"The House shall be in order. Members will be in their chairs. We will be led in the 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 of Allegiance."
"Let us pray. Dear heavenly Father, we come before you today praying that on this day you give us wisdom and guidance. Let us also pray for the men and women in all branches of our armed services. And, Lord, humble us to remember that yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift, and that's why it's called the present. These things we pray, Amen."
"We'll be led in the Pledge of Allegiance today by Representative Weber."
"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 Buckner is recognized to report any excused absences on the Democratic side of the aisle."
"Madam Speaker, let the record reflect that Representatives Will Davis, Jones, Ladisch Douglass, Yednock, Mayfield, and Speaker Welch are excused today."
"The record will so reflect. Leader Keicher is recognized to report any excused absences on the Republican side of the aisle." 10300040.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Let the record reflect that Representative Ozinga is excused for today."
"The record will reflect. Have all recorded themselves who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There being 109 Members answering the roll call, a quorum is present. Representative Guerrero-Cuellar, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. For a point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. I'd like to ask the Members today… we know today was the memorial service for our police officers. And so, I have some very special guests here in the gallery. And so, if we could take the time, I would like to recognize one of my favorite people, who's also the commander of the 8th District, Commander Bryan Spreyne. As many of you know, the 8th District, we have gone through some ordeal this year with our fallen police officer, Andres Vasquez Lasso, as well as one of the officers who had committed suicide a few weeks afterwards. And so, this man has done an enormous, great job in terms of leadership and really pushing his police district and his men and women forward. And right now, we're working together, obviously, with the migrant issues that are coming in. And so, I have been visiting the police districts a lot, and I just want to thank the commander especially for his great leadership and partnership with me. So, if we can all give him a round of applause. And also, I want to take the time to recognize some of the CPD Gold Star members in attendance. Interim Superintendent Eric Carter, Chief Angel 10300040.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 Novales, Commander Bryan Spreyne, and Commander John Spellman, and… as well as joined by the Chicago Police Department Color Guard. So, we can all give them a round of applause for their great service. Thank you very much. Also, too, they're not in the gallery, but I did want to take the time to recognize our Illinois State Police members who were also here. So, if we can give them a round of applause."
"Leader McCombie, for what reason do you rise?"
"I would just like to stand to personally thank Speaker Welch for allowing the Session today to be delayed start so we could recognize all of our officers who have lost their life this past year and to celebrate all of those that serve us today. So, thank you very much."
"Representative Cabello, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. First, I'd like to welcome some of the Rockford police officers that came down today. They're in the gallery behind the Republicans here. Welcome to Springfield. And next, I'd like to speak about what was going on earlier today outside. Police memorial is something in which we hold dear. If you ever wore the badge, if you ever were called to serve, it is a bittersweet day. We've gone through some real difficult times in the last three years or so, but I can tell this chamber that the men and women that have the courage, the dedication, the honor of wearing that badge do not want to do anything except protect and serve. It is a calling. It is a lifestyle. It is not something you just decide to do. It is something that burns inside of you to help your fellow citizens, to be there when they need 10300040.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 you most, to do it with rapidly-evolving situations that we expect them to be perfect in handling. These brave men and women are doing everything they can day-in and day-out to do it right, to do it with honor, integrity, and guts. But, more importantly, they do it to protect you. There is no more noble job than the job of being able to protect one's citizens. And there is no more committed people to do this job than that of our police. Can we be better? Absolutely. But we have to remember that not every single person that puts on a uniform and wears a badge is somebody looking to harm someone else. Our job as police officers are to protect you but then to also honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. We do not wish in any way, shape, or form to tarnish those folks' good name that gave everything. When these reforms came around and before that, I have always said I will work with you. But my phone doesn't ring. No one comes and speaks to me. I give you my word. I will work with you on almost anything when it comes to the police profession, but I need people to start listening. The unintended consequences of many things that come out of this chamber are putting people at risk. It's making the jobs of these brave men and women much harder. This chamber can do a lot of good. I look forward to working with you to do that good. But today, please help us and maybe take a moment of silence for those brave men and women who didn't want to do anything but to protect and serve you and the citizens of this great state."
Speaker Burke: "The Body will take a moment of silence. Representative Weaver, for what reason do you rise?"
"Point of personal privilege." 10300040.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Please proceed."
"First of all, thank you so much for your words, Rep. Cabello. I think we all appreciate that on this day. Today, I had the high… high honor of welcoming in not one but two Pages. These wonderful young ladies are from Cambridge, Illinois. Every year, the Village of Cambridge does an internship program where high school students can come and work for the village. Rachel, here, is a little bit of a Jane of all trades. She can kind of do whatever's thrown at her. And Brooklyn had a really neat project where she put together a booklet of all the small businesses in town and had a really cool opportunity to go interview them to learn about what their businesses do. Brooklyn wants to grow up to be a dental hygienist. Rachel wants to follow in her mom's footsteps and become a psychologist. They both are incredible young ladies with super-high integrity, and I hope you both have sunglasses because your futures are bright. Thanks."
"Welcome to Springfield. Representative Schmidt, for what reason do you rise?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Today, I have with me Briana Morales. I am honored to congratulate Briana Morales today for accomplishments of winning the 2023 Illinois Teacher of the Year Award. Briana is an English teacher at Gordon Bush Alternative Center in East St. Louis where she has taught since 2018. Briana has made a massive impact on our community in numerous ways. I'd love to share with you some of her incredible accomplishments. In 2019, Morales codirected a student-led initiative to embed 10300040.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 nonviolence principles with youth in the Orr-Weathers housing development and supported her teen leaders to earn national certification at Peace Warriors. She has served as a Policy Fellow, Senior Fellow, and now a National Senior Research Fellow with Teach Plus, where she… where she has worked on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion for students across the state through culturally responsive initiatives. She says that her policy work is grounded in elevating marginalized voices and advancing policies that'll give every student in Illinois a fighting chance through the quality of education they deserve. She is a foster parent to a 16-year- old. She received her bachelor's degree from St. Ambrose University, master's degree from American College of Education, and is currently working on her doctorate degree from University of Illinois. She was inspired to be a teacher from a teacher in her seventh grade class. Briana experienced a traumatic home life growing up and was considering suicide when her teacher gave her inspiration from writing her own poetry. This teacher taught her coping skills and how to help process the pain she was suffering from through poetry. The teacher will be her guest at the awards banquet from the Illinois State Board of Education in May. She uses poetry to help her current students process some of their own personal strife. She has also won several awards for her poetry. These are just the highlights and only a fraction of what makes Briana an incredible person and educator that she is. I'm grateful for the chance to recognize her today and share with you the incredible things she's done and is doing in our district. Thank you, Briana." 10300040.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Welcome to the Capitol. Representative Meier, for what reason do you rise? Yes, Representative Meier."
