"The House will be in order. Members will be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by Representative Grasse. Members and guests are asked to refrain from starting their laptops, turning off all cellphones, and rise for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance."
"Good afternoon. I… our invocation today was inspired by the visits I had from the Future Farmers of America this week, and I know we were gifted with their generous baskets. So, as we gather here today to do the work of the people, let us take a moment to recognize those whose labor begins long before dawn and often ends well after dusk: our farmers and our agricultural workers. Across our state, in fields and barns and small family operations and larger enterprises, they carry forward a responsibility that sustains us all here in this state. Their work feeds our community, fuels our economy, and anchors a way of life rooted in resilience, stewardship, and care for the land. Agriculture is not just an industry here, it is a foundation. It shapes our identity, supports our local economies, and connects us to one another through something as simple and essential as a shared meal. So, let this awareness guide us all here today. May we approach our responsibilities with the same dedication, practicality, and long view that farming requires, understanding that what we plant through our policies will have lasting impact on the people who come long after we ourselves are gone. May we work with respect for those who depend upon us, just as we depend upon them. And may our decisions reflect a commitment to sustain not only our economy 10400085.docx 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 but the well-being of every person and community across our wonderful state. So be it. Amen."
"We will be led in the Pledge of Allegiance today by Representative Manley."
"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 Lilly: "Roll Call for Attendance. Leader Gabel is recognized to report any absences on the Democratic side of the aisle."
"Speaker, let the record show that Representatives Huynh, Jones, and Kelly are excused today."
"Leader Windhorst is recognized to report any absences of the Republican side of the aisle."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Would you please excuse Representative Rosenthal today? Thank you."
"Have all recorded themselves who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There are 113 Members answering to the roll, a quorum is present. Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."
Clerk Hollman: "Committee Reports. Representative Guzzardi, Chairperson from the Committee on Economic Opportunity & Equity reports the following committee action taken on March 25, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 5263, House Bill 5264; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 4592. Representative Scherer, Chairperson from the Committee on Elementary & Secondary Education: Administration, Licensing & Charter Schools reports following committee action taken on March 25, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 3860, House 10400085.docx 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 Bill 4440, House Bill 4792, House Bill 4795, House Bill 4862, House Bill 5107; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 4397, House Bill 5097; recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 4 to House Bill 4247, Floor Amendment(s) 1 to House Bill 4535. Representative Barbara Hernandez, Chairperson from the Committee on Immigration & Human Rights reports the following committee action taken on March 25, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 5068; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 5394. Representative Evans, Chairperson from the Committee on Labor & Commerce reports the following committee action taken on March 25, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 3815, House Bill 4263, House Bill 4416, House Bill 5120, House Bill 5147, House Bill 5265, House Bill 5413; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 4882, House Bill 5461; recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 2 to House Bill 4… 3762. Representative Blair-Sherlock, Chairperson from the Committee on State Government Administration reports the following committee action taken on March 25, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 1557, House Bill 4950, House Bill 5090, House Bill 5190, House Bill 5205, House Bill 5281; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 5095 and House Bill 5283. Representative Didech, Chairperson from the Committee on Gaming reports the following committee action taken on March 25, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 3473, House Bill 4149, House Bill 4679; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 4885. Representative Stuart, Chairperson from the Committee on Higher Education reports the following committee action taken on March 25, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 4687, 10400085.docx 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 House Bill 4990, House Bill 5051, House Bill 5460, House Bill 5462, House Bill 5463, House Bill 5501, House Bill 5503. Representative Moeller, Chairperson from the Committee on Human… Appropriations-Health & Human Services reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 4756 and House Bill 5490. Representative Ford, Chairperson from the Committee on Appropriations-Higher Education reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 4520, do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 1581. Representative Kelly, Chairperson from the Committee on Police & Fire reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 1353, House Bill 4292, House Bill 4601, House Bill 4605, House Bill 4645, House Bill 5253; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 5480. Representative Stava, Chairperson from the Committee on Public Health reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 4839 and House Bill 5507. Representative Cassidy, Chairperson from the Committee on Restorative Justice & Public