason, for all of the kind words. All I can really say at this point is, wow. Serving in this chamber for the past 10 years has been the absolute honor of a lifetime. I cannot even articulate the emotion that I feel thinking about everything that we have done here in the chamber for the past decade. If someone would've told me 10 years ago that I would be elected as an LGBTQ Legislator from an exurban district, I would never have believed it. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to not only witness history being made, but also to help shape that history. And I do want to give a special shout out to the other Members of the Lake County House Delegation, Representative Mayfield, Representative Didech, Representative Morgan, Representative Mason, and Representative Carroll, and how much I've enjoyed working with all of you and all of the great things and all of the great work we've done to ensure that the people of Lake County have a voice here in Springfield. The friendships that I have made here I will absolutely cherish. It's been an amazing honor to serve with all of you, and I wish everyone a huge amount of success in the upcoming Session. Thank you."
Speaker Harris: "Representative Yednock on House Resolution 1053." 10200112.docx 170 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm standing in honor of our esteemed colleague, State Representative Michael W. Halpin, for his six years as a Member of the Illinois House of Representatives, where he served the 72nd District. He came to us from Rhode Island. He got him Bachelor's degree in political science at Roger Williams University and came to Illinois in 2002 and attended the University of Illinois where he got his law degree. Since he's been in Springfield, he has been a Member of many committees and he worked really hard for workers, especially on his time on the Pension Committee, to name a few. But on a more personal note, I just wanted to say that I was lucky enough to be seated in my first term next to Mike. We came fast friends, talking through issues, speaking about our families, and enjoying the political theater as two quiet people in the back row. We built our friendship by speaking on the phone when Session was out, getting a slice of pizza at Gallina's during the breaks or playing an early nine holes at a local course when we had time. We would have an occasional dinner and drink together, of course. When we went to group functions, we usually found ourselves either standing or sitting with each other by the end of the function, as we seem to be of the same mind. So, although he is younger than me, Mike is also the elder statesman in many ways. He's had a very reasonable and reasoned to approach the legislation that I've learned from him. And if I were unsure about a subject or a procedural issue, he patiently explained to me any of the concerns of what I had or the nature of what the issue was about really. And, more importantly, he usually pointed how I was wrong. 10200112.docx 171 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 And, you know, Mike is just a genuine soul. He's got a big, caring heart. He's tireless and thoughtful as a Legislator. I can only hope to mimic my behavior to Mike's. He's going to be sorely missed in the Body and I wish him all the best in his new digs over there in the Senate. I especially want to say hello to his lovely wife, Mary Ann, his daughter, Natalie, his son, Will, over there with him today waiting patiently for us today. And thank you for allowing Mike to be… to share his life and his knowledge and wisdom with us in the great State of Illinois. I'll miss you a lot, Mike, but I hope we'll still go down and get a couple slices of pizza. Thank you, Mike."
"Representative Halpin."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thank you, Lance. I know it's late and I'm not going that far so I'm going to keep it short. I just want to start by giving you all my firm commitment to fix all your Bills in the Senate. On a serious note though… seriousness though, I want to start by thanking my family for sticking it out today and hanging out with me. I think they've had a good time and gotten a real taste of what we do down in Springfield. They've been with me this entire time and I'm so excited that they were able to be here on my first day and my last day as a House Member. Second, I want thank my staff. Most recently, Tara and Caitlin, for making my job and my life easier when I'm down here in Springfield. They're absolutely the best. I want to thank my district staff as well, but they're not rid of me yet. So, I'll talk to them later. But I really want to thank the staff here in the chamber, whether it's the Clerk's Office, or 10200112.docx 172 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Wayne, the doorkeepers, LIS. They do everything possible to give this chamber the dignity and the honor and the respect that it deserves because this is one of the greatest things you can do in your life as a public servant. And I am so very appreciative of everything they do for us day in and day out. For the Members that came before me, I want to thank you for being a resource and teaching me how to be a Legislator. For those that came in after me, I hope I've done what I can to do the same for you. And I wish you the best of luck. For the folks that came in with me, I just want to say I'm glad we survived until now. We came in at a very low point in… in 2016, early 2017, but I think we've come a long way and we've done it together and we've done it with… with class and style. I'm going to… I'm going to miss this place. I believe that the Legislature is, although it's a coequal branch of government, we are really the direct representatives of the people. And we need to make sure that… whoever the Governor is, whatever the courts are going to say, we're making sure to stand by our legislative prerogatives each and every day, representing the people that brought us here. So, everyone, make sure to keep your word, vote your district, and enjoy the ride along the way. Thank you very much."
