"The 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 rise for the invocation and the Pledge."
"Let us pray. Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the faithful servants you've brought together to fulfill your purpose. You have given us willing hearts and a desire to proclaim the name of Jesus through the word and deed. We ask that you 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."
"Amen. We will be led in the Pledge today… the Pledge of Allegiance today by Representative Huynh."
"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."
Speaker Mah: "Roll Call for Attendance. Leader Manley is recognized to report any excused absences on the Democratic side of the aisle."
"Speaker, let the record show that Representatives Burke, Gong-Gershowitz, Jones, and Moeller are excused today." 10300029.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023
"Leader Keicher is recognized to report any excused absences of the Republican side of the aisle."
"Madam Speaker, please let the record reflect that Tim Ozinga, Representative Tim Ozinga, is excused today."
"Have all recorded themselves who wish? Have all recorded themselves who wish? Clerk, please call the roll. There being 110 Members answering the roll call, a quorum is present. On page 7 of the Calendar, under the Order of Resolutions, we have House Resolution 104, offered by Representative Kifowit."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Members of the House, today is a very special day, and I request your attention, please. I am honored today to present House Resolution 104. We are joined by very special guests in the Speaker's Gallery, including Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Terry Prince. So, thank you all for making the journey to Springfield for this important Resolution. We are here today… Members, we are here today with distinguished veterans of the Vietnam War. And I am proud and honored to be with my friend and fellow Representative, Hoan Huynh, to give recognition to all veterans, all Vietnam veterans who fought bravely for our country. Today, we are going to be presenting House Resolution 104, as we should all proudly say, Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day. Welcome home. Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day is a day that we shall never forget the contributions and service that our Vietnam veterans gave to our country. On March 29, 2023, today, marks the 50th anniversary of the day in 1973 that American terminated the 'U.S. Military Assistance Command in Vietnam', but we all know that as the 10300029.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 Vietnam War, and the day the last American troops left Vietnam for home. In 2017, National Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day was passed by the United States Congress and signed into law. Now, I can say I was a small child in 1973, and I grew up largely unaware of the horrible treatment our veterans received because no one in my family served in the military. In fact, I am the first person to have served in the military by joining the United States Marine Corps right out of high school. And as many of you know, my son, today, is serving in the United States Navy. It was after I was honorably discharged, I came back home and I joined my American Legion and I joined the United States Marine Corps League that I realized of the horrible treatment that my fellow veterans received when they came home from Vietnam. I like to call my friends that served in the Vietnam War as the most exceptional generation of veterans. They didn't turn their back on anybody after the treatment they received. Instead, they fought hard for the veterans that came after them to get the benefits and the recognition that all veterans receive and should receive that they did not. So, I am proud of all the friendships I have had with the Vietnam veterans, and I know that I have friends in the gallery and friends wishing at home, that I served with and I mourn, the Vietnam veterans that are no longer with us due to issues and due to health concerns that they sustained through their service. So, we need to make sure that Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day is a day that we honor and thank those brave service members, my fellow veterans, who served in the Vietnam War and to make an extra effort for those who did not receive the recognition and 10300029.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 appreciation that they deserved upon returning home, an opportunity for all of us to acknowledge the sacrifices made by these veterans, and we will never forget their families, and to show eternal gratitude for their service to our country. So, Miss… Madam Speaker, as I pause to read the Resolution, I ask that all Members of the Illinois House be added to this Resolution. And with the indulgence of the Body, I would like to read House Resolution 104."
"All Members will be added. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. As I said, I am proud today to stand to read House Resolution 104. WHEREAS, The Vietnam War was fought in Vietnam from 1961 to 1975 and involved North Vietnam and the Viet Cong in conflict with the United States Armed Forces and South Vietnam; and WHEREAS, The United States became involved by serving in an advisory role to the South Vietnamese in 1961; and WHEREAS, In 1965, United States Armed Forces ground combat units arrived in Vietnam, and by the end of that year, there were 80,000 United States troops in Vietnam with a peak of approximately 500,000 troops in 1969; and WHEREAS, On January 27, 1973, the Treaty of Paris was signed, which required the release of all United States prisoners-of-war held in North Vietnam and the withdrawal of all United States Armed Forces from South Vietnam; by March 30, 1973, the United States Armed Forces completed the withdrawal of combat troops from Vietnam; and WHEREAS, More than 58,000 members of the United States Armed Forces lost their lives in Vietnam, and more than 300,000 members of the Armed Forces were wounded; and 10300029.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 WHEREAS, In 1982, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C. to commemorate those members of the United States Armed Forces who died or were declared missing-in-action in Vietnam; and WHEREAS, Members of the United States Armed Forces who served bravely and faithfully for the United States during the Vietnam War were caught upon their return home in the crossfire of public debate about the involvement of the United States in the Vietnam War; and WHEREAS, March 29th marks the 50th anniversary of the day that combat and combat support units withdrew completely from South Vietnam; and WHEREAS, Veterans of the Vietnam War faithfully served and contributed to the military and, in the 50 years since, have faithfully served and contributed to their communities since returning home; and WHEREAS, Vietnam War veterans have worked for the last 50 years to promote awareness of the importance of communities empowering veterans and the necessity of helping veterans readjust to civilian life after military service; and WHEREAS, Vietnam War veterans have worked to assist veterans returning from other conflicts, including wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and to support the reintegration of younger veterans into civilian life; and WHEREAS, The establishment of a day to welcome home Vietnam veterans is an appropriate way to honor those members of the United States Armed Forces who served in Vietnam during the Vietnam War; therefore, be it 10300029.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare March 29, 2023 as Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day in the State of Illinois; and be it further RESOLVED, That all citizens of the State of Illinois are encouraged to honor our Vietnam veterans. Thank you, Madam Speaker."
