"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Before speaking to the Lord, it's good to listen to his word. Proverbs, Chapter 30, says, 'Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die: Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food that is needful for me, lest I be full and deny you and say, who is the Lord? Or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God.' In Matthew, Chapter 5, Jesus says, 'your Father who is in heaven makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.' And in 1 Timothy 1 and 2, Paul writes, 'Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior.' This is the word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. The Lord be with you. And let us pray. Almighty God, you have given us this good land as our heritage. Grant that we remember your generosity and constantly do your will. Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education, and an 10300042.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 honorable way of life. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil course of action. Grant that we who come from many nations with many different languages may become a united people. Bless, guide, and govern the children and young people of this land, that they may serve you well and usefully, developing their talents not for their own sakes but to your glory and for the welfare of their neighbor. Protect and defend us from all danger and harm. Support us in defending our liberties, and give those to whom we have entrusted the authority of government, the spirit of wisdom, that there may be justice and peace in our land. When times are prosperous, may our hearts be thankful. And in troubled times do not let our trust in you fail. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "We will be led in the Pledge of Allegiance today by Representative Costa Howard."
"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 Hernandez, B.: "Roll Call for Attendance. Leader Gabel is recognized to report any excused absences on the Democratic side of the aisle."
"Speaker, let the record show that Representatives Will Davis and Jones are excused today." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Keicher is recognized to report any excused absences on the Republican side of the aisle." 10300042.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. If you could please excuse Representative David Friess and Representative C.D. Davidsmeyer. And Representative Caulkins." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Have all recorded themselves who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There being 112 Members answering the roll call, a quorum is present. Leader Spain is recognized on House Resolution 187."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, if I could draw your attention to the left-hand side of the chamber. And if the young ladies from Germantown Hills would please stand. House Resolution 187 recognizes and congratulates the Germantown Hills Middle School Volleyball Team, the Warriors, on winning the 2023 IESA Class 3A State Volleyball Championship. These young ladies are joining us here in Springfield today. They've taken a tour of the Capitol. They've been honored on the House Floor. And I'd just like to acknowledge their great leadership, their sportsmanship, their incredible season. They went on to defeat the Morris Saratoga Hawks in three matches for the championship game just over a month and a half ago on March 18. The ladies that we have joining us here today include Gabby Blahnik, Maddie Culp, Addie Lahood, Allie Lueddecke, Ella Miller, Keira Murray, Allie Nelson, Jenna Oderwald, Abby Petersen, Addison Riggins, Ella Seckler, Aurelia Slape, Gillian Tyra, Tabby Vandeschraaf, and Junie Wagoner. And joining us also, Head Coach Gail Elbert. Ladies and Gentlemen, we are so excited any time we have young student athletes here that we can recognize, celebrate, and appreciate their great leadership and the opportunities that they will have as 10300042.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 they continue their career, they continue their scholarship, and their great, hard work to make us all proud. Please give a warm Springfield welcome and congratulations to the IESA Class 3A State Volleyball Championship… Champion Team from Germantown Hills. Ladies, congratulations." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Congratulations. This Resolution was adopted a previous day. Leader Meier is recognized on House Resolution 182."
"Thank you, Leader. WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives wish to congratulate the Okawville High School girls basketball team, the Lady Rockets, on winning the 2023 Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 1A Girls Basketball Championship; and WHEREAS, The Lady Rockets defeated the Christopher Lady Bearcats at Redbird Arena on the campus of Illinois State University on March 4, 2023 with a commanding final score of 56 to 35; and WHEREAS, The Lady Rockets win over Christopher earned them their third girls state basketball championship, having previously hoisted the trophy in 1994 and 2000; and WHEREAS, The Lady Rockets finished the season with a record of 34 and 4, having handed losses to the 2A state champion Mater Dei Lady Knights and the 3A champion O'Fallon Panthers; and WHEREAS, The Lady Rockets are led by Head Coach Haylee Bowers and Assistant Coaches Mike Frederking and Paige Kasten; and WHEREAS, The Lady Rockets basketball team includes seniors Elizabeth Frederking, Megan Rennegarbe, Briley Rhodes, and Paige Reichmann, juniors Mallory Bening, Adysen Harre, Alayna 10300042.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Kraus, Raelyn Obermeier, Maggie Sawicki, Madisyn Wienstroer, and Nora Wood, sophomores Jenna Hackstadt and Camryn Wiedwilt, and freshmen Kate Borrenpohl, Lillian Helbig, Carly Schmidt, Rylan Senior, and Caroline Tepe; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate the Okawville High School girls' basketball team, the Lady Rockets, on winning the 2023 Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 1A Girls Basketball Championship, and we wish the team many more successful seasons; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Head Coach Haylee Bowers as an expression of our esteem and respect. This team has fought hard, worked hard. By the time they came home from the tournament, three of them were sick on the bus with flu, but they won the state championship. Dave Severin was good enough, because they beat Christopher, that he paid for their case of SKI for them to all have while they were in Springfield. But we consider them the state champs of Illinois, because not only was it 1A, but they beat the school that won 2A, and they beat the school that won 4A basketball. They're a group of fighters. They're from my hometown. I drive by that school every day. And I'm very proud of this group of young women up there and what they've accomplished and wish them nothing but the best in the future. So, please give them all a round of applause. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Meier moves for adoption of House Resolution 182. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 10300042.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Representative Reick, for what reason do seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"I'd like to speak today to the younger Members of the House of Representatives, and the younger, the more you should probably listen because today, believe it or not, I just found out that this is Older Americans Month. And I definitely qualify, as do my good friends… several of my good friends around here, including Representative Caulkins, who is not here today, and we all wish him well for whatever he's doing. It's Older Americans Month, and I would like to remind those of you who are younger and less experienced in life than those of us who have traveled many years and many miles along many roads that the experience and the wisdom, and sometimes not wisdom, that we bring to the conversation on this floor is tempered often by our experiences as younger people. We bring this to you at no charge. We let you sit at the feet of great minds of older folks who have seen the world and realize that nothing we face today here in this Body is any different than what has happened in the past. So, to you, the younger, as it says on the Alma Mater at the University of Illinois, to the happy children of the future, those of the past send greetings. I would ask you, avail yourselves of the experience of those of us who have trod this ground before. Come to us. Seek our advice. Seek our counsel. We're only happy to serve as we walk up the back nine of life. It's our turn to impart to you the wisdom that we will take with us but not give away 10300042.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 unless you ask. Pay attention to us. We're here. We're here to help. Thank you, Mr… Madam Speaker." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Flowers, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to take this opportunity to ditto the remarks of my other older colleague. When I first came here 40 years ago, I was told by my elderly that I'm going to give you some advice. Now, what you do with it is your business, but it won't be said that I didn't tell you the truth. Your word down here is supposed to mean something. When you talk to people, you're supposed to speak truth to people, not what they want you to hear. Because down here, you have the lives of so many people in the palm of your hand and this is not a joke. This is… we're not here to go along to get along. Our constituents sent us here to advocate for them. So, to the young people, as I have often said to so many that have come through this door, you really don't know what you don't know. And in order for you to find out, as my colleague on the other side of the fence said, you can sit at the heel of our feet, and we'll be more than happy to share with you. And as a matter of fact, when Senator Chew was here, I did just that. I sat at his feet and I listened to all the stories that he had to tell me. Ethel Skyles Alexander, I sat at her feet. Representative Cowlishaw, on the other side of the aisle, I sat at her feet. I can go on and on and on, on both sides of the aisle. So, with that being said, I am very proud to be a part of this small club that we have here. And my doors are always open. Thank you very much." 10300042.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Mah, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'd like to introduce a couple of young women up in the gallery behind me. Two of my staffers. A current staffer, Maggie Lee. And a former staffer, Ada Tong, who was my first constituent services coordinator in the district, and she's now gone on to work for DCFS as a director of Asian American Affairs. They have both kept my office running and making sure that constituents are well-cared for. They're… for Maggie, it's her first time visiting Springfield. So, please give them both a warm welcome. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Proceed to the Order of House Bills on Second Reading. We have House Bill 2232, Representative Rita. Out of the record. House Bill 2509, Representative Delgado. Out of the record. Senate Bill 3075 (sic-375), Representative Slaughter. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1402, Representative LaPointe. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1402, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1 is offered by Representative LaPointe." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative LaPointe on House (sic- Senate) Bill, Amendment #1."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. This Amendment relates to the robustness of the data collection piece, as it pertains 10300042.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 to a pilot program to get more opioid antagonists on the street in Illinois." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative LaPointe moves the adoption of Floor Amendment #1. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. And the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. In the Amendment is adopted. Any further Amendments, Mr. Clerk?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Third Reading. Senate Bill 1526, Representative Norma Hernandez. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1526, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Third Reading. Senate Bill 1611, Representative Didech. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1774, Representative Lilly. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1924, Representative Yednock. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1924, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions are filed." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Third Reading. Senate Bill 2227, Representative Rita. Out of the record. Representative Stuart, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you. A point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"Thank you. I just want to take a minute to recognize, up in the gallery behind me, I have two of my interns from back 10300042.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 in my district, Claire and Stephen, who are here to see the process go on. And I just want everyone to give them a warm Springfield welcome. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Members, we will be heading towards Third Readings where we left off yesterday. Senate Bill 1665, Representative Moeller. Mr. Clerk, please return this Bill on to Second Reading."