"Leader Durkin on House Resolution 1059."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And before I go any further, Greg, it's been a real pleasure, man. We came in many years ago. I think I got you by a few years, but I really appreciate what you've done for this institution, for this state. You're a true gentleman. It's been an absolute honor. Dan Brady. Dan, you awake? All right. The Gentleman from McLean County, 10200112.docx 173 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Dan Brady, 22 years as a Representative in this chamber. Dan, you and I have seen a lot. We've been through many Governors and countless Legislators. But here's something, Dan. You and I are kind of cut from the same cloth. I consider us old school. You've heard that before. Old school isn't bad. Just remember that, guys. There's value in that. Dan is what you call a statesman. It's true, Dan. He never changed from the person he was in 2001. For those of you who know Dan, he is a man of deep conviction. And I can tell you personally, when he has made his mind up on a vote, he ain't budging. Never did, never will. Often to my dislike, but that's okay, Dan. It's all right. Dan and I also strongly believe in loyalty. That's important in this chamber. But we also personally, between two of us, know that our friendship and respect for each other is strong and it'll continue to be strong. And I'm going to give you an example of Dan. Maybe about eight years ago, my mother had passed away. It was a wake that was attended by masses and it was a long day that started a… of the wake ceremony. Out of nowhere, it was a Session day, Dan Brady showed up, and drove from Springfield up to the west suburbs to help the funeral director manage what was going to be a very challenging day. It was a huge task. That is friendship. That is loyalty. You don't ask, you just do it. And that defines Dan Brady. Dan, thank you for your service to the men and women of this chamber, the men and women in the families of McLean County in Central Illinois, most importantly, to the people of the State of Illinois. It's been a tremendous honor working with you and I know that the 10200112.docx 174 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 future will hold great success for you and your family. Godspeed, my friend."
"Representative Brady."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Leader Durkin, thank you. I'm so used to my other profession of people saying nice things about somebody after they're gone. It's nice to hear nice things while you're still alive. So, thank you very much. I appreciate it. Twenty- two years ago, right here in this chamber, on this day, I was sworn in as State Representative, surrounded by my wife, Teri, then three-year-old daughter, Danielle, and soon to be born son, Tom. That's right, I am the father of Tom Brady. And I often, over the years, sat and listened to a number of these particular presentations and wondered to myself, what will it be like when my time comes? What will be said? Who will be there? What will I have accomplished in the legislative world? And I can only tell you that I am so honored by so many who have been here, some still here, lots that are gone. But to think that from the first day to where I'm at today, what's been accomplished. And it's been accomplished because of the help of a lot of wonderful people. As the saying says, surround yourself with good people, Ladies and Gentlemen, and there's not anything you can't overcome. And I have surrounded myself with some wonderful people over the years. To think that, when I first started, that I would end my career in a statewide race, running for Secretary of State and winning the Republican nomination, and traveling the state and having so many friends help in so many different ways. And, yes, to my former opponent, now Secretary of State Giannoulias, I 10200112.docx 175 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 congratulate him and wish him the best. But it's… it's really about those relationships. Whether it be former Representatives, present Representatives, lobbyists, people that work in this facility from Secretary of State Police to keep us safe, to maintenance workers, to everybody in this facility, it's been an honor. It's been a privilege. And it's been a privilege for me, my family, and those that I represented. Because I've really been an individual who has tried to cut to through the red tape of government and constituent service has been what I have worked very, very hard at. I don't think there's anyone probably in my district that you could say, 'What Bills did he pass?', even though he passed a lot. But they could say he returned my call, responded to my email, he stopped at the grocery store, he listened when I saw him at the football game. Whatever the case may be, that's what I want in my Representative, someone who listens, somebody who cares, and somebody who takes action. That's what I've tried to do. And I would also just simply say that friends don't… friendships don't end with terms. You're all my friends and I can't thank you enough, and we'll stay in touch and contact. And God bless you all. Thank you."