"Representative Huynh is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Thank you so much, Representative Kifowit. Today, we commemorate those who fought in the Vietnam War on Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day, March 29. This war was the second largest… longest war in American History. Over 2.7 million Americans served during this war in 1973. The Vietnam War was one of the most brutal war in American history and the most… and the longest. Over 58 thousand American soldiers died. In addition, according to historical estimates, there are over 3 million Vietnam War casualties through the 20-year battle. In addition to honoring our Vietnam War veterans, I also want to take this time to honor the South Vietnamese military officers who served with American service members. I am the proud son of a South Vietnamese military officer, and I welcome members of the South Vietnamese military here today to come and be recognized alongside the American veterans that they served with. It is estimated… it is estimated that the South Vietnamese military suffered 1.3 million casualties, 1.3 million casualties, those killed and wounded during the Vietnam War. After the fall of Saigon, over 500 thousand former South Vietnamese soldiers and those aligned with the 10300029.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 South Vietnamese government were sent to concentration camps where they were tortured and perished. My father was sent to one of those concentration camps. He spent five years in a prison camp, each and every night being tortured by enemy forces. But every night he kept on to hope, hope that one day his kids could live free in a country that valued them, a country that gave them opportunities, a country that valued human rights. And so, he held on to hope for five long years while his entire family were killed during the Vietnam War. I never got a chance to meet my grandfather, my grandma, my dad's siblings because they were all killed and tortured during the Vietnam War. My mother faced homelessness during the Vietnam War. Her house was burned down, and her father was also killed as well. And she also held onto hope as well. And so, today we want to acknowledge the bravery and courage of our South Vietnamese soldiers and those who survived to come to Illinois to build a better life for themselves and for their families. Thank you so much for your service to our country, the United States military veterans and the South Vietnamese military veterans. It is because of your service and commitment to democracy and to human rights that I'm standing here today in the Illinois chamber as the first Vietnamese American ever elected in Illinois state history of 204 years. And as the first, I will not be the last. Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart, and for your courage, for your bravery, and for your sacrifice to our great country so that hope will never perish from this earth. Thank you so much."
"Representative Swanson is recognized." 10300029.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. If you may, is Rep. Walker, is he going to speak? Okay. I didn't want to jump in front of you, Representative. Thank you to all the veterans here today. And has been said by Leader Kifowit and Representative… Huynh, I'm sorry. It's a… it's a very honoring day. Our Vietnam veterans, when they came home, they did not receive a welcome home. Their first objective was to get into civilian attire so they blended back in with society. To have wore the uniform at that time was an unpleasant sight to see. They were not treated as the American heroes they truly are and deserved to be recognized by us. The Vietnam War was the first war that was brought into our living rooms on color TV. It depicted a lot of the horrors that the men and women who had the uniform on lived through daily in Vietnam. And it's hard for us to imagine what they must've endured. And we look at the condition that they lived in, and we think of the atrocities that they had to endure. We owe them a big thank you and a welcome home. And when I talk to the young people in the schools, I talk about our veterans. I always tell those young students, 'When you see a veteran, make sure you say thank you, and also follow up, welcome home.' Because the veterans truly deserve a welcome home. There are many veterans that didn't make it home. My neighbor, Mike Leif, was killed December 7, 1969. He didn't make it home, along with the other 58 thousand. And if you get a chance to stop at the… if you're in Washington, D.C., remember those names and recognize the names that are on that Vietnam wall because they're the men and women who sacrificed, who were serving to the left and to the right of the men and women we're recognizing here today. 10300029.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 They all served together, but today we're welcoming home those who served their country, separated from their family for over a year, and now they're back home here for us to recognize. So, I salute all of you, and I say welcome home. Thank you."
"Representative Davidsmeyer is recognized."
"Thank you… thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"So, on this day every year, my mom sends a text to myself and my sister and my dad honoring Vietnam veterans. My dad served in Vietnam when… in the Army and came home with a Purple Heart, but he came home. I remember, I think I was about 12 or 13 years old on a Boy Scout trip to Washington, D.C. to the Vietnam Wall. First time in my memory to see my dad tear up. I traced a name of the young man who died right next to him. He served… he grew up in Vietnam. He served and trained along the side the South Vietnamese. He turned 21, celebrated with a warm beer on the roof of an air support base. I want to thank him, all of the friends that I have that served, I want to thank all of them for stepping up and answering the call. Thank you."