"Senate Bill 1665, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #2 is offered by Representative Moeller." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moeller on the… on the Amendment."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. House Amendment #2 just changes the effective date of the Bill to January 1, 2024." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moeller moves adoption of Floor Amendment #2. 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." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Third Reading. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1665, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moeller."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1665 is an initiative of Cook County. Cook County currently administers a pilot guaranteed income program, and this legislation does three things. One is, should Cook County decide to make this 10300042.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 pilot program permanent, it would exclude income from a guaranteed income program from Medicaid eligibility determinations. It would require hospitals under the Hospital Uninsured Patient Discount Act to exclude money received through a guaranteed income program from eligibility determinations for free or discounted care. And it adds the Health Benefits for Immigrant program to the list of public health insurance programs that an uninsured patient must first apply to before seeking discounts. So, essentially, what this does is it codifies into law the current parameters that surround the pilot program that is operating in Cook County, should Cook County decide to make the guaranteed income program permanent. There are two things it does not do. It does not create a new guaranteed income program, nor does it require a guaranteed income program become permanent. And then finally, for legislative intent that was requested by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, the intent of the legislation is to continue to waive income received from permanent income… from permanent guaranteed income programs as it relates to state benefits as allowed by the Federal Government. For… for purposes of implementation of the Bill, the state would not be expected to apply for a federal waiver for every guaranteed income program. Rather, as deemed appropriate, the state would be able to apply for federal guidance to similar guaranteed income programs on an ongoing basis. This legislation did pass out of committee unanimously. I know of no opposition. There is no cost to the state with this legislation. And I would ask for an 'aye' vote. Happy to answer any questions." 10300042.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Hammond is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. To the Bill. As the… as the Sponsor noted, there was no opposition to this Bill in committee. However, you don't always know what you don't know, and when you don't know, you can't ask the right questions. So, it has come to light that in fact this guaranteed income program that currently exists strictly for Cook County provides some individuals with a guaranteed $500 a month income. It does not provide a $500 a month guaranteed income for all individuals on that same playing field. So, what it essentially does is it creates the lucky and the not so fortunate. And so, the lucky will also be lucky enough to take advantage of the program that is provided for in this legislation. The not so fortunate, those that are just at a level of income that would disqualify them for this program will not be eligible. So, while it did pass through committee unanimously, upon further research, I would urge a 'no' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moeller to close."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. And thank you for the Leader's comments. Certainly, we wish… I'm sure that the… the program managers in Cook County who administer this program would wish to extend this to anyone who is eligible for this program. But due to, you know, scarcity of resources, limited resources as it currently operates, you're correct. This is only eligible to those who… who, you know, are… are able to sign up, you know, in a timely manner and are selected for the program. This is a program that's early. You know, it's still in its infancy. That's why it was a pilot program. And 10300042.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 we… but we do want to ensure that those who are able to benefit from this limited program do not lose their eligibility to access health care while on that program. So, for those reasons, this Bill is important and would ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1665 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all the opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 68 voting 'yes', 40 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the… the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1673, Representative Gong-Gershowitz. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1705, Representative Kifowit. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1705, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Kifowit is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1705 amends the Illinois Tax Code by streamlining the process of which active duty service members of the United States military can make sales tax-exempt purchases. You might not know all military units are exempt from sales tax at every level of their chain of command when using a form of payment when the Federal Government is the payer. Currently, the process to receive such exemptions requires a single-use certificate that must be individually applied for and delivered through the mail. It's an inconvenient process when the exemptions are often needed at short notice. Senate Bill 1705 was drafted with the 10300042.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 support of the Department of Revenue to solve this problem, and it would help the men and women of our armed forces who have to make all of the sacrifices that they do make, and this just makes their lives a little bit easier. And I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "With no one seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1705 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, take the record. On this question, there are 111 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the… the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. The Clerk is recognized."
"Introduction of Resolutions. House Joint Resolution 35, offered by Representative West." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Senate Bill 1707, Representative Guerrero-Cuellar. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1707, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Guerrero-Cuellar is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1707 would remove the statutory exemption from the coverage of the Act from municipalities with population of over 1 million. I encourage an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Indicates she will." 10300042.docx 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Thank you. Representative, what is the reason for this change? This Bill being brought forward?"
"Just to make it so that way the fire departments in Chicago are in compliance with the rest of the state."
"Our analysis shows there may have been some issues with the current law dealing with promotions. Is there something in this Bill that addresses that issue?"
"Yeah. So, this would set the standards for promotion process for most of the firefighters in Illinois. So, that's it. So, it would address it."
"Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Guerrero-Cuellar to close."
"I encourage an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall House… Senate Bill 1707 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 111 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Ammons is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. May I have a point of personal privilege?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"And if I would ask our guests to join our Leader down here at the front. To the Members of the General Assembly, during COVID, there are lots of wonderful things that took 10300042.docx 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 place during COVID when our gallery was closed, and we could not recognize members of our community at that time because we had limited access to the gallery and to the chambers for guests. But today, it is my deepest pleasure to present to the Illinois General Assembly my daughter, our Misses Illinois Petite, USA Petite competitor that represented Illinois in 2020 that actually turned into 2021 because of COVID. She is the reigning champion of Illinois for Miss Illinois Petite. Would you all please welcome our own Titianna Ammons? We are very proud of her, very proud of her. She got the wave, y'all. She got the wave going on. She's the first person to represent us in Central Illinois for the USA Petite competition that took place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2021. But something else is special about her today that I want to draw to your attention. She's also a survivor of multiple sclerosis. Titianna, unfortunately, was diagnosed with MS in 2019, right when she signed up to compete for Illinois. When we went to the competition in 2021, because of COVID, her right side leg all went out and was in paralysis mode the day that she was to go and perform for us and represent us. We had to buy her new shoes, new clothing to address the issue that she experienced at that time. And not only did that happen to her, she got diagnosed with MS, she had paralysis on the right side, she lost her vision. All of this is happening while she's a competitor. She also, on her way to Milwaukee to compete… you all may remember there was a very big fire on 94, car caught on fire. That was her car. And all of her competition wardrobe, everything she had in the car going to Milwaukee caught on fire. And she not only got out 10300042.docx 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 of there with her life, literally, the car itself and everything in it caught on fire. The community responded. And this is the wonderful thing about our community when we draw everyone in. Not only did the community respond to help her replace all of the items for the competition in record time, they also responded to help her replace her car. She's a mother of three child… two children… and you should say three 'cause my youngest son, she practically raised him. But she is a wonderful person, and she's an MS advocate. In the gallery today, we have other MS advocates in the gallery today. My staff member, Sally, who also has MS, and many of the statewide organizers that are also in the gallery. One of them who is in wheelchair, cannot stand. But please welcome them as well to the 103rd General Assembly at this time. Thank you so much. They are here, Madam Speaker, advocating for support for MS research and MS support in the home. Please, please do not ignore them. Please help them to hear from you, to talk to you, and welcome them to the Capitol. Thank you so much. And thank you, Miss Illinois Petite." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Delgado, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Chair. I wanted to take a moment to recognize a group of folks who are down here visiting me, all of us actually down here in Springfield, the Northwest Center. They're up here on the corner. They provide a ton of community support for the neighborhood of Belmont Cragin. So, I want to say welcome to Springfield, folks. Thanks for coming down and sharing with us your experiences." 10300042.docx 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Senate Bill 1709, Leader Evans. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1715, Representative Ladisch Douglass. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1715, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Ladisch Douglass is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Chair, Members of the House. I stand here today to present Senate Bill 1715. This legislation amends the Illinois Plumbing License Law to require installation of water bottle filling stations, rather than just water fountains, where water fountains are required to be installed in new construction buildings of 5 thousand square feet of gross public area or with occupancies of 100 or more persons. The Department of Public Health's current code only requires places of employment have access to a fountain, but none for a water bottle filling station. The legislation would help us have water bottles rather than just using plastic bottles that end up in landfills. It's an initiative of the Illinois Environmental Council. It's supported by the Sierra Club, the Illinois Public Health Institute, the American Heart Association, and numerous Members of this Body. There has been no opposition. It passed the Senate unanimously and passed out of committee unanimously. And I ask for your support, and I'm ready for any questions. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1715 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who 10300042.docx 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 85 voting 'yes', 23 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1721, Leader Manley. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1721, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Manley is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'm just making sure we don't have an Amendment here. Okay. It addresses… this Bill addresses the concerns of the Illinois Hearing Society. The hearing instrument professional… it changes the definition to clarify what a hearing instrument professional means, being a person who is… is a licensed audiologist, a licensed hearing instrument dispenser, or a licensed physician. Currently, in statute, the definition is found under hearing care professional. It also adds a hearing instrument aid professional may dispense a hearing aid prescription to a person age 17 or younger and to a person aged 18 or older. Take any questions." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Indicates she will."
"Thank you. Leader, it looks like this Bill passed unanimously in the Senate and was unanimous out of committee. Our analysis suggests the reason for the change was a recent FTC rule creating a new category of over-the-counter hearing aids for consumers with mild and moderate hearing impairment 10300042.docx 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 and that this Bill is designed to conform our law with that federal rule. Is that… is that accurate?"
"Yes."
"All right. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Manley to close."
"Please vote 'yes'." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1721 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, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1741, Representative Vella. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1741, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Vella is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1741 amends the Security Deposit Return Act. Requires that all landlords, regardless of the number of the units in the property, to send an itemized receipt of the property damage in order to keep any amount of the security deposit within 30 days after the date the lessee vacates the leased premises. This is good for the landlord. This is good for the… the lessee. And it's a good Bill. I urge an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will." 10300042.docx 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Thank you. Representative, the current law applies these provisions to landlords of five or more units, is that correct?"
"That is correct."
"And this Bill will take it and eliminate that minimum requirement, making there no minimum requirement?"
"That is correct."
"So, an individual who owns one piece of property that they rent out will have to comply with these provisions?"
"That's correct. The idea is the security deposit really does not belong to the landlord. It belongs to the… to the person renting the property. And if they're… if the landlord is going to keep the security deposit, they should give a reason why they're keeping it. And from my perspective, I have relatives who have, you know, one and two flats. They have a personal relationship, so it's a lot easier for them to communicate with their lessees."
"And I would agree with that. They can also put these provisions in their lease if they want, where the lessee could say, upon any deductions from the security deposit, the lessee would receive an itemized list."
"That is true."
"And so, that… we're legislating an area where the contract could take care of that issue."
"Well, I think because the legislation is already there for five and up that the… carving that out was just… I'm not sure why they carved it out. This just makes sure that it's fair across the board."
"Thank you." 10300042.docx 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Vella to close."
"I urge an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1741 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, take the record. On this question, there are 78 voting 'yes', 34 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1745, Representative Weaver. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1745, a Bill for an Act concerning wildlife. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Weaver is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1745 seeks to address the issue in drainage districts where muskrats and beavers can do damage to drainage areas over a seven-day period while the drainage district is waiting for the permit to be processed. Anybody who is familiar with beavers and muskrats knows how quickly they can work and the damage that this causes to our environment through flooding issues. IDNR has moved to neutral. The Senate passed this unanimously. I would urge an 'aye' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1745 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, take the record. On this question, there are 110 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the 10300042.docx 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Rules Report."
Clerk Bolin: "Committee Reports. Representative Gabel, Chairperson for the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on May 9, 2023: recommends be adopted, referred to the Order of Resolutions is House Joint Resolution 35." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Senate Bill 1673, Representative Gong- Gershowitz. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1673, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Gong-Gershowitz is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1673 codifies the existing procedure for MWRD to enforce the stormwater management ordinance. I know of no opposition and ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicates she will."
