"The House will be in order. Members will be in their seats. We shall be led in prayer… prayer today by Wayne Padget, the Assistant Doorkeeper. Members and guests are asked to refrain from starting their laptops, turn off all cell phones, and rise for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance."
"Let us pray. Dear heavenly Father, we lift up the leaders of our state and all those that you have set in places of authority to rule and govern. We pray that they would rule our land and many institutions with wisdom and integrity. We pray that each one would carry out their various responsibilities with honesty for the benefit of the state. Clothe each one of them with righteousness and justice. And we pray that all selfish ambitions will be laid aside and that our plans and purposes are fulfilled for the well-being of all citizens. May your ways be known in our state and your name be lifted up in these corridors of power. Guide us into the ways of peace, justice, and truth. These things we ask in your son's name, Amen."
"We'll be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by today by Representative Morris."
"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 Burke: "Roll Call for Attendance. Leader Smith is recognized to report any excused absences on the Democratic side of the aisle." 10300062.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Madam Speaker, let the record reflect that Representatives Gabel, Carroll, Guerrero-Cuellar, Jones, Vella, West, and Omar Williams are excused today."
"Rep… Leader Keicher is recognized to report any excused absences on the Republican side of the aisle."
"Good morning, Madam Speaker. Please excuse Representatives Cabello, Reick, and Coffey."
"Have all recorded themselves who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There being 108 Members answering the roll call, a quorum is present. Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
Clerk Hollman: "Committee Reports. Representative Rita, Chairperson from the Committee on the Executive reports the following committee action taken on November 9, 2023: recommends be adopted is the Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1 and 2 to House Bill 1358, and Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 3 to House Bill 3641, Floor Amendment(s) 3 to Senate Bill 385, and Floor Amendment(s) 1 to Senate Bill 2315. Representative Walsh, Chairperson from the Committee on Public Utilities reports the following committee action taken on November 9, 2023: recommends be adopted is the Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment(s) 1, 2, and 3 to House Bill 2473. Representative Didech, Chairperson from the Committee on Gaming reports the following committee action taken on November 9, 2023: recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 2 to Senate Bill 584. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 504, offered by Representative Stuart; House Resolution 506, offered by Representative Ness; and House Resolution 508, 10300062.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 offered by Representative Weber, are referred to the Rules Committee."
"Leader Mah, for what reason do you rise?"
"I'd like to let everyone know that today is Tiffany Moy's birthday, Speaker's chief of staff."
"Very happy birthday to Tiffany. Representative Marron, for what reason do you rise?"
"Madam Speaker, a quick point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"I would like to invite to… welcome to Springfield my district LA, Marguerite Bailey. She's here for the day to see what we do here in Springfield. So, please welcome her to Springfield."
"Representative Swanson, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Madam Speaker, this weekend many of us will be celebrating or being a part of a Veterans Day ceremony of some sort. Tomorrow is the federal veterans' holiday, but Monday… or Saturday truly is November 11 of when we do celebrate Veterans Day. We have many veterans here in our Assembly and I'd like to recognize them for their service. Representative Wilhour, Dr. Jacobs, Representative Friess, Representative Kifowit, Representative Walker, and Representative Caulkins. I'd like to thank them and please you too thank them for the service they provided to our country. And as you're out in your communities thanking the veterans, also thank that spouse. The spouses and the family 10300062.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 members, too, went through the sacrifice with their veteran. And Veterans Day, we maybe only recognize them one day a year, but always consider saying thank you for their service. And as I tell the young people in our schools, every veteran has a story. So, if you see a veteran, recognize a veteran with their hat or with their shirt or whatever they may be wearing, ask them their story. And I'm sure they would be honored to take the time to tell you. So, to all our veterans, I want to say thank you who serve in the House. And to all our veterans across our nation, thank you for your service. Happy Veterans Day."
"Representative Rashid, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"I rise to bring attention to House Resolution 433, which mourns the passing of Dianne Duner, who served as president of the Brookfield Public Library. Today, we're joined by her son, Kenyon Duner, who's with us in the gallery. If you would, please rise. As well as Ms. Duner's daughter-in-law, Katie… Kate, Ms. Duner's granddaughter, Trixie, and Kimberly Coughran, the executive director of the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library. Dianne was born on December 21, 1941 in Berwyn. She dedicated her life to public service and education and had a 40-year career in education as a teacher and eventually served as director of curriculum and staff development for the LaGrange Highlands School District. She'll be especially remembered for her love of France and for teaching French, English, and mythology. Dianne was also 10300062.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 involved in a number of community-based service organizations, many of which were located in Brookfield. She served for 23 years on the library board of the Brookfield Public Library and president when the library's new facility opened in July of 2021. She was a tireless advocate for women's rights and campaigned for the Equal Rights Amendment, for animal adoption and humane treatment, and was a supporter of the arts. Madam Speaker, I'd ask for a moment of silence."
"The Body will observe a moment of silence. Thank you. Representative Halbrook, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, this past week the Illinois State Police held several public hearings about the Protect Illinois Communities Act, also known as the firearm ban and registration Bill. As I stated in my testimony at ISP's first hearing, there are more questions than answers when it comes to the issues of enforcement. When this law was passed, we immediately heard from over 90 county sheriffs and state's attorneys that they would not enforce this law. The Governor, however, has tried to make a claim that the counties have no discretion in prosecution and arrest related to the failure to register firearms and possession of legally purchased firearms before this new law. Here's the problem. The Illinois State Police has gone on record multiple times now stating that the issues of enforcement, they believe it will be up to the counties to decided what to do with the charges when the state issues a 10300062.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 violation. Once again, this leaves more questions than answers. Folks, we are less than two months away from the enforcement date of this Act. Right now, this means we are less than two months away from the State of Illinois making felons out of thousands of law-abiding citizens. The people deserve answers, answers that this Body, the Governor, and the State of Illinois have yet to give them. Answers to questions like 1) is the state going to seek other methods of prosecution if the county jurisdiction does not prosecute, 2) who is going to be responsible for confiscation of firearms if the state determines that to be necessary, and 3) finally, is the state going to revoke FOID cards even if the charges are dropped by local prosecutors? Are we going to have thousands of people with revoked FOID cards next spring for simply exercising their constitutional right to bear arms? It seems, once again, the Legislature and the Governor have failed to get on the same page and have no regard for the stakeholders' responsibility for enforcement. I fully intend to submit further questions and testimony to the Illinois State Police and JCAR on this matter. I know I'm hearing from thousands of people across the state whose response to the tyrannical government is this, we will not comply. Thank you."
"Representative Ammons, for what reason do you rise?"
"Good morning, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. It is my privilege to stand on behalf of the Illinois Legislative Joint Black Caucus. We'll 10300062.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 be hosting and honoring Illinois' black veterans this year statewide. I wanted to share with you that there are locations throughout the State of Illinois that would be hosted throughout the entire state. Our Black Caucus Members have gathered together regionally to support veterans in our communities. Please see the list of veterans that will… the veterans' events that will be hosted throughout the state. We will start today here in Springfield. The Springfield location that we will be honoring veterans is 1908 Innovation and Coal Working Center, 1100 South Grand Avenue East in Springfield. And tomorrow we will host in Champaign at the William F. Earnest Post 559, 704 North Hickory Street in Champaign. Then we will follow those up with several events in Chicagoland area. The Compassionate Baptist Church, 2650 East 95th Street, Chicago on Friday, November 10 from 3 to 6 p.m. We will also host at 801 McAlister in Waukegan on Sunday, November 12 between 2 and 4 p.m. We will also host November 11, Our Lady of Africa Parish, 607 East Oakwood Boulevard in Chicago. And we will have one in East St. Louis as well at Mary Brown Center, 606 South 15th Street in East St. Louis, Illinois. And the final one will be hosted at the Red Door Meeting Place, 1519 West Roosevelt Road in Broadview. Our Members look forward to hosting our black veterans throughout the State of Illinois, and we appreciate all of our sponsors who's help us make this happen for our black veterans. And happy Veterans Day to all veterans."
"Representative Hammond, for what reason do you rise?" 10300062.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"I would like for all of us to join in saying thank you to our House photographer, Shelly Stark, who currently serves as a member of the Air National Guard. Shelly, thank you very much for your service."
"Representative Manley, for what reason do you rise?"
"Madam Speaker, could you please excuse Representative Scherer for the rest of the day?"
"I will. Thank you. Representative Ness, for what reason do you rise?"
"A point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"I want to draw the Body's attention to House Resolution 506, which recognizes family caregivers throughout the State of Illinois who care for loved ones in homes helping people live independently, whether that's people with disabilities or other issues. There are approximately 1.3 million family caregivers in the State of Illinois. And family caregivers provide an estimated 1.21 billion hours of unpaid care annually at an economic value of $21 billion. We won't get a chance to vote on this Resolution during Veto. I look forward to bringing it forward in the spring, and I urge everyone in this Body to support it. Thank you."
"Representative Weber, for what reason do you rise?"
"Point of personal privilege, Madam Speaker." 10300062.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Please proceed."
"So, many of us here on the floor on this House are not unfamiliar with high property taxes in the State of Illinois. It is one of those constants that has been brought to my attention every door I knock on, every event I have, every event that I show up at. For many of our constituents, it is the greatest concern that they face here in the State of Illinois, and it has been the reason that many people have decided to leave our state and been forced out of their homes, particularly seniors on fixed incomes. While PTELL was limited to protect taxpayers by five percent or CPI, whichever is lower, nothing was done to protect individual property tax on properties from increasing more than five percent. There's nothing that limits drastic increases on individual property. This year I've seen property tax bills sent to me that had 30 percent increases, 40 percent increases, 50 percent increases. So, can you imagine if you have a $7 thousand bill, and the next year there's a shift, and all of a sudden, your property taxes are now 10 thousand, 14 thousand? These are the things that force people out of their homes, families to decide to move out of state, and we need to do something to address it. Massive unexpected increases of thousands of dollars on an individual home or individual property can force people out. Now, I understand if someone has done major improvements or if there's been a referendum passed or something else, but without that, no one can expect those drastic increases. We cannot allow that to happen. I'm currently working on legislation that would cap an increase of an individual property to five percent from the previous 10300062.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 year. Not PTELL, an individual property. If no improvement has been done, no referendum passed, no one should have to have that burden placed on them. Our residents are crying out for relief. No family should be forced out of their home because their property taxes have skyrocketed. Several thousand dollars in one year for many this year alone. If your… constituents are concerned like the constituents in my districts, I ask you to please join me in working to cap what an individual property can increase over one year and help protect the taxpayers of the State of Illinois. Thank you."
"Representative Benton, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"I just want to draw attention to House Resolution 497, recognizing National Apprenticeship Week. This one kind of hits close to home. I graduated from an apprenticeship program, Local 444 Joliet Iron Workers, and I think there's a lot of good opportunities in trade and vocational initiatives through registered apprenticeship programs. So, I encourage all the Members to sign onto this Resolution and recognize all the labor unions that are helping out with good paying jobs and good careers for everyone. Thank you."
"Representative Stuart, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed." 10300062.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Thank you. I just want to take a minute to recognize our photographer, Scott, who is also a retired member of the Army Reserve. And thank you for your service, Scott."
"We'll be moving to page 3 of the Calendar, the Order of Concurrences. We will next have House Bill 351, Representative Tarver. Representative Tarver is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Just moving to concur on the Senate Amendment. Is that correct?"
Speaker Burke: "You're… you're moving to concur in Senate Amendment #1."
"Okay. A little background about the Bill. We addressed this Bill in the spring. It went over to the Senate. It does a couple things. One, it holds us to a higher standard than the general public in that if we are convicted of certain types of crimes arising while we're in office then we would be banned, we being elected officials, from running for office again in the State of Illinois. The other thing that it does is looks to establish a task force that would study the issue of what types of crimes can be rehabilitated… hold on. The other thing that it does is it establish a task force that would allow for studying what types of crimes can be rehabilitated so individuals who are barred from running for office because they have a previous felony would be able to run for office. The Amendment just does a couple relatively innocuous things. It pushes back the effective date of the… it pushes back the repeal date, excuse me. It pushes back the date that we have to turn over a report from the task force, both of those by one year. It adds… it adds a provision as it relates to requirements for notary publics relating to 10300062.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 nominating petitions, petitions of candidacy, petitions for nomination, nominating papers, and nomination papers. That was something that I believe was supposed to be in the ethics omnibus. It wasn't included. As Mr. Hartmann says, it was left on the cutting room floor, but it is relatively innocuous. And the other thing that it does is that it moves the entity that houses the task force to the Board of Elections, rather than the Illinois Sentencing Advisory… the Illinois Sentencing Advisory… all right, IPAC or ISPAC, that's the best way I can put it 'cause I don't seem to see the full name here. And then there's one thing I need to actually read into the record from the Board of Elections just to… for legislative intent purposes. So, if you'll give me one moment, Madam Speaker, I'm sorry. I forgot about that."
"No, please… please proceed."
"You know what? If you want to go to questions, I'll just pull up the legislative intent while I wait on questions."
"Okay. Representative Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He will."
"Representative, I appreciate you bringing this up for concurrence. One of the changes that you mentioned was a very important change from SPAC to the State Board of Elections. I actually serve as one of the Republican Member from the House on SPAC. And the director believed that it was important to move that from SPAC to the State Board of Elections 'cause it's a more appropriate entity. So, we appreciate that change. I also know in talking with certain, I believe it's notaries public, that that change is also very important to them as it 10300062.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 relates to notarizing and documenting in the journal the notarization of election papers. So, that it is also an important change. I appreciate you bringing these forward. It was unanimous previously. It was unanimous in committee. So, I would encourage a 'yes' vote."