"Representative Wilhour, are you wishing to speak on this Resolution? Representative Walker is recognized."
"Thank you. Thank you all. I wanted to… to just remind everyone there's a lot of pain and suffering related to this whole experience of the last 60 years. But I want to remind people that we share something, every Member of this House, and every member in the gallery, and especially my brothers 10300029.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 and sisters from Vietnam. We fought for individual freedom. We fought for liberty. We fought that people could have an opportunity to get ahead in life honestly through hard work and in a system of… an economy that works. We fought so that we could have children that could be State Representatives. When I came back from Vietnam, my mother asked me why I went. And out of my mouth, without thinking, I said for human rights. We fight for human rights in this House every day, every one of us. And I am so proud to have served with the people of Vietnam when they fought for their human rights and suffered through their camps and suffered in the long way here, the long way home. Thanks so much."
"Representative Ammons is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. To the Resolution. First of all, I want to thank Representative Kifowit and all the other soldiers in this Body for their service. I also want to share, my brother served 22 years in the Marines. And I asked him one day… we're from East St. Louis. And I said, 'Why are you going into the Marines?' And he said, 'I believe I can serve my country.' That's what he said. I asked him, I said, did you… my uncle, who was in the Army, 'Why'd you go into the Army?' And he said, 'At that time in the 70s, I believed I can serve my country.' And I… he said, 'My father who served in World War II, whose manhood was not recognized, believed also that he could serve his country.' In the Vietnam War, 22 Medals of Honor were awarded to African American U.S. Army soldiers. Six of them went to the United States Marines. My uncle and my brother were both in both of those regiments. One staff sergeant, Clifford C. Simmons (sic-Sims), who was 10300029.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 of the Division Company, 2nd Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, was awarded the Medal of Honor for his selfless actions in the Battle of Huề during the Tet Offensive in 1968. He was killed in action when he sacrificed himself by jumping on a boobytrap, thereby saving his fellow troops. My family has many veterans in it, including my sister who's the closest to me. In all of their sacrifices, regardless of which of the wars they were in, in many cases have not been recorded. So, it is important for me to stand for my grandfather, who served in World War II; for my uncle, who served in several wars, Iraq War; and for my brother, who served also in the Marines and recently retired. This is important for the nation to recognize the service of all people who attempt to serve their country, even if their humanity is not recognized. And that's the importance of this moment, for us to recognize on veterans… our World War II veterans in this particular Body, but for us to recognize the sacrifices of all people in this nation as it came to whatever offensive the United States was involved in. We thank them for their service. We thank you for your service, who have come here today. And we thank you, Representative Kifowit, for always making us remember."
"Representative Benton is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. This is something that's very personal to me. My family has a long history of military service. My grandfather, a POW in a German war camp during World War II. My other grandfather, shot down on his first carrier and the chief aviation mechanic of the USS Enterprise. His son, a Purple Heart veteran, in the Marines during 10300029.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 Vietnam, after being affected by an explosive. My other uncle affected by Agent Orange, which was then passed through to my cousin, was born with spina bifida because of it, and we lost her due to medical complications at 38. My father was enlisted during Vietnam. My grandmother retired from the VA. My mother retired from the VA. And we have always respected our military, our veterans, and folks that make sacrifices. We welcome them home from Vietnam, but sometimes we don't welcome them home as a whole. Every time someone goes to war, they leave a piece of them there. They don't always come back as a whole. So, I thank everyone in the gallery for your sacrifice for human rights and just doing what was right. And I just want to recognize Representative Hoan Huynh, who's a friend and a colleague, and he's here because of those sacrifices over in Vietnam. So, thank you to all that serve currently, and the veterans that served in the past, for our freedoms and everyone else's freedoms around the world. Thank you, and welcome home."
"Representative Kifowit moves for the adoption of House Resolution 104. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. And in the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Representative Huynh is recognized."
"Thank you so much, Madam Chair. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you so much, everyone. I just want to take this moment to also recognize the South Vietnamese military officers that we have and the United States military officers 10300029.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 that we have from Vietnam up in the gallery. They're coming from far away, so please, please give them a warm Springfield welcome. Everyone, please stand up. Please. And… and I want to recognize their names as well. So, Commander Trung Luu, Mr. and Mrs. Luan Huynh, Mr. Tang Ninh, Mr. and Mrs. Ly Pham, and Mr. and Mrs. Khuynh Ho, Mr. Chau Phan, Mr. and Mrs. Loi Ho, Mr. and Mrs. Dien Le, Mr. Tam Nguyen, Lan Dinh, Sylvia Dinh, Linh Dinh, Quy Nguyen, Dao Nguyen, Thi Ho, Annie Tran, Andy Tran, Ethan Ksorha, Ethan… Evan Ksorha, Celica Kshora, Andy Ksorha, Mia Anh, Huong Nguyen, who was prisoner of war, Bon Bui, who was also prisoner of war, Celemente Rodriguez, Sergeant Celemente Rodriguez, and Raymond Rodriguez of the Sons of the American Legion as well. Thank you so much for your service to our country. This Body welcomes you. And as a special treat as well, from the 46th Ward, we also have Vietnamese food in 300. So, please stop by and enjoy Vietnamese food with us today. Thank you so much for your time, and thank you so much to Representative Kifowit and Representative Walker for your service as well. Thank you so much."