"Leader Spain on House Resolution 1045."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I believe we've now arrived at our final outgoing Member, and we've certainly worked to save this special recognition for last. Because as the clock strikes midnight tonight, we will be saying farewell, a very fond farewell, to one of the great Legislative Leaders here in the State of 10200112.docx 176 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Illinois. Jim Durkin has had a long and distinguished career serving the State of Illinois. We all know that Jim came from a large family. I've lost track of how many brothers Jim Durkin shared a bathroom with growing up as a young boy. But I… I've never lost track and never been reminded of the many times of his major triumphs as a basketball star at Fenwick High School, especially that epic showdown with Isaiah Thomas back in the good old days. But it wasn't basketball that Jim chose to pursue. He had very noble pursuits as he worked to become an attorney. And what a great one he did become, serving as a prosecutor… where was it, Jim? Down at 26th and California? And certainly a long and distinguished private practice. Jim has done so many things in his work to amplify his leadership for the State of Illinois. He ran for U.S. Senate in 2002. That's the first time I ever heard of Jim Durkin, as a young college Republican at the University of Illinois with a Jim Durkin for U.S. Senate bumper sticker on my very old car at that point. I didn't that many years later, I'd have a chance to meet the Jim Durkin alive, in person here, as our House Republican Leader. Jim Durkin has been many things, but above them all, he is a man of the House. And this House has been his home for a long time. In January 1995, Leader Durkin became a State Representative in the 44th District. When he left that brief time to run statewide for U.S. Senate, he was returned to us in 2006, filling a vacancy and finishing now a 22-year distinguished career in the Legislature. Jim will be remembered for his many achievements as a Legislator: Leading… helping to lead the impeachment investigation of Rod Blagojevich; working to improve access 10200112.docx 177 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 to health care, especially in the field of diabetes; being a both… a strong advocate for criminal justice reform and a voice that was committed to improving public safety throughout the State of Illinois; working to make sure educational opportunities were improved for all children; working in dedicated fashion to develop and implement the Invest in Kids Scholarship Program. The list could go on and on, and as many of our other distinguished Members, we certainly have Resolutions to reflect these accomplishments in the record. But it is Jim's job, and what we will all remember him for, in earnest, over the last many years since 2013 as the Leader of the House Republican Caucus. It will come as no surprise for you to hear that this is a tough job, a very tough job, as any Legislative Leader has, helping to lead and guide, protect, nurture, and grow his caucus. And I know that our caucus, and this entire Body, this is entire State of Illinois, are all eternally grateful for the many years of hard work that Jim Durkin has put in. There is not a county, there is not a district, there is not a Member, certainly on the Republican side, but also on the Democratic side, that Jim has not been there for you. Working to help with you, to help improve your Bills, to be a guiding force for good and improvement in the State of Illinois. Jim Durkin, a man of the House, a person that we will remember very fondly for his dedicated and outstanding service to the General Assembly, to this chamber, and especially to the great people of this State of Illinois. Please join me in recognizing our Republican Leader, Jim Durkin."