Safety reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 1643, House Bill 4258, House Bill 4949, House Bill 5192, House Bill 5298. Representative Tarver, Chairperson from the Committee on Revenue & Finance reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 1150, House Bill 2851, House Bill 4690, House Bill 4707, House Bill 5013, House Bill 5028, House Bill 5033, House Bill 5065, House Bill 5118, House Bill 5542; do pass as 10400085.docx 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 amended Short Debate is House Bill 4841, House Bill 5286, and House Bill 5470. Representative Mason, Chairperson from the Committee on Child Care Access & Early Childhood Education reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 5373; and do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 5099. Representative Ortíz, Chairperson from the Committee Counties & Townships reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 4667, House Bill 4835, House Bill 5243, House Bill 5535; do pass as amended Short Debate is House Bill 4616 and House Bill 5166. Representative LaPointe, Chairperson from the Committee on Mental Health & Addiction reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 4039, House Bill 4542, House Bill 5468; recommends be adopted is Floor Amendment(s) 4 to House Bill 2929. Representative du Buclet, Chairperson from the Committee on Museums, Arts, Cultural, & Entertainment reports the following committee action taken on March 26, 2026: do pass Short Debate is House Bill 4734. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 753, offered by Representative Croke; House Resolution 754, offered by Representative Croke; House Resolution 755, offered by Representative Olickal; House Resolution 758, offered by Representative Will Davis; and House Joint Resolution 58, offered by Representative Buckner, are referred to the Rules Committee."
"Representative Canty, for what purpose do you rise?"
"Madam Speaker, I rise for the purpose of a motion." 10400085.docx 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026
"State your motion."
"Madam Speaker, pursuant… pursuant to House Rule 68, I move to recommit House Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 744 to the Rules Committee."
"Leader Windhorst."
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Will the sponsor of the motion yield?"
"She'll yield."
"Thank you. Representative, so I understand and for Members on our side, this motion is to send this Floor Amendment on… Floor Amendment 1 on House Bill 744 back to the Rules Committee."
"Yes, sir. And the underlying bill is on Second Reading but is being held."
"And 744 is being held on… on Second."
"Yes, sir."
"All right. Thank you."
"Thank you."
"Representative Canty has moved to recommit House Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 744 to the Rules Committee. All in favor say 'aye'… vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay.' And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There'll be 99 votes in 'favor,' 10 voting 'against,' 0 voting 'present.' And this motion has received a supermajority. The motion is adopted. And the Floor Amendment… Amendment 1 to the House Bill 744 is recommended to Rules Committee. Representative Gordon-Booth, for what reason do you seek recognition?" 10400085.docx 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026
"Good morning, Madam Speaker. So good to see you up there. A moment of personal privilege, please."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen of the House, I am happy to announce that we have some incredibly special visitors from my… from my district visiting the Capitol. If you all would stand. We have a group of nurses from OSF HealthCare with us in the gallery today. OSF HealthCare is actually headquartered in my district. Since its founding by The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis in 1847, it has grown into a 16-hospital system with over 27,000 mission partners throughout Illinois and Michigan. Any hospital president will tell you that the backbone of any hospital or health system is the dedicated nurses that provide patients with the care that they desperately need. I am so happy that they have taken the time to visit us today. Please give them a House of Representatives warm round of applause. Thank you for being here today."
"Welcome. Welcome. Representative Halbrook, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen of the House, not only is it Cherry Pie Day, and I'm sure other Members of this chamber will speak to that, but it's Shelby County Day. And I would like to recognize some constituents that have came up here today for Cherry Pie Day. On the eastern side of the gallery is Lori Nelson and her family. Lori and her husband, 10400085.docx 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 Ben, are the parents of their three sons that are with us today to watch the process. So, let's give a warm Springfield welcome to Lori Nelson and her three sons for coming to Cherry Pie Day today. Thank you."
Speaker Lilly: "Welcome, welcome, welcome. Representative Sheehan, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege, Madam Speaker."
"Please proceed."
"Last night, John Dineen, the Chicago Police Lodge 7's namesake, passed away, a legend in police labor. John Dineen began his police career with the Chicago Police Department in 1958. He worked as a motorcycle police officer, along with assignments to the traffic unit, task force, and the intelligence unit. John also worked as a homicide detective. John was elected as Lodge 7 president in 1972 and served for 21 years. He tirelessly fought for protections and collective bargaining rights. Once Mayor Jane Byrne was elected in 1980 and promised collective bargaining to the police department, John knew there was only one path forward. He selflessly resigned his seat as national president to focus on that first contract. He realized how important that moment in history was for this membership. For that act alone, John Dineen should be held above all others, and… and it's a legacy that will stand the test of time. Thank you."