"Leader Evans is recognized."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and the great Members of this Assembly. I want to recognize in the gallery, in the rear, my good friend Sheena Patton and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Chicago Metropolitan Chapter. These are advocates on behalf of black women and girls to promote leadership development and gender equality in the areas of 10300029.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 health, education, and economic empowerment. Chartered in September of 2020, NCBW, Chicago Chapters, composed of 110 professional women of great diversity across life stages, careers, geographies, including several of the Body's Legislative Districts. NCBW Chicago work includes awarding over $5 thousand in youth scholarship recognizing black women Vanguards through its annual programs and presented more than a dozen public advocacy and education programs with partners that include Michael Reese Health Trust, University Chicago of Medicine, the Chicago Fire Team, the Black and Missing Foundation, and Countrywide Financial Services. Please give these great leaders from our community a round of applause."
"Representative Tipsword is recognized."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. On Monday morning in Nashville, we saw the worst of humanity. But we also saw the best of humanity. The Nashville Metro Police Officers who received the call of an active shooter at Covenant School responded to the call and neutralized the threat in just 14 minutes. These officers were the best of humanity that day. A deranged, delusional, mentally ill woman entered the school where she once attended with the intent of causing harm. These highly-trained police officers put their lives in the hands of God and ran directly into gunfire. These officers did not hesitate. Without their immediate action and quick decision making, this tragedy would've been so much worse. I beg each and every one of us in this chamber to remember this day as we move forward in our discussions on criminal justice reform 10300029.docx 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 and what the proper direction should be. We will never legislate hatred from the hearts and minds of criminals and the mentally ill. So, we must do our part to make sure our law enforcement officers in this state know that we support them and make sure they have every tool they need at their disposal during these horrific times when we need them more than ever. They are the thin blue line between safety and chaos. Please continue to pray for Nashville, for the victims, their families, the students, faculty, police officers, and all first responders who experienced this horrific tragedy. Thank you."
"Representative Davidsmeyer, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"As… as you walk around the Capitol today, I'm sure you've seen a number of the blue jackets, the FFA kids running around. There's been a number of FFAs from the 100th District that I've been able to meet with today. But I want to point out, in the gallery on the Democrat side, if you all could stand up. We've got the Pittsfield FFA and their Ag teacher, Jodi Heavner, award-winning Ag teacher. I want to thank you all for welcoming me to your classroom and having open, honest discussions about policies and things of that sort, but thanks for coming here. And while I'm at it, I want to mention that this evening, the Illinois Association of Agricultural Affairs is having a reception from 5:30 to 7:30 at the Inn at 10300029.docx 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 835. Hope… hope to see you there. Thank you. Thanks… thanks for coming, guys."
"Representative Wilhour, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you very much. Ladies and Gentlemen, we are blessed to have royalty in our midst today, here on the floor. Joining me from Clay County in the 110th District is Miss Paige Van Dyke, who was the 2023 Miss Illinois County Fair Queen. And… Paige was crowned right here in Springfield in January. She is a graduate of North Clay High School, Lakeland Community College, and she is currently studying at Oklahoma State University. Paige is also the reigning 2022 Miss Clay County. Outside of the pageant, she is an accomplished livestock showman in sheep and cattle. Paige has traveled all across the nation, exhibiting championship… champion livestock from Southern Illinois, along with serving on the North American Junior Red Angus Event and holding several other leadership positions in the livestock and livestock judging industry. She is a recipient of the State of Illinois FFA Degree and 4-H alumni and numerous merit scholarships. She comes from a wonderful family of several generations in production agricultural. And, folks, I think it's safe to say that we truly have a agriculture queen who will be reigning over the Illinois State Fair this year. So, please, once again, welcome Miss Illinois County Fair Queen Paige Van Dyke." 10300029.docx 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023
"Representative Mayfield, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"I'd like to draw your attention to the Republican side of the gallery where I have youth from my district. These are youth from the Heart of the City soccer program. Heart of the City provides youth mentorship through soccer. It is an amazing organization. Please welcome them to Springfield."