"Representative, I notice there are… were 17 'no' votes in the Senate and, looking at the Bill, looks like there were some penalty increases and potential costs that'll be placed on residents and small businesses. If you could address those two items."
"Yeah, it's my understanding that there was a misunderstanding about the Bill in the Senate. This does not create new fines or fees. It is merely codifying existing procedure that already passed under the MWRD ordinance. So, 10300042.docx 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 we're just codifying existing practice. We're not creating any new fines or fees here, but I think that was a little bit unclear during the Senate conversation."
"And what about potential costs to residents and small businesses?"
"Well, residents and small businesses are already obligated to comply with stormwater ordinances. And so, this is merely an enforcement mechanism that's already in place. So, as I said, I think there was a misunderstanding about what the Bill actually does and the impact of the Bill, which is just to codify an existing ordinance that MWRD uses to ensure that stormwater rules are followed."
"Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Gong-Gershowitz to close."
"Ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1673 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, take the record. On this question, there are 75 voting 'yes', 37 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1709, Leader Evans. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1709, a Bill for an Act concerning State government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Evans is recognized."
"Thank you, Miss… Madam Speaker and the great Members of the Assembly. This is sponsor initiatives required of the Illinois Department of Human Services to partner with the 10300042.docx 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Illinois State Board of Elections to provide technical assistance and mental health services in public schools. It codifies, hopefully, what will be done in State Law. And of course, it requires the department to submit a report of implementation so we can keep up with what's going on. I request your support." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will."
"Thank you. What is DHS's position on the Bill?"
"I don't know if it's listed. I see no opposition on the Bill. Just… so, no… no opponents."
"And I… I don't show that they are opposed either. What we have shows that they have no position but there are potential concerns that the Bill duplicates work that the department and ISBE are already doing. Would you care to address that?"
"Yeah, well, there's no opposition. So, whatever those feelings were, it wasn't strong enough for opposition. So, we had no opposition."
"I guess the… the bigger point is, does it duplicate things that are already going on, or does this provide something new?"
"It's no duplication. Duplication means that in the Illinois Compiled Statutes that this would be listed. There's nothing in Illinois Compiled Statutes that lists this activity, this action, this mandate. So, I would say it doesn't fit the criteria for duplication or being a duplicate." 10300042.docx 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"So, just so I understand, may be something that's going on, but it's not currently in statute?"
"Without question, yes."
"Yes. Thank you."
"Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Evans to close."
"I request your support. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1709 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, take the record. On this question, there are 109 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1748, Representative Ann Williams. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1748, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Ann Williams is recognized." Williams, A.: "Thank you, Madam Speaker. This Bill does two important things in terms of eliminating barriers and unnecessary hurdles for civil cases. First, regarding medical examinations, in civil cases where the defense requires a medical exam of an injured victim, the Bill clarifies the law by providing the victim has the right to designate an additional person to be present and record the medical examination. Currently, this is permissible, but it needs to be motioned up. Second, for a wrongful death action, the Bill 10300042.docx 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 provides that elderly plaintiffs, defined as people 67 years and older, or people showing substantial and physical mental hardship shall have a preference to the setting of trial. These are permitted now, but again, require extra steps. So, we're looking to streamline the process. Happy to answer any questions." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicates she will."
"Thank you. Representative, one concern I've heard about the Bill are these individuals who could be present at the medical exams. Does the Bill provide any regulation of the individuals who are present, such as how far they have to be away from the provider or what their interaction can be? Are there any regulations?" Williams, A.: "Well, you know, this is actually permitted in current law and happens quite a bit in trial practice. We're just providing that it has to be granted as a matter of right, does not have to be motioned up. So, any parameters or lack thereof are… are what's in existing law, and I don't believe there are many. It's up to the court really to… to discuss. If the plaintiff or defendant wishes to request something, a special accommodation, I'm sure they could make a motion to that effect. But right now, it's already permitted in the law."
"So, you feel that the court could put those regulations in when the examination occurs?" Williams, A.: "I don't practice in that area of law, but I will tell you this is… this happens all the time. This is used 10300042.docx 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 and… it just has to be motioned up. Again, we're just eliminating the requirement that the plaintiff submit a motion to get it done."
"Thank you." Williams, A.: "Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Ugaste is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicates she will."
"Good afternoon, Representative Williams. I… I asked a question of your witness during committee, and he didn't have the answer. I'm just wondering if you might at this point. Are you aware of any great increase in deaths from age 70 down to 67 since this Bill was previously run?" Williams, A.: "No. I think what they… the age of 70 was set just arbitrarily in the '80s. So, we decided to move it to 67 to comport with the Social Security… age of receiving Social Security benefits to make it consistent. Seemed to have a better rationale than just a random date."
"And that's in the event that… to prevent someone from passing away while their case is pending. Is that correct?" Williams, A.: "I think it goes beyond that. I think it's… that certainly is an issue. But also, if a person is catastrophically injured, you want them to be able to receive benefits as soon as possible to improve their quality of life and give them the opportunity to utilize the… the fruits of that trial."
"So, part of receiving benefits as quickly as possible entails being able to get to trial as soon as possible?" Williams, A.: "I'm sorry. Can you repeat that question?" 10300042.docx 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Sure. Part of being able to receive their benefits as quickly as possible is getting to trial as soon as possible. Is that correct?" Williams, A.: "Yes. We set… you know, this is already… again, like the other item in this Bill, this is already provided for in statute. We're just eliminating the need to go through endless motion practice to make it happen. We're just allowing it to be a matter of right rather than have to go back and forth. It is already permitted under law. And it is already provided, not just for people 67 and older, but we're contemplating also making it a matter of right for people that prove and show good cause that they are suffering substantial physical or mental hardship. So, we're just trying to do the right thing by the plaintiffs in a way that makes sense."
"To the Bill. So, instead of asking someone to prove up that they're going through this hardship or they need this to happen quickly, we are now going to advance certain people's cases solely because of age… and it's not even those who are injured. In certain cases, it's a wrongful death case… to the front of the line and push those who may have been waiting longer already aside, not allowing them to get their benefits as quickly as possible. And not only in doing this are we going to just give priority to a certain class of people over others, we're going to start circumventing what's known as judicial economy, which means all issues are tried at the same time. That keeps the court systems moving. Because if we do this, under this current… this Amendment to the existing statute, we are now going to have bifurcated hearings. Because 10300042.docx 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 if a defendant's not added in time, what happens is, is that the plaintiff will go against the first defendant and that defendant will bring another defendant in at a later time, causing two hearings where there should be one. Thus, denying the people who truly need an expedited hearing, in some cases, the ability to get there. I do not believe it's a well- thought-out plan to expedite things. And it also contains the ability to tape people while they're being examined by one expert's doctor but not the others. We are now completely tilting the playing field in our judicial process and creating an unfair balance for some over others. I urge a 'no' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Ann… Representative Ann Williams to close." Williams, A.: "Thank you, Madam Speaker. Again, what we're doing here is simply eliminating barriers and unnecessary hurdles for plaintiffs and getting right to the issue of the case and actually litigating the matter at hand. So, I would ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1748 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, take the record. On this question, there are 75 voting 'yes', 37 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Carroll, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed." 10300042.docx 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"I would like to let everyone know that our wonderful State Comptroller, Susana Mendoza, is having national cheesecake day today in her office. It started at noon. So, if you'd like a piece of cheesecake and say hello to our Comptroller, please head down to her office now. Thank you very much." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Senate Bill 1750, Representative Kelly. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1750, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Kelly is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1750 amends the Fire District… Fire Protection District Act. Subject to appropriation, it provides that the board of trustees of a Fire Protection District must reimburse the mandatory training expenses of an EMT, an EMT-I, A-EMT, or a paramedic employed by or under contract with the Fire Protection District. This would take effect January of 2024. The intent of this proposal is to help mitigate costs of education and supplement personal… personnel headcounts across the state. This Bill passed unanimously out of the Senate and out of committee, and I know of no opposition. And I respectfully ask for a 'yes' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will."
"Thank you. This is subject to appropriation. Is that correct?"
"That's correct." 10300042.docx 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Do we know how much it would cost to fund the program if it were appropriated?"
"I don't have the numbers on me right now."
"It appears that another program for districts and EMS providers through the State Fire Marshal's Office is one and a half million. Of course, that's a Small Equipment Grant Program. So, that's separate. Is it going to be several million dollars, or do we have a ball park of how much it would be?"
"I would think it would be around that number. This does not include the City of Chicago."
"Okay."
"Or a lot of the bigger municipalities, they already have these programs. So, this is for the smaller districts throughout the state to help not only retain the paramedics and EMTs that we have but to help recruit more people to the job."
"Do we anticipate some appropriation in this year's budget for the program?"
"I am hoping for the appropriation in this year's budget, but I have no guarantees on that."
"Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Kelly to close."
"I respectfully ask for a 'yes' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1750 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this 10300042.docx 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Collins, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Yes. Thank you, Madam Speaker. I just wanted to acknowledge my son, who I have with me here today, Jalen Collins, who is 14. I talk about my sons a lot, so just wanted to welcome him to the House of Representatives." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Senate Bill 1772, Representative Hirschauer. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1772, a Bill for an Act concerning safety. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Hirschauer is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1772 provides that beginning July 1, 2024 schools serving students between kindergarten and eighth grade are prohibited from applying pesticides on school grounds on an instructional school day. The Bill explicitly does not apply to areas of school grounds where children are not typically present. It includes, but not limited to, flower beds and lawn surrounding the school not used as playing fields. There's no known opposition, and it passed unanimously through the Senate." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1772 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, take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting 'yes', 3 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate 10300042.docx 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Bill 1785, Representative Chung. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1785, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Chung is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1785 provides consistency between the Nurse Practice Act and the Medical Practice Act regarding the establishment of a written collaborative agreement between a physician and advanced practiced registered nurse, also known as an APRN. Currently, a written agreement is required for services in the same area of practice or specialty as a collaborative physician. And Senate Bill 1785 will allow the APRN to enter into agreement with the physician who can provide adequate collaboration. It passed the Senate unanimously and the House Health Care Licenses Committee unanimously, and I ask for an 'aye' vote today. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1785 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, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1787, Representative Elik. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1787, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Elik is recognized." 10300042.docx 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1787 creates the Rural Education Advisory Council. The purpose of the council is to give rural districts the formal opportunity to exchange dialogue with ISBE about the unique needs and challenges that rural school districts face and to provide recommendations to ISBE as to how policies affect rural schools. Rural schools are desiring more formal representation to be sure that their perspective is heard. I do not know of any opposition, and I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1787 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, take the record. On this question, there are 113 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1790, Leader Davidsmeyer. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1794, Leader Ortiz. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1804, Representative Costa Howard. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1804, a Bill for an Act concerning safety. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Costa Howard is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1804 allows refrigerants designated as approved under Federal Law to be allowed for use in the state as long as any equipment containing the refrigerant is listed and installed in accordance to any safety standards pursuant to its 10300042.docx 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 designation. I believe Senate Bill 1804 really hit the bullseye because local governments still retain control and are not restricted from authorizing or prohibiting alternative refrigerants otherwise authorized for use in the state. I know of no opposition. I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative McLaughlin is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise for a point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Can we get back to you?"
"Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Seeing no one seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1804 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, take the record. On this question, there are 111 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative McLaughlin, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"Thank you. Today, I rise to acknowledge a serious problem we're all about to face in Illinois, particularly in Cook County. It was just acknowledged by outgoing Mayor Lightfoot. As Title 42 expires in under 48 hours and as millions have crossed our borders, tens of thousands of illegal undocumented migrants, immigrants are on their way to all of our communities, particularly Cook County, a sanctuary 10300042.docx 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 city. These days, the politically correct terminology is irrelevant, but the demand on our resources is more than relevant. We are asked here to how best spend resident's hard- earned tax dollars. As we are about to allocate over 50 billion in a budget over the next 10 days, please before you blindly send hundreds of millions of dollars to noncitizens on top of the hundreds of millions which have already been allocated by the Governor, remember you're doing so at the expense of Illinois residents who have sent their taxes to our state to be served. Many advocates visit all of our offices, and we've all experienced this over the last 3 weeks, seeking funding for worthwhile programs. And some of these I'm going to highlight, which include the mentally disabled citizens who are living in understaffed CILA facilities, sexual abuse survivors whose shelters are being threatened to be closed based on underfunding. And I am privileged to serve on the Illinois Kidney Foundation where many suffer from kidney disease, predominately in our black and brown communities. Please, Sir, protect and honor your pledge to take care of the citizens of Illinois first, particularly our most vulnerable as we go through the budget over the next 10 days. Thank you, Madam Speaker." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Hauter, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Yes, a point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today to recognize nurses during National Nurses Week. I have had the great privilege to work with some of the greatest nurses in my 26- 10300042.docx 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 year career. Worked closely with all kinds of nurses and all kinds of specialties, CRNAs, certified registered nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioners. And the person I love the most is also a nurse, who works at… and she's here with me today, my wife. And she's a nurse at a pregnancy care center. But nurses are amazing, dedicated professionals. When I graduated medical school in 1997, it was like one of those war movies where you see the… the fresh-faced lieutenant comes out of officers training school and he's in charge of a unit with the grizzled, battle-scarred sergeant. That's what it's like as an intern working with some of these nurses. They know what's going on and you have no idea, but you're trying to. Your goal is to earn the respect and the trust of your sergeant, of your… of the nurse you work with. And really, the pinnacle of your profession as a doctor is when you can earn the trust and respect of nurses you work with, that they would trust you with their mom or their kid or with their own lives. And so, that's really the… the thing that you work for the most. You want them to rely on you and you rely on them. I… I cannot tell you the amount of times nurses have saved me. And you… so many times, you would think I was a bad doctor, but they… they have saved my career so many times. So, whether it be… they see a patient that's sick, and they say, hey, you've got to go into room three right away. This is somebody you need to see right away, and you do, you go into that room right away, because if a nurse tells you that this is a sick patient, that's your priority. They've… they've been able to, you know, work… we've worked OR codes together like… like a synchronized machine. You don't want a bunch of 10300042.docx 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 doctors working on a code because they don't know where anything is or how to do anything. You want nurses working with you. I've worked through the night many times. Nurses are on call just like physicians, and we've worked through the night enumerable times. They've been able to dive deeper into problems and see things that… a home situation or a social situation that I had no idea because I didn't have the time or… or really the skills to get deeper into something. They have incredible instincts. And an example of that is, I remember when we had a sick kid and… had a virus, and my wife was saying… she's a nurse, as I said. She was saying this… there's something else going on, as our five-year-old boy at the time. And I said, no, he's fine. I… I discounted it. And I woke up at three in the morning with my wife getting dressed and dressing my son, and she said, 'I'm taking your son into your emergency department because there's something going on.' So, I was shamed into taking him, and sure enough, he had meningitis. But she had the instincts, not only of a mother but of a nurse, to recognize there was something else going on. And… and I had to make the call of shame and tell her that she was right, and there was meningitis, and our kid was getting admitted. But to end, I just want to… I just want to remember what… who were the true heroes of COVID, of the pandemic. You could go into our ICU and look down the hallway and there was doctors, attendings, residents, medical students around computers, looking into the ICUs, making orders, and every room had a nurse in PPE at the bedside of every patient. They are the true heroes of the pandemic. And when our loved ones were dying alone, they were the ones who 10300042.docx 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 held the hands of a dying patient when we could not be in there because of COVID. And with the greatest care and love, they… they made contact and they held the hands of our dying loved ones. So, it is a special profession. And it's a small thing, but it's with heartfelt gratitude, patients, doctors, hospital staff, that people of Illinois and this General Assembly say thank you and happy Nurses Week. Thank you, Madam Speaker." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Mah is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"Thank you. Today, you'll notice that there are advocates from organizations that serve the Asian American community here at the Capitol. It's Asian American Action Day. And so, you'll see them in the rotunda and all over talking about their issues and their budget priorities. And this afternoon at 5, the Members of the Asian American Legislative Caucus will be hosting an Asian American Heritage Month celebration. So, I wanted to make sure that everybody was aware and that to know that you're welcome and invited. It will be from 5 to 7 p.m. at the State Library atrium, right across the street. So, I hope to see you there. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Grant, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Personal point of… excuse me, personal point of privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"I just want to… I've already done a nurse speech the other day giving our nurses all the credit that they… they deserve, 10300042.docx 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 but I just wanted to add on to Representative Hauter's remarks about who's there to hold their hand when they're dying. My daughter is an ICU nurse. She hasn't been one very long, but nonetheless, she's in the neuro ICU. She sees patients dying. And the hardest thing for her is that, one, there's no family member there when this person is dying. And so, it’s… it's a very important job. And it's… it's heartbreaking for her when there's no family member there, and she's there left alone with the other nurses. So, let's, you know, keep our nurses and… and understand the importance of them. And I know Mary Flowers is standing right here next to me, and she has said, at one point on this floor, that her community college in her area does not offer nursing degrees. These community colleges need to start offering nursing degrees. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Members, we still have Third Reading Bills to go through. Please, make sure you make your points short. Mr. Clerk."
"Introduction and First Reading of Senate Bills. Senate Bill 285, offered by Representative Moeller, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Senate Bill 423, offered by Representative Gordon-Booth, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Senate Bill 764, offered by Representative Moeller, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 800, offered by Representative Buckner, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 1068, offered by Representative Jacobs, a Bill for an Act concerning government. Senate Bill 1555, offered by Representative Avelar, a Bill for an Act concerning safety. First Reading of these Senate Bills. Introduction of Resolutions. Senate Joint 10300042.docx 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Resolution 7, offered by Representative Kelly; and Senate Joint Resolution 22, offered by Representative Yednock, are referred to the Rules Committee." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Flowers, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I was kind of concerned there for a minute. I would just like to comment on the remarks that’s been made in regards to not only health care but the health care providers and, more specifically, the nurses. My mother died during COVID, and I wasn't there. I wasn't able to be there to hold her hand and to tell her how much I love her and to thank her for her sacrifices and to apologize to her for having to die under these circumstances. But I do thank God there were some nurses there that was able to video and hold my mother's hand and show the rest of the family as she took her last breath. But if I may say in regards to nurses, there is a shortage of nurses. And the reason why, because they were overworked, understaffed, and truly not appreciated. And so many nurses were divorced, car accidents, and had other… missed their children's graduations just to be with our families. So, I would like to take this opportunity to thank those doctors and nurses and say to the Members that we need to do all that we can to make sure that we restore health care back into the hands of the people who actually provide the services. Not the insurance companies, but it's actually the hospitals, the doctors, and the nurses. And I would like to join in and with my other colleagues encouraging the State of Illinois to provide services and education and training for more nurses from the State of Illinois, more 10300042.docx 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 health care providers for the State of Illinois, so we can take care of our own. Thank you very much." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Harper, for what reason do you seek recognition? Going back to Third Reading. Senate Bill 1814, Representative Avelar. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1817, Representative Gong-Gershowitz. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1817, a Bill for an Act concerning human rights. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Gong-Gershowitz is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1817 amends the Illinois Human Rights Act, Article 3, relating to real estate transactions to prohibit housing discrimination based on a person's actual or perceived immigration status and prohibits discriminatory advertisements from room rentals. The Illinois Human Rights Act currently protects Illinoisans based on characteristics related to immigration status, such as race, ancestry, and national origin. However, race, ancestry, national origin, and immigration status are all separate and individualized characteristics that relate to who a person is and how they are treated. More than 1 in 10 Illinoisans, 14 percent, were born outside of the United States. The Bill prohibits discrimination based on a person's actual or perceived immigration status. For example, being a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or having another status. This Bill allows housing providers to consider immigration status if required to comply with State or Federal Law. The Bill prohibits the use of discriminatory advertisements when 10300042.docx 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 renting rooms that are not apartments. The Illinois Human Rights Act currently prohibits discriminatory advertising for apartments, home sales, and other real estate transactions, except for room rentals. This Bill ensures that our State Law fair housing protections are equivalent to Federal Law, and it is conforming in that sense. The Senate Amendment did remove opposition. I know of no current opposition, and I'd ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicates she will."
"Thank you. Representative, initially on this Bill, there were some groups that were opposed over in the Senate, and there was an Amendment that removed their… those groups' opposition. Is that correct?"
"That is correct. Actually, it held that House version in order to amend it in the Senate, to remove that opposition. This is an Agreed Bill. I know of no current opposition."
"And that opposition was from the bankers. Was that correct? That was removed?"
"That is correct."
"All right. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Gong-Gershowitz to close."