"Leader Durkin." 10200112.docx 178 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Never thought this day would come, seriously, but here we are. There's finality to everything we do and particularly with our jobs. We're just here for a short amount of time. Correct, Speaker? In 2002, after I lost my race, I promised the people of Illinois and also the West Suburbs that I would never run for public office again. I lied. I came back. But I am here tonight to tell you that I will absolutely, positively never run for the House of Representatives or serve in this chamber again. Is that good? I think. I don't know. I'm waiting for you guys to say on the other side. But anyway, thank you all. And, more importantly, I want to thank the people who have made my life better in this job. First and foremost, to my right is my dear friend and the sister I never had, Cheri Hermes. Cheri. Andrew Freiheit. You all know Andrew. He is the consummate professional. He's the one that keeps the lights on. He does so much for us during the course of a day that you don't realize it. But, Andrew, I want to thank you for your dedicated work and, more importantly, your friendship that you've extended to me all these years that we've worked together. Thank you. Derek Persico, my counsel, I go back with your father. Persico family means a lot to me. You've done a fantastic job of helping me, protecting me and the caucus, and again, about being my friend. Thank you. And also, I can't… Wes Clark, Wayne Padget, Erica Conrad, all of my 316 family. I'm going to miss you all very much. But I also want to make sure some of the people at home that I recognize them for what they've done for me. Julie Cherico, David Walsh, Dave Curran, Joe Woodword, and Jayme Odom. Now, I entered this chamber for the first time 22 years ago. I 10200112.docx 179 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 remember that day well. I felt a tremendous sense of awe and humility. And, Ladies and Gentlemen, I feel that same sense of awe and humility as I speak on the floor for this last time. Serving the people of the Western Suburbs has been the greatest honor of my life. But I never wanted to be the guy who didn't know when to say it's time to go. I can say with complete peace that my decision to resign was one of the toughest decisions I've ever made. But strangely, at the same time, was one of the easiest decisions as well. I have witnessed so much over these years. I witnessed a State Senator with a funny name become the 44th President of the United States of America. I saw my good friend and State Senator, Chris Radogno, become the first female Leader in the Senate. I wish… I watched my colleague and neighbor, Chris Welch, become the first African American Speaker of the House of Representatives. And most recently, she's not here, but I’m immensely proud of the fact that I'm handing over the reins to the first female to serve in the capacity as the House Republican Leader. It's quite a chamber and it's good. Know this though, we will all do better and our state will be better if you operate from a place of civility and respect for one another. While our differences will often be stark and rooted in deep conviction, always be respectful of what the other side is saying because their viewpoint also comes from a place of deep conviction. Parting is always bittersweet, and it is. I've reflected on this a lot over the past few months. But as I said earlier, I'm ready for this next chapter in my life. But, of course, as we've all said, we're going to miss the people. Most of you anyway. So, I 10200112.docx 180 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 don't know if you caught that. Now, let's do that again. Now, I will say this. Parting is always bittersweet. And, of course, what I will miss most is the people. Most of you anyway. All right, good. That's better. Thank you. All right. We got it? Batinick, you've always been sharp. You got that. His head is always moving. I'm not speaking just about the people in this building, but for the people of the City of Springfield, who I've been neighbors with for the past 22 years. I want to thank them for welcoming me and also all of us who serve this incredible experience in the House of Representatives. To my wife, Celeste, my daughters, Caroline, Madeline, Adrienne, and Emma, I want to thank you… thank each and one of you for being part of this… this amazing journey and tolerating the jobs and the tasks with this assignment. And, more importantly, tolerating me, 'cause it's not easy. I'd like to just finish up by saying in closing, my parents, Tom and Colette Durkin, always instilled in me to leave a place better than I found it. I hope my parents in Heaven are proud too. God bless this chamber and God bless the great State of Illinois. Thank you all."