"Representative Avelar is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you. Today, I have the pleasure of having two constituents of mine come down to Springfield to be Pages of the day. We have Phallon and Kyra Pierce, also known as the Pierce twins. Kyra and Phallon are teen activists who have made… who have actually made it their mission to promote social equity and diversity in literary curriculums in our community and around the state by creating their own age- appropriate diverse reading list for young readers. Their… their strive to make a change in our community and the country has led them work on legislation, become motivational speakers, and build their nonprofit, Positive Change Charities. Through their nonprofit, the Pierce twins have shared positivity by donating books to… by diverse authors to kids in need and underfunded school libraries. They aim to expand diversity in literary curriculums to ensure children and teens of all backgrounds are exposed to various 10300029.docx 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 experiences, stories, and cultures. I am also so excited to welcome them both to our State Capitol and for my colleagues to meet these amazing young women who are making a difference. And last but not least, I also do want to thank their parents, Sandy and Alfred Pierce, who are there… if you could just stand up for a little bit… for bringing Phallon and Kyra down to Springfield to share their message to be positive, spread love, and change the world. So, please help me welcome them today, and I hope you all enjoy your day in the Capitol. Thank you."
"Welcome to Springfield. Representative Swanson, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you. Today, serving as a Page with me is Abigail Struble. She's from Aledo in Mercer County. She's homeschooled, and she's in the fifth grade. She is a daughter of Aaron and Melissa Struble, who are with us here today also. Her favorite subjects in school, Bible and math. And she's very active in Aledo First Baptist Church, where tonight she's heading home to Kids Club. As she shared with me, it's her last opportunity for Kids Club because next year she'll be a sixth grader and she'll no longer be able to participate in Kids Club. She enjoys 4-H, softball, and tumbling. Special recognitions: she is a two-time United States Tumbling Association qualifier at the national level; and in 2022, she was the 4-H State Reserve Champion in sewing. She made a 10300029.docx 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 purse, bag to carry her Bible in. So, with me today is Abigail Struble. Let's give her a round welcoming applause, please."
"Representative Windhorst is recognized."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"I would like to introduce my Page for a day, who's also my nephew, Wyatt Wiggins. Wyatt is from Dahlgren, Illinois and the son of Josh and Brianna Wiggins. He's in the seventh grade at Hamilton County Junior High School. He has a birthday coming up next week on April 4. He'll be a teenager. He'll turn 13. Wyatt plays the trumpet in school, in the school band and also runs track. Another activity he enjoys is archery, and his favorite subject in school is math. Wyatt is interested in one day being an architect or maybe serving in government. Let's give Wyatt a warm Springfield welcome."
"Representative Severin, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"So, I've got three… three different groups I'd like to welcome to the Capitol today. First off, today was the Makers Madness, the coolest thing made in Illinois, was over at the Governor's Mansion just a few minutes ago. And I introduced the top 16 qualifiers out of 250 businesses. And we had… in the top four was a company that's up in the gallery today from Carmi, is a company called Elastec. And they have a drug disposal incinerator invention that they have. And so, you 10300029.docx 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 can check that out on their website. But I want to introduce and welcome them to the House Floor. They are from Elastec in Carmi. And also, while I've got the microphone… of course, I'm a preacher's kid. So, I won't preach too long here. But also from Carmi, the FFA group. Today is, of course, FFA Day in the Capitol. I have Eli Bryant, Joseph Gates, and Ian Mosier. And Ian Mosier's father actually is from Elastec. So, it's actually Mosier day in Springfield today. And so, those three gentlemen are from Carmi and the FFA program. And so, we'd like to welcome them to the House Floor. And while we're welcoming FFA people, Steve Clodfelter in the Edwards County FFA, they are here today also. I'd like to welcome them. So… I also have a Page for the day, Jeremiah Kay. If… those of you that remember, I had the Cole Buchanan from Benton High School was here. Representative Benton, we're representing Benton today. But we had Cole Buchanan who was a sophomore, number one in his class. Well, today I have Jeremiah Kay from Benton High School. You guys keep talking, I'll keep talking louder. I've got a lot of volume. So, Jeremiah Kay, he's the number one in the high school senior class at Benton High School. He's going into pre-med and biology. His parents are Dr. Kirk and Brandi Kay. He participates in golf. The Benton High School golf team got second place. The spring musical cast, he's the beast in the beauty. So, we got the beast and the beauty and youth and government senator. He's also in the Pep Club, track and field, the rock band, National Honor Society. He also participates in the church praise band, youth praise band, volunteers in the… in the events such as the Night to Shine and community theater. He's attending Murray 10300029.docx 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 State University in the fall, in the Presidential Fellowship, and he's also ranked number one in his class. So, we'd like to welcome to the House Floor Jeremiah Kay from Benton High School."
"Welcome to all. Representative Yang Rohr, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Chair. I have a point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you. Colleagues in the General Assembly, I just wanted to introduce you to my Page for the day, Chloe Harbeck. Chloe is a seventh grader at Crone Middle School. She is spending her spring break in Springfield with us, with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harbeck. They're up in the gallery. And just wanted to ask everyone to give them a warm Springfield welcome."