"Moment of silence. Thank you. Representative Wilhour, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please proceed." 10400085.docx 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026
"Thank you. I want to just take a minute here today to recognize the most powerful special interest group in the state of Illinois. It's not a corporate lobby. It's not a failed organization like the teachers' union. It's parents. Specifically, it's homeschool parents, and we have a bunch of 'em with us here today. It's the sleeping giant that you guys woke up last year from all over this state because we remember what… what you guys tried to do last year. The chamber saw a push to expand government into the homes of homeschool families across the state of Illinois, and the people of this state, from every area of this state, responded loudly. They showed up. They spoke out, and they stopped it. So, let's be clear about what that moment meant. It wasn't confusion. It wasn't misinformation. It was parents standing up and drawing a line, saying enough, enough with the system that's failing our kids, enough of politicians from both sides of the aisle that care more about cashing their teachers' union checks than standing up for 100% education, freedom, and the power of parents. These organizations have failed, and if you believe in parental rights and education freedom, they must be wholesale rejected. No money, no influence, rejected. And here we are today, I sit on these education committees, and there's still too many listening to these radical organizations, like the teachers' unions that hate homeschooling and are terrified of competition. Still, some in this chamber look at these independent families, and they think, how do we regulate that? Let me remind this body why that effort failed. It failed because homeschool families are not really a special interest group. They're not lobbyists. 10400085.docx 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 They're not funded organizations. They're parents. And when parents across Illinois from every part, rural, suburban, urban, when they're all saying the same thing, maybe we ought to listen. Because what you heard last year was not just opposition to a bill, it's rejection of an attitude that's been too pervasive here for generations. An attitude that says government knows better than parents. An attitude that says if something exists outside of the system, then it must be brought under control. Here's the reality. The families that you tried to regulate last year, they're succeeding. They've always succeeded. They succeed because they hold the traditional American values of faith and family and love of our country while too many schools under this body's watch can't even be proficient in basic reading and math. The government school system and their special interest allies are failing while homeschool families are producing kids that are learning, thinking critically, thriving, and becoming productive members of society. And instead of asking what can we learn from that, still, some want to limit it. That's backwards. If something's working, you protect it. You don't punish it. And I'm standing here today to say this as loudly and clearly as I can: If there's another attempt to go after homeschool families in this state, you'll see the same response, but only bigger. Because those parents didn't go anywhere. They're still watching, and they're still engaged, and they're saying that we should still be focused on fixing what's broken. The government education system is broken. Let's not target what's working. We should be restoring trust with families, not eroding it further, and we should be 10400085.docx 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 defending the fundamental rights of parents to direct the upbringing and the education of their children. Last year the people of Illinois stood up and drew a line. And we're standing with them, and we're saying again today don't you cross it."
"Representative Niemerg, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"I'd like to welcome some folks from my district, from Clark and Crawford County, some homeschoolers here for Cherry Pie Day. And really looking forward to… to getting to know the families more. Known them for a few years, but welcome to Springfield. Thank you for the cherry pies, and this is your House. Please enjoy."
"Representative Weber, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"A point of personal privilege, Madam Speaker."
"Please proceed."
"Excuse me. I rise today in recognition of Purple Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness for those impacted by epilepsy. Millions of Americans and their families across the United States, including my own, have had their lives forever upended by this disease. Just days after my son's 30th birthday, he suffered his first epileptic seizure. That day forever changed his life and the lives of our family. At the time, he was a construction manager striving to advance his career and grow his family. Now, our focus as a family has shifted in ways that we could have never anticipated. For a 10400085.docx 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 person living with epilepsy and their family, everyone must be aware of the signs of a seizure and be ready to react. Even my son's three young children need to be aware. As my son would describe himself to many people, if you've ever seen the movie '50 First Dates' with Adam Sandler, Drew… Drew Barrymore… he describes himself as that girl, someone that might talk to you today and might not remember it tomorrow. We oftentimes have the same conversation day after day, but I welcome those calls 'cause we don't know how long those calls will last. So, in recognition of Purple Day, I encourage everyone to learn more about the signs of epilepsy and what we can do as a society to reduce the stigma. The Epilepsy Foundation is a great resource to learn more, and I also encourage you to share those resources on your social media accounts with the #PurpleDay, so that those living with epilepsy today know that they are not alone. Thank you."