"Members, just note that we still have some legislation to work on. Representative Robinson, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Mr. Speaker, a point of personal privilege. And I promise you, I know we have a lot of work to do in this Body, so it'll be very, very short. First and foremost, Leader Harris, I want thank you for being the voice of the voiceless in our great City of Chicago and our great state. Because you, Leader Harris, have set the example to fight for those 10200112.docx 181 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 who have no one to fight for. Someone who also puts themself first and someone that puts themself out, and sometimes, in harm's way. And as someone that has followed your shoes in this Body, I want to thank you because you have made me a better Member of this Body. And I will be forever thankful for your friendship and your mentorship. There are a few others that I want to briefly thank. Leader Greenwood, who has been a big sister to me. Representative Kathleen Willis, Sam Yingling, Representative Zalewski, Representative Conroy. All of these Members were there for me in my darkest moment when a hospital by the name of Mercy was on the brink of closure. And I want to thank each Member for keeping me in their thoughts and their prayers. And many of these folks also came and stood with me as we protest the closure of that hospital. And because many of these folks, we were able to keep this hospital open, and I will be forever grateful. I know that there are many Members across the aisle that are also leaving, but to my Minority Spokesman, Representative Wheeler. Representative, I want to appreciate the hard work we did as the chair of IT & Data Analytics. You are a true gentleman, a true statesman, and I appreciate your friendship. And this Body needs to figure out a way to send you to D.C. so you can continue to the great work you're doing. And lastly, to my seatmate. You know, we can't choose our family, and sometimes we can't choose our seatmates, but I will be forever grateful for a great relationship that has been fostered out of this Body and my seatmate, Denyse Stoneback. Denyse came to us as an advocate and she continued to be an advocate up until today. Her family should be 10200112.docx 182 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 extremely proud of her because of her legacy and the body of work that she has done. Over 30 Bills Sponsored, cosponsored, has reached the Governor's desk, and a first termer. And so, to my seatmate, my friend, my sister, I know that you will go on to do great things, not only for the State of Illinois, for our entire country. And so, God bless you and thank you for being my friend and my seatmate."
"Representative Evans, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"You know, as a Member of the Black Man's Caucus, I can't miss an opportunity to show love to a beautiful black woman who did everything right in this Assembly. Leader Greenwood stepped up into leadership and conducted herself with the upmost class. She dress good. But Leader Greenwood is intelligent. Leader Greenwood brought with her a passion for Southern Illinois. How many of y'all was talking about Touchette Hospital. I know I didn't know what Touchette Hospital was. She brought a busload of her colleagues to Touchette Hospital. 'Cause you saw those boys that won that football championship from East St. Louis, some of them was going to Touchette Hospital, and she wanted to make sure they had health care. She wanted to make sure that the veterans in her community… we did a Bill and she wanted to make sure the veterans had their licenses… I don't know what she's trying to do. But LaToya Greenwood knew education, she knew health care. This woman is a woman of intelligence. She helped Governor Pritzker's agenda. She helped the gay agenda. She 10200112.docx 183 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 helped the women's agenda. She helped everybody's agenda. Leader Greenwood helped everybody's… some of y'all Republicans, she helped y'all agenda too. This is a woman who was supportive. She did everything that was asked from her. She served the people of the State of Illinois. She served Southern Illinois beyond what I've ever seen. She came here hitting the ground running. So, thank you, LaToya Greenwood, for you class. And even though she didn't get the numbers she needed from the voters, the work was there. Her track record is crystal clear. And we're going to do a better job of displaying that track record 'cause she did it. So, thank you, LaToya Greenwood, for doing everything right in serving the people of a community that I knew not much about. So, thank you so much. And as you exit, I want you to exit with honor 'cause I love you. I appreciate you. And let's give a round of applause for my friend, the most beautiful, classy, intelligent, capable, served us all, even your agenda, LaToya Greenwood."
"Representative Meyers-Martin, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just would like to take this opportunity to ask the Body to welcome some very special people that have hung in here tonight, up in the balcony. I have my sister, Wendy Jones; my daughter, Kelly Meyers; my chief of staff, Anjenita Davis; my ride or die, best supporters in the world, Lashun James and Mr. Daaron Willard. If you'd please welcome."