"Representative Tarver, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. I just wanted to introduce my not-Page for a day, but my princess, my daughter, Charlie Tarver. Everyone's favorite Tarver, who… the last time she was on this House Floor was 5 or maybe 6 years old, and now she's 10. She's at Skinner North. She runs track. She is in gymnastics and… give me one more thing. She's the coolest daughter in the world. Thank you all."
"Representative Weber, for what reason do you seek recognition?" 10300029.docx 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023
"Personal point of privilege, Madam Chair."
"Please proceed."
"Just want to let my fellow Representatives know that today is IGOLD, Illinois Gun Owner Lobby Day. A day where law abiding citizens from across our state come to the Capitol to remind us that their duly elected Representatives of the importance of protecting the fundamental rights granted to each of us in our Constitution and a reminder that the rights expressed in the Constitution are the foundation that secures the freedoms and liberties that we hold so dear. So, please join me in welcoming Illinois gun owners to the Capitol today and hear their message that the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. God bless America, and God bless those that have fought to preserve these rights. Thank you."
Speaker Mah: "Leader Flowers, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"I would like to introduce the Members to my Page for today. His name is Henry Anderson. He's eight years old, and he attends St. Mary's School. And would you please give him a warm welcome and welcome him to Springfield."
"Representative Hanson, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. I wanted to wish a warm Springfield welcome to the United Council Counties of 10300029.docx 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 Illinois delegation that's been around the last couple of days advocating on behalf of the interests of all our counties. And also, a special welcome to Kendall County Commissioner, Brooke Shanley, who's over here to our left. Kendall County, and especially the Aurora part of Kendall County, lucky to have Brooke as our commissioner. And the strength of our Body is diversity, and I think Kendall County board having a bilingual public education teacher is a wonderful thing. So, welcome, Brooke. And thank you, UCCI."
"On page 5 of the Calendar, under the Order of Resolutions, we have House Resolution 74… 79, excuse me, offered by Representative Ammons."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. If it's okay with you, Madam Speaker, I'd like to read the Resolution out of respect for the 100 black women who are visiting us here today in the State Capitol. WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to honor Black women, their accomplishments, and their contributions to the history of the United States; and WHEREAS, Black women have shaped and molded U.S. history in innumerable and irrefutable ways, from the moment they arrived by means of the Middle Passage as slave labor to their arrival in the White House as the vice president of the United States; and WHEREAS, Even in the face of unimaginable racism rooted in our violent origins in America, and continued for over 400 years, Black women have risen above their circumstances in the face of adversity, not just to survive but also to thrive, imagine, create, achieve, inspire, and excel; and 10300029.docx 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 WHEREAS, Black women have been the bedrock of the community, the foundation of the family, the cornerstone of the Black church, the innovator, the explorer, the entrepreneur, and so much more; and WHEREAS, Instead of accepting discrimination as their reality, Black women have instead built, created, developed, implemented, spearheaded, and maintained guilds, sororities, non-profit organizations, clubs, scholarship foundations, medical associations, and philanthropic affiliations that have uplifted, improved, inspired, and supported multitudes of communities with diverse needs; and WHEREAS, It is time to celebrate "Mama" and the ancestors who taught Black women to be strong, resourceful, and to do good for the greater good; and WHEREAS, Black women nurture, guide, mentor, and inspire as they rise to unimaginable heights, overcoming intentional and systemic barriers; as Black women soar, communities are uplifted, and we all benefit; and WHEREAS, Black women have excelled in all areas of life… can we ask our Members to quieten? It's very, very rare that we even recognize black women at all. WHEREAS, Black women have excelled in all areas of life, including but not limited to journalism, education, medicine, art, law and government, and business; this is exemplified in the lives of Black women who hail from the State of Illinois, such as Dr. Carol Adams, Ida B. Wells Barnett, Rev. Willie Barrow, United States Ambassador and Senator Carol Moseley Braun, Gwendolyn Brooks, Margaret Burroughs, Bessie Coleman, Rev. Johnnie Coleman, Marva Collins, Lorraine Hansbury, 10300029.docx 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 Vivian Harsh, Jennifer Hudson, Mahalia Jackson, Mae Jemison, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Chaka Khan, Annie Turnbo Malone, Mamie Till Mobley, Diane Nash, Michelle Obama, Shonda Rhimes, Georgiana Simpson, Jacqueline Vaughn, and Oprah Winfrey; and WHEREAS, Black women have stood in solidarity with women and men of all backgrounds, sexual orientations, races, religious affiliations, and ethnicities across Illinois, the United States, and the world in an effort to demand parity and equity of all human beings in all areas of life; and WHEREAS, February 28th intentionally connects the nationally recognized months of February with Black History Month and March with Women's History Month, uplifting the unique intersectionality of race and gender of being both Black and a woman; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare February 28, 2023 as Black Women's History Day in the State of Illinois to honor the accomplishments, power, beauty, courage, intelligence, ingenuity, stewardship, and leadership of Black women; and be it further RESOLVED, That we encourage all Illinoisans and their families to acknowledge, in word and in deed, the accomplishments of Black women in places where they live, work, and play, because doing so recognizes Black women's history as American history. Thank you, Madam Speaker."
