Illinois House Floor Debate — February 18, 1999

"The House shall come to order. Members will be in their chairs. The guests in the gallery may wish to rise and join us in the invocation. We will be led in prayer today by the Reverend Chad Luieck, of the Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Bloomington. Reverend Luieck is a guest of Representative Brady. Pastor Luieck."

"Thank you very much. Let us pray. Oh eternal, Lord God, guardian and keeper of Your people. Watch over those who are entrusted with the administration of government. Make them pure and honest in an age, when some people seem to think that truth doesn't matter. Keep them from temptation and neglect of duty. Create in them the earnest desire to serve faithfully. Permit them to experience the joys of noble service completed for a grateful people. Direct their decisions so that we may continue to enjoy the blessings of freedom, which we recognize is a gift of Your grace. Reveal Your will to these men and women, so that they may say, 'This is what God wants me to do. None would vote against it, and how much time and temper and money would be saved. We ask this all in the name of Jesus, our Savior and Lord. Amen."

Speaker Hartke: "We shall be led in the pledge today by Representative Pankau." Pankau: - et al: "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

"Roll Call for Attendance. Representative Poe, do you have a report on your side of the aisle?"

"Yeah, Mr. Speaker, let the record show that all the Republicans are present today."

"Thank you. Representative Currie, the Democrat 1  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 report."

"Thank you, Speaker, please let the record reflect that Representative Franks is excused today because of a death in the family."

Speaker Hartke: "Thank you. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On the quorum call, there are 117 Members answering the Roll and a quorum is present. Mr. Clerk, Committee Reports."

"Representative Larry Woolard, Chairperson from the Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education, to which the following measures was/were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 17; House Bill 39; House Bill 131; House Bill 230; House Bill 323; House Bill 506; House Bill 558; and House Bill 567. Representative Dan Burke, Chairperson from the Committee on Executive, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 474; 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 557; and House Bill 709. Representative Sara Feigenholtz, Chairperson from the Committee on Human Services, to which the following measures/s was/were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 455; 'do pass as amended Standard Debate' House Bill 143; 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 386; and House Bill 562. Representative Michael Smith, Chairperson from the Committee on Agriculture and Conservation, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 17, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 512 and House Bill 518; 'do pass 2  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 as amended Short Debate' House Bill 60; and House Bill 242. Representative Carol Ronen, Chairperson from the Committee on Children and Youth, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 17, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 485; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 596. Representative Steve Davis, Chairperson from the Committee on Constitutional Officers, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 17, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 314. Representative Mike Boland, Chairperson from the Committee on Elections and Campaign Reform, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 17, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 7; and House Bill 525. Representative Robert Bugielski, Chairperson from the Committee on Financial Institutions, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 17, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 429; and House Bill 555. Representative Mary Flowers, Chairperson from the Committee on Health Care Availability and Access to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 17, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 133; House Bill 370; and House Bill 382. Correction to Elementary and Secondary Education Committee Report. House Bill 131; 'do pass as amended, Short Debate' House Bill 230, 'do pass as amended, Short Debate.'"

Speaker Hartke: "It's the Chair's intention to go to Second 3  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Reading shortly. And when we finish Second Readings, we are going to go to Third Readings. So, if you have Bills that you would like to move from Second to Third and it's in the proper form, and all notes have been filed, we will try to do it as quickly as possible. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Jo Daviess, Representative Lawfer. For what reason do you rise?"

"Thank you Mr. Chairman (sic-Mr. Speaker), If I could have your attention of the group, Mr. Chairman (sic-Mr. Speaker), I would like to recognize Don Moffitt today on his birthday and Mr. Chairman (sic-Mr. Speaker) would you want to sing happy birthday for Don?"

"No. But if you want someone else to, I'll join in."

"Well, I think we all want to congratulate Don on a milestone in his life."

"Congratulations, Don. You look great for being 39 years old. You really do. On page 2 of the Calendar, appears House Bill 65. Representative Schoenberg, would you like to move that Bill? Out of the record. On page 2 appears House Bill 89. Representative Holbrook. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"House Bill 89. A Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Horse Racing Act of 1975. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments, No Floor Amendments, No Motions filed."

Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 104, Representative McGuire. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"House Bill 104, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. Amendment #1 was... correction, no Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 4  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Third Reading. House Bill 105, Representative Holbrook. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 105, a Bill for an Act in relation to assistance animals. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."

"Third Reading. House Bill 156, Representative Lang. Out of the record. House Bill 232. Representative Dart. Representative Dart in the chamber? Out of the record. 224. Representative Dart. Out of the record. 225. Representative Dart. Out of the record. 226. Representative Dart. And 228, Representative Dart. Out of the record. House Bill 256, Representative Flowers. Out of the record. House Bill 262. Representative Giglio. Mr. Clerk, call the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 262, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."

"Third Reading. House Bill 274. Representative Burke. House Bill 415. Representative Holbrook. Out of the record. House Bill 448. Representative Johnson. Tom Johnson. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 448. A Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."

"Third Reading. House Bill 463. Representative Novak. Representative Novak. Out of the record. House Bill 449. Representative Johnson. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 449. A Bill for an Act to amend the 5  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Illinois Vehicle Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."

"Third Reading. House Bill 470. Representative Hannig. Representative Hannig. House Bill 470. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"House Bill 470. A Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."

Speaker Hartke: "House Bill 476. Representative McKeon. Larry McKeon. Would you like to call your Bill? Excuse me. Third Reading on House Bill 470. Representative McKeon. Read the Bill. 476."

"House Bill 476. A Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."

Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 496. Representative Scott. Out of the record. House Bill 536. Representative Mathias. Read the Bill."

"House Bill 536. A Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed. "

Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 720. Representative Lyons. Joe Lyons. Out of the record. House Bill 274. Representative Burke. Would you... no, never mind, that's... that has notes to be filed yet. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 4 or excuse me, 317? Representative Bost."

"House Bill 317 is not on the Calendar. Correction. 6  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 House Bill 317 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading."

"The Sponsor's requested that that be moved back to Second. So place that Bill on Second Reading. On page 5 of the Calendar also appears House Bill 458. What is the status of that Bill?"

"House Bill 458 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading."

"At the Sponsor's request, he wishes that Bill to be moved back to Second for purposes of an Amendment. Place that Bill on Second Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen, we are going to go to Third Reading. So if we could keep the chatter down and lower your voices just a little bit so Members can... can hear the debate and so forth. We're prepared to go to Third Reading. On page 4 of the Calendar, appears House Bill 115. Representative Davis. Mr. Clerk, call the Bill."

"House Bill 115. A Bill for an Act in relation to the penalties for unlawful use or possession of weapons by felons or persons in the custody of the Department of Correction Facilities. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Mr. Davis. Steve Davis." Davis, S.: "Thank you Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 115 simply increases the penalties for felons who are caught with the possession of a firearm. And it changes the penalties from a Class III to a Class II felony and it makes the... makes the offense of possession of a firearm ineligible for probation, periodic imprisonment, or conditional discharge. And I would be glad to answer any questions on the Bill."

"You've heard the Gentleman's Bill. Have you any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from 7  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Vermilion, Representative Black."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative, this... would it be a fair assumption on my part to say this is somewhat similar to the Bill that Governor Ryan talked about yesterday? The 15-20 to life for the misuse of a firearm. I mean, are these... Would these be related kinds of Bills?" Davis, S.: "Representative Black. I believe it would. I believe that this would fit right in with some of the Governor's proposals that he did propose yesterday."

"Representative, I notice that the fiscal impact is extremely high, $695,000,000 over ten years. Do you have that note?" Davis, S.: "Yes I do, Representative, and if you'll remember, I introduced this Bill, I believe, in the last General Assembly. And it was... the fiscal impact on it, back then, was over a billion dollars. So it looks like we're going to save the taxpayers almost $400,000,000 with the new fiscal impact note."

"Perhaps it's inflationary. Is that what happened?" Davis, S.: "It could be, or else we know, we may end up having a lot more available spaces since the truth in sentencing law was struck down by the Supreme Court. So it looks like we may have more beds available, which would bring the costs down."