"Thank you. And thank you for giving me time to pull up the language I need to offer for legislative intent. This is in speaking to the Illinois State Board of Elections. I'm going to read this into the record. I would like to offer a statement to clarify the legislative intent that certain language concerning the task force to review eligibility to hold public office. The language requires ISBE… or excuse me, Illinois State Board of Elections to designate the day, time, and place for each meeting of the task force. Additionally, a task… the Board of Elections with providing administrative and technical support to the task force and being responsible for administrating its operations and ensuring that the requirements of the task force are met. The legislative intent of these provisions is that the duties assigned to the Illinois State Board of Elections are contingent on all necessary appointments to the task force being made and also contingent on the Speaker and the Senate President appointing cochair people, as required by the language. In other words, if the State Board of Elections undergoing a compliance audit in the future and the task force has not been completed… has not completed its work for reasons outside the State Board of Election's control, it is the intent of the General Assembly that the State Board of Elections not be hit with a negative finding in a compliance audit. I urge a…" 10300062.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Are you done with questions? Okay. The Chair recognizes Representative Elik."
"To the Bill, please."
"Please proceed."
"I have to comment on the part about the… the changes to the Notary Public Act. If it's… if my understanding is correct, we have put laws in place to make notaries record various things that they… that they have to record and notarize. And we are now excluding lawmakers who are getting petitions and other public officials who are getting petitions from having to do those same things that they're recording that everybody else has to do. I think that's rules for me and not for thee. So, I appreciate the Bill and the other items in it, but I'm going to have to be a 'no'."
Speaker Burke: "Seeing no further questions, Representative Tarver to close."
"Thank you, Madam…"
"Oh, do you… do you need to… did you have something else you want… wanted to add?"
"I was going to respond to that point very quickly."
"Okay, sure."
"A couple things. One, if there's any questions as it relates to someone's nominated petition, there's a process for that as it stands right now. Individuals… it's an administrative procedure, people can be cross examined. So, there's nothing about what this change does that eliminates the ability for the general public, other candidates, or anyone from challenging someone's nominated petitions. So, I want to be clear about that. Second thing is, we also know 10300062.docx 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 that, as Legislators, we typically cannot be detained on our way to or from Springfield for Session or from Session. So, there's certain advantages that we take advantage of as Legislators and then we qualm… you know, have qualms about other things. So, I just wanted to respond to that quick point. And I'm happy to go to closing."
"Go… go ahead to closing."
"I urge an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 351?' This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; all those opposed signify by voting 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Clerk, please take the record. With 86 voting 'yes', 18 voting 'no', and 2 voting 'present', the House does concur in Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 351. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. We're moving back to page 2 of the Calendar, Senate Bills on Second Reading. Senate Bill 385, Leader Hoffman. Leader Hoffman is… oh, Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 385, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. This Bill was read a second time previously. Amendment 1 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendments 2 and 3 have been approved for consideration. Floor Amendment #2 is offered by Representative Hoffman."
"Representative Hoffman's recognized."
"I believe we would withdraw Floor Amendment #2."
"Mr. Clerk." 10300062.docx 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Floor Amendment #3 is offered by Representative Hoffman and has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Hoffman's recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I would ask that we adopt Floor Amendment #3 and then debate it on… on Third Reading, please."
"Representative Hoffman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #3. All those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Any further Amendments, Mr. Clerk?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 385, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Hoffman."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This… this contains two provisions. The first is regarding a transfer of land from IDOT for public use to the City of Venice. I know of no… no known opposition. In addition, it would indicate that… it would indicate that if a… if the state gives to a unit of local government property for a specific purpose, that unit of local… another unit of local government would not be able to force any ordinance against an inoperative state facility that was given to that unit of local government… to a unit of local government for recreational public purpose. I ask for a favorable roll call."
"Representative Windhorst is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?" 10300062.docx 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"He indicates he will."
"Thank you. Leader, the Floor Amendment 3, could you briefly describe what that… impact that has on the Bill?"
"Floor Amendment #3 takes the provisions of Floor Amendment #2, which was regard to the transfer from IDOT to Venice for a public use, IDOT no longer has any need for that property. And the City of Venice is looking at putting a health care facility as well as a potential community recreational facility utilizing that. In addition, it… it would add provisions concerning if a inoperable state facility has been transferred to a unit of local government, another unit of local government could… could not pass ordinances that interfere basically with that purpose."
"Is… that last language you mentioned, was that in a… previously in a House Bill? Are you aware of House Bill 3641, if that was in that Bill previously?"
"I'm not sure of that. I apologize. I'm not sure of that."
"With regard to the transfer to the City of Venice, what was IDOT using that property for previously?"
"I apologize, you are correct. There was similar language in that Bill. And I… please restate your next question."
"Definitely. What was IDOT using this property for that would be transferred to the City of Venice?"
"It was just a vacant property that was… had… they really don't need anymore. I think at one point it was… it was bought for expansion of a road, but they have no plans to do that."
"And do you know what the City of Venice intends to use the property for?" 10300062.docx 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Yes. They're… they're doing a revitalization project where there will be either a health care facility… a health care facility, a community recreational facility, and possibly some housing as well."
"Thank you for… to the Bill. To Members on our side of the aisle, there has been language added to the Bill which was previously in House Bill 3641, which was a partisan vote when it was previously called in the House. I just want to flag that for our Members. Thank you."
"Representative Hoffman to close."
"It is my understanding that this came out unanimously out of the Executive Committee. I understand there might've been some issues, but I believe the Republican Members as well voted for this out of Executive Committee. I ask for a favorable roll call."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 385 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this measure, there are 71 voting 'yes', 34 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Continue… or going back on page 2 to Senate Bills on Third Reading, again Leader Hoffman with Senate Bill 805. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill. Do you have a Motion to bring this back to Second? Leader Hoffman has moved to… Bill back to Second for purposes of adding an Amendment."
"Senate Bill 805, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. This Bill was read a second time previously. No… 10300062.docx 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Amendment 1 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative Hoffman, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Hoffman on Floor Amendment #2."
"Yes, I would ask that we adopt the Amendment and debate the Bill on Second… on Third Reading, please."
"Leader Hoffman has moved for the… Representative Hoffman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 805. All those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Any further Amendments, Mr. Clerk?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Senate Bill 805, by Representative Hoffman. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 805, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Leader Hoffman."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This Bill is a Bill that would ensure that grants that have been made from the state to businesses would not have a taxable impact. The Tax Cuts and Job Act of 2017 made a number of changes to the Internal Revenue Code, including an Amendment which included state and local capital contributions and incentives under federal taxable income. However, the Bill specifically excluded contributions made by a government entity or a civic group pursuant to a master development plan. This would indicate that the creation of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity constituted the creation of a master development plan so that 10300062.docx 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 this would not be a taxable event. In addition, it… it ensures that there would be… there would be a state deduction under state income tax for capital contributions by agencies or political subdivision made pursuant to a master development plan. I know of no known opposition. This would ensure that businesses that are receiving grants from the state would not have a federal tax consequence or a state tax consequence. I ask for a favorable roll call."
"Chair recognizes Rep. Sosnowski."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. And Leader, I appreciate the conversation we had in committee. Could you just take an extra second and just clarify or maybe just discuss at a local level, in particular, maybe TIF districts? What… what effect is this having right now that this legislation will prospectively clean up?"
"I can go back to the TIF district, but if we as a state, through DCEO, give grants, whether it was during COVID to businesses to… to keep open or any other type of grant, when… in 2017 when they passed the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, for whatever reason, Congress indicated that if there wasn't a state master development plan that that could be a taxable event. We, obviously, would not be giving grants to a business and then that business have to pay to the Federal Government taxes. So, this would say that the creation of DCEO, when it was created, at that date, was the existence of a master development plan, therefore getting rid of any possible federal tax consequences. Other states have done this. The IRS has not begun to… in my understanding, the IRS has not issued an opinion regarding this, but this would just make 10300062.docx 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 sure that these businesses know that when they receive grants from the state, it would not be a federal… federal taxable event."
"Yeah, and I appreciate that. And that will include retroactive… retroactively for previous development agreements?"
"Yes."
"Okay. And so, in regards to TIF, does this… would this really apply all that much with TIF districts? Or is that more just kind of inclusion as a cautionary basis?"
"I don't believe… it's mostly for state grants. That's my understanding. However, I'm not a tax expert, but I don't believe that money that is given to a business from TIF is currently taxable. So, like a local government gives money through a TIF for redevelopment of building, I don't believe that that is taxable."
"Okay. So… so, essentially this will eliminate any prospective tax liability, which is unintended anyways because of the change in federal legislation?"
"Yes."
"Okay. Thank you very much."
Speaker Burke: "Seeing no further questions, Representative Hoffman to close."
"Thank you. I enjoyed the debate. I ask for a favorable roll call."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 805 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. 10300062.docx 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 On this question, there are 106 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Moving down to… on page 2, Senate Bills on Second Reading, we have Senate Bill 1699, Representative Walsh. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1699, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. This Bill was read a second time previously. Amendment 2 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #3, offered by Representative Walsh, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Walsh on Amendment #3."
"I'd like to adopt Amendment #3 and debate it on Third."
"Representative Walsh moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #3. All those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Any further Amendments, Mr. Clerk?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions are filed."
"Third Reading. Senate Bill 1699. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1699, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Walsh is recognized."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. With the Amendment, Floor Amendment #3 becoming the Bill, this was the underlying language of House Bill 3445 without dealing with the right of first refusal. So, the remaining portions that we voted on back in the spring would 10300062.docx 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 allow public universities to access renewable energy credits through the Adjustable Block Program. Requires the Illinois Power Agency to conduct comprehensive policy studies on a number of issues relating to energy transmission procurement and generation. And thirdly, it contains the wind siting trailer language that the Farm Bureau had requested when we passed House Bill 4412 out of the 102nd General Assembly. Happy to answer any questions. Ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Chair recognizes Representative Halbrook."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Thank you. Representative, we had some questions about kind of the counties portion of this and how it affects the agricultural impact mitigation agreement. I want to thank you for helping me to answer those questions. And thank Farm Bureau for also helping me to answer those questions. I think this is needed language in the ag impact mitigation agreement. And I think that agreement probably needs some more work, but I think this is needed language. The other component was the Amendments on the Illinois Power Agency Act. Looks like there's lots of studies. It looks like some things here that we're favorable to as far as some offshore wind projects in Lake Michigan. Can you tell me, I didn't ask this earlier, how are these studies funded? Do you know the answer to how these studies are funded?"
"I believe they're funded through the Illinois Power Agency."
"Does that ultimately come from ratepayers to some extent?" 10300062.docx 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"I would assume so, yes."
"Yeah. My understanding is it'd be like a quarter percent increase to ratepayers if this… on these different studies. But again, we're favorable to the offshore Lake Michigan wind. Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you."
"So, just to clarify, they're already doing these studies with the funding they have. So, there's nothing on the rate…"
"Okay."
"…dealing with a rate increase to do these studies."
"Okay. Thank you. No further questions."
"Chair recognizes Representative Davidsmeyer."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Two quick… maybe a comment and a quick question. First question, just making sure this has nothing to do with physical therapy compact, correct?"
"That is correct."
"Okay. Just making sure everybody knows that. The… the other thing is I… you know, I appreciate you working on this and moving forward. I think there are other issues that were removed from the original Bill that we will be continuing to work on next year, making sure that other people understand it. But I just want to make sure this is… this is agreed upon language, that the Governor's okay with this as well, right?"
"That is correct. This is all agreed upon. I know of no opposition. And the other portion that was vetoed out of the original Bill, we will be working on in the spring."
"Thank you." 10300062.docx 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Seeing no further questions, Representative Walsh to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1699 pass?' All in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 107 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Moving to page 3 of the Calendar. On the Order of Concurrence, we have House Bill 2473. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill. Oh, excuse me. Representative Yednock on the Motion."
"I move to concur with Senate Amendments 1, 2, and 3 of House Bill 2473."
"Would you give us a brief explanation of your… of the Amendments?"
"Sure, thank you. Senate Amendment 3, the Bill seeks to remove the moratorium on new construction of nuclear reactors in Illinois. It's in response to the Governor's Total Veto of SB76, which attempted the same. The Bill, we believe, addressed Governor Pritzker's concerns on SB76. In addition to the changes proposed here, it brings the Illinois Environmental Council to neutral and it is a labor-supported Bill. The Bill limits the future construction of new nuclear facilities to the small modular reactors with no more than 300 megawatts of energy in size. It's the federal definition of the small modular reactor. It requires a study and adoption of the rules for the regulation of small modular reactors by 10300062.docx 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 January of 2026. The lead agency of the regulation will be Illinois Environment… Illinois Emergency Management Association, Homeland Security, and they will do the study and take input from the IEPA and other agencies. Finally, the IEMA will also do a study on the potential of the small modular reactors and review other factors, such as other states' regulations, federal regulations, permit processes, and risk analyses as well. Happy to take any questions."
"Chair recognizes Representative Windhorst."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Thank you. Representative, appreciate you bringing this Bill forward and for all the work you've done on this issue. We commend you for that. The prior Bill lifting the moratorium that was vetoed by the Governor, this Bill is in response to that. Is that correct?"
"In fact, the Governor slipped in that he is supportive of the working process. They were at the table. They are in… the Governor's in complete support of this Bill."
"That is good to hear, and we look forward to favorable passage and his signing the Bill. Thank you."
"Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Moeller."
"Thank you, Madam Chair. To the Bill. I want to also thank the Sponsor for bringing this measure to us this morning. I voted against the original legislation that would've lifted the moratorium, but I support this Bill. I appreciate the work that you've put in with the environmental groups and regulators to ensure that we will have a safety 10300062.docx 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 framework established before the ban is implemented. I think it's important that we ensure that our regs are up to date and that we are making sure that we are addressing the safety concerns and… that have been raised by those who are concerned about the proliferation of nuclear energy in our state. Climate change is an… is an existential threat to our planet. And as we try to work to decarbonize our electricity grid and electrify our transportation networks, we are going to need energy options for the future. And I think nuclear has to be one of those options on the table. And again, appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into the… to crafting this legislation, the ability to take a pause and come back with a framework that ensures that we have regulations in place. And I urge an 'aye' vote. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Davidsmeyer."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"I, too, want to thank you for your work on this. I think we need to look at all sources of energy that we can possibly find. I'm all for renewables, but we have to make sure that the lights turn on and off when… when we need it, that the heat… heat and air conditioning is there when… when seniors need it in particular. And you may see a… kind of a similar line of questioning to the previous Bill I'm going to point out once again. What… does this have anything to do with Veterinary Medicine Surgery Act?"
"Not on this particular Bill, no."