"Welcome to Springfield. Representative Flowers, for what reason do you seek recognition?" 10200112.docx 184 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"I just want to… as I was sitting here listening to all these farewells and goodbyes, I think I was feeling a little sorry for myself. This is not about you all. I'm not talking about you. I'm talking about me now, okay? And I am so honored and so proud to have you all to have been in my life. And when… Representative Greenwood, I can go on and on and on, because from the day I laid eyes on you, you reminded me of my daughter. And I just thought you were the most wonderful person in the whole wide world. And so, again, I was blessed to have your presence. And to the other Members, especially on my Republican side of the aisle, I just want to say, the arguments and the fights and the debates that we have gotten into, you all have truly made me a better person. You made me get up earlier and stay up later and fight that much harder. And so, this is really a sad moment in my life when I look around and see so many of my friends… Representative Stoneback, thank you very much for the calls, the conversations. I'm going to miss that. I just wish we could've been a little closer, worked a little harder. And, Representative Evans, everything you said… everything that you said about reverend… reverend. She could be a reverend, right? Representative Greenwood, it was ditto, ditto, ditto. But I… I just want to say to all of you, I'm going to miss you and I want to thank you for being in my life. And as a result, I would like to say to the new Members that if they don't have someone in their lives to argue with and debate 10200112.docx 185 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 and push and shove… and it's not personal. It's about debating your issue. Standing up for what you believe in. Trying to convince the other to go along with your program. I just want to say thank you and for that I'm a better person. May God bless you all and I hope our paths cross again. Thank you."
"On Supplemental Calendar #4 appears House Bill 1563, Representative Burke."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move to concur in Senate Floor Amendment #2 to House Bill 1563. This Bill does… the Concurrence coming over from the Senate, at this late hour, does two things. First, it makes a change regarding the preferred location for all state employment. So, currently, the law requires that Sangamon County be the preferred location for all state employment. And this builds in some flexibility that Sangamon County should be the preferred location, but there are various things that can be taken into consideration. The diversity of the applicant pool, whether the position is suited for telework. And it seeks to make sure that our center of government stays in the capital but also looking into some of the realities of the modern workforce and providing some flexibility. The second thing that it does is make some changes to a variety of boards. And these are not necessarily substantive changes but just some, I guess, more technical changes that allow for a greater breath of folks to be considered for fulfilling some of these boards and commissions. I would be happy to take some questions."
"Leader Batinick for a question."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" 10200112.docx 186 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023
"Indicates she'll yield."
"Representative, this… this came over from the Senate today, correct? Didn't go through committee?"
"That's correct."
"Pretty much a gut and replace?"
"Correct."
"And you are… so, this has nothing to do with the warehouse situation, the Amazon warehouse situation?"
"Yes. I believe it's all a gut and replace."
"Okay. There's a lot here. A lot of changes to requirement of members on the board, correct?"
"That… yes."
"I mean, you're changing FOID Card Act boards… and we have… changes the experiential requirements for members of the Firearm Owners Identification Review Board."
"Right. So, there are very specific requirements that are currently required. And under this Bill, the board members would instead have actual experience in law, education, social work, behavioral sciences, law enforcement, or community affairs. So, they would… obviously, those areas are ones that can have great input on the FOID card process. And it's not as specific to some of the current… some of the current requirements."
"Okay. This is a lot for us to take in at this hour with the complete gut and replace that just came over. You're probably going to see some Christmas lights over here. So, I appreciate you doing the best job you can at this late hour to explain the Bill that just came over and give everybody on 10200112.docx 187 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 our side of the aisle an opportunity to vote 'no' one last time."
"Want to apologize for making your last Bill, literally your last Bill, hopefully, this late at night."
"All right. Thank you."
