"The House will come to order. Members will be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by Pastor Wimberly of East Liberty Christian Church in Carbondale, Illinois. Mr. Wimberly is the guest of Representative Severin. Members and guests are asked to refrain from starting their laptops, turn off all cell phones, and rise for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. Pastor."
"Good afternoon. My wife, Deon, and I, we're humbled and honored to be here with you today. Our church family at East Liberty have been praying for you, not just today, but every time God puts you in our heart. You know, and God tells us that his children, his Christians, to pray for others. But it's even better to pray with you. So, I invite you, if you will… and we got prayer warriors all over praying for this group of men and women. So, would you please bow your heads and pray with me. Precious heavenly Father, as you have given this House of Representatives such great responsibility to do the job of introducing Bills that become laws and establishing and maintaining our state budget, God, I pray your full armor over each and every one of these individuals, collectively and individually. God, I pray that they be strong in the Lord, that they draw strength from Jesus Christ and be empowered through their union with him. Give them your power so that they may be able to stand against the schemes and the strategies and the deceits of the devil as they consider laws and other decisions for Illinois. We realize that our struggle is not just against flesh and blood but also against the darkness and spiritual weaknesses of this world. Therefore, I pray that they put on the full armor 10300017.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 of God, that they put on the bell of truth, that they will have personal integrity and moral courage to use the Bible as their guide when they carry out their duties. I pray that they put on the breastplate of righteousness to protect and guard their hearts so they won't be afraid to do what is right in your eyes, God. I pray that they put on the footgear of the gospel of peace. Let them be prepared, wherever they go, to share the good news of your plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. I pray that they keep their shield of faith up to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one that will come against them as they… as the result of obeying your word. And finally, that they take the helmet of salvation and sword of the spirit, which is your word, to remind them of your unfailing love and kindness towards them that you sent your son Jesus to die to pay the penalty for sins and therefore allowing them to have power over sin. Also, because you raised Jesus from the dead, our Lord and savior gave us victory over death. I pray for everyone in this building that has not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and savior, that thy holy spirit would touch and quicken their heart to surrender their life now and accept Jesus to offer up forgiveness and salvation. Father, I know that you are a powerful God. I know that you're an awesome God that hears our cry. And I know that these men and women want to do right in your eyesight, God, and I pray that you give them the courage to continue to do what you call them to do. Father, I want to praise you for this opportunity to come before you and to present them to you. And their families, Lord, guard their families as well. Lord, you're such an awesome God. We believe in the power of 10300017.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 prayer and we believe that you hear our cry for you. And as you said in your word, if your people who are called by your name will humble themselves and pray and turn from their wicked ways, that you will hear from heaven and you will heal their land. God, we need healing for our country today. Start with our Representatives here in Illinois, God. Let this movement that’s coming to be, Lord, all about you. And I praise you for this opportunity to speak to you on behalf of these Representatives. And we believe this, we see this, all in the name of our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. And all the church said, Amen."
"We'll be led in the Pledge of Allegiance today by Representative Stuart."
"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 Gabel is recognized to report any excused absences on the Democratic side of the aisle. Leader Gabel."
"Speaker, let the record show that Representatives Jones, Burke, and Cassidy are excused today."
"Thank you, Leader. Leader Keicher is recognized to report any excused absences on the Republican side of the aisle."
"Mr. Speaker, let the record show that all Republicans are present for business today."
"Have all recorded themselves who wish? Have all recorded themselves who wish? Have all recorded themselves 10300017.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There being 114 Members answering the roll call, a quorum is present. Leader Meier seeks recognition."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Can we have a little quiet in here… little bit quieter? Today is just a day I want to brag a little bit. I'm happy to be the State Rep. for the 109th District because, this weekend in the 109th District, the Okawville Lady Rockets beat Christopher 56 to 35. Representative Dave Severin is buying the case of Ski for the Okawville Lady Rockets to drink while they're up here. Mater Dei beat Byron 62-46. Mater Dei is from Breese, also in my district, to take the second… the 2A state championship. The O'Fallon Panthers from my district beat Bennett Academy 62-57 in the Class 4A schools. And then on Sunday, our local Trinity and Immanuel Lutheran School won the state Lutheran tournament, Lady… the Lady Titans 42-28 over Peoria Christ. So, our girls in Southern Illinois and especially in the 108th District know how to bring home state championships. So, thank you and give them a round of applause."
"Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
Clerk Hollman: "Committee Reports. Representative Gabel, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on March 7, 2023: recommends be adopted, referred to the floor is Floor Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 1397 and Floor Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 2499. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 119, offered by Representative Evans; and House Joint Resolution 23, offered 10300017.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 by Representative Stava-Murray, are referred to the Rules Committee."
"Representative Tipsword seeks recognition. Representative Tipsword."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'm very pleased today to have with me, Grayson Colledge. He is my Page for the day. He's a fourth grader from Metcalf Elementary School in Normal, Illinois. If we could please give him a round of applause for all his hard work here today."
"Representative Mayfield."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Okay. The Illinois YouthBuild Coalition provides education and career training opportunities for youth ages 16 to 24 who meet the eligibility requirements. The Illinois YouthBuild Program provides a wide range of services for out of school, unemployed, and at-promise youth in full-time, year-long programs. Young people spend half of their time completing their high school education and the other half learning job skills through building or renovation affordable housings. This afternoon, YouthBuild is hosting a construction and leadership challenge. The construction demonstration event will take place from one to five in the west parking lot of the State House Inn on Adams Street. Asking everybody to please stop by the State House Inn, if you are able, between one and five, to just check out and see what our youth are doing. These are youth in our communities 10300017.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 that are doing positive things. And we just ask that you please stop by. And then I do have a second point, if that is permitted?"
"Please state your point."
"Okay. Can I… give me a little bit of quiet please. For those of you that don’t know, Representative Jones was in a serious accident last week. I do want to do a praise report and let everyone know that he is doing well despite the fact that he has sustained injuries in his neck, his spine, his ribs. He still doesn’t have full feeling on his left side in his arm and his leg. But I spoke to him earlier today, he is in good spirits, still in a whole lot of pain. It'll be several weeks before he'll be able to join us again. And I just ask that everybody please keep him in your prayers and pray for healing in his body. Thank you."
"Thank you. Thaddeus, we're thinking of you. Representative West."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Mr. Speaker, if the Body would indulge me, I rise on behalf of Crusader Community Health, a federally qualified health center in the Rockford region. There are issues that need to be addressed of which the path forward is foreign to me. So, I rise to share so that I can be contacted by those who care. Crusader prides itself on providing the highest quality care to medically underserved obstetric patients or pregnant patients while reducing health disparities and increasing health equity to a vulnerable population. They deliver 1 thousand to 1100 babies per year, which means that Crusader's 10300017.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 OB/GYN program had to expand decades ago to fill a significant community gap in obstetrical care to medically underserved patients in the region. No one is turned away, not even a late entry high-risk pregnant patient. This style of care is unique for Illinois FQHCs but necessary due to the otherwise lack of access to pregnant patients. The model includes Crusader-employed midwives staffing the hospitals 24/7 and Crusader OB/GYN physicians in the hospitals 24/7. But here's the barrier. HFS reimbursement for obstetric inpatient services has not increased over 20 years, while the cost structure to provide high-quality care has skyrocketed. Crusader receives no supplemental funding and enhanced reimbursement for hospital work. To put it in perspective, the reimbursement rates for vaginal deliveries are $924.45 and $1,070 for C-sections. Those rates have not increased for at least 20 years. So, now these rates are less than the providers' staffing costs. Market pressures on compensation and the lack of availability of OB/GYNs in the marketplace have made it next to impossible to hire and retain a sufficient number of OB/GYN physicians. Patient complexities and practice demands aggravate recruitment and retention challenges. The lack of OB/GYN physicians has caused a significant backlog for gynecological surgeries. The combinations of the OB/GYN shortages, along with the complex and complicated gynecological surgeries further exasperates recruitment and retention. Because of coverage shortages, Crusader is forced to contact… contract with other providers in the community to provide inpatient care at costs significantly in excess of HFS reimbursement levels. This 10300017.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 dilemma is strong… a strong negative impact on quality outcomes, outcomes that require OB/GYNs to have a significant portion of their practices devoted to outpatient care. Because of the 24-hour nature of the inpatient coverage demands, provider shortages disproportionately impact outpatient access. OB/GYNs shortages result in fewer outpatient clinic visits, making delivery quality care more difficult to achieve. In order to achieve the highest quality care of medically underserved obstetric patients, while at the same time reducing health disparities and increasing health equity to a vulnerable population, Crusader needs additional reimbursement to ensure the sustainability of a proven high-quality care model. So, when it comes to who I need to talk to, I guess I answered my own question. HFS, call me. Thank you."