"Okay. I just want to point that out, and I hope we can work on changing that for future Bills. Thank you." 10300062.docx 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Chair recognizes Representative Ann Williams." Williams, A.: "Thank you, Madam Speaker. First of all, I'd like to thank the speaker for including the language recommended by the Governor as well as the study language suggested by the IEC, which will identify any regulatory gaps. These are, after all, new technologies and assessment of risks is going to be critical moving forward. I, too, voted against the original proposal, but today I will be voting in support, and not just because of my upmost respect for the Sponsor. I am hopeful we will not need this proposal and that technology advances and solid policy decisions around the energy space will preclude the need to develop additional nuclear power. I don't believe that nuclear power, with all its risks, costs, and… its risks and costs, are the answer to our climate crisis or addressing our capacity needs. I do think it can continue to serve as a transition as we work to develop and grow our renewable energy resources: wind, solar, geothermal. Sources of energy that are safe, clean, reliable, and renewable. Right now, there are amazing advances happening and waiting for us in terms of energy storage, waiting to be utilized, that is critical as we work to achieve our clean energy goals. We haven't talked much about geothermal, but it's growing and holds so much promise for building up our renewable future. In terms of capacity, there are wind and solar projects waiting for interconnection right now. We are talking about over 30 gigawatts both in ComEd and Ameren territory. Let's meet that challenge and get those projects online. Let's work with Ameren on ways to increase energy efficiency. That will go a long way. Let's streamline processes to build additional 10300062.docx 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 transmission, get that renewable energy on line. That is our energy future. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Benton. Chair recognizes Representative McLaughlin."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"First of all, my question is… when this came forward, I was absolutely thrilled, back in the spring I believe. And I was shocked that both sides of the chamber would advance something that's so needed in a state that in 15 or 20 years is going to have a 60 percent gap in what we can produce in a low-cost capacity. So, I'm very thrilled that nuclear is brought forward. But can you help me, before I make a decision, break down why we restricted the size of the types so that we can have just a general understanding, before I vote on behalf of my constituents, why we're… we're placing restrictions on the size and type of reactors?"
"Sure, I'll do my best. It's… it's a bit of a research paper, but there's about nine different reactor types that have been developed over many years, so they all have different outputs of energy depending on how they're constructed. The Federal Government has decided there's advanced nuclear reactors of which small modular is a subset. Small modular reactors, in particular, are limited under the Federal Government's definition of 300 megawatts of nameplate energy. This is where the Governor wanted to go and wanted to make sure that we stayed into that small modular, down to micro area. And there was concerns about proliferation of 10300062.docx 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 large nuclear reactors. And so, this is… this is in order to assuage his concerns."
"So, our transmission set up currently is for large, whether it's nuclear or coal. Would I be correct in that assumption? You're… you're a member of a great working organization that I think does that. So, again, I'm no scientist, but my understanding is transmission lines are setup for large production facilities, whether nuclear, or coal, or other. Would that be correct?"
"I think it's probably correct."
"So, from a cost perspective, there's no consideration in this Bill as it relates to opening it up to other options in the future. This is what we're going to be restricted to, based on the Governor's whim. Would that be a correct analysis?"
"Well, I would say that right now it is what the limit will be. In the future, maybe if we have to bump that around, that's a possibility. That's not for me to say right now. Right now, we're saying any new facilities in the future that would be built utilizing nuclear fission would have to have a nameplate of 300 megawatts and lower."
"Okay. So, to the Bill. Lance, I was thrilled when you brought this forward, and I think you remember what I said back in the spring. Absolutely thrilled that we're going to go down this path of clean, green nuclear energy. I just want to make sure that, when the costs come forward, it doesn't clean all the green out of middle-class families' wallets because we haven't thought about the size and type 10300062.docx 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 from a transmission perspective. But I appreciate your responses. Thank you, Madam Speaker."
"Chair recognizes Representative Benton."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"I appreciate the Sponsor, Representative Yednock, for taking the initiative to do this. This is a total picture for energy, expanding green energy projects. It has to tie into a reliable grid. And Representative Yednock did a lot of work behind the scenes, I think you see in this Bill come forward. But it wasn't just him, it was his district staff, his staff down here in Springfield. Senator Sue Rezin was working on the Senate side, doing a lot of work as well. This was a coordinated effort with all those Bill Sponsors listed up there. Representative Walker did a lot of work leading up to this. So, I appreciate everybody that put the time in because this is creating good-paying jobs. This is creating a total picture, help to stabilize costs for a region that is kind of struggling right now with the cost increases. So, I appreciate it, Representative Yednock, and everybody else that worked on this. Thank you."
"Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Evans."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will Sponsor yield for a question?"
"He indicates he will."
"Representative, you know, since you've been here, you've been a strong champion for the working class, for your brothers in trade union organizations. Have they told you 10300062.docx 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 where in Western Illinois that they're going to put the last Yednock statue at? You have any idea?"
"I'm sure that one… no, no."
"All right. Well, make sure you invite me when they put it up because you've been a real strong champion. You know, just speaking to this Bill. You know, travel around the world, and when you experience brownouts and blackouts and energy reliability issues around the world, it's pretty… it's pretty worrisome. And I just got back from South Africa, and we're driving through Johannesburg, and the driver let me know that, oh, the lights will be out for a couple of hours, so bear with the traffic. And the people in that country deal with brownouts. And here in this country… we still have places in this country and around the world where energy reliability is an issue. The goal is clean energy 100 percent. That's the worldwide goal. When you go to London, they're looking at nuclear. Look at California, clean energy is not ready. Clean energy goal is in front of us, but we got to get there. And energy reliability must remain the priority. My next-door neighbor is 90 years old. They have equipment that helps keep them alive. My senior buildings, they need reliability. On the way to 100 percent clean energy is reliability. Nuclear is a big piece of reliability. Of course, our Governor wanted to put a governor on the development of nuclear facilities for good reasons. I support that. And you know, a previous speaker talked about the limits on the wattage. We don't know what the future developments will be, like we don't know what Bill is going to be passed in two months. But I do support the Governor's push for limiting to small nuclear reactors. 10300062.docx 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 In London, they're developing small nuclear reactors. And I think we need to do the same here. Be prepared for the future, but let's keep our eyes focused on reliability. When I… when my seniors cut that… when the hospitals, they cut the lights on, I want them to come on. And I want brownouts and blackouts to be something that's not experienced in the United States and in this state. So, thank you, Lance. Appreciated working with you, and you're a real champion for your trade union partners, and you're a real champion for the working class of Illinois."
"Thank you, Leader Evans."
"Chair recognizes Representative Ammons."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield for a very quick question?"
"He will."
"Thank you. Representative Yednock, does this Bill also include universities' ability to do small nuclear reactors?"
"I believe the research reactors come under the guise of the Federal Government exclusively. So, they would be allowed under this if we were the controlling agency for this. But you're… from what I remember from the research, Representative Ammons, is that Nuclear Regulatory Commission has… has to approve that for the research reactors."
"Thank you for clarifying that. To the Bill. I'm appreciative of the work that Representative Yednock has done on this Bill. I know this is a long time coming, and all of the negotiations that… that it took, actually, to get to this point. But I do want to raise, again, as one of our colleagues raised this issue. In the State of Illinois, we have a 10300062.docx 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 shortfall calculation for those who live 50 percent below the federal poverty line, and all of our counties are spending upwards of almost 35 percent of their income on energy. Many families are energy burdened. And we hope that all of the efforts that we've made in the State of Illinois turn into actual efforts to save costs for our families. It's one thing to have clean energy, but it's another thing to not be able to afford it. It's one thing to put on and back the grid with nuclear reactors, but it's another thing to continue to allow utility companies to keep increasing the cost of access. We have a new issue that we hope that the General Assembly will take up next year in our spring Session to address the energy crises in families who live below the poverty line. That is something that I and our caucus will continue to work on. And if you look at the energy grid and affordability gap, you'll find that not just in Champaign County, but in Adams County, 35.5 percent home energy burdened. In Champaign County is 33.3 percent home energy burdened. That means people are paying almost a third of their income just for utility access. So, no, we may not have brownouts here in the United States, but we have a different kind of brownout that is causing people not to be able to afford utilities and food, utilities and rent, utilities and car note. So, we need to address this issue beyond just the infrastructure point. Thank you so much, Madam Speaker."
"Thank you. The Chair recognizes Representative Jiménez." Jiménez: "Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will." 10300062.docx 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Jiménez: "Thank you. I just had a question about if this Bill… Bill deals at all with nuclear waste."
"Say that again." Jiménez: "Does the Bill deal with nuclear waste?"
"It doesn't deal with it in any other way than we already do." Jiménez: "And what is that way?"
"Well, right now, the Federal Government mandates that we keep it onsite, sealed in casks that are safe until the Federal Government comes up with a political solution for the storage of the nuclear rods." Jiménez: "Has there been any movement on that solution?"
"I cannot say that there has." Jiménez: "Do you have any concerns that there's no solution?"
"No. There is a scientific solution, and there will be a political solution if we have further grid problems in the United States. We know that if you store the spent nuclear rods underground, they are fine. We're doing it onsite. We've done it for 50-plus years, and it has proven to be safe. And we've had no accidents relating to that… that particular practice. In addition, the new advanced nuclear reactors have the potential of refining some of the old fuel rods and then using them up, which would actually lessen the burden." Jiménez: "And to the… to that potential, I see that… how long that the experts predict how long that it will take for them to come up with this?"
"How long will the experts think it'd take to come up with a political solution or…" Jiménez: "To the…" 10300062.docx 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Refine your question, please. I'm sorry." Jiménez: "Sure. Sure. So, how long will it take for… for the experts to determine what… what the political solution and… on the waste?"
"I would have to ask… well, I don't know who the experts are. It's a political… it's a political issue in Congress." Jiménez: "But on the scientific solution, can you repeat that answer?"
"Yeah, the scientific solution is to store the spent nuclear rods underground in the desert or other places like they do in some of the European, Scandinavian countries. It is a proven technique to keep that from harming anybody because it is not a liquid waste, it is a solid fuel rod. And so, we know the science behind it. The problem we have in the United States is we cannot politically get the spent fuel rods to Yucca Mountain or another depository, which the Federal Government is mandated to do. But it has been much, like many political situations in Congress, it's mired in partisanship at the moment. That's my best answer." Jiménez: "So, in lieu… so, in lieu of that, then, what is… what is going to be the resolution, and if we don't…"
"Well, the resolution right now is… is, in the future, we'll continue to do what we do with all of our 96 facilities around the United States and store the spent fuel rods onsite. And if the advanced nuclear reactors come to be like we believe they will, they could actually refine some of those spent fuel rods and eat up some of the fuel that way." 10300062.docx 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Jiménez: "Is there anything is the Bill that would ensure that this waste wouldn't be buried in communities that already overly burdened?"
"I believe they're already… Representative, I believe there are already regulations where these can go. They can only go on sites at the facilities. So, I don't believe there would be any way for this to happen. You'd have the Federal Government, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, plus our own regulatory scheme in the State of Illinois, and this Body that would have to agree to that, and that's just not a reality." Jiménez: "Thank you for that. I have one more question. So, what is the urgency of passing this Bill during Veto without giving us the opportunity to… to look at those studies before we lift this ban?"
"Well, for one thing, that we've been talking about this policy for a number of years. There's a lot of research out there. We did it in the spring. The urgency is that we have to signal to industry, to the communities that we're going to continue to pursue clean energy, carbon-free energy. This is just another step in that process. If we don't do this, I'm afraid that we'll be debating this another 5 or 10 years from now, and we will behind on the, you know, changing the curve of how much actual carbon energy or carbon pollution we put in the air. Because right now, we are buying more expensive carbon energy or dirty… dirty energy from other states at a higher price." Jiménez: "And at this point, doesn't Illinois export energy?"
"Not in the MISO territory." 10300062.docx 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Jiménez: "Excuse me?"
"Not in the MISO territory, everything below Route 80." Jiménez: "And would we be able to have the opportunity to access the risks and the costs before deciding to open the door to these projects?"
"That'll be part of the study that comes up from IEMA, from the Emergency Management Association, or Agency." Jiménez: "Thank you so much for the opportunity to learn more about this Bill and your intentions. To the Bill."
"Please proceed." Jiménez: "So, Illinois… I believe Illinois has plenty of time to assess the risks and costs before deciding to open the door to these projects. I believe we should be focusing on that piece before taking this huge leap and this huge step that will take us back many, many years where, you know, many people in this State of Illinois have fought for this ban and have put into place for a reason. And I, personally, do not feel that I have been informed enough to be able to take a 'yes' vote. I wish that we had more time to assess these risks and the costs. And for that reason… well, I want to thank the Sponsor for answering our questions. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Representative Meier."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"I'd like to thank the Sponsor for working so hard after the Governor's veto on this Bill to keep this alive. My first question for you is, the 300 megawatts, how many homes will a reactor supply electric for?" 10300062.docx 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"I'd have to do a calculation, about 300 megawatts, but I believe it's like 900 megawatts can power 720 thousand homes. So, do some division there."
"Two hundred thousand or a little more."
"Thank you."
"Probably. Okay. And it's my understanding is I've done a little bit of research in it. The… the uranium, the product you're using for energy here is a lower level of radiation than what the nukes that we now use, right?"
"I think so, but, you know, I'm not a… I'm not a physicist or a chemist. I believe it does. They can use different… there's different types of fuel, and one of the potential fuels for advanced nuclear reactors is, I think they call it like a low-s.a. uranium product."
"Which seems like to me it makes it a little safer, which I'm glad about that. You know, I'm from the MISO district. We have been several days, this past summer, where plants have been notified to be ready to turn off the electric, stop the production lines because we don't have enough electric in the MISO district. We are short. Hospitals, schools, all those places need electric. We don't have enough. This is an option. It's one of them that works together so we can get enough electric for all this. I'm standing here in the House where we voted on Bills to try to get us to 1 million electric cars by 2030. We don't have the energy to charge those cars and keep our electric on for our hospitals, our schools, and our factories. So, I look forward to working to bring this forward. We need safe, we need reliable, and we need cheap energy. All of those together. And this is just one more piece 10300062.docx 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 of the puzzle that maybe can help us get us there. I hope that this Body works together to make all those things happen. Safe, reliable, and cheap because a lot of our options we voted on so far are being paid for by tax dollar… taxpayers' dollars. Thank you, and vote 'yes' on this Bill as far as I'm concerned."