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Today, I'd like to tell you about a gentleman that was from my district that passed away Monday. He's the man that lived the American dream. The difference about his American dream and our American dream is his started in 1931 in Czechoslovakia. When he was 13, he was drafted into the German army, working on a tank division. He was wounded and taken prisoner of war by the Russians. He was one of the lucky ones. He did not end up in Siberia. Because of his age, he managed to make his way back to Germany. All he wanted to do was to go to school and be a dentist. But in Germany, after the war, if you'd been a soldier, you could not go to school. He didn't have any options. An American soldier friended him and told him, 'Go to America. You can go to school and be whatever you want to be.' He helped him get over here to America. He came to Chicago. He was here for six weeks, and he got this letter in the mail. 'Your friends and colleagues, because of your great abilities, have nominated you, and you have been drafted into the American military.' So, this man, as a 13-year-old who had to fight against America in Germany because he was drafted there, was now drafted into our military. He went to Korea. He was the one who went behind enemy lines to blow things up. I got to know him because I had two of his kids in my 4-H group. He told me twice he didn't think he'd make it back from Korea. The one time, the one thing did not have to blow up and he had to go back across enemy lines and blow it 10300040.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 up, but he made it back. The second time he went over there, and one of the other American soldiers was injured. He put him on his back and crawled through the battlefield to get back to the American side of the lines. When he got there, the soldier had been shot and killed that he was carrying on his back. He came back to Chicago, got his education and became a dentist. And this dentist came from Chicago down to Murray Center to be very first dentist to help people with disabilities there at Murray Center, and he was there many years and lived a wonderful life. And so, I'd like a moment of silence, and remember his wife, Aileen, and his two children, Marianne McDaniel and Dr. Paul Malcharek, in your prayers. Thank you."
"The Body will take a moment of silence. The Chair recognizes Representative Miller. For what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. I rise today to speak about the Illinois rampant and disgraceful corruption problem, from Governors to State Reps, to Senators to Chicago City councilmen. The dishonest politician and extensive corruption schemes are deeply ingrained in our politics and is dismantling the foundation on which our republic was built. Just as an example, Chicago for three years in a row has been rated the most corrupt city in America. And Illinois was rated the third most corrupt city in the entire nation. The number of elected officials and business leaders involved in these cases are so high that the University of Illinois Chicago professor and 10300040.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 former 44th Ward alderman, Dick Simpson, called it staggering. Through the recent concluded ComEd Four trial, in which four ComEd lobbyists were found guilty of conspiring to bribe former House Speaker, the public got a front-row seat to this corruption. The unrelenting grip that Mike Madigan had over the Illinois State Government, from bribes to intimidation to mob-like tactics, have been relied upon to pass legislation that favors special interest groups over the great citizens here in the State of Illinois. These politicians and organizations have placed personal gain over public service. And even after this criminal enterprise is exposed, Democrats and Republicans have failed to address the corruption problem once and for all. They are unwilling to pass real, meaningful, effective anti-corruption measures here in Illinois, and it's hurting everyday Illinoisans and the economy. In fact, corruption costs Illinois about $550 million a year in economic activity. And we owe it to the taxpayers to create and implement solutions to this embarrassing mess. This is… this is not a left issue or a right issue. This is not a Democrat or Republican issue. This is an issue of doing… of between what's right and what's wrong for the State of Illinois. Illinois needs real corruption reforms, and we need it now. Thank you very much."
"Moving to page 2 of the Calendar. On the Order of Second Reading, we have House Bill 476, Leader Hoffman. Leader Hoffman on House Bill 476. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"House Bill 476, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. This Bill was read a second time previously. No 10300040.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Hoffman, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Hoffman on Floor Amendment #1."
"Yes, thank you, Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This would allow, in the case of the Metro East Sanitary District, the employees and the board of commissioners to receive a group, life, health, accident, hospital, and medical insurance. They currently have it, but it's not specifically clear in the statute that it's allowed, although it is allowed by every other sanitary district in the state. I ask for the adoption."
"Leader Hoffman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to House Bill 476. All those in favor say 'aye'; those 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. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"House Bill 476, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Leader Hoffman."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. The Amendment becomes the Bill, and it would allow employees as well as commissioners of the Metro East Sanitary District to… to get the same rights and privileges of other sanitary districts in the… in the state by making it crystal clear that they could receive group, life, health, accident, hospital, and medical insurance, subject to board approval." 10300040.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Representative Windhorst is recognized for a question."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Thank you. Leader, you'd said something in your comments about making sure it was crystal clear they could receive these benefits. Have they received them to this point and there's a legal issue, or have they not received them?"
"They have. They have been receiving them, and it's very… it's crystal clear in every other sanitary district Act. But for whatever reason, the Metro East Sanitary District is under a different Act. So, this just takes the same wording under the Sanitary District Act of 1936 and places it into that… into that Act."
"Thank you."
"Leader Hoffman to close."
"I ask for a favorable roll call."
"The question is, 'Shall House Bill 476 pass?' All those 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? Clerk… Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 102 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having achieved a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
Clerk Hollman: "Committee Reports. Representative Evans, Chairperson of the Committee on Labor & Commerce reports the following Committee action taken on May 3, 2023: recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 2 to Senate Bill 1782 and 10300040.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 2834. Representative Scherer, Chairperson of the Committee on Elementary & Secondary Education: Administration, Licensing & Charter Schools reports the following Committee action taken on May 3, 2023: recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 2 House Bill 300, Floor Amendment(s) 2 to Senate Bill 1488, Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 1787, and Floor Amendment(s) 2 to Senate Bill 1993. Representative Stuart, Chairperson of the Committee on Higher Education reports the following Committee Action taken on May 3, 2023: recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 2898, and House Resolution 203, and Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 2240. Representative Lilly, Chairperson of the Committee on Appropriations–Health & Human Services reports the following Committee Action taken on May 4, 2023: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 3698, Senate Bill 1774, Senate Bill 1913; and do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 2 and House Bill 1222. Representative Burke, Chairperson of the Committee on Revenue & Finance reports the following committee action taken on May 4, 2023: recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 2 to House Bill 2518, Floor Amendment(s) 2 to Senate Bill 74, Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 1675. Representative LaPointe, Chairperson of the Committee on Mental Health & Addiction reports the following committee action taken on May 4, 2023: recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 2 to House Bill 2847 and Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 1402. Representative Kifowit, Chairperson of the Committee on Personnel & Pensions reports the following committee action taken on May 4, 2023: recommends be adopted 10300040.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 is Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 1233. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 255, offered by Representative Kifowit; and House Resolution 256, offered by Representative Swanson, are referred to the Rules Committee."
"Moving to page 13 of the Calendar, Senate Bills on Second Reading. Senate Bill 375, Representative Slaughter. Out of the record. We have Senate Bill 646, Representative Slaughter. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 646, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Senate Bill 896, Representative Hanson. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 896, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative Hanson, has been approved for consideration."
"Okay. Representative Hanson on Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 896."
"Thank you. I present Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 896. It's a technical change. It simply allows the original language of the Bill to be inserted properly into the Vehicle Code. I ask for a positive vote."
"Representative Hanson has moved for the adoption of Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 896. All those in favor say 'aye'; those 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." 10300040.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Third Reading. Senate Bill 14… moving to page 15 of the Calendar. Senate Bill 1438, Representative Hoffman. Representative Hoffman, Senate Bill 1438. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1474, Representative Hoffman. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1474, a Bill for an Act concerning State government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Senate Bill 1488, Representative Stuart. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1488, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative Stuart, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Stuart on Floor Amendment #2. Take your time."
"The Amendment just makes some slight changes to the make up of the task force that's going to be set to look at the edTPA."