"Representative… Representative Ammons moves for the adoption of House Resolution 79. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted." 10300029.docx 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023
"On page 4 of the Calendar, under the Order of Resolutions, we have House Resolution 10, offered by Representative Mayfield."
"Thank you so much. House Resolution 10 designates November 18 as 'Christmas Story Day… Family Day' in commemoration of the critically acclaimed film, A Christmas Story, which is based upon the work and life of Chicago-born author Jean Shepherd. So, I'm just asking everyone for a 'yes' vote. If you have not signed on as a cosponsor, please do so because who doesn't love A Christmas Story?"
"Representative Mayfield moves for the adoption of House Resolution 10. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Continuing on page 4 of the Calendar, under the Order of Resolutions, we have House Resolution 44, offered by Representative Mason."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am here with the beautiful Miss Violet Didech, daughter of Representative Didech, who is going to help me present House Resolution 44. House Resolution 44 declares September 18 to September 24, 2023 as 'Diaper Needs Awareness Week'. And as Miss Violet knows, diapers are an important necessity for all families with children. And diaper need is the lack of enough clean diapers to keep a baby or toddler clean, dry, and healthy. It's a recognized public health issue that impacts the physical, mental, and economic well-being of U.S. children and families. And… I know… and one out of three families have reported diaper need in the United States. Diaper need can result from poverty, unexpected life hardships, national disasters, and so much 10300029.docx 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 more. We are lucky to have the National Diaper Bank Network, or NDBN, with more than 225 diaper banks across Illinois. They have reported an average of an 86 percent increase in the number of diapers distributed to families compared to those in the previous year, with spikes of up to 800 percent more in some cities. So, they have distributed more than 140 million diapers to families in need with no federal support. So, we ask everyone to recognize diaper need and Diaper Need Awareness Week and to thank the National Diaper Bank Network for all that they do in our community. Right, Violet? Thank you."
"Representative Mason moves for the adoption of House Resolution 44. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Representative Weber, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Personal point of privilege, Madam Chair."
"Please state your point."
"Last week, the community of Lake Villa and Lake County lost one of the finest community members and volunteers, and I lost a great friend, Bill Burns. Over the past several years, it would be hard to attend a community event in or around Lake Villa that Bill Burns was not attending or volunteering at. And his wife, Betty, was almost always by his side. Bill was born in upstate New York in 1938. Bill's first date was to junior prom with Betty. It must've been a good date because Bill and Betty would later marry and spend 64 years together. Bill's love for volunteering is linked with his love of sports and the outdoors. He wrestled at his 10300029.docx 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 beloved Notre Dame, and he even had a stint managing the Boston Red Sox's minor league team, the level A team. When Bill and Betty came to Illinois, he expanded the Waukegan Youth Boxing Club and became a national level judge for boxing. Bill also loved golf. He managed to play a round in all 50 states, and he was a passionate outdoorsman. He took many of us on hunting trips over the years. As I mentioned, he was a dedicated volunteer in the community over the many years that I have known him. Whether it was at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, the Lion's Club, the Historical Society, or somewhere else, Bill was always there lending a hand. It was a lesson that I learned from him about politics as well. Something he always actively told me and was involved in over the years, the best way to serve your constituents is to get out there, volunteer, attend every community event you can, and always be available to the people that you serve. Bill always reminded me that… and I'll owe him a lot for the positive influence that he was in my life as a friend and a political adviser. Bill passed away on March 21, 2023, at the age of 84 years old. He lived a full life with Betty by his side, and he was a proud father of three daughters, grandfather to eight, and great-grandfather to five. Bill, you'll be missed. And, Mr. Speaker, I'd ask for a moment of silence in the remembrance of Bill Burns. Thank you."
"The Body will take a moment of silence. Thank you, Members. Representative West, for what… excuse me. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point." 10300029.docx 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I have… want to take time to honor two constituents/friends of mine who gave me a pleasant surprise by joining us here at the Capitol. On the Lincoln side of the gallery, above… at the top, I have Gary Anderson and Carol Anderson. They are the owners of the GWA Studio, which is an architectural firm that promotes economic and community development in Rockford. And I must say, if you'll allow me to say in my own words, these two is a power couple who are change agents for the City of Rockford. And a lot of the progress that we've seen in Rockford, they've had their hands in. I ask that you help me to honor them by giving them a warm Springfield welcome."