"Representative Yednock to close."
"Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. So, we've had a ban on new facilities since 1987. Many states had bans as well and have removed them in anticipation for potential clean carbon-free energy. Nuclear counts for about half of our energy in this state and about 90 percent of our carbon-free energy. In order to achieve our clean energy goals, we may have to invest in more nuclear-generated carbon-free energy. The policy does not subtract from the growth of wind and solar energy. It could be an enhancement as a potential use for a small modular reactors. It could be to energize large manufacturers, therefore keeping more traditional new sources of energy for residential, small commercial customers, and our future EV needs. I filed the original Bill in conjunction with my colleague, Senator Rezin, in response to the adequacy and reliability issues we are experiencing in the MISO territory. We've had multiple energy facilities shut down, and there are more on the way. And that is forcing us to purchase dirty-generated energy for a higher price from out of state. We need to be the leader in clean energy generation, and small modular nuclear reactors are a potential part of that portfolio. I want to thank the working group, Representative Ann Williams, Leader Evans, Representative 10300062.docx 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Larry Walsh, for continuing the work on this to help us find common ground. I want to thank my colleague, Senator Rezin, for her work in the Senate on the issue and our bipartisan relationship, which works to better our state, and my chief of staff at home, Ms. Murri Briel, for doing a lot of the research with me on this. Representative Walker has been working on this issue for a long time alongside of us and has given us most of this new language. He's been a great source of knowledge and mentorship in this process, and I'm very grateful to him. It's been humbling, and I've learned a lot, and I've learned a lot from all of you. Thank you for the Members for hearing me out of this multiple times on this subject. I'm simply asking for you to support this Bill."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to House Bill 2473?' This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; all those opposed signify by voting 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 98 voting 'yes', 8 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed."
Speaker Hoffman: "Representative Hoffman in the Chair. Representative du Buclet, for what reason do you seek recognition?" du Buclet: "Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Personal privilege."
"Please state your point." 10300062.docx 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 du Buclet: "I rise today to recognize another of our Members who has a birthday today, and that is Cyril Nichols. Can we all wish him happy birthday today?"
"Representative Weber."
"Point of personal privilege."
"State your point."
"I'd just like to draw attention to the House that the start of November marks the beginning of National American Indian Heritage Month, a month dedicated to the celebration of the diverse culture, traditions, and histories and contributions of Indigenous people. For those that know, my wife is Native American, and her family. Her father was born on a reservation, along with her grandfather. So, this is kind of important in our family. The U.S. declared November a historic month for Indigenous community in 1990 when President George W. Bush approved a Joint Resolution establishing November as Native American History Month. As you know, history is very important and has impact for many. As I said, my own wife's family, Native American. And even my grandfather, who was born in Oklahoma territory on a reservation, went to school with the… the Natives in the area, and his first language was Osage Indian. I would just like to ask the rest of us, for those when we go back to our district, learn the grand history of those who used to occupy that property, the Indigenous people, learn the history and the things and the contributions that they have made to our society. Thank you."
"Thank you. Going to page 3 of the Calendar. Under the Order of Concurrence appears House Bill 1358, Leader 10300062.docx 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Burke. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill. Leader Burke is recognized. It's a Motion to Concur. I apologize."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move to concur in House Floor Amendments #1 and #2 to House Bill 1358. These are sunset extensions. There are 24 of them where the sunset is extended for various lengths. I would be happy to take questions on any of these individual sunset extensions. And I request an 'aye' vote."
"On this question, Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"What is the length of time for the sunset extensions, or does it vary based on the subject area?"
"It… it varies."
"There is a sunset extension for certified shorthand reporters in this Bill. Is that correct?"
"Yes. Could you give me just one moment?"
"Yes."
"I'm just checking the text. And it's my understanding that the shorthand reporters had asked for a five-year extension and that the Bill extends it for two years. But let me just triple check on whether it's one year or two year. Leader Windhorst, do you have another question while we're tracking that down and I can come back to that?"
"Yes. Primarily my questions are related to that extension. Our analysis shows that is a one-year extension for the certified shorthand reporters. Do you…"
"It is… you are correct. It is one year." 10300062.docx 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Is there a reason why the five years requested wasn’t given or some time greater than a year wasn't given?"
"I'm going to check. I was not involved in the discussions about that sunset, Representative Windhorst, so I can't say with clarity. I don't know if there was an issue that… and it was a, we're understanding, a request that came over from the Senate. So, I'm sorry I don't know all the background of that. But you are correct, it is a one-year extension."
"One of the concern I've had expressed from the shorthand reporters is, the issues we're seeing with IDFPR, that shortened time frame is… is causing some concern and they believe a longer period would be more appropriate. With regard to other extensions, is there a sunset extension for the Invest in Kids scholarship program included in this Bill?"
"There is not."
"Thank you. No further questions."
"Leader Burke to close. I apologize, Leader. Representative Ugaste."
"Just quickly, Leader, do you know, in the Senate, was there a provision originally in this that was removed regarding unlawful use of a weapon?"
"No, that was in a different Bill."
"That was in a different Bill, not this one?"
"Not this Bill."
"Okay. Thank you."
"Leader Burke to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendments #1 and 2 to House Bill 1358?' All those in 10300062.docx 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 favor signify by voting 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. The voting's open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 102 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 1 voting 'present'. And the House does concur in Senate Amendments #1 and 2 to House Bill 1358. And this Bill, having received a 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 November 8… on November 9, 2023: approved for consideration, referred to Second Reading is Senate Bill 2324."
"Remaining on page 3 of the Calendar. Under the Order of Concurrence appears House Bill 3641, Leader Burke."
"I move to concur in Senate Floor Amendments #1 and 2 to House Bill 3641. Oh, excuse me, excuse me. I'm not… I would like to concur in Senate Floor Amendment #3 to House Bill 3641. It's a gut and replace Amendment that becomes the State Government Omnibus Bill for the 2023 Veto Session. The Bill makes various language cleanup changes and date extensions to the following: Illinois State Police Next Gen 9-1-1 grants; the authority of the Illinois State Police to provide security detail for constitutional officers; the Crime Victims Compensation Act; the ABLE Act; the Alternative Protein Innovation Task Force; definitions in the Child Care Act to mirror federal language; the State Employees Group Insurance program; the Laser System Act; and the Day and Temporary Services Act. The Bill has zero opposition and is supported 10300062.docx 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 by the Office of the Attorney General, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Manufacturers' Association, and the St. Louis Chamber of Commerce. And I'd be happy to take any questions regarding any of the individual provisions."
"On this question, Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. There is quite a bit in this Bill as far as the… the topics that are concerned. First, with regard to the Amendments to the State Employees Group Insurance Act, who brought those requested changes forward? Are you aware?"
"I believe CMS brought those forward. Yes. There was some date issues that, because our state benefits… our insurance period start date for our state employee health insurance starts July 1, 2024, we needed to have that… shift that effective date. I think in the original legislation regarding this it was January 1, but that wasn't workable. We had to move it to July 1."
"There are some definition changes. First, to foster family home. Why was that change made? It's on page 108, I believe."
"Right. That brings us in line with some federal language, and the intent is to be able to capture some federal dollars for services we're providing for kids in DCFS care."
"And there was… also in that same section related to children in care, qualified residential treatment program was… a definition was added and also added to acceptable placements. What was the purpose of that addition?" 10300062.docx 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"And that's the same purpose, to comply with some federal statutes."
"There are some changes to the application process for Crime Victims Compensation. Who brought those changes forward?"
"The Attorney General's Office."
"And what was the purpose of the change?"
"So, based on some experiences that they have had with working with people who are victims or statutory recipients of the victims… they're statutory victims of crime. That there was some experiences that the AG's Office and the Court of Claims have had in dealing with burial expenses. And the way that the statute is written, it does not provide flexibility when there is more than one person who contributes to the burial expenses of someone who has… has passed. And this would provide flexibility without going beyond the… without going beyond the… it wouldn't extend to other things that crime victims' families can be reimbursed for. It would be limited to the burial expenses, but recognizing the reality of how often monies are collected to help pay for the burial of someone."
"A prior version of this legislation in the Senate had an extension of the unlawful use of weapons mandatory sentencing provisions that was removed and placed on another Bill. Do you know why that extension was removed?"
"I do not."
"I have no other questions."
"On this question, Representative Costa Howard."
"Will the Sponsor yield?" 10300062.docx 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Leader Burke, it is my understanding that the intent of this legislation approved last spring in House Bill 3817 was to provide medical coverage for injectable medicines to improve glucose or weight loss for participants in the State Employees Health Insurance Program as prescribed by the patients' doctors. Do you agree this was the original intent to the Bill?"
"Yes, that was the original intent."
"Okay. Can you please, then, describe to me the changes that are being made to this section of the laws contained in Senate Amendment 3 to House Bill 3641?"
"It's my understanding that, due to the CMS master contract for health insurance already implemented for this state fiscal year, we need to move the effective date of the legislation from January 1, 2024 to July 1, 2024."
"Okay. And then what about the changes related to medical necessity and… I'm sorry. What… what about the changes related to medical necessity?"
"It is my… it's my intent that this… it's my… it's the intent of this legislation that a patient's physician makes the treatment decisions. If a patient's prescribing physician deems that an injectable medicine is in the best medical interest of the patient, then the medicine is deemed medically necessary for use by adults diagnosed or previously diagnosed with prediabetes, diabetes, gestational diabetes, or obesity. It is further the intent of the legislation that a patient's prescribing physician determines medical necessity for continued treatment. Thank you for allowing me to clarify 10300062.docx 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 that a patient's prescribing physician shall determine medical necessity under this legislation."
"Thank you, Leader Burke. I urge an 'aye' vote."
"On this question, Leader Spain."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Leader Burke, we discussed in committee earlier today, there was action taken by the General Assembly in the spring regarding the Day and Temporary Labor Services Act. The crux of that, and I was just reminding myself of the legislation, had to do with some regulation and protections for day laborers, which I think are very important. But many of us may have heard questions from staffing agencies in our district that provide staffing solutions for manufacturers or health care providers. And there was some upcoming issues that would affect their ability to continue to provide staffing. Can you just address the… the new time frame that we have to continue to work on these staffing issues for these staffing service agencies?"
"So, the change in this legislation is a small one and it creates a new effective date for when the calculations for when a temporary worker should be considered eligible for the Bill benefits. And the calculation may not begin until after April 1, 2024."
"Thank you. That gives us a little more time, either in rulemaking or perhaps within statute, continue working on this issue, making sure that we're offering workers the protections that they need, but also making sure that we do not create unintended vacancies for our manufacturing 10300062.docx 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 operations or health care providers, such as nursing and other provisions. So, I… I just want to call this out because many Members may have been hearing concerns about this issue. And we have some time to continue working on it. I… I appreciate your leadership and for bringing this forward. Encourage an 'aye' vote. Thank you."
"Representative Flowers on this question."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Lady yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Representative, the opposition that's on this Bill, is that the original Bill or the Bill as amended?"
"It's my understanding that the only opposition to this Bill, or this version of the Bill, is the certified shorthand reporters."
"So, the Live Free Illinois, the Illinois Alliance, they're no longer in opposition to the Bill?"
"No, that was on the… their opposition, as I understand it, was to the original version of the Bill, which this is a gut and replace."
"Thank you for your clarification."
"Thank you."
"Representative Ugaste."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. Leader Burke, it seems like I jumped the gun on the omnibus Bills as far as the unlawful use of a weapon provision. So, it is in fact this Bill that it was removed from over in the Senate, correct?"
"That's correct." 10300062.docx 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"And if that… that second Bill that passed through the Senate separately is not called today here in the House, that provision then will sunset because it's no longer covered in any part of this Bill, correct?"
"That's correct."
"Is the Invest in Kids Act covered in this omnibus Bill?"
"It is not."
"Okay. Thank you. To the Bill. While I am very supportive of this Bill, I believe it has great provisions, I believe it's something we need to do, it's missing two key items. It's missing, one, an extension of the mandatory sentencing for unlawful use of a weapon. At a time when our cities are being wracked by people shooting at each other, we're about to get rid of mandatory sentencing. I'm not quite certain to what end, what we think it's going to do, how we think it's going to help. We have problems, untold problems right now with crime in our communities. Hopefully, we'll think better of it and do something about it early next spring before too much more happens. As for the Invest in Kids, most important piece of legislation we could've done to help the children of the State of Illinois, to guarantee them a better future, to guarantee them a better opportunity, I don't see anything else in the Calendar today that indicates we're going to call something to extend that Bill either. It's a shame we're letting those kids down, but it's not our side of the aisle letting them down. We have 40 votes in support. And I know there's some in support over there, and I believe there's probably enough to carry it through. This Bill should've been called. It should've been part of this omnibus." 10300062.docx 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Leader Burke to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendment #3 to House Bill 3641?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 97 voting 'yes', 9 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And the House does concur in Senate Amendment #3 to House Bill 3641. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Wilhour, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you. As we stand here today, folks, 9500 scholarships for some of the most least privileged students in the State of Illinois literally hang in the balance. These are real kids. These are real families. These are real communities. You've seen a lot of them, you know, since… since last spring and beyond up here. And their access to quality education is… is at risk. And this Body seems completely fine with kicking these students out of the schools that they choose and forcing them back into government schools that have failed them and have failed their communities. And we're not doing this because we think that it's the right thing to do by these kids, but we're doing it because the teachers' unions don't like competition. But, guys, it's a time of choosing. Is it going to be the kids, or is it going to be 10300062.docx 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 the teachers' unions? Because it can't be both. Are we really going to kick these kids to the curb because the teachers' unions don't like it? The same unions that were masking our children, pushing disgusting mandates, shutting down our schools, forcing a remote learning process that damaged a generation of children. The same teachers' unions that are funneling millions of dollars into campaign committees of people who are sitting here today who want to take away parental rights and choice from students that can benefit from a better education. Now, I don't want anybody in this Body to pretend that they care about education when we have a real opportunity to do something to fund kids in inner cities, the suburbs, rural areas, and all across this state to ensure that the kids that need a different type of education get it. We're doing nothing. We're doing nothing for these kids. You can pretend to care about education, but if you don't extend this Invest in Kids program, it is very clear that we care more about campaign dollars going into our campaign accounts than we do about doing the right thing by kids. We don't need… we do not need more people who are bought and paid for by teachers' unions or any other special interests in this Assembly. The state has been destroyed because of that. We need people that are truly invested in making education better in the State of Illinois. These kids deserve nothing less than the equal access to high-quality education that so many in this room, including Speaker Welch's kids, have received. Education choice is not a privilege reserved for the select few. It's a fundamental right that every child in this city, this state, and this nation 10300062.docx 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 deserves. Speaker Welch, the time is… the time is now. These kids, these kids that we see all around here, they deserve to know where their Legislators stand on these issues. These kids deserve the same opportunities as your kids. These kids deserve an up or down vote, guys. Let's get this done. Call the damn Bill. Let's get this done."