"Representative Stuart has moved for the adoption of Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 1488. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those 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. Senate Bill… moving to page 17 of the Calendar, is Senate Bill 1994, Representative Yednock, 10300040.docx 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 but presented by Leader Manley. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1994, Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Moving back to page 16 of the Calendar, is Senate Bill 1787, Representative Elik. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1787, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Elik, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Elik on Floor Amendment #1."
"Sure. The Amendment just updates and improves the language creating the Rural Education Advisory Council."
"Representative Elik moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1787. All those in favor say 'aye'; those 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. Moving to page 18 of the Calendar. We have Senate Bill 2146, Representative Yednock, presented by Leader Manley. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 2146, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed." 10300040.docx 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Third Reading. Next, we have Senate Bill 2227, Representative Rita. Out of the record. Next, we have Senate Bill 2240, Representative Didech. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 2240, a Bill for an Act concerning Education. This Bill was read a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Didech, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Didech on Floor Amendment #1."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Floor Amendment #1 incorporates feedback from the Illinois State Board of Education and Community College Board. I ask for its adoption."
Speaker Burke: "Representative Didech has moved for Floor Amendment… for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 2240. All those in favor say 'aye'; those 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. Moving to page 3 of the Calendar, Senate Bills on Third Reading. We have Senate Bill 40, Leader Gabel. Please proceed. Excuse me. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 40, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Gabel."
"Thank you. Thank you, Madam Speaker. This Bill… the transition to electric vehicles is here and is gaining momentum. GM will be 100 percent electric in 2035. Ford is spending $50 billion for batteries so that half of the cars 10300040.docx 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 it builds in 2030 will be EVs. And the State of Illinois is spending millions on promoting EVs through the REV Act. That Bill passed with overwhelming, bipartisan majorities here in the House. With the investment in the vehicles, our charging infrastructure must keep pace. So, we know that approximately 80 percent of people charge at home, and this Bill will make sure that Illinois residents can do just that. We've worked out the last… for the last several years with the realtors, EV charging companies, condo representatives, and landlord associations, and we have finally removed all opposition to the Bill. The Bill is… is ready to go. The Bill includes just three… three things. Requires new construction of single family and multi-family to meet minimal requirements for future installations of EV chargers. Two, it sets rights and responsibilities between landlords and tenants when a tenant wants to install all EV chargers… an EV charger. And three, it sets rights and responsibilities between condo owners and condo associations. So, we took all the places where people lived to make sure that they could charge at home. Thank you, and I urge an 'aye' vote."
"Chair recognizes Representative Weaver."
"Does the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"The buyer of an electric car still needs to buy the charging port. It's not like this would allow them to get any sort of infrastructure for free. So, I… I guess I don't understand why people who don't have electric vehicles would need to pay for this installation to be part of their home." 10300040.docx 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"They don't pay for it. The cost is all on the person who wants to be able to charge their vehicle at all."
"Sure, but is it not included in the price of the new construction for the new home that would have this infrastructure included that would increase the price of that home?"
"Yeah. So, these… we did not require it to be EV ready. All we did was require it to be EV capable. So, it just has the conduit. It doesn't even have the wires. It just made it easier to put in the wires if we have to. The cost is extremely low. The realtors were okay with it. The builders were okay with it."
"Yeah, but I guess my point is that you're still having to pay for this conduit. And so, if less than one percent of cars on the road are EVs and less than point one percent of cars in my district are EVs, I just don't see why we're having people in downstate Illinois pay for this infrastructure. Is it something that you would consider just doing in Evanston to begin with and then expanding throughout the state?"
"Well, it's not just Evanston. I mean…"
"I know, but would you consider it starting there?"
"No. No. You know, I think this is a building code issue. As I've said, we're really looking towards the future and not that far in the future. As I stated, GM says they're going to have 100 percent electric cars in 2035. We expect buildings that we build today to still be standing in 2035. So, it's just a forward-looking plan…"
"Sure. I… "
"…for very little cost." 10300040.docx 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"And I… I can appreciate that GM may say that about the future, but the current state of my district today is that 99 percent of my drivers do not have electric vehicles. To… to the Bill. And energy prices are among the number one concern of complaints that I get from people in my district. We've taken a lot of action that has had upward pressure on energy prices. I think that this is a Bill that would add increased cost to consumers as they purchase new homes. And I also expect it would have increased cost… upward pressure on energy prices, as it would have an upward pressure on energy demand. Thank you."
"Representative Swanson is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicated she will."
"Thank you. What's the expected cost for this device?"
"The device itself doesn't have to be a device. It's… it can just be putting in the wires. And it's actually an outlet in the wall, like where you plug in a washing machine or where you'd plug in a dishwasher. It's the same energy load of those… of those things."
"Okay. So, how much does the outlet cost?"
"It's way… less than a thousand dollars, is what… what we've been told."
"Okay. That's just for the outlet. How much…"
"No, that's for the… that's for putting the wiring in and getting it all set up."
"Okay. So, most likely, this is a 200-amp service that's going to have to be installed in that house. And… that is 10300040.docx 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 going to be an additional cost too. Most houses do not have a 200-amp service."
"Well, I'm not sure if it's 200 amps. It's whatever you need for a dishwasher or a washing machine. Two forty-four, and most…"
"No, it's a lot more than that."
"It's 244, and most houses, they have enough electricity to be able to put in a washing machine and a dishwasher."
"Right, 244 volts, but it's still is going to take a 200-amp service, and most homes do not have 200-amp services. So, that's going to be an increased cost."
"Well, this is for new construction."
"Right."
"This is for new construction."
"Right. So, that…"
"And new construction…"
"So… so, now we've increased the cost of that new construction. So, when we have the new construction and we start building a new… homes in an area that now have new constructed homes with 200-amp service. And this is going into that second-, third-order effect of this. But now, who's going to pay for the cost of the provider of that electricity, whether it's ComEd or some company like that, to bring that electricity to that home? My point is… to the Bill. When we start talking about increasing and installing EV-type stuff in our homes, whether it's… how many homes today have a one car? Most cars… most homes have two to three cars. So, now, that 200-amp service most likely will not be able to provide the power for that vehicles. Most likely, in our rural 10300040.docx 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 communities, and even in some of the newer housing developments, the amperage provided to that area is going to be… is going to struggle providing enough electricity to provide for all these electric vehicles. The infrastructure is going to be taxed to an extreme point where the cost is not just going to be the cost of putting in an electric vehicle outlet, the cost is going to be much deeper, much more involved with the infrastructure of the electricity coming in to that residential area. So, I think we need… as we start moving down this road of EVs and turbines and solar and all that, we need to give the thought to what the second- , third-order effect of these votes are in… in affecting the infrastructure and electrical power within our residential areas. Thank you."
"Leader McCombie is recognized."
"Will the Sponsor yield for a couple questions?"
"Indicates she will."
"What is the effective date of this?"
"I think it was 90 days after the Bill is effective… on permits issued 90 days after the Bill is effective. The effective date must be when it's signed, I believe."
"So, you think… you think it is, or it is… it's 90 days after it's signed?"
"It's 90… yes, when permits that are… yeah. So, it's when people obtain permits. The permits that people obtain 90 days after the Bill's effective date, which is a default, which is, I believe, when it's signed."