"Representative Severin."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"Before I introduce the gentlemen that led us in prayer today, I just want to say that Representative Meier's new name is Charlie the Champ. But… I'd like to introduce you today a gentleman that… he's up in the gallery with his wife, Deon, Coach Wimberly, and he led us in prayer today. And there was a Resolution that I had passed on his behalf that I'd like to share with all of you that shares a little bit about his life. So, I'd like to read that to you at this time. It says, 10300017.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 WHEREAS the Members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate Darrell Levell Wimberly, affectionately known as Mr. Wimbo, on the occasion of his retirement from Marion High School after nearly 20 years; WHEREAS, Darrell Wimberly was born in Louisville, Kentucky on August 23, 1963; WHEREAS, Darrell Wimberly was a standout athlete at Butler High School in Louisville… he didn’t play ping-pong… where he starred in football and basketball; and WHEREAS, Darrell Wimberly attended the University of Louisville and found great success as a linebacker from 1978 to 1982; and WHEREAS, Darrell Wimberly tried out for the NFL with the New York Jets but life had bigger plans for him; and WHEREAS, Darrell Wimberly built a successful career selling insurance for Commonwealth Life Insurance in Louisville, Kentucky for 20 years; and in 2000, Darrell Wimberly, with his family, moved to Marion, where he sold insurance for five years before feeling called to apply for a job with Marion High School; Darrell Wimberly worked as a volunteer football coach at Marion High School starting in 2000; he was hired as Dean of students at Marion High School in July of 2002; he worked as an administrator, football coach, basketball coach at Marion High School for nearly 20 years; Darrell Wimberly has served as a mentor, advocate, and role model for thousands of Marion High School athletes and students, bettering their lives towards brighter futures; Darrell Wimberly has served as a pastor at East Liberty Church in rural Marion since 2002; he's also served as guest speaker, prayer leader, as you found 10300017.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 out today, preacher at various Marion area weddings, funerals, vigils, and community gatherings; he has served on councils, countless boards, and committees, and with community organizations; through his service to his students and community, Darrell Wimberly has provided inspiration to his fellow coaches, administrators, teachers with his positivity and guidance, and we felt that and realized that today on the House Floor; Darrell Wimberly married Deon Wimberly on December 22, 1994; he's the father of five children, including two daughters and three step-children. So, I'd like to honor today, Mr. Darrell Wimberly, again, for his commitment to education and to his faith. Mr. Darrell Wimberly, thank you."