"Representative Guerrero-Cuellar, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Chair. That was great pronunciation. A point of personal privilege, please."
"Please proceed."
"Members, earlier this week, I rised to honor a hero, fourth-generation legacy, and the ultimate sacrifice. And in that speech, one thing that I did mention was when the wife receives that phone call, when the family receives that phone call, I said he was survived by his young son, Theodore, and his wife was expecting a child that was due… that's due in April. If you haven't heard, the funeral has been canceled tomorrow for the firefighter because his wife is in labor 10400085.docx 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 today. So, I ask you for prayers and positive thoughts for the wife and for the family and for the community members that have to come together today because they were preparing to honor and bury a firefighter, and they're going to step in right now to hold his wife's hand and to welcome the new baby that is going to arrive, and we wish nothing but prayers. And I ask you, please, please keep her in her prayers, a speedy delivery, and the baby is healthy. And then the funeral services will be scheduled at a later date. Thank you."
"Moment of silence. Thank you. Representative Hernandez, for what reason do you seek recognition?" Hernandez, N.: "Point of personal privilege, Madam Chair."
"Please proceed." Hernandez, N.: "I rise today to welcome the Ludkowski family, who is sitting on the right side by the Republican side. If they can please rise. I rise today to present House Resolution 751, honoring the life and legacy of George Edward Ludkowski, a beloved constituent of the 77th District whose memory continues to inspire awareness, action, and compassion. George Ludkowski was a devoted husband, father, friend, and community leader. For 46 years, he shared a life with his beloved wife, Lili Ludkowski, building a family grounded in love, commitment, and community. He was a working-class man who didn't just believe in giving back, he lived it, dedicating his time to coaching T-ball and volunteering with children's bowling league, where he mentored and encouraged young people. In these roles, he made a meaningful difference in others… other people's lives. Tragically, George's life was cut short by a choking incident at a restaurant, bringing 10400085.docx 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 attention to how quickly these emergencies unfold and why greater awareness and preparedness are so critical. Choking remains one of the leading causes of unintentional injury death in the United States, claiming thousands of lives each year. Yet, many of these tragedies are preventable with proper awareness, training, and access to lifesaving interventions. In the face of unimaginable loss, George's wife, Lili, has transformed her grief into purpose, becoming a dedicated advocate for choking prevention awareness. Her work ensures that George's legacy lives on by helping protect others and prevent similar tragedies. This resolution also recognizes National Choking Prevention Awareness Day on March 28 as an opportunity to educate our communities, promote preparedness, and encourage lifesaving action. George Ludkowski's story is a powerful reminder that even in loss, there is an opportunity to create change. His life and the advocacy it was inspired calls on all to do more to protect the health and safety of our communities. It is an honor to recognize him today, to recognize his family who drove all the way from Elmwood Park to be here, and I am proud to sponsor this resolution on behalf of the 77th District, Illinois House of Representatives. And thank you, Lili, and his son and friend who are here today. We appreciate your advocacy, and he will be remembered forever. Thank you."
"Welcome. Representative Chung, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed." 10400085.docx 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026
"Thank you so much. I wanted to bring the attention to the body that right now it's… we're in March Madness season. And I wanted to congratulate the Illinois State University men's basketball team, the Redbirds, for making it to the Final Four. They beat Dayton yesterday. They're going to play in the Final Four for the NIT championship next week. So, let's give a big round of applause and cheer on our Redbirds. Thank you."
"Yes, it is March Madness. Representative Williams, Ann Williams, for what reason do you seek recognition?" Williams, A.: "Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed." Williams, A.: "Well, as a proud University of Iowa alum, I am so excited about tonight's epic clash between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Nebraska Cornhuskers. And I am joined here by two other Members of the Iowa Hawkeyes caucus, Curtis Tarver and Seth Lewis, who came all the way from the Senate to mark this special moment. This marks the first time that Iowa has made it to the Sweet 16 in 27 years. And needless to say, I, along with everyone that's an Iowa fan, is so excited about tonight, and we are hoping for a big win. So, believe it or not, there is a small but mighty group of Iowa alum in and around the Capitol, and including the gentlemen here. And we have thus formed something we're calling the Iowa Hawkeyes Caucus, or as we like to refer to it, the Haucus. And we're looking forward to watching our beloved Hawkeyes tonight. Go, Hawks."