"Mr. Clerk, Rules Report."
Clerk Bolin: "Representative Gabel, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules reports the following committee action taken on November 9, 2023: recommends be adopted, and referred to the floor is Floor Amendment(s) 2 for Senate Bill 2324."
"Representative Avelar."
"Mr. Speaker, let the record reflect that I intended to vote 'yes' on HB3641. Thank you."
Speaker Hoffman: "The record shall reflect. Representative Davidsmeyer."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please state your point."
"Today is somewhat of a bitter-sweet day for the Illinois House of Representatives. If you will join me by looking in the back of the… the floor here. Our friend, Jim Paul, who is… you've seen him walking in… in and out of those doors, most of us since as long as we've been here. He is finally moving on. He's retiring. So, this is second retirement, right? Thirty years with the State Police as a Trooper, and 22 years… I believe, 22 years ago, you started during Veto Session and have served here proudly ever since. I can't say how great it is to walk through and see a friendly 10300062.docx 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 face every time we come in here. I… I know that I will miss you, and I'm sure many of our friends through here will miss you, miss seeing that friendly face. We thank you, and all of… all of your colleagues. You will be greatly missed, but I know you won't be a stranger. I'm sure I'll see you around… around town. So, thank you, Jim. Appreciate it."
"Representative Hauter."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"State your point."
"I stand to just congratulate the Majority Party who has stood firmly against the Invest in Kids program. Only one more day. Your unwavering commitment to kill this scholarship program that mostly benefits black and brown students, low- income families, and our most vulnerable population has been breathtaking. I mean amazing. Amazing. Only one more day of ignoring the emails, the demonstrations, the pesky kids in your office begging to save their scholarship, and it's all over. Right? I don't really know how you did it, seemingly against everything. The voters, the polls, the kids, the facts, but you persevered through it all. I know I'm new to all this. I don't know the pressure of taking orders from special interest groups. So, thank you for educating me on how this game works. At least someone's being educated in this entire mess. So, again, I stand in absolute awe of your focus on equity, equity in killing scholarships for all races and income levels. You persevered in taking an unpopular stand and your unwavering loyalty to teachers' unions over kids is… is just admirable. In a few hours, kids will lose their scholarships in the middle of the school year. It'll be a 10300062.docx 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 tough few hours, but I'm confident you can do it. If you keep the instructions, not the actions mind you, the instructions of teacher's union leader Stacy Davis Gates in mind. Hold on. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"Representative McLaughlin seeks recognition."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to acknowledge that Representative… point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you. Apologize. I want to represent the position of Representative Hauter. And my friends on the other side of the aisle always personalize these issues, so I'd like to do this. And this is random, so don't take offense. But I am baffled by the lack of empathy and common sense as it relates to all my friends who talk about choice. Well, there's no choice for these kids you're about to throw into the streets in January as it relates to a social equity experiment. These poor kids are going to be put into schools that can't graduate children beyond the 36 and 37 percent level of reading and math. I just heard about a month ago, congratulations, we're graduating more kids than ever. My God, I hope they can fill out and read a job application. Congratulations. For my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, I'm not going to personalize this because you guys do this so often. Nine thousand low-income students who are losing their scholarship, and this is random. Representative Guzzardi, congratulations, 126 students in your district losing their scholarship. I certainly hope you provide them thoughts and prayers, maybe a letter. Representative Cassidy, my good friend, 261 scholarships gone in your district. 10300062.docx 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Congratulations. I hope you give them condolences. Representative Howard, 112 in your district. Representative Gershowitz, 232 in your district will be losing their scholarships. I hope you know the personal faces of whose lives you've just destroyed. In my district, I'll include myself, 44. And I've heard from every single one of these families devasted by your inaction. You know, being proud doing this job is something that is more than about those on the outside that try to influence us. As we leave here today without doing something, I don't understand how you can be proud about this inaction. I, myself, was an underprivileged kid that got a scholarship to a high school. It changed my lives and the lives of four of my best friends, people of color, who went on to successful careers. This is personal to me. And it's personal to hundreds and thousands of families whose lives you've just put in terrible jeopardy and you've destroyed their opportunity for an equitable education. Not something to be proud of, my friends. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"Returning to page 3 of the Calendar. Under the Order of Concurrence appears House Bill 2394, Representative Morgan. Please proceed."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move to concur with Senate Amendments #1 and #2 for House Bill 2394."
"Could you provide us with a brief explanation, please?"
"Of course, Mr. Speaker. Senate Amendment #1 was an Amendment to the prior underlying Bill. And Senate Amendment #2 is a gut and replace that addresses licensing updates for 10300062.docx 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation."
"On this question, Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"Representative, this Bill deals with the Illinois Department of Financial and… or Professional and Financial Regulation. Is that correct?"
"That's correct."
"And it's designed to help improve the operation of that department?"
"That's correct. I’m happy to get into more of the specifics of the Bill, too, after adopting Amendments, but does not… not deal with certified shorthand reports, if that's your question."
"So, are we on the Motion now, Mr. Speaker?"
"Yes, the Motion to Concur on Senate Amendments #1 and 2 to House Bill 2394."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. So, what does this Bill do now that it's back in our chamber?"
"There are two main elements of this legislation. One deals with procurement for the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. The second element deals with an additional power for the secretary of IDFPR relative to license renewals and expired licenses."
"And with regard to those renewals on expired licenses, what would this Bill allow to occur from the department?"
"This gives powers to the IDFPR secretary to renew a license. As many of us in this chamber are aware, there have 10300062.docx 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 been extensive unreasonable delays in renewal of licenses, primarily health care licenses in Illinois. This would give the IDFPR secretary the power to renew those licenses when it is the fault of the department, not the fault of the licensee for those delays."
"And with regard to the procurement piece, what does that change in the law?"
"This would provide an emergency procurement opportunity for IDFPR in a limited duration to allow them to procure an IT system that would allow us to move into the 21st century for IDFPR for license applications and renewals to procure a new IT system in order to ensure that that is done in a timely basis."
"Why is this change necessary?"
"So, this is something that, unfortunately, IDFPR has dealt with for decades with antiquated IT systems. For those who are on the Health Care Licensing Committee and have met with IDFPR for a number of years, we have worked on this issue for a while. And last year, at two different points, the Illinois General Assembly appropriated funds for IDFPR to update their IT system. This allows IDFPR to move expeditiously with emergency procurement so that we address this really critical need right now."
"I think I can speak for the most of my colleagues on my side of the aisle when I say that we are getting many calls related to professional licensure and the delays in those being approved by the department. And we definitely need to work to correct what is going on there. I mean, obviously, the department needs to prove… improve its operations. But I 10300062.docx 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 do appreciate you attempting to address part of it with this Bill. It'd be better if the department were working as it should, but we appreciate this effort. Thank you."
"On this question, Representative Hauter."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he'll yield."
"Mr. Chairman, can you explain how the department's secretary's emergency authority to broadly approve license renewals will help with the real problem that we have identified as a significant and highly variable delays that are happening in new and the temporary license renewals of out-of-state workers?"
"Of course, Representative. And I'd be remiss if I didn't thank Representative Hauter for his efforts and his voice on this issue for the last year as health care licenses have… delays have grown and grown and grown. So, I want to thank you for that. Allowing the IDFPR secretary to renew these licenses in batch, in bulk for these licensees that have been waiting not days, not weeks, but months, up to six to eight months for license renewals and expired licenses, these are individuals working in Illinois already who are waiting every day for an update about their license. So, this allows IDFPR to, in bulk, create an extension, a renewal of those licenses, a one-time renewal. Because again, these are individual licensees who are waiting, of no fault of their own, on their license renewal."
"Okay. Thank you. And… and the procurement, the identification, the purchasing, the implementation of this new licensing software, I know we asked this of the… of the 10300062.docx 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 secretary, but is this feasible and are we going to be able to hold them accountable for this implementation?"
"It's a great question. And just for those who haven't looked at this legislation, we create, effectively, a three- month window for IDFPR, from the date of this Bill signing, to… to contract with a vendor for IT systems for licensing and a three months after that to implement and get it up and running. So, within six months, we should see IDFPR with an IT system that allows for more prompt, within days, of processing of these licenses instead of months. This is a very, very short timetable. There are a couple of reasons we did that, but one of those reasons is that, as we discussed earlier, IDFPR has been working for the last year on a procurement of a system like this in concert with chief procurement officer, the Department of Information Technology, the Governor's Office. And it is everyone's belief and understanding that they will be able to comply with that timeline. But, but if they can't, six months from now will be April, and this Body, this chamber, this committee with Representative Hauter and others, will make sure that IDFPR is held accountable for that timeline to make sure we're addressing this licensing system delay."
"Well, again, thank you. Thank you. I've said this many times, but just thank you for your responsiveness, Mr. Chairman, for your leadership, for your willingness to take concrete actions on this important issue. Everybody in health care, the many, many people in health care that this… you know, obviously this hits close to home. But there is so many people that this affects in health care and your… you've 10300062.docx 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 really done a very big and important thing for them. So, thank you for that. To the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"IDFPR is broken. I know you all know that. Our constituents know that. IDFPR admits it. Both sides of the aisle hear the horror stories. The horror stories are the common stories. They're the everyday stories now. This situation is intolerable on… for basically two main reasons. I know personally that patients are going without care. They're delaying care. They are leaving the state because, simply, doctors, nurses, APNs, PAs, pharmacists, dentists, respiratory therapists, et cetera, et cetera are unable to renew or get temporary licenses in a timely manner. In short, patients are suffering because historic, you know, short staffing is being exacerbated by the historic bureaucratic licensing delays. In a state with population losses, losing in the competitive marketplace for these highly-compensated, highly-trained health care professionals, because of our very well-deserved reputation for licensing delays, is no longer tolerable. This Bill is a step in the right direction. We have a long way to go. Today is a good day. We must and will hold IDFPR accountable so that we never go back to the failed system again. Please vote 'yes' on this. Thank you."
"On this question, Representative Will Davis." Davis, W.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield." Davis, W.: "Representative Morgan, I certainly appreciate the broader context that you're trying to do this because delays in individuals receiving their licenses from the state, 10300062.docx 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 obviously, is a pervasive problem that we have. But as it relates to the procurement side of what you're doing, in the analysis that we have, it talks about the role of the Commission on Equity Inclusion. Can you speak to that, please?"
"Yes. That's a great question, Representative. We structured this procurement change so that there was several elements of the Procurement Code that are not exempted. And that is one of the categories that are not exempted from IDFPR's responsibilities from this procurement." Davis, W.: "Well, I guess, more importantly, for instance, are there goals on this procurement? If so, what are those goals? In addition to that, is this considered an emergency procurement? Because under other circumstances, an emergency procurement is exempt from goals. So, I just want to make sure I understand what you're attempting to do with requiring certain things of IDFPR when other circumstances, and maybe it's just other agencies, when they're emergency procurements, they don't have to adhere to any goals. So, help me to understand how this is going to work."
"Again, that's a great question. It's one of the reasons why this is more of a hybrid emergency procurement because we are retaining and maintaining some of the core elements of a procurement, including the BEP goals that would ordinarily be part of a procurement. That is not an exemption for IDFPR. They will still have to comply with those Procurement Code rules. They also have to have competition in this procurement. Again, it was one of those elements that we can provide an 10300062.docx 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 emergency procurement, we still want to have some competition inherent in that review." Davis, W.: "Okay. I just think it's important that, again, we're talking about what is probably going to be a very lucrative procurement opportunity. And maybe there are only a handful of companies that truly have the capacity to provide this level of service, but we know that there are smaller black vendors in this space that can be subcontractors on this work and provide good quality service. And I guess very similar to the previous speaker, in terms of making sure that certain things are adhered to, because we learned in committee a few weeks ago that the Department of Corrections removed a black vendor off a contract because they wanted to for convenience. Didn't do anything wrong, performing well. As a matter fact, still performing on another contract with the Department of Juvenile Justice. But in corrections, they removed that vendor because they just wanted to do it. It was for convenience and not cost. So, despite what we're requiring in this Bill, are we still going to be subject to the same actions of this administration and its departments as it relates to ignoring minority procurement, ignoring opportunities to enhance minority procurement? 'Cause, unfortunately, that's what it seems like they're doing. Out here, west wing of the Capitol, or north wing of the Capitol, $245 million project. The Office of the Architect could only muster 18 percent participation, with the support of CDB at that, can only muster that. So, we're seeing examples of where agencies, government agencies under this administration, are just not doing a great job in terms of minority participation. 10300062.docx 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 So, when I see something like this, knowing what it's going to be as a… an emergency procurement, it's going to move quickly. Things are going to happen fast. And I just see how this… the agency is going to kind of circumvent opportunities for diverse procurement, even despite what you're requiring in the legislation. So, part of this is just getting it out on the record, putting them on notice that we are going to be paying attention to how they set this procurement up, and not accepting we can't find anybody, there's nobody qualified to do it, you know, nobody has the capacity to do it. Which was some of the excuses that we hear over, and over, and over, and over, and over, and over, and over, and over again from this administration. So, I appreciate the broad context because folks want to work in Illinois. We need to get these licenses done. But when it comes to procurement of the system that's going to help make this better, I hope that this administration will listen to the concerns and… of members who have said this to them over and over again but they have ignored. And hopefully we will be able to get to a point where maybe on this procurement we will be able to get to a higher level of minority participation in this procurement to accomplish the goals and tasks that you seek to do so. Thank you."