"Well, I, the Department of Corrections impact note says... it would probably put 3,400 inmates in their population at a cost of $695,000,000. Now that's spread over, what, like ten years isn't it?" Davis, S.: "Ten year... ten year period. That's correct, 8  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative."

"Okay, is there any opposition to the Bill? Davis, S.: "I'm not aware of any."

"Well, my notes indicate that the Cook County Board signed in as an opponent. Do you, I mean, you and I don't come from Cook County, and I'm not familiar with... so I'm not familiar with their opposition. But maybe somebody from Cook County could enlighten us as to the opposition. It also says 'The Illinois State Bar Association was an opponent to the Bill.' I just wonder if they'd contacted you as to why they're opposed or what... what their fear might be." Davis, S.: "Representative, they have not contacted me on this and neither did they testify in committee against the Bill. So, I do see where, on my analysis, that the Cook County Board is opposed to it, but I was not aware that the State Bar was opposed to it and they have not contacted me on the Bill."

"And the Cook County Board, is that the county up north, let me think, or the county seat of Cook County, is that... is that Otta..., no... Is that Chicago? Would that be Chicago? Cook County, is that where that is?" Davis, S.: "Sounds familiar. I... I very rarely get up that way. I'm not real sure."

"Without some road improvements, it's very difficult for downstaters to get up there. And of course, the trains don't run anymore and I don't know what we're going to do about an airport. But that's another issue. But I appreciate your indulgence in answering the questions, Representative. Thank you." Davis, S.: "Thank you, Representative."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the 9  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Gentleman from Cook, Representative Parke."

"Thank you Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Will the Sponsor yield for a question?"

Speaker Hartke "He indicates it will. Ladies and Gentlemen, let's... let's tone it down just a little bit in here, please. Let's have some order. Thank you. Representative Davis. He indicates he'll respond."

"Thank you, Representative (sic-Speaker). Representative Davis, on this Bill seems to... on the face of it have merit. But again, I would like to point out to the Body that this is going cost $695,000,000 over ten years. Have you thought of finding a way of modifying this in a way that won't cost us that much? I just don't know where we're going come up with that kind of money for the underlying Bill's good idea. Do you have any thought on that?" Davis, S.: "Well, Representative Parke. I think we can both agree that these fiscal impact notes certainly are nothing more than estimates. However, I would... I would also like to point out, that the states' attorneys certainly in my area... and I would guess the states' attorneys all over the State of Illinois would be very much in favor of this... this Bill to put felons and mind you, these are felons that we're talking about, convicted felons, who end up in the possession of weapons, to get them off the streets. And, I believe that the Governor also said yesterday, that we're going to have to continue to get tough on crime in the State of Illinois and he proposed a... a new prison facilities and new beds in the State of Illinois. So, I have to believe that we would be better off in this state to have felons, who are in possession of weapons, behind bars than on the streets." 10  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Well, I think most of us... I would imagine all of us could agree with that statement. But the question I have is, 'Do you have any funding source for this, any place or money can come to take care of this expense or we're just going to have to appropriate it?" Davis, S.: "Once again, Representative, the funding mechanism would be up to the General Assembly to come up with the needed monies."

"Do you know what this passed out at last year, or two years ago, what the vote was?" Davis, S.: "Sir, could you repeat the question please?"

"I didn't hear that." Davis, S.: "Could you repeat your question? I didn't hear you."

"Mr. Speaker, we're having trouble hearing each other."

"Will the staff please retire to the rear and we get some order here in the chamber, so that those Sponsors and questioners can hear?"

"I see in our staff analysis, that this was proposed last legislative Session." Davis, S.: "Correct."

"Do you know what the vote was at that time?" Davis, S.: "I believe it was 114 to 1."

"Okay, so I guess it's hard pressed for us to vote against the underlying idea, even though it costs us so much money. It really deals with putting felons away who use a weapon and on creating another crime." Davis, S.: "And correct, and also I'd like to point out that that 645,000,000 over a ten year period, so we're talking approximately 65,000,000, I would guess in FY 2000."