"Okay. And is there any penalties if a builder willfully does not do this?" 10300040.docx 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"There is a penalty that I just… yes. If an… if a landlord doesn't allow the… gives the person who wants to put this in a hard time, it's five… they can be fined $500."
"Wait a second. If the landlord doesn't permit…"
"Yeah. So, as I said, the Bill has three parts to it. One is for new construction. One is the rules allowing for condo owners to be able to put a charging station or an outlet in for themselves. And the third is for apartment dwellers to be able to charge at home as well."
"Okay. So, for a landlord, if he doesn't allow a tenant, there's a penalty. If it is new construction, is there… for a single family, is there a penalty?"
"No."
"So, new construction, there's no penalty?"
"I don't believe I saw anything in the Bill."
"Okay."
"They're expected to… they're expected to abide by the law."
"Oh, they're expected to abide by the law, but there's no penalty if they don't?"
"I don't remember seeing anything for new construction."
"Okay. So, is there for an association, for a condo association, then, if they don't abide by the law?"
"That is $500 as well."
"Is that per unit or just for the total project?"
"It's per project. So, it'd be per… per whoever… whoever they are not allowing to charge their car there."
"So, if I have a hundred-unit project, it would be 500 per unit, if I willfully decided not to do that?" 10300040.docx 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"If you willfully decide not to allow any of them to pay for putting in a charging accessibility, either a system or a outlet, yes."
"No, this is for new build. So, a new… like, I'm a new condo developer, and I'm building a hundred…"
"There's no… there's no penalty."
"Oh, there's no penalty for that person?"
"Not for new construction."
"Really? Interesting. Okay."
"Yeah, it's… it would be part of the permit."
"Pardon?"
"It would be required in the… in all permits 90 days after this Bill is signed."
"But if they don't do it, there's no penalty."
"It's not in the Bill. I mean, you know, it would be the same as if they don’t adhere to any of their other permits for building."
"Okay. So, the only people that are going to be penalized by not doing it is a landlord?"
"I don't know if there are… there may be somewhere else in some other code where there are penalties for new developments not abiding by their permits. I do not know. But the law… this law just states for the obstruction of allowing a condo owner or an apartment dweller to be able to set it up."
"Okay. And that's for existing, not new?"
"Correct."
"Okay. Thank you."
"Representative Halbrook is recognized." 10300040.docx 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Thank you… thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the… does the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"So, Representative, just… sounds like this is for single-family and multi-family homes, right? This does not a… this doesn't have anything to do with businesses or governmental installations?"
"Correct."
"So, is there anything in law today about businesses and governmental installations that have parking lots? Are they to provide any electrical vehicle charging facilities?"
"Well, we had it in the original Bill, but we took it out."
"So, currently, there's no mandate on government to have electrical vehicle charging stations anywhere. Is that correct?"
"It is not in this Bill."
"Okay. So, is there any place on the Capitol Complex that we can charge an electrical vehicle today?"
"There was, but now with construction, I don't believe there is."
"So, the construction… why would the construction have anything to do with the electrical vehicle charging station that was on this Capitol Complex?"
"I'm… I'm sorry. Could you repeat your question?"
"Yeah. So, I think on the south side of the Stratton, there was an electrical…"
"Correct." 10300040.docx 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"…vehicle charging, but there's no more. What… that seems like a long ways from the construction. Why would that have anything to do with it?"
"Why did they remove those charging stations?
"I'm curious why that… yeah, I don't think the charging…"
"I cannot answer that, but what I do know is I did talk to the architect who is responsible for all of the changes being made… of the construction for the building here, and they have said that it's in their plans. They have plans to put in new charging stations, both in the garage and, I believe, on campus."
"But, currently, nowhere on the Capital Complex can we charge an electrical vehicle today. Is that correct?"
"Currently, there is not. There had been. There… you know, there's a lot of things that aren't on campus right now. It's pretty much chaos."
"Right. So, and you believe the reason to be is, is because of the construction and not due to any technological changes in the devices to do that?"
"That's my understanding."
"All right. Thank you. No further questions."
"Representative Weber is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. Does the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"Just real quick, just to kind of follow up on Representative Halbrook's questions. Would, like, federal housing authority and any housing developments be required to follow the same law?" 10300040.docx 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"There is a… a part of this is for affordable housing."
"Okay."
"Yes, we did work out a… an understanding with them on what their requirements were going to be as well."
"'Cause a lot of times on federal property, they follow their own ordinances and regulations. So, I was just curious on that."
"Yeah. Not on… yeah."
"So, if a local housing authority built a apartment building, they would have to put one in for all the tenants?"
"Pardon?"
"Say if a local housing authority built apartment building, had units for residents, they would have to put these stations in for all of them?"
"For affordable… are you asking me around affordable housing developments?"
"I mean, apartment building, or senior living center, or you name it. Any building where people…"
"Well, for affordable housing developments, they are required to have one EV-capable space for each code-required space if the owner is issued a building permit 24 months after the effective date. So, there are requirements for low… for affordable housing developments."
"Would there be… thanks for answering that. Do you know if there'd be any prevention for a landlord or anyone else to meter the usage of these for tenants to add any cost on?"
"Any… yes. The tenant is required to pay the electricity cost for charging their car."
"No, what I'm saying is, would a landlord be able to…" 10300040.docx 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"I can't hear. I can't hear."
"…put a meter on these and actually increase the… you know, add a cost for it? Would a landlord be able to meter or monitor the usage on these electric charging stations and add a service fee?"
"Right… so, yes, they would."
"They would be able to do that?"
"Yes."
"Okay. So… so, landlords could actually profit from this? All right. Thank you."
"Leader Manley's recognized."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"Leader Gabel, my BA doesn't show any opponents, and now that the Illinois REALTORS are proponents. Is that… is that your understanding?"
"So, they… apparently, they filed both in support and neutral. But the times I have talked to them and seen them, they have given me a thumbs up and said, yes, we're ready to go. We're ready now."
"Thank you."
"Leader… seeing no further questions, Leader Gabel to close."
"So, thank you. Again, let me just remind folks that the electric cars are the future. Most people charge at home, and we need to make sure that they have charging… that they have the capability to charge at home. Charging your car is a lot less expensive than buying gas, and we should make this as 10300040.docx 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 easy as possible for… for electric car owners. Thank you, and I appreciate an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 40 pass?' All those 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? Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 69 voting 'yes', 38 voting 'no', and 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 49, Representative Morgan. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 49, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Morgan."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 49 amends the Student Debt Assistance Act. This deals with an issue we have dealt with previously, which is universities and colleges withholding official transcripts because of small amounts of student debt. This is something we dealt with in the previous General Assembly, in the 102nd General Assembly. There was a lack of clarity with some universities, and we are clarifying that in this legislation to make sure that when a student is trying to transfer to another university or use their transcript to get a job and employment that that is not withheld unreasonably because of small amounts of student debt. And ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Representative Windhorst for a question."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will." 10300040.docx 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Thank you. Representative, what is the current state of the law for a student be able to get their transcripts if they owe a debt to the university or school, college?"
"Last Session, we… in the 102nd General Assembly, we passed a law that dealt with unofficial transcripts. It was intended to include official transcripts. Universities, some started to apply that law as intended, as we discussed and debated on this House Floor. We did have one particular university that withheld a transcript, claiming the language was ambiguous about an official transcript being released to a student transferring to another university. So, right now, there is a law in effect. There apparently is some ambiguity. We thought we were being clear. This makes it clearer in the law."