"Representative Davis."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Before I ask our question, I just want to remind Members that if you're thinking it's late tonight, two years ago, we adjourned about 5:00 in the morning the day before we got sworn in. So, this is actually pretty early for us. So, this is great. Will the Sponsor yield, Mr. Speaker?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Representative, I wish I had known more about what you were doing because I think what you're attempting to do is some things that I would very much appreciate. So, very quickly, I learned not too long ago that Illinois Emergency Management Association, IEMA, all of their positions are based in Springfield. Would this Bill help with that situation so that individuals can be hired by IEMA but live in other parts of the state?"
"It could, depending on the position and the requirements. But it does provide that flexibility to look a little further afield than just folks who are in the Springfield area."
"Well, I guess when you say it… based on the criteria. I mean, how do you discern what could or could not be based in Springfield? And maybe… and I apologize if that's a lot of detail for you to… to ask you right now. But again, all the IEMA positions are based in Springfield. So, if this doesn't 10200112.docx 188 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 impact that, then… not to say why are we not doing it, but does that mean we need to something more in the 103rd?"
"So, as I understand it, it would allow the director of CMS, in consultation with the director of whatever agency… so, in your example, the director of the IEMA… to figure out which positions would be suitable for telework, for remote working, to be at another location. So, I really can't answer the specifics of which positions that IEMA would be under consideration. I think that's something, maybe, we could follow up with, you know, as they start to roll out this policy. So, this was intended to provide some more flexibility, but honestly, I can't speak to specific job titles or positions right now."
"Okay. It just sounds like we're probably going to have to do a little more work on this in the 103rd. When you talk about increasing diversity, well, if all the positions are based in Springfield, then we miss out on great opportunities to hire good people throughout the entire state for a number of other positions. So, again, thank you for this, which I believe is probably a step in the right direction. But we're going to make Amendments to this in the 103rd and make it better. Thank you very much."
"Always a trailer Bill."
"Representative Burke to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote on the Motion to Concur in Senate Floor Amendment #2."
"Question is, 'Shall the House concur with Senate Amendment #2 to House Bill 1563?' This is final action. All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'no'. The voting is 10200112.docx 189 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. With 70 voting 'yes', 31 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present', the House does concur in Senate Amendment 2 to House Bill 1563. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
Clerk Hollman: "Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 1045, offered by Representative McCombie. House Resolution 1046, offered by Speaker Welch. House Resolution 1047, offered by Representative Hoffman. House Resolution 1048, offered by Representative Costa Howard. House Resolution 1049, offered by Lisa Hernandez. House Resolution 1050, offered by Representative Hirschauer. House Resolution 1051, offered by Representative Ann Williams. House Resolution 1052, offered by Representative Mason. House Resolution 1053, offered by Representative Yednock. House Resolution 1054, offered by Representative Rita. House Resolution 1055, offered by Representative Moeller. House Resolution 1056, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1057, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1058, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1059, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1060, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1061, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1062, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1063, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1064, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1065, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1066, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1067, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1068, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1069, 10200112.docx 190 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1070, offered by Leader Durkin. House Resolution 1071, offered by Representative Hamilton. House Resolution 1072, offered by Representative Hamilton. House Resolution 1074, offered by Leader Durkin. And House Resolution 1075, offered by Representative Moylan."
"Leader Greenwood moves for the adoption of the Agreed Resolutions. All those in favor say 'aye'; opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Agreed Resolutions are adopted. Speaker Welch."