"We have a mighty, mighty madness going on. Representative Weaver, for what reason do you seek recognition?" 10400085.docx 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"This past weekend a living legend became a legend immortalized in Americana. I rise today to honor the legacy and larger than life impact of Chuck Norris. Carlos Ray Norris was born March 10, 1940 in Ryan, Oklahoma and died March 19, 2026, just after his 86th birthday. He left behind his wife, Gena; children Mike, Eric, Dina, Dakota, Danilee; and 13 grandchildren. Madam Speaker, if I could have some quiet in the General Assembly, please. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, a philanthropist, a man of faith, and a true legend. Chuck Norris has many great quotes, but one of them stuck out to me in particular: 'Fear can have two meanings: Forget everything and run, or face everything and rise. The choice is yours.' Face everything and rise. Chuck Norris was more than an actor, more than a martial artist, more than an icon. He was the champion for toughness, discipline, patriotism, and grit. He built a career on courage and determination. He used his voice for good. Like many, his political beliefs shifted over time as he left the Democrat Party to become a strong advocate for conservative principles. He was a massive part of the beautiful Americana that binds us together. When I was growing up, Ben Savage brought us together as Cory Matthews, Mario Lopez brought us together as A.C. Slater, Will Smith brought us together as Will Smith, and Chuck Norris brought us together as Walker, Texas Ranger. I don't really know how I'd explain Chuck Norris to a future generation. Seemingly, he just was a middle-aged martial artist, Texas cop who roundhoused and flying kicked 10400085.docx 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 his way to justice. He was unstoppable. When Walker was around, the people were going to be all right. But saving lives isn't all he did. Many know him as the older, buff gentleman on the workout infomercials while others remember him as the deciding thumbs up vote that helped Average Joe's Gym defeat Globo Gym in dodgeball. He was simply invincible, and his legend grew with each day. It's been said that Chuck Norris counted to infinity twice. I think we can all relate to that during budget season. Chuck Norris didn't wear a watch, he just decided what time it was. Reminds me of some of our committee schedules. When Chuck Norris slices onions, the onions cry. When the boogeyman goes to sleep, he checks under his bed for Chuck Norris. When Chuck Norris does a push up, he doesn't lift himself up, he pushes down the earth. Little known fact, Chuck Norris starred in 'Star Wars.' He was The Force. Chuck Norris' tears could cure cancer. Sadly, Chuck Norris never cried. And for his final act, Chuck Norris defeated death by putting his faith in Jesus Christ, and you can too. Thank you, Chuck, for the joy you brought and the legacy you left. I ask for a moment of silence."
"Moment of silence. Thank you. Representative Stuart, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. To follow on the higher education theme that was going a little bit before, I just want to say that in our Higher Ed-Approps today, we had the SIU System. So, we had President Mahony and Chancellor Lane and Chancellor Minor from Carbondale and Edwardsville talking about our wonderful 10400085.docx 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 campuses that we have all across the state. And I just want to thank them for always representing the entire university system really well, and hope that they continue the good work that they do in our regions. Thank you."
"Thank you. Representative Elik, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you, Speaker. First, I want to take a minute to recognize the homeschoolers of Illinois. You may remember when 8,000 homeschoolers came to the Capitol last year in response to legislation that would negatively impact them. They come back before that, but also every year, and they bring our cherry pies for us to say thank you for keeping Illinois as one of the best states for homeschooling. So, I want to thank you to ICHE, their executive director, Kirk Smith, for organizing the 36th annual Cherry Pie Day at the Capitol. Enjoy your cherry pies. But I also want to introduce two homeschoolers who have joined me today as pages. First, I have Victoria Verdick. She is with StoneGate Christian Academy in the 10th grade. Her parents are David and Sarah Verdick. She enjoys volleyball and theater. I also want to introduce Matthew Pattara. He is with Classical Christian Academy. He's in the ninth grade. His parents are Vincent and JoAnn Pattara, and he enjoys speech and debate team and the Civil Air Patrol. So, welcome to them and to all of the folks who came to their Capitol today. Thank you."