"Thank you very much, Ladies and Gentlemen. To the Bill. I think there would be absolutely no one that would find a problem with the underlying Bill. The only question is the 11  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 expense. But again, it would be hard pressed for us not to want to pass this Bill. So, I guess, and bottom line is that it's good for the Sponsor to put this in, but we ought to look at this and all kinds of other Bills that'll will be coming up in this... this fiscal year and determine how much money are we going to spend on all of these ideas and ultimately where's the money going come from to pay for all of these. So, though I think this will pass overwhelmingly, that's a thought that the Leadership of the General Assembly and the Governor's Office had better take a good hard look at how we're going pay for all these Bills that are coming down the pike that will spend taxpayers' money. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Representative Mulligan."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"Representative Davis. He indicates he will."

"Mr. Davis, Representative Davis. I'm curious to know, both Mayor Daley and Governor Ryan have proposed Bills in these areas. How does this Bill differ and why would we want to keep passing numerous Bills that overlap each other, so that we have no continuity?" Davis, S.: "Representative, I do not know the specific language in either of the proposals by Mayor Daley or the Governor. I can tell you that I introduced this Bill in the last General Assembly, long before they were talking about this issue. And this is the exact same Bill that passed out of the House last General Assembly. And I'm just bringing it back for reconsideration and hopefully, we can get it out of the Senate. So, I do not know the specific language that is being proposed by either the Governor or the Mayor." 12  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Would you like to explain the difference in a Cla... between a Class II and a Class III felony, please?" Davis, S.: "The difference between a Class II and a Class III, Representative?"

"Yes." Davis, S.: "Class III (sic-II) is a 2 to 5, Representative, and a Class III is 3 to 7 with a $10,000 fine."

"So, does this leave this to the discretion of the judge as far as the length of the sentence?" Davis, S.: "I'm sorry, Representative. Speaker, could we get some order, I cannot hear the question? Speaker?"

"Does this leave this to the discretion of the judge in the sentencing as to what the exact length of time would be?" Davis, S.: "Yes, Representative."

"So, in other words, you're trying to increase the penalty from what it currently was. And is there anything else in this Bill besides just increasing the penalty?" Davis, S.: "It... it... it makes it, the offense ineligible for probation, periodic imprisonment or conditional discharge, also."

"I'm sorry, it allows them to be eligible for probation or ineligible for probation?" Davis, S.: "Ineligible for probation. Because these felons, most of them, are already on probation, so why would we want to put them on probation again?"

"All right. And you do not know the difference between the other myriad Bills that are being proposed?" Davis, S.: "Representative, I'm not familiar with the language in those Bills."

"Thank you, Representative."

"Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the 13  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Gentleman from Madison, Representative Hoffman. I might remind you that this Bill is on Short Debate. Representative Hoffman."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative, this is the initiative, I believe, from the Madison County State's Attorney, is that correct?" Davis, S.: "That's correct. And he testified in committee in favor of the Bill."

"And essentially, what this does, is it enhance... enhances convicted felons, who carry... the penalty for convicted felons who commit unlawful use of weapons. Correct?" Davis, S.: "That's correct."

"And it's to... It's my understanding that he, as well as the State's Attorneys Association, the Sheriff's Association, and law enforcement, in general, will need this tool in order to make sure that we're keeping guns out of the hands of convicted felons. Correct?" Davis, S.: "That's correct, Representative."

"I would just say that I believe this is a good vote (sic-Bill). It comes... the genesis comes from incidents that occurred in our area and because of the fact that the prosecutors in this state do not believe they have the tools necessary in order to address guns on the street. So I would ask for an 'aye' vote."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Cook, Representative Durkin."

"Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative, currently, the director of the Illinois State Police has the authority to grant a FOID card to a 14  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 convicted felon some 20 years after the offense for nonviolent crimes. Now, how does that reconcile with this Bill? Are we still going to make those individuals, who are technically felons under the law, it maybe a 25 year old conviction, for possibly a felony theft case, or a forgery offense? Are these people still going to be included or are they going to be excepted out under your Bill? Would they be charged if they had a weapon, even though the director of the State Police did issue them that FOID card? Will they still have some criminal exposure under your Bill?" Davis, S.: "I would believe, that under the language of this Bill, that they would still be charged as a convicted felon. Even after the 20 year period."