"Ask for your support." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1817 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, take the record. On 10300042.docx 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 this question, there are 92 voting 'yes', 20 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1824, Representative Yang Rohr. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1824, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Yang Rohr is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. Senate Bill 1824 is an IMRF Bill that makes a series of changes to the Illinois Pension Code. First, it requires IMRF authorized agents, new ones, to take a IMRF approved training course within three months of appointment. It allows trustees who change jobs within a board term to remain on the board as long as there is no break in service and as long as they remain eligible. It creates additional exemptions for accelerated payments for municipalities, and it also makes a series of technical changes. This is a Bill that helps avoid costly future mistakes. It makes some operational efficiencies and provides some flexibility and relief to local municipalities. And I ask for your 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicated she will."
"Thank you. Representative, our analysis shows the Illinois Municipal League is opposed. Is that currently the case?"
"That is the case. I believe the opposition is basically on… on principle against the authorized agent 10300042.docx 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 training requirement. This training is a series of two days of training, each training session lasting about 1 hour to 75 minutes long. The training, it's free, it's online. And what we found is authorized agents who have not been taking this training course have been… have been guiding their participants in sometimes ways that have been producing costly mistakes. And so, we think that this is a good investment in preventing those mistakes."
"Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Yang Rohr to close."
"Thank you. This passed in the Senate unanimously. It passed through committee unanimously, and I ask for your support here too." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1824 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, take the record. On this question, there are 107 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1834, Representative Slaughter. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1834, a Bill for an Act concerning minors. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Slaughter is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. In the 102nd General Assembly, our chamber passed this Bill out unanimously. The Senate wasn't able to get to it. They did get to it in the 103rd. Here we are on Senate Bill 10300042.docx 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 1834. As a parent, I like this Bill. It's a parent clarification Bill. I can tell you as a parent, as is, it's already very, very difficult. It becomes even more difficult when there's so much misinformation out there. There's been a long-standing misinterpretation of Illinois law regarding when and under what conditions children left at home alone may be considered to be neglected or abandoned. Members on both sides of the aisle have chipped away at this over the years. We are trying to finally put this to bed with Senate Bill 1834. The Bill clarifies the myriad of determining factors the court will consider when making these important determinations from a policy standpoint. This Bill represents efforts to address ambiguities and put forth what conditions and circumstances constitute safety and risk of harm to the child. By shining a light on these factors, we are strengthening and updating our definitions of child neglect, abandonment, and endangerment. These clarifying provisions take into account important factors, such as the age of the child, the child's individual development capacity, the length of time the child would be alone, and the safety conditions of the home, just to name a few. Ultimately, this Bill represents an important shift to comprehensively recognize all the factors associated with safety and risk of harm. The Cook County Public Guardian, the National Association of Social Workers, the Illinois Chapter of ACLU of Illinois, and the Shriver Center all worked very hard on this. Again, this came out unanimously last year in the 102nd General Assembly. I'm not aware of any opposition, Madam Speaker. I do urge a 'yes' vote." 10300042.docx 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Reick is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will."
"Representative, I think you've got a good Bill here, but I would like you to clarify, please, at what point do we make these kinds of determinations? Is it before or after we have a case that's been referred to the Department of Children and Family Services?"
"Great question, Representative. This would be after those determinations."
"So, this is one of the factors that would go into determining whether there is in fact neglect when it comes to a DCFS report? Is that what you're saying?"
"That… that's correct."
"Are there any other circumstances under which this type of behavior could be determined to be, not necessarily neglect, but something that could lead to neglect that might give us a reason not to call DCFS but to invoke other services that might be available to a family to keep them out of the child welfare system? Or is there…"
"Not… not really, but I know what we've done is a really good job of comprehensively flushing out what these factors are. We should all now feel comfortable that we have finally addressed a lot of these… these ambiguities."
"Okay. We're going to be discussing in our Adoption Committee this afternoon something… the process that you brought a Bill forward on called the safe… the safe initiative, which is going to replace CERAP specifically. Is… 10300042.docx 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 are these factors that are in the safe system that would give investigators the additional tools they need?"
"Ultimately, yeah. I do believe that ultimately this is going to be a positive contributing factor to the whole ecosystem as it relates to safety and risk of… of the child. Yes. Ultimately."
"Thank you. To the Bill. I think this is a good idea. I think this Bill is… has got promise, but we need to make sure that what we're doing is constantly watching an agency that needs to have its hand held in certain cases and a determination made as to whether or not their definition of abuse and neglect conforms to what we really should be doing in practice. I'm going to… I'll support your Bill, Representative, but I do want people to understand that this is only one step in determining a whole range of things that are necessary for us to reform an agency that has gotten a bad rap in many ways and has deserved a bad rap in many ways. But we need to fix this agency, and it’s things like this, steps, steps in the right direction that might get us there. I think I'm going to urge an 'aye' vote on this Bill. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Ugaste is recognized."
"Will the Sponsor yield, Madam Chair?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will."
"Representative Slaughter, I understand and am supportive of the concept of the Bill. I… I guess I have a question about it, though, that's causing me some hesitancy. How do we define an unreasonable amount of time? Because I see some indications of what it includes and what it doesn't. And… and one of them 10300042.docx 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 is, if… if a child is left at home, it's not included. But I would assume after a certain period of time that it may be included. How… how is that determined? I'm just trying to figure it out."
"Well, these are all determining factors that the court will consider. And so, the… the court would bear that out and make those determinations, Representative."
"So, it's going to be first upon…"
"But nevertheless, that is going to be a determining factor."
"Yeah."
"That is going to be discussed, in… in regards to the situation and the circumstance."
"So, it's… it's in both the civil arena as well as criminal, if I'm understanding correctly? Or am I misunderstanding? Is it for purposes of DCFS as well as punishment?"
"Representative, this Bill is just pertaining to the Criminal Code."
"Just to the Criminal Code. Okay. So, if… if we're talking the Criminal Code, it's at the discretion first of the charging agent, which is the state's attorney in the area, then the judge and/or a jury if it goes to that. Is that correct as to what in… reasonable? I guess…"
"Yes. Yes."
"…hard and fast definitions are tough in this situation, and I understand what you're trying to accomplish. I'm just fearing some overzealous prosecutor or judge, or someone like that, and what they may do to a family that really… I mean, 10300042.docx 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 I… I don't know if children these days just aren't growing up as fast. At nine years old, I was picking up my little sister, four years old, from preschool and being at home for hours with her. And, you know, no one considered… thought anything about that. Under this, I'm worried about what may happen to a situation like that. So…"
"Well… well, Representative, and one of the hallmarks of what we've done, and it's not just the result of this year, Members on both… both sides of the aisle over the years have been chipping away at this. And what we've come to now is a flushing out of literally the myriad of all these different factors that do play a part in that. And like you said, we've gone through an era where a lot of it has been about the age. Really, what this Bill is doing is… is, from a policy standpoint, shifting it back to the factors that go into this, right, that… that play a part. You could maybe be 14 and 15 and still be neglected, right?"
"Right."
"We had stuff in statute that was kind of almost inferring that if you're of age then there was no such thing as child abandonment or endangerment. And so, what this is doing is actually putting forth those clarifications that highlight more, again, the circumstances, the myriad of factors that… that go into all of this."
"Okay. I… like I said, I have some hesitancy. I understand what you're trying to do, and I appreciate all the work you've done on it. I would hope, though, if we start seeing very different rulings or findings in parts of the state or we're seeing problems that the advocates will support coming back 10300042.docx 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 and trying to see if we can figure out what we could do to improve it. Thank you."
"And definitely noted, Representative." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Slaughter to close."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, I urge a 'yes' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1834 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, take the record. On this question, there are 111 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1835, Representative Smith. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1840, Representative Slaughter. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1840, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Slaughter is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 1840 would permit park districts to use their existing police system levy for implementing and maintaining other public safety and security measures to help ensure the safety of their parks and playgrounds, such as security personnel, special events staff, active shooter training, and security improvements or safety-related upgrades to buildings, grounds, and other facilities. The legislation does not authorize or mandate a new tax. The Bill is simply designed to offer park districts flexibility in using their existing levy authority to provide enhanced 10300042.docx 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 public safety measures and security. Senate Bill 1840 is an initiative of the Illinois Association of Park Districts. I know of no opposition, Madam Speaker. And I urge a 'yes' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1840 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, take the record. On this question, there are 111 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Rules Report."
Clerk Bolin: "Committee Reports. Representative Gabel, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on May 9, 2023: approved for consideration, referred to Second Reading is House Bill 218 and House Bill 784." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Senate Bill 1861, Representative Walsh. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1861, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Walsh."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and Members of the General Assembly. Senate Bill 1861 authorizes the Joliet Park District to sell a water park known as Splash Station. This sale is subject to approval of four-fifths of the Joliet Park Commissioners, and the sale price must equal or exceed the average of three independent appraisals. This would be effective only until June 30 of 2025. The reason for this 10300042.docx 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 sale is the park is no longer useful, and it's surrounded by industrial development, and the Park District's looking to sell that land off. I'm happy to answer any questions and ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1861 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, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1866, Representative Moylan. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1866, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moylan."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and Members of the General Assembly. Senate Bill 1866 is a real estate omnibus Bill that waives continuing education and related fees for returning military service members. And respectfully ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will."
"Thank you. This Bill is an initiative of the IDFPR. Is that correct?"
"Yes. Under my… I think… yes, Sir."
"And it appears that the Illinois Association of Home Inspectors and the realtors are proponents on the Bill?" 10300042.docx 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Correct."
"And it all… our analysis shows this is nearly identical to House Bill 2207, which passed unanimously earlier this year."
"Yes, Sir."
"All right. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moylan to close."
"I respectfully ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1866 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, take the record. On this question, there are 111 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1882, Representative Moeller. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1882, a Bill for an Act concerning animals. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moeller is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1882 makes it unlawful to use dogs or cats in toxicological experiments, unless it is for medical research to comply with Federal Law or regulations or for products intended for the beneficial use of dogs and cats. I know of no opposition and ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicates she will." 10300042.docx 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Thank you. Representative, it appears that the Attorney General and local state's attorneys have the enforcement of this Bill if it becomes a law. Is that correct?"
"Yes."
"Will that enforcement be civil in nature, or are there criminal penalties for violating the law?"
"Those would be civil… civil penalties."
"Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moeller to close."
"Would ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1882 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, take the record. On this question, there are 102 voting 'yes', 7 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1830… 83 (sic-1883), Representative Mason. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1883, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Mason."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1883 is an initiative of the United States Humane Society. It creates the Wild Animal Public Safety Act and makes it unlawful for any person to allow a member of the public to come into direct contact with a bear or nonhuman primate. It's a safety issue for both the animals and the humans. Proponents include the 10300042.docx 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Humane Society, the Chicago Zoological Society, the Illinois Animal Control Society, Sierra Club, Brookfield Zoo, and Lincoln Park Zoo. I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader McCombie is recognized."
"Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield for some questions, please?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicated she will."
"Representative Mason, I'm not sure that the Body heard what you said this Bill actually does. Could you say again that… the part about coming in direct contact with?"
"Yes, Leader. It prohibits any person to allow a member of the public to come into direct contact with a bear or nonhuman primate."
"And what is a nonhuman primate?"
"Essentially, a monkey, a chimpanzee…"
"Okay."
"…gorilla."
"So, one of the exemptions in the Bill is the owner of an animal. So, can I assume that a capuchin monkey, which is used with folks that have severe motor disabilities, that they're going to be allowed to continue to keep that animal? Is that correct?"
"Yes. That's correct."
"But if it's my mother who has that animal and I happen to pet that animal, is there any sort of penalty for me if I pet that animal?"
"You know, that is an excellent question, one that has not been brought up before, and I'm happy to look into that. The purpose… the intention of the Bill really is for the traveling 10300042.docx 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 zoos that put those kinds of animals on display and charge people to pet. It is not intended for somebody at their home using that animal.
"Okay. Well, in the Bill, by definition, it doesn't mention travelling zoos, and it's pretty broad. So, what is the penalty if you do pet a bear or a nonhuman primate? Are you all listening to this? This is what we're doing in Springfield right now. What… what is the penalty… what is the penalty for petting a bear, because I think, hopefully, we're all smart enough not to do that, but what is the penalty?"
"So, the penalty would be placed on the person providing the bear or nonhuman primate, and it is a Class B misdemeanor."
"Okay. So, if I unintentionally… unintentionally have a bear and somebody pets it, and I own that bear, I'm… I'm going to possibly get a Class B misdemeanor. What is the… what is the punishment? What is the… what does a Class B misdemeanor do?"
"I am not aware of what that is."
"So, a Class B misdemeanor, for those of you that don't know and who are not listening right now, for petting a bear or a nonhuman primate, the penalty enhancement is up to 6 months in jail, up to $1500 fine, and probation up to 2 years, or the combination of all of those. Folks, I've been trying to pass a Bill… to the Bill. I've been trying to pass a Bill for a murdered, slaughtered DCFS worker since 2017. Now, Doris Turner is carrying a Senate Bill for Deidre Silas, and we're told day after day, and year after year, under this dome that we cannot allow for penalty enhancements. This is such BS. 10300042.docx 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 For those of you that are new to the House, in the 100th General Assembly, and these are not fines and assessments, these are true penalty enhancements, we had 23 in the 100th GA. But we don't believe in penalty enhancements in this House. So, in the 101st, we're going to do 7 more, and we're going to have 30 penalty enhancements in this House. No, no, no. We're not going to support penalty enhancements in this House. So, in the 102nd we're going to do 11 more penalty enhancements. But where is Deidre Silas, and where is Pam Knight? Their Bills are killed because, God forbid, they're penalty enhancements. But you pet a bear, you could go to jail. This year in the 103rd, penalty enhancements to date, HB1342, HB1397, HB1399, HB1519, HB2100, HB2431, HB3093, HB3097, HB3158, HB3396, HB3479, SB754, SB836, SB1499, SB1560, and SB1833, SB1979, SB2285, and SB2340. But we don't pass penalty enhancements in this House. Hey, folks, I'm for them. I am for penalty enhancements. I disagree, they do deter crimes. Now, I don't think this Bill in particular is going to do anything. Odds are, probably, I'm not going to go pet a bear. This is ridiculous. What are we doing? Let's have respect for the dead. Deidre Silas and Pam Knight deserve it. Our DCFS workers deserve it. If we're going to pass penalty enhancements, then let's, by God, pass them. Let's pass them when they make sense. No offense, Representative. You supported Pam Knight. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Mason to close."
"I… I appreciate Leader McCombie's comments, and you know that I… I stand with you on that. Just to clarify, Ladies and Gentlemen, somebody petting a bear will not be penalized. 10300042.docx 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 This is a safety issue. It is a safety issue in terms of bringing nondomesticated animals. I don't want my children going to a state fair and having somebody charge them to take a picture with a cute bear cub or monkey and having a safety issue arise. These animals cannot be domesticated, and it's dangerous. So, we can protect our children and our families at state fairs and petting zoos, and we can also fight to protect our DCF workers… DCFS workers. We can and we should do both. And I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1883 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, take the record. On this question, there are 73 voting 'yes', 35 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1889, Leader Hammond. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1889, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Hammond is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1889 provides that it will be the responsibility of the pharmacy and the pharmacist in charge to ensure that all staff, including the support staff, are trained before selling pre-verified prescriptions. It's agreed language with IDFPR, and I'm happy to take any questions." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1889 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who 10300042.docx 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1892, Representative Huynh. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1892, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Huynh."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1892 allows senior citizens and persons with disabilities who already receive free public transportation services to have their benefits automatically renew every five years, instead of requiring them to reapply every four years. This Bill has no opposition. It has overwhelmingly passed the Senate, and it passed the House committee unanimously. I ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you so much." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1892 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, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1896, Representative Deluca. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1896, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative DeLuca." 10300042.docx 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 1896 deals with Illinois licensed auto dealers delivering vehicles. Currently, Illinois statute is silent, and this Bill will make it clear that Illinois licensed auto dealers will be able to deliver when a customer chooses. There's no opposition, and the Secretary of State's Office will handle the rulemaking. Ask for your support." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1896 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Mr. Clerk… have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 113 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1897, Representative Johnson. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1897, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Johnson."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Senate Bill 1897 creates the Rock Island Regional Port District Act. It establishes the Rock Island Regional Port District within the corporate limits of the City of Rock Island and provides that territory of adjacent municipalities may eventually be annexed into the port district. The Mississippi River is a tremendous asset to Rock Island County, but we need to establish a Rock Island Regional Port District to unlock the full potential of the region. Agriculture, heavy industry, and manufacturing are key to Rock Island's current and future economic growth. Improving the city's water transportation infrastructure has 10300042.docx 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 a direct positive impact on each of these sectors. Establishing the port district will help create economic development in Western Illinois, will encourage use of waterways for transportation of consumer, agriculture, and industrial goods, will boost tourism and recreational opportunities for the Mississippi River, and allow access to federal grants to improve our local infrastructure. Rock Island County is already a transportation hub for the region, creating this will help us grow more. Current port terminal already handles road salt, fertilizer, grain, scrap, lumber, steel and aluminum, and other dry bulk, but it is also operating at its nearest capacity. Eighty to one hundred tons of road salt were transported through the current port terminal last year, according to the Quad City Times. This port doesn't provide for larger economies of scale. We have other regions that have benefitted for this designation. We would become Illinois' 20th regional port district. Areas including Waukegan, Peoria, Joliet, and others already have regional port districts. According to the Illinois Ports Association, the Tri-City Regional Port in Granite City generates an estimated $282 million annually for the region. I'm aware of no opposition. This was passed unanimously in the Senate, and I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Halbrook is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Question of the Sponsor?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will."
"Representative, can you explain to the Body the taxing authority that this new port district has, how it works in this Bill?" 10300042.docx 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Yes. The… the district… first of all, all authorities of taxing will fall to the actual city councils as well, including any other city councils that would annex, so we do not have an unelected board that has to be accountable for the taxing authorities. In this district, they have the ability to issue permits, assess and collect dock fees, determine (unintelligible) own, lease, and/or sell properties, but it does fall… they also have the ability to issue interest-bearing revenue bonds and general obligation bonds. It falls within the municipality."
"So, the municipalities would have to vote to allow this to happen, then? To allow…"
"Yes. The municipalities would, yes. It would be an extension of the city councils."
"Okay. So, townships and county boards would have no influence in this situation?"
"To my knowledge, no, they would not, Representative."
"So, how large is this district that you wish to establish here? What's the area that it includes? Is it a few cities, a town… towns, townships?"
"Currently… currently, Representative, right now it would simply be the City of Rock Island, which is a city of about 38 thousand residents."
"And that's… you're just talking about… it would just be the City of Rock Island from this point forward?"
"Correct. Yes, Sir."
"Okay. And so, how much authority would they have? What would be the amount that they could levy?" 10300042.docx 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"The city does not levy the taxes. The district… the district does not levy the taxes."
"So, who does levy the taxes? It says powers include a property tax levy, no referendum. That's… and I'm just trying to understand our analysis here in the Bill to make sure we have it right."
"I'm told their funding will come from bond revenue."
"Whose funding comes from bond revenue?"
"The district's funding. The port district's funding."
"And then how are the bonds paid for?"
"Through, as I mentioned earlier, the issuing of permits, the ability to access and collect dock fees, policing the waterways and facilities, own, leasing, and selling the property, and the other items outlined in the Bill analysis."
"Yep. So, we're under the impression there's a property tax included here. You're saying that's not the case. Let me move on to another subject, and we'll come back and finish on that. What eminent domain powers are included in this legislation?"
"Hold on one second, Representative. I will have to get back to you on that, Representative."
"Yeah. Representative, I… I'm not sure we got all these questions answered. I don't think this Bill is ready to be voted on today. I would ask that you would pull this record… from the record, and let's discuss this. 'Cause when we talk about that there's a disagreement here about whether there is taxing authority or not, who has that. If they've got the ability to issue bonds, there has to be some way to repay that. We've not heard what that process is, other than some 10300042.docx 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 fees and the like. But I think we need to understand what the eminent domain is here. Again, I would respect… ask that you would respectively pull this Bill, and let's discuss this so we have a better understanding moving forward."
"I certainly appreciate your input, Representative, but I respectfully disagree. I think this Bill is ready to go. I do ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Yeah, Ladies and Gentlemen, due to lack of clarity on this Bill and taxing authority and eminent domain, I would urge a strong 'no' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Johnson to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative West. I apologize. Representative Johnson to close."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1897 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, take the record. On this question, there are 95 voting 'yes', 16 voting 'no', and 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On Supplemental Calendar #1, under the Order of Resolutions, appears House Joint Resolution 35, offered by Representative West. Representative West is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. House Joint Resolution 35 is the House Joint Resolution to reappoint the LIG, Michael McCuskey, who has been serving as of… since 2021. This will be a five-year term from July 1, 2023, and it will end on 10300042.docx 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 June 30, 2028. It's been… as I am currently the chair of the Legislative Ethics Commission, and the relationship that the LEC has with the LIG has been very effective for not just the community, but for our… us under the dome. And the reason why I say that is because of this, two things. One, since McCuskey has been our LIG, he's been working with us to update our ethics training, to update our sexual harassment training, and he's been working with us, along with his staff, to put out videos to help to ensure that Members in the House and the Senate have resources. They're not just serving as watchdogs for the Legislative Body, but resources for the Legislative Body to ensure that each one of us understands and knows where the boundaries are and to ensure that each one of us are in good standing and bringing forth trust into our… into State Government. As you can see based on the board, it is bipartisan. I'm really thankful for the Legislative Ethics Commission, especially Leader Burke, Leader Keicher, and Leader Marron. We came together and unanimously recommended Judge McCuskey to be… to be reappointed to the LEC. And so, I ask that we all do this today with a favorable roll call. Until then, I will entertain any questions you may have." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader McCombie is recognized."