"Welcome. Representative Gill, for what reason do you seek recognition?" 10400085.docx 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. Point of personal privilege, please."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. I actually just want to welcome my chief of staff, Connor, from back in my district. He just started with me two months ago, and he worked so hard for our team. And I… I just want to give him a warm Springfield welcome."
"Everyone give him a warm welcome. Representative Ford, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege for you, Madam Speaker. Good to see you up there."
"Please proceed."
"But I rise… I rise to wish my daughter a happy birthday. She… when I first came down, she would come down during spring break, but now she's grown up and she's 22. And now, she's traveling internationally for her birthday. So, happy birthday, Tia, and many, many more. Thank you, Leader Lilly."
"Thank you. Happy birthday, bestie. Representative Hernandez, for what reason do you seek recognition?" Hernandez, L.: "Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed." Hernandez, L.: "I just want to ask the Members of the assembly to give a warm welcome to a… a really large number of students from Morton High School. If you can stand up in the gallery. These future leaders are here to advocate for the evidence- based formula, the 550 million. They're doing the work already. And I have to highlight one of the teachers, also known as Ms. G. She's a rock star and is doing the work and doing all that, you know. I'm just so grateful to her that 10400085.docx 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 she's preparing these students for the future. Let's give 'em a warm welcome."
"Welcome, welcome, welcome. Representative Fritts, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Speaker. A point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen of the House, last… last Friday, we went home from session, and as I was on my way home, I had learned about a… a plane crash that had happened in my district. Right at Whiteside County Airport, a… a plane had gone down, killing the pilot of the plane and, obviously, that's an incredibly tough thing all the way around. But it became even more tough later that night as I learned of the details of the plane crash and found out that it was one of my really good friends. Justin Wiggins was an amazing, amazing human being. We grew up together. We were in Cub Scouts together. We… we went to church together. We would serve mass almost every Sunday together. He was kind. He was so smart. He was so much fun. When he was 13, he really got into technology and he started a computer business. And he… it grew and grew from there. And when he was graduating high school and we were talking about going off to college, said, 'Justin, where are you going to go? You have such an amazing talent for this.' And he said, 'Ah, Bill Gates dropped out of college. I'm making enough money now.' He's like, 'I'm just going to wing it and start my company.' He says, 'Later on, if I got to go to school, I got to go to school. But this is what I'm going to do.' And that's what he did. He had an amazing gift, kind heart. He built that company into over 20- 10400085.docx 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 plus employees in multistates across the country. He's done some incredible, incredible work. He was fun. He was kind. You know, one… one example of his kindness is just this last week, he had got… or week before he passed, he'd got home and his wife and baby had been… had been sick and they were feeling better. And so, they went out to dinner with some friends, and while they were out to dinner, he saw seven priests who were out to dinner. And he… he offered and he bought their meal for him 'cause that was the kind of human being that he was, and later then passed on that Friday. So, I just want to… his visitation's tonight, his funeral's tomorrow, so I will not be with you tomorrow. But I just wanted to give a little bit of a tribute to him, to the amazing individual that he was, the fun individual that he was. My heart goes out to his parents, Justin and Lisa Wiggins; to his wife, Madison; to his daughter, Clara; and their unborn baby. I would ask for a moment of silence, and I ask you to pray for the family and our community as we grieve. Thank you, Madam Speaker."
"Moment of silence. Thank you. The clerk is in receipt of a Motion in Writing to waive the post requirements for a few bills. Is there leave? We will take this moment together… oh, leave is granted. Leader Ann Williams on the motion." Williams, A.: "Madam Speaker, great to see you up there. I move that the posting requirements be waived so the following bills can be heard in committee: House Bill 5595 in Personnel & Pensions Committee and House Bill 5591 in Elementary & 10400085.docx 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 Secondary Education: Administration, Licensing & Charter Schools Committee."