"Representative Morgan to close."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is, perhaps, the most important crisis facing health care in the State of Illinois, which is crazy because we are talking about simply licensing professionals. So, I really appreciate the committee. I want to make a couple of thank yous. The Governor's Office worked 10300062.docx 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 very closely with our committee and our leadership on fixing this and addressing this issue. I want to thank them. I want to thank Secretary Treto and his team for working expeditiously in a really short window of time to address this really critical crisis. I also want to thank, on staff, Luke Henson, who put a ton of work into the subject matter hearing we had a few months ago, and also getting us to this point to address the really important issues facing professionals in Illinois. With that, I'd urge an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendments #1 and 2 to House Bill 2394?' All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 107 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And the House does concur in Senate Amendments #1 and 2 to House Bill 2394. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Returning to page 2 of the Calendar. Under the Order of Second Reading appears Senate Bill 696, Representative Huynh. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 696, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #3 is offered by Representative Huynh."
"Representative Huynh on Floor Amendment #3."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move to adopt Floor Amendment #3, which include the TIF extension for the Village of Crete. Thank you." 10300062.docx 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Representative Huynh moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #3 to Senate Bill 696. All in favor signify by voting 'aye'… saying 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. The Amendment is adopted. Representative Grant, if we could do this on Third Reading, would that be okay? Third Reading. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 696, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"On Senate Bill 696, Representative Huynh."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, I'm presenting Senate Bill 696. This Bill's the annual TIF extension omnibus. This includes the extension for Bourbonnais, Geneva, Downers Grove, Fox River Grove, Ohio, and City of Chicago. All four caucuses have signed up on this Bill and have had input on this package. And our staff reports that all letters have received for the projects that have been included here. This is a bipartisan Bill. Passed the House Revenue Committee unanimously with no opposition. I urge a 'yes' vote. Thank you."
"On this question, Leader Keicher."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"Folks, my peers, I have risen to speak on this issue multiple times since I've been in this chamber. We continue to see year after year… this time there's twice this year, and nothing against the Sponsor. This is a… this is an omnibus Bill. It's… so, a number of different communities where we are seeking, again, to divert dollars from our school system 10300062.docx 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 into community coffers to, in some occasions, fund salaries and projects that are outside of the TIF district. We have one on here extending to 47 years. Now, unless my math is a little foggy, and the election was probably a week ago 47 years ago, anybody in the chamber tell me who was in the White House 47 years ago? President Carter. We're extending other TIFs 35 years. That was the Reagan administration. So, what we're doing is we're extending things that far into the future that haven't been accomplished yet. We need to make sure that we help solve the property tax issues in our community. And one of them is by holding developers in communities responsible to executing within the 23-year lifetime of the TIF. Folks, we need now, more than ever, TIF reform. And we need to eliminate the opportunity to extend TIFs back to the Carter administration timeline. Thank you."
"On this question, Leader Spain."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. Ladies and Gentlemen, I just rise in support of this omnibus TIF extension. As you can see, I'm a cosponsor on the board. And we have many Members on both sides of the aisle that have projects that have received all the required local support for these TIF extensions. And I can appreciate the sentiments of my colleague who just finished his remarks. But listen, in the State of Illinois, we know that economic development is in short supply. It's a scarcity. And we are in need of all available tools to continue the activities and successes in our communities. So, I understand there may be some philosophical opposition to TIF districts or TIF district extensions, but these economic development tools are very 10300062.docx 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 important and I would encourage… I'm appreciating seeing an opportunity for bipartisanship with districts throughout the state that are included in this extension. And I encourage a 'yes' vote. Thank you."
"Representative Huynh to close."
"I urge a 'yes' vote. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 696 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 94 voting 'yes', 11 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Remaining on page 2 of the Calendar. Under the Order of Third Reading appears Senate Bill 2315, Representative Kifowit. Mr. Clerk, please move the Bill back to Second for the purpose of an Amendment. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. "
"Senate Bill 2315, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #1 is offered by Representative Kifowit."
"Representative Kifowit on Floor Amendment #1."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor Amendment #1 becomes the Bill, and I request to adopt the Amendment and to debate it on Third Reading."
"Representative Kifowit moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 2315. All those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, 10300062.docx 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Third Reading. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2315, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Kifowit."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. We saw the exact same language in House Bill 2507. As you recall, in House Bill 2507 the Governor amendatorily vetoed out Article 55. To refresh your memory, Article 55 was a section that shifted the property tax burden off of private nursing homes and onto the homeownership. There was not a consensus in the chamber in order to override this Veto. However, I have made an offer to work on this issue over the break because, as we all know, it is devastating to a community if a nursing home were to close and the services that they provide cease to exist. So, we are going to work over the break and hopefully bring back a solution by next Session. However, with that promise, HCCI is still opposed to this Bill for the sole reason that they are not included in this Bill. What is included in this Bill is provisions that we saw before in House Bill 2507. This Bill is extremely important for disabled veterans. There was some technical language that needed to be clarified so that these disabled veterans continue to get their homestead exemption that they have had for the last five years. Mostly… most of these disabled veterans are 70 to 100 percent disabled. We also created, again, the disabled veteran homestead exemption for veterans of World War II. We also include in this Bill, again, to refresh your memory, provisions for surviving spouses. Surviving spouses of our 10300062.docx 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 veterans that have passed and surviving spouses of our first responders of fallen officers. So, this protects and helps out those widows. What we are also doing is some clarification language, and I won't get into a lot of detail, but just technical language that was requested from the Department of Revenue to clean up and clarify existing practices and some other definitions in law. And I ask for your support."
"On this question, Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative, you had stated this earlier in your remarks, but just for clarity's sake. The language in this Bill is the same as House Bill 2507 without the amendatorily vetoed language from the Governor. Is that correct?"
"That is correct, Leader. It is identical to the language."
"And the language that was removed, you are going to continue to work on that separately with those advocates. Is that correct?"
"That's correct. I have pledged to work with that because I have said I think it's devasting for an entity that provides care for those that need it the most would be closed up and leave that community. So, I think that we need to look at it comprehensively. I've extended to your side of the aisle to work collaboratively for anybody who'd like to work on this as well. I think it's very important. However, the mechanism of shifting tens of millions of dollars onto homeowners was not well-received." 10300062.docx 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"And House Bill 2507, which this language came from, passed unanimously when it went through this Body?"
"Correct."
"Thank you."
"On this question, Representative Mayfield."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you, Kiffy, for this Bill. I do have some questions. You know, I a hundred percent support veterans. You know, the original veterans' Bill was mine. However, you know, there was a lot of push back from that Bill that gave veterans 100 percent exemption on their property taxes because of the amount that was pushed back onto the other homeowners. Because when you exempt somebody's taxes, you know, that money doesn't go away. It just gets redetermined and reassessed out to everybody else. And there's a lot of exemptions in here, in this particular Bill, that are basically going to do the same thing, which means that the average tax bill for homeowners is going to go up because of the exemptions that we're going to pass here today. And as we know, taxes are the number one issue that we all have in our districts. So, I want to know, did you do any type of financial evaluation on what this is actually going to cost, say, these senior citizens who are being taxed out of their homes?"
"This does not provide a new exemption for disabled veterans. What this does is it codifies and clarifies language of the existing program that's already been in effect for over 10 years. So, what is going to happen to the disabled 10300062.docx 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 veterans if we don't pass this Bill is that the fact that they have not been escrowing for property taxes and the fact that they have not had to pay their property taxes in the last five years will give them a thousand and thousands of dollars, a bill that they can't pay. There is slight enhancement with regards to the spouses of fallen firefighters and first responders. I believe that has been shown to effect approximately 26 people. So, I don't think giving the exemption for these individuals would substantially impact the individuals. In addition to that, Representative Ford did have a component which would give a homestead extension to the veterans of World War II. Again, the number of these veterans of World War II is very, very minor and it will not impact the property taxes. But with…"
"Excuse me. Excuse me. When you say it's very, very low and it will not impact, if you reduce the taxes of one person, it will impact. So, to say that it will not have any impact is not a true statement."
"It would have minimal impact over the whole entity of the taxing body. Twenty-six individuals of fallen police and fire would be spread out throughout the state. And the… I don't believe an impact will be felt…"
"Okay. Well, I disagree with you."
"…by 26 people in a state of 13 million people."
"Okay. I disagree with you, and I want to clarify. I'm just going to walk through your Bill here. When we're expanding… it says expanding. It doesn't say that we're just going to do something. It says we're expanding, which means that we're adding to. We're adding all World War II veterans 10300062.docx 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 regardless of their level of disability. Under the current law, it is only those individuals who are 100 percent disabled that receive the 100 percent exemption. So, now we are saying that regardless of the level of disability… so, if you're five percent, 10 percent, we're just going to wipe out your tax bill."
"For the veterans that served in World War II that gracefully by the wonderful world of God…"
"I'm not denying their service."
"…did not receive a disability rating…"
"I'm thankful for their service."
"…which would pretty much probably be very, very small. Because the World War II veterans I personally know went through a lot for their service."
"Again, you're expanding…"
"So, World War II veterans, again, minimal amount of individuals that will be impacted by this."
"What is the minimal amount? Do you have a number?"
"I can make… I can ask the Department of Veterans' Affairs."
"You should have that information now."
"Unfortunately… unfortunately, under HIPAA laws and privacy laws, we can't go around just asking veterans if they're disabled or not because they have a right to privacy. What they would do is they would then apply for this benefit. And if they applied for this benefit and they are not wounded from World War II and the tragedies that happened in World War II, then we will know." 10300062.docx 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Again, so you're putting forth a proposal with no data to support it. You don't know what the fiscal impact is going to be on the rest of the taxpayers in those particular districts."
"I think it's reasonable to assume that World War II veterans that were not disabled, that did not lose limbs, that did not float in the ocean for two and a half hours like my good friend, World War II veteran Dick Miller, and suffered tragedies of war, I think it's reasonable to assume that the individuals from World War II that are not disabled is a very minor subset of that group."
"Again, you have no data to support your statement, which is all I'm saying. Not disagreeing with you, just saying you have no data to support it. You don't know what the fiscal impact of this is going to be, and yet you're proposing it. And I know we've had these conversations before. Data does matter. Fiscal impact does matter. But we're going to move on from that one and then we're going to go to the removal of the discharge requirement for the veterans' exemption for… with disabilities. You're saying that regardless of their discharge… so, we're taking dishonorably discharged veterans, just saying, hey, you served. No, you did not do your duty properly. You know, you were dishonorably discharged, and we're just going to go ahead and give you an exemption. How many individuals is this and what is the fiscal impact? Do you have any data for that?"
"So, when I served in the United States Marine Corps, my…" 10300062.docx 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"I'm not asking you about your service. I’m asking do you have any data to support…"
"When I served…"
"Representatives. Representatives. So, ask a question, let the Sponsor answer, and then we'll ask another question. So, I believe the…"
"When I… thank you, Sir. When I served, my job was to do these DD214 forms. So, what the individual said is factually incorrect. When different types of service is awarded and discharge is assigned, there are sometimes bad conduct, disconduct services applied. But there's also other services applied, honorable, general under honor conditions, other than honorable. What the language does is align with the BA with regards to the definition of the service-connected disability. A service-connected disability means that you are offered the right to use VA care and VA services. If you get a discharge that is a dishonorable or a bad conduct, you do not receive that benefit. So, technically, the question is invalid because the VA does not provide services, nor service- connected disability health care for bad conduct or dishonorable conduct. What we have found is individuals who did not serve in the military, who were not privy to what this DD214 document signifies, were disqualifying properly discharged service members with a disability. And now, reading their DD214 incorrectly to not understand that a general under honorable conditions is still a favorable discharge from the military, and in some circumstances, other than honorable could potentially still be a favorable discharge to the military, to the Department of Defense. So, 10300062.docx 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 what we are doing is treating individuals who honorably served and who have a disability equally with regards to their service-connected disability and with regards to their compensation and the evaluations from the VA."
"Again, you did not answer my question. You know, I appreciate all the rhetoric, but you're not answering the question. So, I guess I'll just move on from that one. And then let's go to the next one that says the homestead disabilities exemption. Seventy percent or more, you're expanding it to spouses now and you're exempting the first 250 thousand of a property's equalized assessed value. Well, we know that the equalized assessed value is one-third of the real property value. So, you're saying that we're going to 100 percent exempt properties up to $750 thousand. So, basically, you're just wiping out taxes. How many individuals will this affect? Do you have any data?"
"It's current law. We are just allowing…"
"It is not current law. I did the current law."
"…widows and veterans to stay in the home. But, Madam, I… I appreciate that you want all these numbers. We are codifying current law. We are not… we do not want to kick out the widows of veterans. And that, I think, is a valid statement. If you want data to show how many widows would've been kicked out from their disabled veteran spouses when they passed away, we can certainly get that for you. But I am not going to sit there and say that I am going to kick out the widows of disabled veterans, that I am going to cancel the exemption that disabled veterans, who gave far more than I can ever realize, because a data set says that it costs a 10300062.docx 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 little more to the people that appreciate and should sit on Veterans Day and thank them for their service. So, Madam, I do not have all the data. And if you're going to ask for all the data on all these points, my answer will be it is the right thing to do and I do not have the data right now. But when we do pass this Bill and we honor our veterans that sacrificed so much, I will get you the data when it gets compiled."
"Again, you fail to answer my question."
"I said I do not have the data."
"I appreciate all of your rhetoric…"
"I do not have the data."
"Excuse me, I'm talking. I am talking."
Speaker Hoffman: "Okay, okay, okay. Representatives. Representatives."