"And was that House Bill 3032 from the last General Assembly? Does that sound correct to you?"
"It does."
"It looks like, from our side, there were… the vote in the House was 74 to 33. Does that sound correct?"
"It does, but I think you were right on the cusp there, Representative Windhorst."
"Yeah. Well, I hear that a lot. Yes. I have no further questions."
"Representative Swanson is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Does the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Thank you. Representative Morgan, we had a discussion on the House Floor, and I just want to bring up a couple points for my… the Members on this side. I represent Western 10300040.docx 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 Illinois University in my district. They're one of the opponents because they do have a $3 million debt from students that have graduated from WIU. And WIU is… feels that this will… it does take away their ability to collect any of that $3 million. So, that's why they're opposed, of course. And… and in our discussion on the floor… or in committee, we also clarified that this does not prevent a student from applying for a job because the place of employment where they applied can request, at no charge, to that university for a copy of their transcript. Is that correct?"
"No. That's not my understanding. So, the university… some universities are still withholding their transcripts, whether it's a request from the student or an employer. So, it depends on the university. The University of Illinois, for instance, last year decided to remove this… this option altogether. And to your point, Representative, you know, we had a very thorough debate in committee about this, and I completely understand your concerns. We also addressed that there are, and will continue to be, a number of ways in which a university can collect on student debt. What they cannot do, under this legislation, is withhold a transcript."
"Okay. 'Cause I'm reading… under current law, it says, 'An institution of higher education must provide official transcripts of current or former students to potential employers, even if the student owes a debt. May not… may not condition the provision of official transcripts to current or potential employers on the payment of a debt, other than the fee charge to provide the transcript. May not charge a higher 10300040.docx 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 fee or give unfavorable treatment to those who owe debt.' So, that's how I'm interpreting current statute."
"That's… that's correct. And again, that was in the language of the law that we passed last Session. I think there's a different section that caused some ambiguity you see in Section 15 that we amended here to provide clarity that under no conditions should an official transcript be withheld from submission due to these debts. And whether it's an employer, National Guard, as we discussed for those who are trying to join military service, or those looking to transfer to another university."
"Okay. Well, thank you, Representative. To the Bill. This is an unfortunate way to prevent a college who has an indebtedness from a student for possibly parking, possibly not paying their total debt for their meals, or not paying some of those fees that are charged by a school. One of those second- or third-order effects could've… could create… colleges or universities require all those fees up front when that student begins a school year, as opposed to paying a monthly fee or weekly fee as some do today. So, it could cause an additional burden upon the students with this type legislation. Thank you."
Speaker Burke: "Seeing no further questions, Representative Morgan to close."
"Madam Speaker, I urge an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall House Bill 40'… or excuse me… 'Senate Bill 49 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. 10300040.docx 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 70 voting 'yes', 38 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 67, Representative Moeller. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 67, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Moeller."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 67 requires the Department of Public Health to provide all newborns with a screening test for the presence of metachromatic leukodystrophy. This… the Bill also provides that, subject to appropriation and federal approval, the Medicaid program shall reimburse hospitals for costs associated with a newborn screening test for the metachromatic leukodystrophy, as would be required should this Bill pass. This Bill came from a family who has lost two children to this disorder because the disorder was diagnosed later on in their life. There are therapies that are available for children who are screened and found to carry the genetic code for this disorder. So, catching this early on can improve the quality of life. And… and requiring that all newborns are screened for this will help those who are… are found to carry this genetic disorder a better quality and a longer quality of life. So, would ask for an 'aye' vote, and happy to answer any questions."
"Representative Flowers is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Representative Moeller, I just have one question because I can't pull up the analysis on the computer. This is just for screening, that's all?" 10300040.docx 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Yes. This is just for screening. When a… when a child is born in Illinois, they… they are… there are mandatory screening tests that are required for, you know, per State Law. This would add this screening to that battery of… of tests."
"Thank you very much."
"Leader McCombie's recognized."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"Just one quick question. Will this mandate a parent to test for it?"
"Mandate a parent to test for it?"
"I mean, if they… I mean, is it… like, do you have to have the test if a parent chose not to, for whatever reason?"
"Well, it doesn't require a special mandate just for this test. The… whatever the mandate surrounding newborn screenings is in place right now would remain with this test."
"Thank you."
"Representative Halbrook is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A question of the Sponsor. Representative, there were several 'no' votes in the Senate. And I apologize, the noise was a little loud in here. I couldn't… you may have explained that, or does the Amendment fix some of those problems? Help me understand about all the 'no' votes in the Senate."
"It's my understanding that the… the primary concern in the Senate was the cost for the screening to the Department of Public Health. But DPH is neutral on the Bill, and it is understood that there will be, as part of the rulemaking 10300040.docx 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 process, additional funding made available… or they're allowed to assess additional funding to cover the cost of the test."
"So, what is the cost?"
"So, right now, they… there is no FDA-approved screening test available for… for this… this disorder. And it will be… the department will be managing the… the development of this test and the implementation. So, there will be… there will be a marginal cost. And again, the department will be able to recoup those costs, either through private insurance or through the Medicaid program, however the… the screening is paid for depending on the insurance status of the family."
"So, just to be clear, there is no test. So, we don't know the cost, but you're mandating this to be done. What… what do you hope to accomplish here, I guess? I'm…"
"We are… there are tests available that… that the department will be able to utilize. There are tests that are in operation right now that are able to test whether or not a child is born with this genetic disorder. This would provide the Department of Health to provide those screenings on all newborns, once this… once this legislation is signed into law."
"Okay. But you said there wasn't a test and then you just said there was a test."
"I'm sorry. Can you repeat that?"
"You said there wasn't a test. And now, you just said there was a test. And because…"
"I said there was… there was not an FDA… an FDA-approved test." 10300040.docx 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"But we don't know what it's going to cost the department to do this yet?"
"We don't have… we don't have an estimate on the cost of the test right now, but it is the… again, it will be subject to reimbursement by private insurance, Medicaid, however the… you know, however the insurance status of the family…"
"Okay. And so, in this language, is this subject to appropriation, where we're going to have to appropriate money to do this eventually? Is this subject to appropriation?"
"Yes."
"All right. Yeah, thank… Ladies and Gentlemen, I… I understand the sensitivity here, and I… I don't want to be cold, but this is a cost that we can't nail down. It is subject to appropriation, so… there were several 'no' votes out of the Senate. Just use some caution here. Thank you. No further questions."
"Representative Hammond is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?
"Yes."
"Representative Moeller…"
"Yes."
"…it's my understanding that this test currently exists. Is that correct?"
"Yes."
"And many individuals with private insurance currently opt to have this test done, and it is covered through their insurance. Is that correct?"
"That is correct." 10300040.docx 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"So, by introducing this legislation, essentially what we're doing here is because, at the current time if you are uninsured or on Medicaid, the hospitals are eating that cost, correct?"
"That is correct. If the parents opt to have that test. Correct."
"And so, by passing this, we will essentially be getting a match from the Medicaid program. So, what would have been a $15 million cost is actually reduced to about 4 and a half million. Is that correct?"