"Leader Ann Williams have moved to waive the posting requirements. All favor vote 'aye'; all opposed vote 'nay.' The voting is open. Have all who voted who wish? Have all who voted who wish? Have all who voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, please take the record. There being 72 voting in 'favor,' 37 voting 'against,' and 0 voting 'present,' and with the motion having received the constitutional majority, the… the posting requirements are waived. Representative Cassidy, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you. This Women's History Month, I find myself reflecting with gratitude for the women in my life and in my community who inspire those around us. These women continuously shape our culture, break down barriers, and bring hope at a dark moment in our history. Today I am proud to recognize not one but two incredible activists and leaders whose work has left an unforgettable impact in Illinois and beyond. These two women are fearless, wildly intelligent, and bring empathy and thoughtfulness to all that they do. Today I'd like to honor Channyn Lynne Parker, CEO of Equality Illinois, and Precious Brady-Davis, commissioner for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. Channyn Lynne Parker is the chief executive officer of Equality Illinois, the state's leading LGBTQ+ civil rights organization working to secure full equality for LGBTQ individuals across Illinois. Equality Illinois is also the 10400085.docx 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 host of the most fabulous fundraiser in town. We like to call it the Queer Prom. Channyn is a nationally recognized advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, racial equity, and community-driven public policy, with more than two decades of experience advancing justice and access for marginalized communities. Prior to joining Equality Illinois, Channyn was CEO of Brave Space Alliance, the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQ+ center on Chicago's South Side. Throughout her career, Channyn has had a steadfast commitment to improving access to health care, housing, and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly Black transgender women. Her advocacy has quite literally saved lives, and the work that she and her team at Equality Illinois do daily is nothing short of remarkable. Channyn is paving the way for the next generation of leaders to inherit a more just and equitable Illinois. In my eyes, she's a superhero and someone I am more than grateful to call a friend and ally. I now turn to my friend and colleague, Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis. Precious is an award-winning advocate, communications strategist, public speaker, and celebrated author of 'I Have Always Been Me,' which, by the way, if you haven't read it yet, you should. A true trailblazer, Precious is the first Black transgender woman elected to public office in Cook County, elected by over a million voters. In her role as commissioner, Precious is a frontline fighter for clean water access, environmental justice, and the protection of Lake Michigan. Precious is also the chief strategy officer at the Center on Halsted, the largest LGBTQ+ community center in the Midwest and safe haven for thousands of queer folks in Illinois. She leads organizational strategy, cross-sector 10400085.docx 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 partnerships, and initiatives that bring tangible change and impact to vulnerable communities. With over a decade of experience at the intersection of racial, gender, and environmental justice, Precious Brady-Davis brings authenticity, vision, and impact to every table she joins. Her journey demonstrates an unwavering commitment to equity, justice, and system change. Today we celebrate her and all the work she has done. Thank you for joining me in celebration this International Women's History Month."
"Representative Kifowit, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Chair. Point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"Thank you, Madam. In honor of Women's History Month, I would like to recognize the honorees of women veterans that were nominated by the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs and the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center for their distinguished contributions to extraordinary leadership, contributions, and commitment to the women veteran community. They were honored earlier at Malcolm X, and I just wanted to relay our appreciation to the 25 women veteran leaders of 2026. They are, in no particular order: Melissa Beckford, U.S. Army veteran; U.S. Army veteran Justyna Berry; U.S. Navy veteran and corpsman Staci Boyer; U.S. Army veteran Rochelle Crump; U.S. Army veteran Lourdes Hurtado Fernando; Marine Corps veteran Dr. Glenisha Foreman; Marine Corps veteran T. Hanible; U.S. Army veteran Melissa Farmer-Hill; U.S. Army veteran Dr. Sonia Kennedy; U.S. Air Force veteran Celeste Latham; U.S. Army veteran Nicole Mandeville; U.S. Army 10400085.docx 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 veteran Dr. Nikelcia Marcelin; U.S. Army veteran Dr. Carol (sic-Karen) Stendson-McMillan; U.S. Air Force veteran Nancy O'Donnell (sic-O'Connell); U.S. Army veteran and U.S. Navy veteran Ashley Owings; U.S. Army veteran Ramona Pozek; U.S. Navy veteran Telisha Reinhardt; U.S. Air Force veteran Jen Solum; U.S. Army veteran Shirley Spruiel; U.S. Army veteran Aretha Spurlock; U.S. Army veteran Amiee Wagoner; U.S. Army veteran Kimyada Wellington; U.S. Navy veteran Shamika White; U.S. Army veteran Katia Woods; and United States Marine Corps veteran Shannon Yount. And I ask the body to give their appreciation to the service of these 25 distinguished women veterans for the state of Illinois. Thank you."