"Thank you. To the Resolution. Representative, it's… it's my hope, and the hope of our caucus here on this side, that this… after this Resolution, true, substantial ethics reform will follow this Resolution to protect us and the people of Illinois. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Marron is recognized." 10300042.docx 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. To the Resolution. A little over a year ago, we debated Judge McCuskey's original appointment to… as Legislative Inspector General, and Judge McCuskey definitely came well-recommended. He had a very high professional reputation that was well-earned. He was a very well-respected member of the bench. And at the time, I think our concerns were due to the process of how that all played out. But certainly, Judge McCuskey had a very, very, very good reputation. And after serving with him for over a year, he certainly has lived up to that reputation. I think he's an honorable man and things are moving in a very positive direction under his leadership in that position as the Legislative Inspector General. As Representative West alluded to, he's taken a very proactive approach as far as training, trying to preempt some of the issues that we've seen by getting educational resources out there to all of us that we can take advantage of. He's also identified some shortcomings in state statute that I think need addressed, and they will be coming to your attention shortly. And so, I really feel good about the job that he's done in the last year as Legislative Inspector General. So, I would encourage an 'aye' vote. And I think we need to build off of this positive momentum and have this be a first step to enact real, meaningful ethics reform in this state so that we can finally start to rectify some of the serious, serious issues of corruption that have plagued this state for many decades. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Keicher is recognized." 10300042.docx 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"To the Resolution. For those of you that are newer to the chamber and haven't really seen the function of… of how the LEC works, it's a… it's a bipartisan, bicameral group of your peer Legislators that sit and look at the issues that we encounter that challenge how we should operate in this chamber and outside of this chamber. As my peer had mentioned earlier, when Judge McCuskey was originally up for appointment, filling a vacancy, the process was broken in the manner in which he was brought to our attention. It did not in any way have any commentary on his ability, his skill, or the work that he had done up to this point as an honorable member of the bench. The process is still broken. We sit here today after one of the most damning ethical trials that this chamber has participated in, and yet, we still deny the Legislative Inspector General the freedom and the ability to conduct independent investigations into each one of us in this chamber and in the Senate. If we truly need to stand before the Illinois resident and say we are conducting ourselves in an ethical way, we need to allow ourselves to be under scrutiny by a person of high caliber and honor. That person is Judge McCuskey. I urge us all to take up the issue of independence of the LIG moving forward so that we can be held in higher esteem in the eyes of the folks that we serve. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Wilhour is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "He indicates he will."
"Thank you. I really appreciate the comments, all the… all comments on… on this stuff. Obviously, everybody here knows that the previous Legislative Inspector General 10300042.docx 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 resigned from this position, calling it a paper tiger after the supposed ethics reforms that we did in the… in the last General Assembly. Representative, has… has the new Legislative Inspector General, has he made any indications, either publicly or privately, that he has been limited from doing his job in the way that… in the manner in which would be best for… for that position and this Body?"
"I… I can't speak to that, Representative. But I am here to speak on the reappointment of Judge Honorable… Judge Michael B. McCuskey. But it'll be… but in your best interest to talk to him about that, Sir."
"Well, you share an important committee in this… in this Body that deals with that… that stuff. I think that if we're going to have a conversation about reappointing somebody to this important position, you should be able to answer questions like that. I mean, do you think the Legislative Inspector General in this… in its current form has all of the powers and independence that it needs to properly do its job? Do you think… do you think that the current Legislative Inspector General should have subpoena power?"
"I'm… I rise today to reappoint Judge McCuskey. And as your colleague said, there could be further conversations later. But at this time, I'll just want to speak on the work that he's already done and ask for your vote to reappoint him."
"Well, that's… you didn't answer my… answer my question at all."
"Exactly."
"That's a… that's a complete… complete dodge, and that's all we do…" 10300042.docx 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"It's not a dodge."
"…around here. Now, when we talk about ethics reforms, when we talk about anti-corruption measures, it's always down the line. It's always down the line. When's it… when it's going to come time to actually do these things? We all know what needs to be done. We know that this office is a… is a paper tiger. The General knows it's a paper tiger. And I'm just giving you the opportunity right now to… to agree with all of these people. And as Chairman of the Ethics & Elections Committee, there is no shortage of… of Bills over here that give the Legislative Inspector General the independence to fight the rampant corruption in this Body. And I'm just asking if you support that."
"As the chair of the Legislative Ethics Commission, I stand with my colleagues to support the reappointment of Judge McCuskey on this Resolution. What you are talking about is legislation. In the here and now, we're speaking on this Resolution. I ask for your vote, Sir."
"Well, thank you. Thank you for not answering my questions. This is what… like I said, guys, this is what we get in this Body. It's time to get serious about this thing. We have a… we have a meeting coming up right here after… after adjournment. Hopefully, we can take up some of these important measures. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Hoffman is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I will just be brief. I've known Justice McCuskey for maybe 30 years, and the bottom line is, you can talk about all the ancillary issues as to whether or not there is 10300042.docx 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 sufficient power in the inspector general's office, that has nothing to do with the man. This gentleman is fair, he's honorable, he's just. He runs his office fairly. He does it with honor, and he shares that the laws are followed. That's what we're voting on today. We're voting on whether he does that. He does it, and he has done it, and that's why there's been a bipartisan support for his reappointment. I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative West to close."
"I will also ask for a 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative West moves for the adoption of House Joint Resolution 35. All in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting 'ayes', 1 voting 'nay', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Resolution, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby adopted. Members, returning to Second Reading. House Bill 2509, Representative Delgado. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"House Bill 2509, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #2 is offered by Representative Delgado." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Delgado on the Amendment."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. So, the Amendment does… made a few changes to the underlying Bill. If we could talk about it on Third Reading? I'd like to be able to talk about it all in a complete fashion, if that makes sense." 10300042.docx 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Delgado moves the adoption of Floor Amendment #2. All those in favor vote… 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." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Third Reading. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"House Bill 2509, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this House Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Delgado."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. House Bill 2509 amends the Nurse Practice Act to require that registered professional nurse education programs that are reviewed by the Board of Nursing and approved by the IDFPR be evaluated for program effectiveness based on the NCLEX nursing exam test pass, fail rate for all graduates over the most three… the three most recent calendar years for all test takers. It also requires schools to provide extra educational resources to students at no charge if a graduate doesn't take an exam within the first 180 days after graduation or if that graduate has failed the exam. It also eliminates… it limits bureaucratic barriers that delays the amount of time between… that a student must wait between graduation and taking the NCLEX, and it also gives a temporary reprieve to nursing schools on probationary status for a period of three years. This is important, specifically so that those schools can rebound from COVID, which has certainly created some situations… some issues with testing scores dipping. The reason I'm taking this up is 10300042.docx 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 because schools that serve black and brown communities have been particularly hard hit. The students that they serve tend to be nontraditional age students that struggle with standardized testing. And because the school is measured based upon those first-time passage rates, the schools that serve populations in my community are really impacted on a different level. We need to focus on getting more nurses into the profession, and in many communities across Illinois, we also need more culturally competent nurses entering the profession. I believe that this addresses some of our challenges, but I also know that this language may not be perfect. We do, however, need to keep pushing this legislation forward and allow conversations to continue in the Senate. And so, with that, Madam Speaker, I'm available for questions. And I ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Frese is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield, please?" Speaker Hernandez, B.: "She indicates she will."
"Representative Delgado, thank you for the Bill. Let's start out with some easy stuff here. Effective date for the Bill will be? Please, when will that be?"
"January 1. There is not an immediate effective date on this Bill."
"Okay, great. So, you kind of spelled out why we need this Bill. Part of it's because of some… maybe some less than desirable test scores during the COVID crisis. A lot of the classes were done remotely, and maybe that wasn't quite as effective in some areas. Maybe some people had better programs to start that remote process, and therefore, maybe their 10300042.docx 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 students did better. I don't… I don't know. But how many nursing schools in the State of Illinois are having an issue because of the poor scores during COVID?"
"So, the communication that I've had with some of the schools, and I can’t give you a specific number, but I do know that there are schools in my district in particular who have seen a dip as it relates to COVID. I think if you were to look at some of the numbers just over the past couple of years, we're seeing those scores kind of dip down. Hopefully, they will bounce back up as students start going back in person. But given the fact that we have such a significant need for nurses, it's important for us to open up those seats so that we can get more students into the nursing schools."
"Okay. So, along those lines, I looked at proponents and opponents for the Bill. There's… I believe there's 27 proponents listed, 32 opponents listed. Of the 27 proponents, 21 came from a particular nursing school. And you're probably… I don't want to name names, but you're familiar with that one. Is that in your area? Are you…"
"Yes."
"…representing… okay"
"So, this… so, this was brought to me by Oak Point Nursing School."
"Okay."
"Oak Point has a couple of different locations, but one in my district, yes."
"Okay. Also, IDFPR stands in opposition. Do you know what their opposition is?" 10300042.docx 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"So, I can tell you that we've had a lot of conversations and actually just spoke to IDFPR today before we put this Bill on the floor. I think we have a disagreement about how best to address this issue. But we have… I have personally made a commitment to them that these conversations will continue because I think we both have the same goal here, which is making sure that we have high nursing standards and nursing school standards, but also making sure that we can get more students into the profession. So, we will continue working together on that, Representative."
"Yeah, I think we can agree, nursing standards will not be lowered because of this."
"That is correct."
"Nursing standard… nurses still have to pass that exam. It's the school's performance. And if the school can't pass 75 percent of their students, their… IDFPR has long had a… a performance record for those schools. Correctly… is that correct?"
"Yes. That's correct."
"Okay. So, after two years of bad performance, they would be put on a, sort of, a probation. They would be asked to reduce their enrollment until they can boost that back up?"
"So, that is currently the way it works. Yes."