"There will be a match. There will be a federal match. Yes. And…"
"Okay. Thank you. I… I appreciate it, and I urge an 'aye' vote."
"And thank you, Leader Hammond, for more clearly outlining the… the financial… the insurance situation as it… as it currently pertains to this test. We verified with the Department of Healthcare and Family Services that in order for the Medicaid matching to take effect there would have to be a waiver applied for. So, this… the Medicaid funding portion of this legislation wouldn't kick in until we were… had that waiver approved."
"Representative Moeller to close."
"Thank you. Again, thank you for the questions. I appreciate the bipartisan support that this legislation received, both in committee and through our… our sponsorship. This is… this test is going to help save lives and improve the quality of lives of those who are born with this rare genetic disease, and I urge an 'aye' vote. Thank you." 10300040.docx 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 67 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 106 voting in 'favor', 0 voting 'opposed', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Hernandez, Barbara Hernandez, for what reason do you rise?" Hernandez, B.: "A Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed." Hernandez, B.: "I just want to welcome the State Comptroller, Susana Mendoza, to the chamber."
"Welcome back, Comptroller Mendoza. Continuing on the Order of Third Readings. On page 3, we have Senate Bill 57, Representative LaPointe. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 57, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative LaPointe."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 57 expands who is eligible for our Community Behavioral Health Professional Loan Repayment Program. And this is a program we passed into law a few years ago. Applications for the program opened over the summer. It's funded with cannabis excise taxes that are supposed to go to mental health and substance use treatment. And what this Bill does, it expands which professionals under the behavioral health umbrella, some are licensed and some are not, which of those professionals are eligible to get 10300040.docx 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 their student loans repaid. And it expands where they can work to be eligible for that loan repayment. And I'm happy to answer any questions about it. I think many in this chamber already know that we are in a mental health workforce crisis. And this Bill would help keep our professionals in the field longer so people all across Illinois can access mental health support."
"Representative Keicher's recognized."
"Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"Okay. Representative, I just had a quick question. Formerly sitting on the Higher Ed Committee, we run into this a lot. Is there any means testing or income testing for anybody eligible for the grant? Since these loan repayments can lag over a 10-year period, some may have gone on to other careers, some may have gone on to other things, and I just want to make sure that… that we're taking care of those that really, truly need it."
"I'm going to… I'm trying to look in the Bill to verify the answer to that, but kind of while I'm looking for that, I will note that the mental health and substance use treatment world, especially for those that work at community mental health centers and behavioral health centers, it's endemically underpaid."
"And… and I agree with you, and I have family members that have both used and gone through as professionals. The challenge that I continually have is, though, some go into private practice, some go onto other things and are not doing the… the lowly-paid work that others are. And I would really 10300040.docx 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 like to help make sure there are more resources towards those that you just described. So, I'd love to see some sort of means testing, some sort of direction to really allow those that are in most need to take advantage of these resources. Because it's already there. I mean, the resource is already there, right? It's on the books. We're just clarifying what… what's already there, and I think means testing would be an important piece to that."
"And… and so, to be clear… thanks for… you gave me a little time to look in the Bill. Although there's not specific means testing, anyone eligible for the program, as it stands and with the expansion, would have to work at a community mental health center, a behavioral health clinic, a substance use treatment provider, or a state-operated psychiatric facility."
"Okay."
"And… and as I think you probably already know, in this field, people incur intense amounts of student loans. I know for me, with my social work degree, I came out and had a $30 thousand debt load, and I got a job where I earned $15 an hour. So, in terms of the choices we make that aren't private practice of where to work, we have heavy debt loads and are not getting paid that much. But I appreciate the spirit of the question that we want the people most in need to be able to access this program."
"Thank you."
"Representative Halbrook is recognized." 10300040.docx 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Madam Speaker, a question of the Sponsor. Representative, just how many people would be affected by this?"
"It's… yeah, it's impossible for me to answer that question. But in terms of the people that would be eligible to apply for this, in this Bill, we're expanding that a bit to include people that are certified alcohol and drug counselors, to include people that are certified recovery support specialists, and to include people who have bachelor's degrees in counseling, psychology, or social work who are working at our state-operated psychiatric hospitals."
"Okay. And it says 30 percent of the funding of these grants are reserved for certain groups of people. But it is open to everyone, right? It would be open to everyone in these fields?"
"It's… it's open to everyone in these fields who have the licenses mentioned in the Bill, the degrees mentioned in the Bill, and who have worked for at least a year at the… at the workplaces listed in the Bill."
"Okay. And the concern I have is… is where the funding's coming from. What is that funding currently being used for?"
"The funding for the current program, and when we expand it, comes from cannabis excise taxes. And in our original cannabis Bill, you probably remember this, we devote 20 percent of cannabis taxes to the… to mental health and substance use treatment. And you can't provide mental health and substance use treatment if we don't have the workforce to provide it, and that's what this Bill is about." 10300040.docx 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Okay. So, it… it's a debt… or a student debt repayment for folks that enter certain fields, coming from that with the idea that it's for mental health treatment or whatever. I understand that."
"That's correct."
"Right. So, do we have other programs that is doing similar things in other fields with other state dollars to relieve some student debt?"
"We have some. We have some. Not an incredible amount, and most of those programs are oversubscribed. Meaning, not everyone who needs the assistance can access it."
"Okay. All right. Thank you. No further questions."
"Representative LaPointe to close."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. I think the most important thing for everyone in this chamber to know about the Community Behavioral Health Professional Loan Repayment Program is that there are people in your districts today, and more people after we pass this into law, who would be able to access these loan repayment programs. So, I urge you to post on your social media, get the word out, and if you need a digital graphic, email me. I got it from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission. I hope we all vote 'yes'."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 57 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? Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 101 voting in 'favor', 0 voting 'opposed', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed." 10300040.docx 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
Speaker Manley: "Manley in the Chair. Senate Bill 99, Representative Johnson. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 99, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Johnson."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 99 establishes a process for students with disabilities to receive reasonable accommodations from our public colleges and universities. Senate Bill 99 defines the type of documents a public universities and colleges must accept as proof of disability. Senate Bill 99 also requires public colleges and universities adopt and share information regarding disability services in a transparent way. Students with disabilities already receive reasonable accommodations in K-12 schools. We know that providing reasonable accommodations, like extra testing time, is beneficial for our students with disabilities. That's why we already do it at the primary and secondary levels. No student should be denied an opportunity at an education because of a disability. That is as true at the college level as it is in kindergarten. Students with disabilities face additional difficulties even when reasonable accommodations are in place. Providing these accommodations helps level the playing field for students that are already at a disadvantage. This legislation requires that students seeking accommodations have recent, documented proof of need to avoid abuse. Example, a student who needed an individual education plan in elementary school, but has not received accommodations since, would have to provide additional documentation. But a student who had an active IEP upon 10300040.docx 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 exiting high school would not. I'm aware of no opposition, and I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Chair recognizes Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates that he will."
"Representative, have the universities and colleges expressed an opinion on the Bill, a position one way or the other?"
"We have heard of no opposition anywhere. From what I understand, there is an understanding that we have to get everybody on the same page."
"And they've not expressed support either on the Bill?"
"Neither way. No, Sir."