"On page 4 of the Calendar, under the Order of Resolutions, we have House Resolution 55, offered by Representative Evans. Out of the record. On page 4 of the Calendar, under the Order of Resolutions, we have House Resolution 58, offered by Representative Sanalitro."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today to offer House Resolution 58. This Resolution urges IHSA adopt cricket as an official sport to give our young people a new outlet for healthy competition and physical activity. Cricket is a safe, popular, and growing sport. Cricket is not only growing in popularity internationally in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, but it is growing in popularity inside our own country too. Texas, Florida, California, Georgia, and even Indiana are ahead of Illinois in their support for the game of cricket. Communities across Illinois have also taken rapid growing interest in cricket. Cricket leagues are filling fields and open park space across our state to play the game 10300029.docx 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 they love. For these reasons, this Resolution is an important step in making Illinois a cultural leader. Thank you."
"Representative Sanalitro moves for the adoption of House Resolution 58. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Leader Manley is recognized."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"As March winds down and we will soon close out Women's History Month, we'd be remised not to recognize a trailblazer in the fight for equal pay and the elimination of gender wage gap. In 1979, Lilly Ledbetter was one of the first women hired as a manager at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company in Gadsden, Alabama. As only… as the only woman in her position, Ledbetter began her career earning the same as her male counterparts. Goodyear did not allow its employees to discuss their pay. It wasn't until Ledbetter received an anonymous letter detailing the salaries of 3 of the male managers that she learned was being paid about 40 percent more than her. Ledbetter filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and later filed a formal lawsuit claiming pay discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Equal Pay Act of 1963. Ledbetter won the case and was awarded $3.8 million, but Goodyear appealed the decision to the Supreme Court in the case Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. She lost that in a 5-4 decision. The majority… the majority opinion didn't even address the discrimination against Ledbetter. But the 10300029.docx 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 dissent, written by another history-making woman… yes, you guessed it… Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, challenged Congress to correct the injustice. Less than two years after the Ledbetter decision, Congress passed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. The Act helps to ensure that individuals subjected to unlawful pay discrimination are able to assert their rights under the federal antidiscrimination law. Ledbetter refused to accept discrimination and never let anyone, even the Supreme Court, stand in her way. And by the way, she never received her $3.8 million that was awarded to her. Ledbetter once said, 'I told my pastor when I die, I want him to be able to say at my funeral that I made a difference.' She really did. And when we share in her persistence in our commitment for equality, we can make a difference too. Thank you."
"Representative Grant is recognized."
"Thank you, Speaker. I'm rising today for Women's History Month. I… I am recognizing a woman who lives a life centered on faith, family, and community. After serving as a teacher, high school counselor, and family therapist, Ginger Johnson's heart for women and children led her to enter the world of community service. Ginger volunteers with an international refugee organization… organization, World Relief. For over 75 years, across 100 counties, World Relief has set out solutions to complex problems, like extreme poverty, hunger, natural disasters, and refugee displacement. Despite the organization's global reach, Ginger has kept her service local at their DuPage headquarters in Carol Stream, helping the… helping the organization care for orphaned and displaced 10300029.docx 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 children from the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Ukraine, and Russia. Most impressively, and how I was introduced to the wonderful woman that she is, Ginger spends most of her time working with a faith-based DuPage County organization, Hearts of Grace, my… my favorite charity. Most of her efforts with the charity are spent at the Jubilee Village Furniture Store, DuPage County's largest quality furniture store. The proceeds from the furniture shop sales are used for Jubilee Village, which provides transitional housing for single, formerly homeless, young mothers. It's a wonderful place. Often times, these women are victims of severe abuse, and safety they find at Jubilee Village is crucial for their recovery. The Jubilee Village parents' organization, Outreach Community Ministry, serves areas in and around my 47th District with other efforts like this. Ginger Johnson is a perfect example that life is about how much you can give and not how much you can get. Happy Women's History Month, Ginger, and thank you for being a dear friend that goes above and beyond for those who need most. Thank you."
"Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
Clerk Hollman: "Committee Reports. Representative Moeller, Chairperson from the Committee on Human Services reports the following committee action taken on March 29, 2023: recommends be adopted is House Resolution 8 and House Resolution 136. Representative Morgan, Chairperson from the Committee on Health Care Licenses reports the following committee action taken on March 29, 2023: recommends be adopted is House Resolution 7, House Resolution 42, and House Resolution 82. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 10300029.docx 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 29th Legislative Day 3/29/2023 169, offered by Representative Haas, is referred to the Rules Committee."
"And now, allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Leader Gabel moves that the House stand adjourned until Thursday, March 30, at the hour of noon. All in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the House stands adjourned."
"House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Introduction and First Reading of Senate Bills. Senate Bill 1460, offered by Representative Jed Davis, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Senate Bill 1560, offered by Representative Walsh, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 9… correction, Senate Bill 1699, offered by Representative Olickal, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 1987, offered by Representative Vella, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Senate Bill 2227, offered by Representative Rita, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Senate Bill 2260, offered by Representative Cassidy, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Senate Bill 2324, offered by Representative Scherer, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Senate Bill 2356, offered by Representative Yednock, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. First Reading of these Senate Bills. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned." 10300029.docx 33