"And your… and your Bill would change it to a three-year average. Okay. So, IDFPR says they can't do it. I think you and I have had the discussion that perhaps they can do it. Maybe we need other legislation to maybe allow for that. I'm not sure. But they're the body that approves those programs, 10300042.docx 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 and they say they can't do it. I give them a little bit of weight. Can you help assure me that we can do that, please?"
"Sure. So… so, the way I understand it is that currently the… the IDFPR does get that data in a raw form so they can see the numbers of students. And so, they have that information. They are going to have to change the way that they approach it. And again, this is why we're going to continue having conversations to make sure that they will be in a position to be able to execute this. But, yes, I do believe they can do it."
"Okay. And IDFPR, they stated in committee, most profoundly, that they said this is definitely going to lower the standards of those programs. I would… I guess you would disagree with that?"
"Oh, yes. I would vehemently disagree with that."
"Okay. Okay."
"The idea here is not to lower standards."
"Right. That's nobody's intention."
"Absolutely."
"So, another body that has spoken out in opposition has been the Black Nurses Association. Do you know what is the nature of their opposition?"
"So, what I can say about that is that their opposition is more about… the concern about making a change, right? But what I can tell you is that we have support from ANA Illinois, the Illinois Nurses Association, Hispanic Nurses Association, and the Filipino Nurses Association."
"Yeah." 10300042.docx 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"So, again, we will continue to have conversations with them. But again, I'm… I'm not entirely sure where that… that opposition came in. But again, the idea here is to try to work together with all of these groups to get to a point where everybody's comfortable."
"And I understand this… this Bill has a lot of powerful backers too. I'll go Rush University, SIU Carbondale and Edwardsville, Saint Xavier, U of I Chicago. Not just some of the best schools in the State of Illinois, but some of the best schools… nursing schools in the nation. So, I understand both sides. I'm a little bit concerned about… that this may go too far. The 180 days that… the standard of you have to take the test within 180 days of the graduation, who's going to track that? Is that the university or the school's responsibility?"
"Yeah. The school should be responsible for that. Yes."
"And they'll report that to?"
"They would report that to IDFPR."
"IDFPR. And schools probably already track that now or they do not? Or is that going to be an additional expense?"
"So, my understanding is that most schools do track it. They track it because they're being judged based on what the passage rate is."
"Yeah. Correct."
"So, most schools are keeping track of that. And I would also want to mention, Representative, we've added a few additional supporters. They're… Chicago State University is also on that list."
"Oh, good." 10300042.docx 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023
"The Illinois Chamber of Commerce is also supportive of this. So, you know, again, I think that there might be some detail work that needs to happen here, but I think overall a lot of folks…"
"So, should…"
"…agree with the direction we're going."
"…should this Bill become law, how soon will IDFPR be able to get a three-year average? Can they take the last two years or the last three years and make an immediate assessment?"
"So, I think that would be a possibility. There's nothing in this Bill that would prevent that from happening."
"There's nothing that would prevent that?"
"That they can take… they can take that… they can go back two years and look at that rolling average…"
"Okay."
"…start immediately."
"'Cause I think IDFPR was saying that if they did that, they wouldn't be able to go back and get numbers, but they could get numbers in the future. That would mean they wouldn't have an assessment until 2026, and that would be a little bit too far out, right?"
"So, I'm… I'm not exactly sure where IDFPR was going on that either. But again… so, one of the things that we would like to work together on is to try to get some of those details ironed out so that they can feel comfortable moving forward. But I do believe that we can find that… that common ground."
"Okay. Thank you. I have no… no further questions. Thank you, Representative." 10300042.docx 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Delgado to close."
"So, again, I just want to remind everyone, especially on Illinois Nurses Week, that nursing is incredibly important in this state. And we also know that we have a nursing shortage across the state. So, this is one way that we can open up some more of those seats in nursing schools so we can get a more diversing… a more diverse nursing body and also create more opportunities for folks to enter into the profession. So, again, I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall House Bill 2509 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, take the record. On this question, there are 82 voting 'yes', 31 voting 'no', 0… and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Returning to Third Reading on page 7. Senate Bill 1913, Representative Ladisch Douglass. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1913, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Ladisch Douglass is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and Members of the House. Senate Bill 1913 makes it easier for patients to receive telehealth coverage for mental health and substance abuse treatment. This includes removing any kind of barriers to receiving telehealth appointments, such as requiring an in-person appointment before telehealth appointments become available. This is a program that is already used, and due to 10300042.docx 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 the pandemic emergency order ending in a few days, this Bill will allow this kind of service to continue. It passed the Senate by a unanimous vote. It passed committee unanimously. There is no opposition, and I'm here to answer any questions. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1913 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, take the record. On this question, there are 113 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bill 1935, Representative Hanson. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1935, a Bill for an Act concerning State government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Hanson is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. Senate Bill 1935 adds minority- and veteran-owned businesses to the list of entities CMS shall first offer surplus personal property for purchase at an appraised value before sale to the public. The Bill does not apply to surplus state land. There is no opposition, and I ask for an 'aye' vote." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1935 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, take the record. On this question, there are 114 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the 10300042.docx 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Severin, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal… a point of personal privilege, please." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"So, there are several Daves in the House, Senate, and on the campus of the Springfield Capitol, and tonight we are having the first annual Dave Caucus at Boone's. So, you're invited if your name is Dave. If you know a Dave or if you ever wanted to be a Dave, we'd love to have you at Boone's this evening. Going to have a great time, have some food and music, and you'll get to hear a lot of good Dave stories. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Olickal is recognized."
"Point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. As we continue to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I rise today to celebrate the life and legacy of Kala Bagai. Known as Mother India, Bagai was one of the first South Asian women in the U.S. in the early 1900s. Kala, along with her husband, Vaishno Das Bagai, and their three sons, arrived in San Francisco in September of 1915. Her husband's successful general store led the family to purchase a home in Berkeley, which they would never actually live in. Racist neighbors physically barred them from their house, and fearing physical attacks, the family returned to San Francisco. In March of 1921, Kala's husband gave up his Indian citizenship to become 10300042.docx 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 an American citizen. At the time, wives of immigrants, like Kala, automatically became naturalized when their husbands did. A few years later, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled, in the case United States v. Bhagat Singh, that no person of Indian origin was eligible to become an American citizen. This not only affected new immigrants, but retroactively revoked citizenship for Bagai's and other families just like them. This heinous decision caused the Bagais to lose their general store and their ability to return to India. Seeing no way out, Vaishno Bagai died by suicide. In spite of this devastating loss, Kala strengthened her English skills, attended night school, and helped the fight for freedom of her homeland with the Ghadar Party, a political organization focused on removing British colonizers from India. Most notably, Kala was deeply dedicated to her community. According to her granddaughter, Kala had a tradition of welcoming other new Indian immigrants and visitors with homecooked vegetarian meals, instant friendship, because of her own pain of feeling lonely in a strange land. Kala passed away in 1983. Her obituary claimed her personal philosophy was that if you are good, the whole world will love you. Kala was deeply loved by the community she built, and we should all aspire to emulate her resilience and kindness. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Croke is recognized on House Resolution 267."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today in honor of Newton N. Minow, who passed over the weekend at the age of 97. Newt mentored and inspired a list of individuals that includes presidents, civic leaders, and industry executives. Many of 10300042.docx 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 you know him as the man who recruited and mentored a politically inclined young Harvard lawyer to Sidley Austin. Obviously, I am speaking about my husband and not President Obama. But he did mentor President Obama too, but I'm… I'm biased towards the former. While Newt was famously known for calling network television a 'vast wasteland' and many… anyone who watched Gilligan's Island, the ship that was stranded is the S.S. Minnow, so he will live in infamy forever. He served as FCC Chairman under President Kennedy. We can thank him for the creation of public television, public Presidential debates, and the launch of the satellites that made nationwide broadcast possible. Included in a long list of Newt's accomplishments, and they are long, he served as U.S. Army Sergeant in World War II. He was a law clerk to Honorable Fred M. Vinson, Chief Justice of the United States, and then assistant counsel to the Illinois Governor Adlai Stevenson. He was executive vice president of Encyclopedia Britannica; partner and senior counsel at the law firm of Sidley Austin; authored five books and countless articles; served as director of the Aon Corporation, CBS, Sara Lee Corporation, Manpower, Inc., and the Tribune Company; was former chairman of the RAND Corporation and PBS; and lastly, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, by President Barack Obama in 2016. Newt embodied public service. He leaves a lasting legacy that will be felt across… he was a good friend… sorry, everyone… across initiatives that contributed to civic life and this country. This is a huge loss to our country, to our state, and to the people who loved him. He leaves behind his 10300042.docx 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 daughters, Nell, Martha, and Mary. May I blame this on being pregnant, everyone? I'm sorry. More importantly, though, than who he leaves behind is who he will be joining. He will be reunited with the love of his life, Josephine, who he was married to for 72 years and who passed away last year. So, I ask this Body for a moment of silence." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "The Body will take a moment of silence. Representative Croke moves for the adoption of House Resolution 267. 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. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 263, offered by Representative Guzzardi. House Resolution 264, offered by Representative Marron. House Resolution 265, offered by Representative Ann Williams. And House Resolution 266, offered by Representative Collins." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Leader Gabel moves for the adoption of the Agreed Resolutions. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Agreed Resolutions are adopted. Representative Slaughter, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Yeah, point of personal privilege." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Please proceed."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. The great ladies, women of Alpha Kappa Alpha are here tomorrow for their day at the Capitol. They're here a little early. They have a reception tonight. Please join if you can at the State House Inn from 10300042.docx 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 8 to 11 p.m. These are the terrific, exceptional ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha that are throwing this reception. Please join us tonight. Thank you." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "Representative Moylan, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. There is a reception tonight for Representative Lamont Robinson, starting at 5:00 at Boone's. Thank you, and have a great day." Speaker Hernandez, B.: "And now, allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Leader Gabel moves for the House stand adjourned until Wednesday, May 10, at the hour of noon. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the 'ayes'… 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 4071, offered by Representative Guzzardi, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 4072, offered by Representative Meier, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. House Bill 4073, offered by Representative Hammond, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 4074, offered by Representative Costa Howard, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. House Bill 4075, offered by Representative Andrade, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 4076, offered by Representative Lilly, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. First Reading of these House Bills. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 262, offered by Representative Flowers; and House Resolution 268, offered by Representative Bunting, are referred to the Rules Committee. 10300042.docx 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 42nd Legislative Day 5/9/2023 There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned." 10300042.docx 87