"I let you talk. It's my turn. Thank you so much. I appreciate all of your rhetoric. I, too, appreciate our veterans and their service and everything that they have given. My husband is a veteran. I understand you're a veteran. I thank you for your service. I thank all veterans for their service. But you're not telling the truth here when you say you're codifying into law. I know what the existing law states because I passed the existing law. The existing law did not include the spouses. Now, is it the right thing to do? That wasn't my question. My question was in regard to data and cost that is going to be pushed off onto other taxpayers. There's nothing in your Bill that will relieve the tax burden for our seniors who are being taxed out of their homes. That is all that I'm trying to point out here. Because it's very 10300062.docx 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 irresponsible to pass legislation if you don't have data, if you don't understand the cost, if you don't understand the impact to the other individuals. I am a taxpayer. I have a Navy base in my district. I have a lot of disabled veterans. I also know that that particular Navy base is in a very low- income district with very, very high property taxes. And those constituents of mine are complaining already that they are being taxed out of their homes. And yet, we're going to pass something else that will increase their taxes with no data to support why, how much, or anything else. You keep saying minimal. But if you're talking low income, are we talking $100, are talking $1 thousand? Because it does make a difference to a low-income homeowner on whether or not they can afford to pay their taxes. That's all I'm saying, Representative. So, with that being said…"
"As I mentioned, I do not have the data."
"…with that being said, thank you so much for this Bill. I wanted to make sure that my points were on the record. I would appreciate in the future when you do another one of these Bills, because I've said this to you privately and you still ignored it, I want data. And I expect that you would have data going forward. That's all I'm saying. Thank you so much."
"Representative Ugaste."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative Kifowit, just a quick question because there was a lot of conversation. I want to make certain I fully understand. On the World War II veterans, it 10300062.docx 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 does it matter whether they have a disability rating or not? Or is it just if they served?"
"Under… under this Bill, we appreciate all World War II veterans and we are extending the homestead exemption to them. However, the majority of World War II veterans, it is widely understood, do have a disability rating."
"Okay. So, regardless of the disability rating, I understand wanting to include all World War II veterans. Is there a asset level check or a home value level at which we cap how much of it's going to be allocated for the exemption, or is it all exempted no matter what their home value is?"
"It follows the existing program we have in place right now."
"Well, I'm asking. What… what does that mean? Is there… is it a complete exemption? So, let's say a World War II veteran has a million dollar home. Is it a complete exemption, then? Or is it…"
"No. No, not a… there's caps. The existing program has caps. That's… as was mentioned, there are caps."
"Okay. It does. All right. That's all I wanted to know. Thank you."
"Yes. Thank you, Sir."
"Representative Kifowit to close."
"I ask for an 'aye' vote. I appreciate all the dialogue and the support for our veterans."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 2315 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. 10300062.docx 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 On this question, there are 103 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Continuing on page 2 of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1559, under the Order of Second Reading, Representative Ford. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1559, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #4 is offered by Representative Ford."
" Representative Ford on Floor Amendment #4."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. I move to adopt House Floor Amendment #4. And if you'll allow me to debate the Bill on Third."
"Representative Ford has moved for the adoption of Floor Amendment #4 to Senate Bill 1559. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Third Reading. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1559, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Ford."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. Senate Bill 1559, as adopted, does three things. It's a simple Bill. It's for transporters. It places a moratorium on the issuance of new transporter license. It provides relief from paying fees associated with existing transporter licenses for three years. And it also allows for the Department of Agriculture to have the ability to make changes in a transporter licensing 10300062.docx 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 to deal with any discrimination upon the completion of the disparity study once it's done. That's all the Bill does. I move for the adoption."
"On this question, Representative Tarver."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Representative Ford, we had a chance to talk about this a few days ago. I just want to make sure for legislative intent. Is it your understanding that if rules are to be adopted, as it relates to this Bill, it would come through JCAR?"
"Yes."
"Okay. And it's not your intention with this Bill for there… for there to be emergency rules drafted. Is that correct?"
"That's correct."
"To go through the normal JCAR process. Is that correct?"
"Yes."
"Thank you very much. I appreciate it."
"Thank you."
"Leader Hammond."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"Representative Ford, first and foremost, thank you for your work on this. I know this issue has been a significant concern for the transporters in our state. And… and I also thank you for helping me working through this in committee. So, we are currently awaiting a disparity study that is already in progress. Is that correct?"
"Correct." 10300062.docx 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"And with this Bill, we are just going to… we're going to put a hold on anymore licenses for transporters in the state for three years?"
"Yes."
"And we're also putting a hold on the fee for those licenses for three years, correct?"
"Correct."
"And once we get the… the disparity study back, then folks will have some time to look through that and make some decisions as to how we move forward from there, correct?"
"Correct."
"Thank you for your work. Appreciate it. I'd appreciate an 'aye' vote."
"Thank you."
"Representative Ford to close."
"Thank you very much. I'll urge an 'aye' vote."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1559 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 105 voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 3 of the Calendar, under the Order of Second Reading, appears Senate Bill 1956, Representative Kifowit."
"Mr. Speaker, the sponsorship changed on this Bill to Representative Slaughter, so please acknowledge him."
"Yes, the sponsorship has been changed to Representative Slaughter, although the board does not 10300062.docx 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 reflect. So, on Senate Bill 1956, on page 3 of the Calendar's Order of Second Reading, please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1956, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. The Bill has been read a second time previously. Amendment #2 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #3 is offered by Representative Slaughter."
"Representative Slaughter on Floor Amendment #3."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move for the adoption of House Floor Amendment #3 and to discuss the Bill on Third Reading."
"Representative Slaughter moves for the adoption of House Floor Amendment #3 to Senate Bill 1956. All those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. The Amendment is adopted. Third Reading. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1956, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Slaughter."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Today, we honor Chicago's finest. I'm proud to present Senate Bill 1956, which has nearly 40 bipartisan cosponsors. This Bill recognizes the exemplary and admirable service of our hard working and brave women and men of the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police. Senate Bill 1956 puts forth an important permanent pension fix that becomes ever more critical to our Chicago officers that are laying their lives on the line every day to keep our streets safe. This Amendment is supported by both the Chicago FOP and the Chicago mayor's 10300062.docx 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 office that represents a well-negotiated biproduct of a pension workgroup that was convened by the Chicago mayor's office this past summer. This Bill is a pro-labor initiative that is all about parity. The General Assembly passed the same pension fix for the Chicago firefighters in 2019. And this Bill will now bring Chicago police officers into parity with their first responder partners at the Chicago Fire Department regarding issue that has been in law since 1967. It simply removes the birthdate restriction for officers to receive their simple COLA. Since 1967, Chicago police officers have been paying half of one percent into this automatic COLA from every paycheck to the Chicago patrolman's pension fund. Once an officer turns 55 years old, he or she is eligible for this benefit. And customarily the General Assembly has come back every 5 years to adjust the date in statute to capture those new officers as they turn 55. The importance of the timing of this is that there are currently 1500 Chicago police officers who have paid into this fund and need to receive the benefit they have paid into. Equally important, this will impact approximately 6 thousand Tier 1 officers in the future and eliminate the need for any further legislation on this issue. Ladies and Gentlemen, I'd be remiss if I didn't say that this Bill is bigger than just a pension fix. I believe it's very timely as our state and nation continues to invest in efforts to make policing a more attractive profession. It's important here in Illinois that we not just talk about it but that we demonstrate that we do and will continue to take care of our officers. And it's initiatives like this that will significantly enhance our 10300062.docx 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 local recruitment and retention efforts. I want to thank the Chicago FOP and the Chicago mayor's office for coming together and giving each other the mutual respect to get this done. It's a new chapter here in Illinois regarding police reforms. And this Bill symbolizes the collaborative partnership, the collaborative spirit, and the good will that's needed to truly achieve safety, accountability, but also fairness and equity. I'd like to also recognize the leadership of Chairwoman Kifowit, Leader Burke, who spent her summer on the working group addressing these issues, and also Senate Chair Martwick. Without their efforts, this wouldn't have made it to the finish line. Let's honor… let's honor our Chicago officers with this well-earned, well-deserved pension fix. Please vote 'yes' on Senate Bill 1956, as amended. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"On this question, Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative, just a few questions just so I understand. Basically, annually or every General Assembly we were going through and adjusting the born before language and this would remove that permanently?"
"Yes, Leader. What we were doing is not every year, but every five years…"
"Every five years, okay."
"…we would come back and adjust that date to capture those new officers as they turned 55."
"Do we know what the cost will be of this permanent adjustment?" 10300062.docx 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"We do. One thing to note is that Chicago will be on the hook for this. It will be approximately 70 million a year, per year."
"Did you say 70 million for a year?"
"That's 7-0, yes."
"And that will be borne by the City of Chicago?"
"That's correct."
"Our analysis shows, of course, both the proponents, which you referenced, and opponents. Looks like the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Civic Committee, Civic Federation. Do you know what their opposition is?"
"I do… actually, I do not know what their opposition is."
"A similar initiative was done, I believe, in the 101st General Assembly for firefighters. Is that accurate?"
"That's correct. Back in 2019, we made that… we voted for and passed that pension fix for the Chicago firefighters."
"And this brings police officers into parity on that issue with firefighters?"
"This brings the police officers into parity with the Chicago firefighters."
"Thank you."
"On this question, Representative Ann Williams." Williams, A.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill."
"To the Bill." Williams, A.: "I just wanted to make a comment about something that happened recently in my district. Monday night there were numerous attempted armed robberies at businesses throughout our Lincoln Avenue Corridor. And in one of the 10300062.docx 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 cases, there was a person still in the business when the armed offenders came into the business. And in the wake of this incident which shocked the community, I heard from many neighbors and business owners. And all of them shared a common theme, and that was their appreciation for the work that was done by the Chicago police officers that responded. So, in the time of need in our community, and we've all been dealing with public safety issues if you're in Chicago as of late, I just wanted to emphasize that the community is grateful and this is a long overdue change. And if… Representative, if you'll add me to the Bill, I'd appreciate it. Thank you."
"Representative Caulkins."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Indicates he'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative, this… what is this going to add to the pension liability for the City of Chicago?"
"Again, I think approximately it'll be 70 million a year."
"And how… how well funded is that pension plan? Under water? Is it fully funded, partially funded, not very well funded, one of the worst funded pension plans in the state?"
"Decently funded."
"It's what?"
"Decently funded."
"Reasonable? To whom?"
"No, I said decently. We'll get you the exact…"
"Three billion under water? Three billion dollars?"
"Thirty-four percent."
"Thirty-four percent funded?" 10300062.docx 88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Yes."
"And actuarial that's… we're going to add to that now?"
"Yeah, we're going to honor our officers and add to it. Yes."
"Yes. So, will you promise us that you're not going to come to this Body to bail out that pension fund when we honor that?"
"Promise you what again? I'm sorry."
"Not… not come back to this Body, not come back to the taxpayers of the State of Illinois to properly fund or to fund that pension plan."
"Okay, yes."
"Okay. So, you're not coming to us to fund that pension plan when you run out of money?"
"Yes. And let me just… no, Chicago has budgeted for this particular initiative too, Representative."
"Very good. I just want to make sure that my taxpayers aren't going to be on the hook to fund the pension plan for CPD."
"They will not be on the hook."
"Perfect. Thank you. Mr. Speaker, to the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"Thank you very much. If this is what the City of Chicago wants to do, I… I'm not going to stand in the way of it. I do find it rather ironic, and I hope the other Members of this Body find it ironic, that the one person who caused so much destruction, harm to our police departments around this state with the SAFE-T Act is now standing before us, 10300062.docx 89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 praising police officers, and asking us to increase their pension plans. Thank you very much."
"Representative Slaughter to close."
"Let's honor our Chicago officers with this well- earned, well-deserved pension fix. As it relates to reforms, we've… we've never, have ever trumpeted the rhetoric of defunding the police. We have never trumpeted the… the rhetoric of not honoring, not respecting our police officers. What we're saying is that some changes are needed. We know that it's not easy to make these changes. That's why when it comes to the mayor giving them a new contract, when it comes to this initiative in regards to making this pension fix, we do that in honor and to show the mutual respect that we have for those officers that lay their lives on the line. With that said, please vote 'yes' on Senate Bill 1956, as amended."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 1956 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 94 voting 'yes', 8 voting 'no', 1 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 2 of the Calendar appears Senate Bill 584, Representative Didech. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 584, a Bill for an Act concerning gaming. The Bill was read for a second time previously. No Committee Amendments. Floor Amendment #2 is offered by Representative Lisa Hernandez."
"Representative Didech on Floor Amendment #2." 10300062.docx 90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor Amendment 2 addresses three issues. One's a technical matter for the lottery. One's concerning the Waukegan temporary casino. One is a… the payment scheduled to the City of Des Plaines. I ask for its adoption."
"Representative Didech moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 584. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment's adopted. Third Reading. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 584, a Bill for an Act concerning gaming. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Didech."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 584 is a… a mini package of three gaming issues. First, the lottery issue relates to the implementation of the joint special cause ticket that we passed earlier this year. It clarifies that the State Treasurer, at the direction of the Comptroller and the Department of the Lottery, shall transfer revenue from the joint special ticket cause… the joint special cause ticket into the specific funds for each cause. Second, is the Waukegan temporary casino. Under current law, owner licensees are authorized to operate a temporary casino for up three years while they are constructing their permanent casino. What this legislation does is it extends the time period by which the Waukegan temporary casino can operate by 18 months. So, for Waukegan, it'll go from three years to four and a half years. The third issue is the Des Plaines payment acceleration. Under current law, the City of Des Plaines is 10300062.docx 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 entitled to an annual payments of $5 million per year from the State Gaming Fund beginning on the first day that the south suburban casino conducts gambling operations. This Bill will accelerate those payments so that they will begin 30 days after the effective date of this Bill. I'm happy to answer any questions."
"On this question, Leader Keicher."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he'll yield."
"Representative, thank you very much for working so diligently on this. I know we had a bunch of different discussions on… on different aspects of this measure that were being considered and ultimately wound up in the Bill. Just some confirmation from our side for… for purposes of the record. So, we really are limited to three items in here, correct?"
"Yes. The three items that I mentioned are the only matters addressed in this Bill."
"Okay. And there's no information in here that we can see concerning any of the racino information that was in there in the original version, correct?"
"This Bill that we're voting on has no change in current law related to the racinos."
"Thank you for working so diligently. I urge an 'aye'."
"Representative Didech to close."