"Do we have any indication if this… these accommodations are being made at certain institutions and not at others? Is there any…"
"We do. There is an inconsistency. We… I don't understand. There are some universities that will honor a disability and some that won't. There is no uniform acceptance across the board."
"Has there been any group to express opposition to the Bill?"
"No, Sir."
"Thank you."
"You bet."
"Representative Johnson to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall House (sic—Senate) Bill 99 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. 10300040.docx 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 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 106 voting in 'favor', 0 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1… 101, Representative Gong-Gershowitz. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 101, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Gong-Gershowitz."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 101 is a simple Bill that just ensures that children diagnosed with PANDAS or PANS, which is a pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder that emanates from childhood strep infection, can get the medically necessary treatment that they need. Specifically, what it does is ensures that an insurance provider cannot deny coverage for subsequent treatment just because that child had an initial treatment when this is a chronic condition and further treatments are required and ordered by their doctor. I know of no opposition and ask for a favorable roll call."
"Leader Windhorst for a question."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"Representative, what is the current state of law in this area? It appears that this may already be covered in law. What is the necessity for this change?"
"So, it really, I think, clarifies that if a doctor prescribes treatment for PANDAS or PANS and a patient 10300040.docx 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 has had one of those treatments that subsequent treatments would not be barred if they were deemed medically necessary by the provider. It's our understanding, from parents and patients, that sometimes these are erroneously barred. And so, this is clarifying change."
"Thank you. Has there been any opposition expressed to the Bill?"
"None that I'm aware of."
"Thank you."
"Representative Gong-Gershowitz to close."
"Ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall House (sic—Senate) Bill 101 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed say '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'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Chair recognizes Leader Keicher."
"Madam Speaker, could you please excuse Representative Rosenthal for the remainder of the day?"
"We will do that. Thank you. Moving on to Senate Bill 199, Representative Ann Williams. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 199, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Williams." Williams, A.: "Thank… thank you, Madam Speaker. This Bill is an initiative of the ARPN industry. And this is a response really 10300040.docx 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 to concerns about mental health and the opioid epidemic. So, this provides that ARPNs that have full practice authority will have the ability to prescribe medication without consulting with a physician in one case that they currently don't have, and that is with regard benzodiazepines. And these, of course, are frequently used to help people wean themselves off of opioids. So, what we're doing here is simply giving the ARPNs the opportunity to prescribe these medications without a consultation with a physician. Again, it's prescribing authority they already have, and it doesn't impact patient safety, but rather is responsive to issues related to often psychiatric work related to substance abuse. And happy to answer any question."
Speaker Manley: "Chair… Chair recognizes Representative Windhorst."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?
"She indicates she will."
"Our analysis shows that this language is agreed with the Med Society. Is that correct?" Williams, A.: "Absolutely. It was heavily negotiated with the Medical Society, and they are good with the Bill."
"And what is the impetus of the Bill? What's brought this Bill about?" Williams, A.: "Well, originally, the ARPNs were interested in eliminating the barriers to prescribing medications frequently used by ARPNs in their practice authority. And, of course, they have full prescribing authority. They just need a consultative agreement with a physician and need to check in with them within 30 days of the prescription. It's really 10300040.docx 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 not as critical for benzodiazepines. Of course, we all understand why opioids are in this category. But, again, any drug that's prescribed needs to go through what's called the PMP, which is the Prescription Monitoring Program. So, that's to make sure that any practitioner knows what drugs that patient is being prescribed. The reason we carved out benzos here is because they are frequently used when treating people for substance abuse disorders to get them off opioids. And it's just something that they need to respond quickly, patient safety's an issue, and they didn't want to have to add that layer."
"So, just as it relates to benzodiazepines, it… what change does it make regarding benzodiazepines?" Williams, A.: "It just says that if they want… if they want to prescribe less than 120 days, they don't need to consult with a physician."
"And benzodiazepines are specifically referenced, rather than just Schedule II?" Williams, A.: "Exactly. Specifically."
"Okay. Thank you." Williams, A.: "Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Hauter."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she will."
"So, I remembered my question." Williams, A.: "Okay."
"I'm in this business, and I have a lot of questions about what is even a collaborative relationship, a consultative 10300040.docx 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 relationship. So, can you explain what happens after 120 days?" Williams, A.: "Well, as my… as I understand it… and again, the prescribing ability and the relationship between doctors and other health care professionals is a complex one. And, obviously, you're more familiar than I, but with regard to what we're talking about here, the consultation that takes place is something that takes place after the fact. So, if you wanted to prescribe a opioid to somebody and you are an ARPN with full practice authority, you can do so, but you just have to let the supervising physician know within 30 days. And the only drugs it applies to now are opioids and benzodiazepines. Everything else is allowed to be prescribed freely. Those were carved out initially for whatever reason. We found that benzodiazepines being used in substance abuse programs were needed to be prescribed quite frequently."
"Yeah, it's mostly because benzos usually require a long weaning period. And so, there's a need for a longer time frame where these are prescribed. So… so, what is a consultative after 120 days? What does that look like? It is written? Or is it just an agreement? Or is it just best practice to document your relationship with a physician?" Williams, A.: "You know, I don't think we really get into that in the statutes. I think that comes within… falls within what you said, best practices for health care practitioners. We certainly don't want to get to the granular level of telling health care practitioners exactly how to practice medicine. So, I believe the relationships vary from practice to practice, from physician to physician. So, I think there's an 10300040.docx 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 agreement that would be worked out between the two. But I do know it's a 30-dayish period where they have to let the physician know just, again, in these very limited cases."
"And just to confirm, the Illinois State Medical Society was completely in approval and proponents of this, or were they neutral?" Williams, A.: "I'm not sure if they're neutral or proponents, actually. I would check my analysis, but it's… my computer, but… my understanding is they're fine with the Bill."
"They're neutral?" Williams, A.: "I would say neutral at least… most likely."
"Okay. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Davidsmeyer."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Question of the… actually, to the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"I had… I had the opportunity during the… our spring break to join Representative Frese at the Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing & Health in Quincy. And a group of nursing students, probably about 80 nursing students, were trying to learn about how… how to be involved in the process. This is one of the Bills that they were advocating for. And when I started our discussion, I was a 'no'. But after discussing what they're for, what they're used for, the limitations on it, they swayed me. So, I just want… I want to give a shoutout to the nursing students there for… for taking the time to have a legitimate discussion on a Bill. So, I will be joining you in support of this Bill."
"Representative Williams to close." 10300040.docx 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 Williams, A.: "I'm sure they probably did a better job explaining it than I did, but I'm glad to have your support on this Bill. Again, this predominantly impacts psychiatric ARPNs, and I would just ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 199 pass?' All those in favor vote '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 103 voting in 'favor', 0 voting 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 214, Representative Didech. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 214, a Bill for an Act concerning State government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Didech."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 214 amends the Public Employee Disability Act so that law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics who contract an illness that is the subject of a disaster declaration will be eligible for the same continuing compensation as a public safety employee who sustains an injury in the line of duty for a period of up to a year. Throughout the recent pandemic, COVID-19 has been the number one cause of line-of-duty deaths for law enforcement. In 2022, even with the virus declining, COVID-19 was still the leading cause of death for law enforcement. Given all that, it is appropriate to treat deadly, contagious diseases contracted in the line of duty in 10300040.docx 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 the same manner as we treat line-of-duty physical injuries. I'm happy to answer any questions."