"Representative Hammond, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Madam Chair. A point of personal privilege."
"Please proceed."
"In honor of Women's History Month, I would invite you all to join me in celebrating Elizabeth 'Lizzie' Magie. She was born in 1866 in Macomb, Illinois, during the heart of the Reconstruction era. The daughter of James Magie, a newspaper publicist and an abolitionist who once traveled with Abraham Lincoln during the famed Lincoln-Douglas debates, Lizzie grew up in a home where ideas, especially about fairness, freedom, and reform, were encouraged. Her upbringing shaped her into an independent thinker, inventor, writer, and one of the earliest women in America to receive a patent for a board game. Yet, her name would be buried in the history books for nearly a century. She worked as a stenographer and a typist and later as a writer and an editor, but her real passion was 10400085.docx 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 economics. She was a follower of the political economist Henry George, whose 1879 bestseller 'Progress and Poverty,' argued that inequality stemmed largely from land ownership being concentrated in the hands of few. She believed in these ideas so strongly that she devised a novel way to teach them to the public, a board game. In 1904, she was granted a U.S. patent for The Landlord's Game. The design of her game came from a square board with properties players could buy, rent, or lose depending upon their financial luck and strategy. She sold her game in several small outlets and sometime manufactured the boards herself. Homemade versions were spreading among friends and family and passed along with modified rules and names. One such adaptation would eventually reach an unemployed salesman named Charles Darrow during the Great Depression. In the early 1930s, Darrow began selling his version of the game. It was essentially Lizzie's original version. He replaced her original street names with Atlantic City properties and called it Monopoly. The game became wildly popular, especially during the bleak economic years when fantasies of wealth provided a bit of escapism. When Parker Brothers picked it up in 1935, Monopoly became a national sensation. But Parker Brothers soon learned that Darrow had not invented the game and discovered that it was Lizzie Magie and The Landlord's Game. Fearing legal troubles, they bought the rights to her patent for just $500. Darrow was celebrated as a self-made genius, the great American inventor of the world's most popular game, and that truth remained buried until 1970s, when economic professor Ansbach, creator of the game Anti-Monopoly, was sued by Parker Brothers. And 10400085.docx 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026 defending his publishing rights, he discovered Lizzie's original documents. Today Lizzie is finally receiving the recognition that she deserves, especially in the place where her story began. In 1925, Macomb, Illinois unveiled a large- scale public tribute to her legacy. It is a life-sized Monopoly board installed on the sidewalks of our town square, and each square represents a local business or civic institution. Visitors can walk the board just like players move their tokens in the game. There is a bronze statue of Lizzie that stands in the corner, very proudly, of the square. It shows Lizzie holding the board that is half The Landlord's Game and half Monopoly, symbolizing her creation of a commercial game that it inspired. Thank you for your time and attention today. You all have a little card of Lizzie on your…"
"Happy Women's Day or Happy Women's Month. Just happy women. Mr. Clerk, committee announcement."
"The following committees will meet at 2 p.m.: The Judiciary - Civil Committee will meet in Room 118. The Judiciary - Criminal Committee will meet in Room D-1. Labor & Commerce Committee will meet in Room 114. At 4 p.m. the following committees will meet: Energy & Environment Committee in Room 114, the Executive Committee in Room 118, and State Government Administration in Room C… in Room C-1."
"Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 756, offered by Representative Kelly. House Resolution 757, offered by Representative Scherer. House Resolution 759, offered by Representative Lilly." 10400085.docx 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 85th Legislative Day 3/26/2026
Speaker Lilly: "Leader Gabel moves the adoption of Agreed Resolution. Those in favor say 'aye'; all opposed say 'nay.' In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And Agreed Resolutions are adopted. And now, allowing perfunctory time for the clerk, Leader Gabel moves that the House stands adjourned until Friday, March 27, at the hour of noon. All those in favor say 'aye'; all those opposed say 'nay.' In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the House stands adjourned." 10400085.docx 28