"I'd ask for an 'aye' vote. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 584 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting's open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who 10300062.docx 92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 90 voting 'yes', 14 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On Supplemental Calendar A appears Senate Bill 2324, Representative Williams. Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 2324, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. The Bill was read for a second time previously. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #2 is offered by Representative Ann Williams."
"Representative Williams on Floor Amendment #2." Williams, A.: "Mr. Speaker, can we adopt the Amendment and discuss the Bill on Third?"
"Representative Williams moves for the adoption of Senate Bill… of Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 2324. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Third Reading. Please read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2324, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Williams." Williams, A.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In our continuing effort to reach agreement on the Chicago Public Schools' electoral map, we are proposing a trailer Bill to the Bill we passed yesterday which incorporates some suggested language proposed by the Senate that deals with the ethics provisions. As you heard me say yesterday and numerous times in committee as 10300062.docx 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 well, our intent was to ensure that employees could not serve on the board, to ensure no one with interest in contracts could be providing… could not serve on the board. And in fact, the language we included in our version was something we got from the CPS ethics officer. The Senate indicated they preferred to utilize the Public Officer Prohibited Activities Act and some language from the School Code. So, in the interest of reaching consensus, does six of one, half dozen of the other. We're happy to include their language and hope to help us… hope this will help us move to agreement. Happy to answer any questions."
"On this question, Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"She indicates she'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative, this is designed to put additional ethical provisions into the Bill we adopted yesterday. Is that accurate?" Williams, A.: "Yes. It's my position that it does not change the intent of what we did yesterday at all, but we simply include existing law. The Public Officer Prohibited Activities Act as well as School Code provisions on ethics to provide parity with school boards throughout the state. We just want to make absolutely sure that we are as airtight as possible on all of our ethics provisions and leave nothing to chance."
"So, it appears from our analysis that there are some restrictions on conflicts of interest for school board members. How would… how would those apply to the Chicago school board?" 10300062.docx 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 Williams, A.: "The same as they would apply to every other school board. So, what we've done is incorporated, at the request of the Senate, a language in first the Public Officer Prohibited Activities Act and also Section 10.9 of the School Code. And both of those provide separately that you cannot have a financial interest in a contract. It also prohibits employees from a district from being appointed to the board or for serving on the board in any way. So, they can't be elected or appointed to the board. Similar to what we discussed yesterday."
"And then regarding eligibility for office of a school board member, are there any changes to the eligibility?" Williams, A.: "There are no changes to the eligibility."
"Are there any prohibitions on ineligibility, anybody that is now ineligible that would've been otherwise?" Williams, A.: "I think we are basically, again, just providing parity between what Chicago public school board members will have to adhere to and what school board members from the rest of the state will have to adhere to, and that was at the request of the Senate. Again, the language we did yesterday was at the request of the CPS ethics officer. But in the interest of ensuring parity and reaching agreement, we were happy to comply with the Senate's request here."
"And this Bill contains if and only if language. And would you explain how that works?" Williams, A.: "Absolutely. I'll recall the Bill we passed yesterday, which provided a structure for implementation of the elected school board as well as the agreed upon maps. If that is to pass, then this language would go into effect. If 10300062.docx 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 we'd had this information earlier, would've included it in yesterday's package."
"Do you have agreement with the Senate on this Bill and the… the Bill from yesterday?" Williams, A.: "We're not there yet, but this is a work in progress. And we're hopeful that this will help put us in the right direction and we can reach consensus soon."
"And it's your position that this Bill simply strengthens the ethical provisions of the Bill that was passed yesterday?" Williams, A.: "It provides parity between what will apply to the Chicago public school board and school boards throughout the state. So, I don't know if strengthen is the right work, but it provides parity with all the… all the other school boards. And again, uses existing language in both the Public Officer Prohibited Activities Act as well as the School Code dealing with prohibited interest in contracts."
"So, back to the eligibility for office briefly. Are employees of the Chicago public school system eligible to be on the school board with this change?" Williams, A.: "They are not. And if you recall in the Bill we passed yesterday, we list… we put that explicitly in the language. Here it is prohibited in a different way. In the Prohibited Officer… I'm sorry, Public Officer Prohibited Activities Act, it prohibits someone from having a financial interest in a contract that they approve. An employment contract would be a financial interest in the contract, so it indirectly, rather than explicitly, provides that you cannot 10300062.docx 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 serve on the school board either in Chicago or anywhere else in the state if you're an employee of that board."
"And with regard to members of the Chicago Teachers Union, is there any prohibition on a member of that union serving on the school board?" Williams, A.: "As I indicated yesterday, many of the leadership of the union, the collective bargaining unit. If you're in the collective bargaining of the Chicago Teachers Union, you are most likely, I think almost in all cases, on leave from the Chicago Public Schools. So, it is… you are still considered an employee. So, if you're on leave, you're considered an employee, and therefore precluded from service on the board. There are, I believe, some other employees that don't have the high-level positions, like president, vice president, financial secretary, things like that. So, you'd have to check and see. If they are on leave, they are an employee of a school district and they cannot serve."
"Thank you."
"On this question, Representative Tarver."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Representative Williams, you likely answered these questions, but I just want to make sure. So, it's not that there were no ethical provisions in the prior Bill. Is that correct? There were… there were ethical provisions in the prior Bill. Yes?" Williams, A.: "You know, I really think it was… pretty much accomplished the same goals, but the Senate preferred that we utilize an approach that provided parity between our school board in Chicago and the rest of the state. So, we thought that was a fair request and complied with that request." 10300062.docx 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"Okay. And your entire intent in this is to work with the Senate to bring about something that we can ultimately move forward so that there will be a elected school board in the City of Chicago and we're all on the same page. Is that correct?" Williams, A.: "Can you repeat the last part? I'm sorry."
"I said that we're all on the same page. Is that correct?" Williams, A.: "Absolutely. And, you know, this has been a decade in the making. And there's going to be some bumps along the road, but this is how the legislative process is supposed to work. We appreciate the Senate's engagement. The Republican side of the aisle has also put forth some suggestions on the ethics side. And we're happy to work with everyone to make sure we have the best product possible."
"Thank you. I wasn't here yesterday, so I just want to say today, thank you for your patience, for one, and your willingness to serve. I know there was a lot committee hearings. I know you're hearing input from a lot of different people. And somehow, you're managing all of that and doing it with grace. So, thank you for all of your hard work. I appreciate you. I'm certain that at some point, when this is all finally done, the residents of City of Chicago will thank you as well. Thank you very much."
"Representative Williams to close." Williams, A.: "I'd appreciate an 'aye' vote. But I do before… even though we're not quite done yet, I do want to just give a shoutout to the Members of the working group. We have been a great team, and it's been wonderful to work with all of you. It's really been a collaborative effort. Looking forward 10300062.docx 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 to getting this across the finish line. Of course, Jon Maxson, who's done great work, and I'll talk more about that when we get it all done. But appreciate an 'aye' vote for now. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall Senate Bill 2324 pass?' All those in favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay'. The voting's open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. On this question, there are 99 voting 'yes', 1 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Leader Manley, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please state your point."
"If I could have everybody's attention. And I'm sure, much to his chagrin, he is not going to enjoy one bit of this. But we can't let today end. And so, with a small break in the action here, I want to talk about our friend Chris Lowery. So, over my time in the GA, I've gotten to know Chris very well, and when I was… I must've written and rewritten this speech 10 times. I've tried to separate his personal attributes from his professional attributes. And I quickly realized that what he brought to the job every day, his excellence, his good nature, his willingness to do hard work, was also part of his personal attributes. So, what you see is what you get from Chris Lowery. Chris is a friend to many of us. He always answers the phone, tries to never let anybody down. You guys are all standing up like he's dead. You don't have to stand up. 'Cause I'm going to tell you, he's going to 10300062.docx 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 leave us and he's going to be uber successful when he goes. But remain standing if you like. It'll be more embarrassing for him. How dare you leave me. That's all I can say. You've never missed a day's work, at least not that I can remember. Sore feet, sick, we've been up there together, very… not feeling well, but you always come through. He is… he has the amazing ability to split his brain when he's up there. It is probably not really human, but he can be typing on his computer, talking to someone over there, and then say to me, you know, as if he doesn't have enough to do, say, 'Have all voted who wish?' Right. He knows he's in then moment. He is extremely talented. He's a stalwart presence at the podium. He's a member of the Speaker's staff, but he treats everyone fairly. Everyone. He's… he's been… he's leaned over to me while I've been in the Chair and said things like, 'I just love Norine Hammond, don't you?' And… no… yes, I love Norine. We all love Norine. Nice of you to leave her, Chris. He's also said things like, 'Don't you love the way Patrick Windhorst asks questions?' He is a good guy. He's… he's asked Jay while Jay's been in the Chair, he's leaned over and said, 'Isn't Natalie Manley cute?' We'd be hard pressed to find anybody that would say Chris ever had a bad day, or at least he never showed it. He's an excellent de-escalator. As you might know, the podium tends to be a target of frustration and emotions run high in this chamber. And many times, Chris has borne the brunt of that emotion. He takes it all in stride. And like the gentleman he is… tell your parents they raised a nice man. Like the gentleman he is, without taking it personally, he immediately tries to find a resolution to 10300062.docx 100 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 the issue. The most phenomenal part of Chris Lowery is that he does it all while… while saving everyone their dignity. He saves us all our dignity and me many, many times up in that chair. We will miss him. We've been made better because of him. And as he starts his new chapter, please remember that he's been good to us all, a friend to us all. We wish you the… we wish you great success, Chris. Thank you for making us all look good."
"On the Order of Lowery, Leader… Leader Hammond."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would just like to add on behalf of myself, and I'm sure I speak for all of the Members of our caucus, Chris, we are certainly going to miss you. You have been an incredible help to all of us on both sides of the aisle. You are incredibly respectful. And as Leader Manley said, your parents should be extremely proud of the gentleman that they have raised because we in this chamber are certainly extremely proud of you. And I hope you let me know where you are because the candy will follow you."
"Representative Severin."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Actually, I've known Mr. Lowery longer than anybody else in this chamber. We actually are from the same town. I've known him since he was in diapers, and it wasn't yesterday, but I've known him since he was a little boy. And the other thing is, I got him his job. You can ask me about that later."
"I know it's out of order, but I would just like to… to tell Chris publicly thank you. Thank you for all you've 10300062.docx 101 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 done for all of us. Thank you for what you've done for me. And you've kept me out of a lot of trouble. Thank you for everything, Chris. Thank you so much. Representative Niemerg seeks recognition."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. A point of personal privilege."
"Yes, Chris will be down in the well taking pictures."
"Okay."
"Please state your point."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Everybody that's with Invest in Kids, can you please stand? Everybody that's here for the scholarship program, please stand. Thank you. This scholarship program is vitally important to everybody that is standing in this chamber, to people throughout the State of Illinois, people that have come to your offices asking for help, asking for the extension, asking for their scholarships to be saved. And we sit here on the last day. And the Speaker says, I need 71. I need 71. Well, I've seen the Speaker call Bills that maybe got 47, 48 votes, or pulled from the record, Postponed Consideration. So, I know this Bill can be called. And I know that the votes are here. You have 40 from us. Call the Bill. These kids will not be ignored. They will not be silenced. Call the Bill. Save the scholarships. Call the Bill, Mr. Speaker, right now. Thank you."
"Representative Olickal, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"State your point." 10300062.docx 102 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023
"I rise today in support of quality education for every youth in our state. I'm a proud product of public schools. I committed my career to public service so I could continue to advance and protect the policies that allowed an immigrant family like mine to thrive in this country. The most important of that being a well-funded public school system. I strongly believe in public education system that is well-resourced for every child, regardless of the community they are born into. And this year I, proudly with my colleagues, voted to fund early childhood education at $250 million, put an additional $350 million into K-12 public education, for significant funding increases for our higher education institutions, and there's still more work to be done to fully fund our public school system. And I'm all in on doing that. And I commit here today that I'll vote for progressive revenue to close that gap and fully fund our public schools and public institutions. I also rise today to address the Invest in Kids program. The 16th District is home to more than 2 thousand of the almost 10 thousand low-income students on scholarships statewide. I've spent countless hours meeting with and speaking to the families of these students, and I've gotten to know them and the importance of this program to them. And I want to speak to those families. It looks like we may not… there may not be the requisite support to extend this program or, quite frankly, to make sure the rug isn't pulled out from under our students. And now, as we go into the holiday season, these children in the gallery, thousands in my district and across the state, who had no agency of their own to decide what school district, what community they were born into, but 10300062.docx 103 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 had the chance to participate in this program, will be thrown into uncertainty. There's no guarantee that they'll be able to stay at the school that they may have grown to love and build community within and maybe thrown into a harmful transition. I may be one voice, one vote, and I'll continue to carry your concerns in this State Capitol, and I will fight for the policies that ensure that you have the same chance as any to succeed in this state. Thank you."
"Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 498, offered by Representative West. House Resolution 503, offered by Representative Mah. House Resolution 505, offered by Representative Buckner. House Resolution 507, offered by Representative Hoffman. And House Resolution 509, offered by Speaker Welch."
"Leader Smith moves for the adoption of Agreed Resolutions. All those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Agreed Resolutions are adopted. Mr. Clerk, please read the Adjournment Resolution."
Clerk Hollman: "House Joint Resolution #45, offered by Representative Gordon-Booth. RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING HEREIN, that when the House of Representatives adjourns on Thursday, November 09, 2023, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, January 16, 2024, or to the call of the Speaker; and when the Senate adjourns on Thursday, November 10300062.docx 104 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 62nd Legislative Day 11/9/2023 09, 2023, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, January 16, 2024, or to the call of the President."
"Leader Smith moves for the adoption of the Adjournment Resolution. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Adjournment Resolution is adopted. And now, allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Leader Smith moves that the House stand adjourned until January 16, at the call of the Chair. All those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed 'nay'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the House stands adjourned."
"House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Introduction and First Reading of House Bills. House Bill 4230, offered by Representative Sanalitro, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. First Reading of this House Bill. Introduction and First Reading of Senate Bills. Senate Bill 508, offered by Representative Delgado, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. First Reading of this Senate Bill. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned." 10300062.docx 105