Speaker Welch: "Mr. Speaker, Members of the 102nd General Assembly, this is the time that we have all been waiting for tonight. I rise to congratulate you on the conclusion of a truly meaningful two years in our state's history. Think back on where this General Assembly started just two years ago. On the floor of the Bank of Springfield Center, our desks six feet apart, to now, back home in this beautiful, glorious House chamber. What a difference two years makes. And then to think about all we have done in that time. What a difference those two years have made for the people of the State of Illinois. But it all starts with fiscally and socially responsible budgets, and that starts… started with my friend, your friend, our great Majority Leader, Greg Harris. Today is Greg's last day in the House and I've been sad just thinking about saying that line. But the work he's done, rebuilding our fiscal house, investing in life-saving services, being a voice for the voiceless, Greg's legacy's going to continue in this chamber and in this state for years to come. These budgets the last couple of years reduced to $17 billion 10200112.docx 191 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 backlog and unpaid bills. Our rainy-day fund was almost empty. We've replenished it with nearly $2 billion in savings for the future. We've saved more than a billion dollars in future interest payments, strengthened our human service providers, invested in our schools and our universities, and invested in our infrastructure. And people are taking notice again in what's happening in our state. We earned six credit ratings upgrades. The first in a generation. Now, this financial stability is enabling us to go into the next General Assembly to build upon that. We can build a state that we can all be proud of. We provided families with relief from rising costs in unstable markets. We made our workplaces fair tonight with guaranteed paid leave. That's a big deal. We're expanding health care access and equity, continuing our work to improve outcomes for women and children of color and extending care to new Americans regardless of their immigration status. We passed the Clean Energy Jobs Act, putting Illinois on a path to 100 percent clean energy and creating thousands of jobs while doing it. We got good at doing big things. We put more police officers on our streets, giving them the resources they need to combat crime while also investing in strong communities to combat the root causes of that crime. We brought everyone to the table. It might've taken things a little bit longer to get done, but you had to bring everyone to the table. Police, prosecutors, crime survivors, social justice advocate. We heard the good faith concerns and we acted accordingly, strengthening and improving the SAFE-T Act and streamlining implementation of these historic reforms. We rose to meet the challenges posed by an unprecedented moment 10200112.docx 192 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 in our country. While some, yes, have chosen extremism and radical ideologies, we're moving Illinois in a fundamentally better direction. In Illinois, we're defending the right to choose. We're getting weapons of war off our streets. We're defending the right to vote. We're combating anti-Semitism and racism. We're meeting anti-Asian hatred with education and understanding through the TEACH Act. We've laid down a marker for everyone across this nation to see. This is what Illinois looks like and this is what Illinois values. Now, in the process of doing all of that big stuff, Greg, we didn't always agree. Disagreements were shared, voices were raised. And that's, in my opinion, that was a good thing. Because frank discussions and difference of opinions is the heart of the legislative process. I look to my colleague across the aisle, Leader Jim Durkin. Man, we disagreed on a whole lot of things, but I never doubted your commitment to this state. For nine years, Leader Durkin showed us the man he is and who he's fighting for. He's a man who loves his family and his community. He's a champion for those dealing with the debilitating consequences of diabetes, like myself. He's a defender of this House and a defender of the process. Jim, once again, I want to thank you for your leadership and I'm grateful for the years we spent together trying to improve this state. Can we give him another round of applause, please? I want to thank everyone in this chamber for the role you've played in moving Illinois forward. To all our family members who won't be join… who won't be joining us for the 103rd, thank you for your dedication and your service. And I want to thank the outstanding staffs on both sides of the aisle. 10200112.docx 193 STATE OF ILLINOIS 102nd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 112th Legislative Day 1/10/2023 Without our staffs, this great machinery doesn't happen. I'm so thankful for Tiffany Moy and the team she's put together. Thank you, Tiffany. Thank you for the work that we've all done together. Yes, there's been a lot of late nights and a lot of long committees. The time away from our family and friends, I think, though, has proven worth it. I believe we started something truly transformational and I look forward to continuing to do the work. So, let me end with this. On behalf of a grateful state, the best state, the great State of Illinois, I want to thank you. So, at this time, Mr. Speaker, I move that this historic 102nd General Assembly of the Illinois House of Representatives, led for the first time by a lawmaker who's black, do adjourn sine die." 10200112.docx 194