"Representative Avelar seeks recognition."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For Women's History Month, I rise to highlight a woman who has and continues to make a difference in our communities, Andrea Sáenz. She's the president and CEO of the Chicago Community Trust. As of 2019, this organization is the fourth largest giving community foundation in the country whose strategic focus is of closing the racial and ethnic wealth gap in the Chicago region. Previously, Andrea led strategy, program design, evaluation, and organizational development for Chicago Public Libraries. And before joining the library, Andrea served as chief of staff to Chicago Public Schools, to… a policy advisor for the U.S. Department of Education Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education. In 2019, Andrea was recognized by Crain's 10300017.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 Chicago Business as one of Chicago's most powerful Latinas. She has participated in leadership and learning opportunities through membership in the Economic Club of Chicago, the Broad Residency in Urban Education, and Leadership of Greater Chicago as well. She holds a master's degree in public administration from the University of Pennsylvania, bachelor's degree in Latin American studies from Scripps College. I have the honor of presenting her for Women's History Month because, just like myself, she is an immigrant from Ecuador. She grew up in Los Angeles and calls Chicago home where she lives with her husband, daughter, and extended family. So, it is my privilege, again, to highlight Andrea Sáenz, CEO of the Chicago Community Trust for Women's History Month. Thank you."
"Representative Coffey."
"I rise on a point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"During Women's History Month, it is my distinct honor to recognize an exceedingly accomplished woman who is making history right here in Illinois. Illinois Supreme Court Justice Lisa Holder White. On July 7 of last year, Lisa Holder White took the oath of office as the first African American woman to sit on the Illinois Supreme Court. Justice Holder White is a Decatur native who now resides in my district in Chatham, Illinois. She graduated magna cum laude from Louis University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and went on to earn her Juris Doctorate from the University of Illinois College of Law. She began her career right out of college as an assistant state's attorney for Macon County 10300017.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 before going into private practice with a Decatur law firm. While in private practice, she also served as an assistant public defender for Macon County, where she litigated on behalf of those charged with criminal offenses and represented abused and neglected children. In 2001, she was sworn in as an associate judge in the Sixth Judicial Court, the first African American judge in the circuit. In 2008, she began as circuit… began as circuit judge. In 2013, she was sworn in as the first African American Justice on the Illinois Appellate Court Fourth District. Justice Holder White is dedicated to judicial education. She served on and chaired the Illinois Supreme Court committee that provides continuing legal education for judges. She is also dedicated to giving back to the community and engaging with young people. She uses the courtroom to hold mock trials with school children and provide students opportunities to learn more about career opportunities, the legal profession, and what it is like to be a judge. Justice Holder White's remarkable rise and ascendance to the high court is a testament to her hard work and unwavering commitment to the people of Illinois. I am proud to have Justice Holder White live in the 95th District. Thank you."
"Leader Gabel seeks recognition. Leader Gabel."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you. Today, I would like to have all the House Members welcome our new Doorkeeper, Ms. Nicole Hill. Ms. Hill, can you come out? Where are you? Oh, she is back there. Great. So, Ms. Hill, again, I… when I put her name up for nomination 10300017.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 last week, I mentioned to you all that she's been a security officer at a school and has had to deal with angry parents often. And she also is an expert at CPR, which, you know, we may need that here. So… but most of all, I want you to know that I met her a few days ago and when… before we… we elected her, and I really found her to be just a delightful person with a great sense of humor and somebody that I think we will all feel very comfortable around. And I know she will do a great job. So, please give her a warm welcome from all of us, all the Members of the House. Thank you."
"Welcome. Leader Keicher for an announcement."
"Upon adjournment, the Republicans will caucus in Room 118, please."
"Upon adjournment, the Republicans will caucus in Room 118. The Democrats will not caucus. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 111, offered by Representative Lilly. House Resolution 112, offered by Representative Ammons. House Resolution 113, offered by Representative Davidsmeyer. House Resolution 114, offered by Representative Davidsmeyer. House Resolution 116, offered by Representative Carroll. House Resolution 117, offered by Representative Ammons. And House Resolution 118, offered by Representative Miller."
"Leader Gabel moves for the adoption of the Agreed Resolutions. All those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Agreed Resolutions are adopted. And now, allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Leader Gabel moves that the 10300017.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 17th Legislative Day 3/7/2023 House stand adjourned until Wednesday, March 8, at the hour of noon. All those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the House stands adjourned." 10300017.docx 14