"Chair recognizes Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Representative, just so I'm clear. This will apply during a state of emergency during an illness, or when the illness is caused, during that state of emergency?"
"Yes. So, I'll read from the Bill. An 'illness means any illness, disease, or condition the presence of which in a community results in the declaration of a disaster or emergency by a State, county, or municipal official.'"
"And it would… would it apply only during that state of emergency or disaster declaration, or would that apply after the fact?"
"So, if it is no longer under a disaster declaration, then it would no longer apply. If it was contracted during a disaster declaration, then it would apply."
"So, for instance, with COVID, once that disaster declaration expires, then an individual who contracts COVID would not be eligible under this Bill?"
"I think… I think there's a potential… that would be a potential factual question about when the contraction occurred or when it didn't occur. But the intent is that, yes, that this benefit would be available for when the disaster declaration is in effect."
"And when is the COVID disaster declaration set to expire. Do you know?"
"May 11." 10300040.docx 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Thank you. I note in our analysis that the Municipal League as well as several municipalities are opposed. Do you know the nature of their opposition?"
"No one appeared in committee, and no one… no one reached out to me to express opposition. So, I can't speak to that."
"I believe in committee there was a split Republican vote, some voting for it and some being opposed. I believe you'll see that again today. Thank you."
"Representative Didech to close."
"Thank you. I'd appreciate an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall House Bill'… excuse me… 'Senate Bill 214 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. And the voting's 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 91 voting in 'favor', 11 voting 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 216, Representative Moeller. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 216, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Moeller."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 216 is an initiative of the Illinois Alzheimer's Association and would create an Alzheimer's and dementia-related training program for guardians and public guardians under the Guardianship and Advocacy Act and Probate Act of 1975. I know of no opposition and would ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Chair recognizes Leader Windhorst." 10300040.docx 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates that she will."
"Thank you. Our analysis shows that there was potentially an Amendment that was going to return to committee. And to our knowledge, that did not occur. Do you recall that discussion regarding the training? And there will also be work on budget concerns with the Guardianship and Advocacy Commission?"
"That was… that was discussed during committee, that we would work with the Guardianship Commission to ensure that they had the resources available or necessary to implement the training. But it was not contemplated to be an Amendment."
"Okay. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Halbrook."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A question of the Sponsor. Representative, this… this Bill looks like it failed the Chesney test. And as a former Member of this chamber, I'm just curious what his opposition would be to that. Can you help us to understand why he would have voted 'no'?"
"I can't claim to know the mind of Senator Chesney."
"Well, that's unfortunate. I was hoping you could share some light there."
"Sorry about that."
"So, okay, thank you. No further questions."
Speaker Manley: "I appreciate you, Representative Moeller. Representative Moeller to close."
"Thank you. I would ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall House Senate Bill 216 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. And 10300040.docx 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 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 97 voting in 'favor', 0 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Leader Keicher, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Madam Speaker, if you could please excuse Representative David Friess for the remainder of the day."
"Thank you. Senate Bill 247, Representative Yednock, represented by Representative Vella. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 247, a Bill for an Act concerning business. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Vella."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 247, which is an initiative of Ducks Unlimited… one second here. Let me get it going. Yes, yes, yes… all right. Hold on. Hold on. Hold on. Hold on. Hold on."
"Would you like me to come back?"
"No, no, no. Hold on. I got it. It's a… it's a electronic issue. Here we go …of Ducks Unlimited. Provides that a non- for-profit corporation may be organized to do engineering for conservation services associated with wetland restoration or mitigation, flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and natural infrastructure. This came out of the Senate with no opposition. It came out of the State Government Administration Committee with no opposition. It is an amazing Bill. It's a Lance Yednock Bill. Please vote for it." 10300040.docx 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 247 pass?' All in favor vote '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 99 voting in 'favor', 1 voting 'opposed', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Chair recognizes Representative Davidsmeyer."
"I would like to be recorded as a 'yes' vote on Senate Bill 247. My grandfather actually helped start the Illinois Ducks Unlimited."
"Well, there you go. We'll make sure that's reflected in the record. The Chair recognizes Representative Huynh. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you so much, Chair. I rise today to announce that May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage and History Month. This month we recognize the contributions and influence of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. In a 2021 Leading Asian Americans to Unite for Change study that surveyed over 5 thousand Americans, 42 percent of Americans could not name an influential Asian American. Forty-two percent could not name an Asian American who was influential in the United States of America. When it came to naming an influential Southeast Asian, that number goes down to zero percent. Zero percent could name a Southeast Asian who was influential in American history. That is why every single day this month in Session the Asian American House Caucus, eight strong, will highlight 10300040.docx 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 an Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander. Today, we are highlighting Ke Huy Quan. Ke Huy Quan continues to break barriers for Asian Americans in entertainment. Born on August 20, 1971, in Saigon, Vietnam to a family of eight siblings, he and his family lived in a refugee camp after the Vietnam War ended. They eventually settled in the United States of America in 1979, where he learned English as a second language. In 1984, at age 12, he became a child actor and starred as Short Round in the Steven Spielberg film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, alongside Harrison Ford. And I know this very well because my nickname growing up on the playground was Short Round as well. However, due to a lack of on-camera work for Asian Americans and the negative stereotypes often portrayed by Asian Americans, Ke Huy Quan disappeared from Hollywood for close to three decades. But like the Vietnamese ancestors before him, he possessed grit and resiliency and did not give up. He returned to acting as the lead male actor in the 2022 science fiction film Everything Everywhere All at Once. With an inspiring comeback story and the comeback kid, he won numerous accolades, including the Screen Actors Guild Award, a Golden Globe, and became one of two actors of Asian descent to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor and the first Vietnamese American to win an Oscar in American history. So, today, we recognize Ke Huy Quan for his contributions to our country and for inspiring the next generation of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Americans to enter a career in storytelling. Thank you so much for your time. I appreciate it." 10300040.docx 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023
"Thank you, Representative. Chair recognizes Representative Gill. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal interest."
"Please proceed."
"I would like to remind Members that today is Firefighter Day, and we have one of our own, Representative Mike Kelly. Thank you to all the firefighters in Illinois."
"Thank you, Representative Gill. Thank you, Representative Kelly. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 253, offered by Representative Hauter. House Resolution 254, offered by Representative Smith. And House Resolution 257, offered by Representative Yednock."
"Leader Buckner 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. And now, allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Leader Buckner moves the House stand adjourned until Monday, May 8, at the hour of 2 p.m. Safe journey. All those in favor say 'aye'; 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 House Bills. House Bill 4065, offered by Representative Slaughter, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. House Bill 4066, offered by Representative Weaver, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 4067, offered by Representative 10300040.docx 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 40th Legislative Day 5/4/2023 Swanson, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 4068, offered by Representative Schmidt, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. House Bill 4069, offered by Representative Friess, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 4070, offered by Representative Severin, a Bill for an Act concerning education. First Reading of these House Bills. Second Reading of House Bills. House Bill 2, a Bill for an Act concerning State government. House Bill 1222, a Bill for an Act concerning State government. House Bill 3698, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Second Reading of these House Bills. They'll be held on the Order of Second Reading. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned." 10300040.docx 58