"All right. I think though maybe... There are a lot of people... I think there are... presently is a few thousand of those people who have applied and have received the FOID card, the waiver from the director of the State Police. I don't know if that's been... any consideration's been made on that. But perhaps that's something that could be addressed if it goes over to the Senate. I plan on voting for your Bill." Davis, S.: "That is an excellent question..."

"But I think that's a consideration, I don't know if you're aware of, or whether or not it's something we should even worry about." Davis, S.: "That is an excellent question and an excellent point that you bring up. It was something that we had contemplated and I believe that it's something we should look into and address at a future time. I don't disagree with what you're saying."

"Perhaps, we could... Sure, after today, perhaps it would 15  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 be a good idea to call up the director of the State Police and look into that provision. 'Cause there's been a lot of criticism over that particular provision by people who are for handgun control. But I think if, if he is giving that exemption to certain people, then I think we're kind of... we're clashing a little bit as to who we're trying to put into prison, the gang members, the really violent people or the guys who... that... who committed a bad, silly offense, you know, forgery offense, property offense, 25 years ago and they're still going to be susceptible to some type of criminal sanction. No further questions."

"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Davis to close." Davis, S.: "I would just ask for a favorable vote. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."

"You heard the Gentleman's Motion. All those in favor will signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 115, there are 116 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 4 of the Calendar, appears House Bill 19. Representative Lyons. Representative Flowers, for what reason do you rise?"

"Mr. Speaker, I would like for the record to reflect, had I been at my desk, I would have voted on the previous Bill."

"You would have voted..."

"I would have voted 'yes'."

"Yes. The record will so reflect. Representative Lyons..." 16  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Mr. Speaker..."

"... excuse me. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"House Bill 19. A Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Representative Lyons." Lyons, E.: "Thank you Mr. Speaker. House Bill 19 makes an unfunded mandate a funded mandate. When we passed legislation in the last General Assembly, House Bill 452, mandating that school districts who have a social promotion policy and now as a result of that, those school districts who want to take advantage of providing summer school or after hours tutoring, that leaves 90 hours of instruction to remediate, to provide remediation so that students can come up to the criteria to be promoted to the next grade. This Bill allows school districts to apply for reimbursement for providing that remediation. And I would ask for your favorable support and I'll answer any questions. Thank you."

"You've heard the Lady's presentation of her Bill. Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Macoupin, Representative Hannig."

"Yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?"

"She indicates she will."

"Yes, I just have a couple of brief questions, Representative. Does this, this says subject to appropriation. Is that what your intentions are? Is this proposal subject to appropriation by the General Assembly, is that what it says?" Lyons, E.: "Yes. What I propose with this, with this particular Bill is a companion appropriation Bill for $30,000,000."

"That was my next question. It would cost, you estimate it would cost $30,000,000?" 17  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Lyons, E.: "That's only an estimate. We have no idea at this point."

"And my next question is; does this create a state mandate, a local mandate on schools?" Lyons, E.: "This... The mandate has already been established. What this will do, would allow the school districts to apply for the appropriation so that it's not an unfunded mandate, it's a funded one."

"Is this a mandate that school districts now could waive? Could they ask for a waiver from the State Board of Education, by this mandate?" Lyons, E.: "This is not... This is not the mandate."

"No, but I mean the current..." Lyons, E.: "They've already been mandated to establish a social promotion policy."

"And... and that mandate that currently exists, that's already on the books, could that mandate be waived? Could they ask for a waiver?" Lyons, E.: "No. Not that I'm aware of."

"Thank you."

"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the Chair recognizes Representative Lyons to close." Lyons, E.: "I would just ask that you favorably vote... vote favorably for this Bill because, as I said, it is providing a, for those... unfunded mandate that we have placed on school districts, this would allow them the appropriation to fulfill that mandate and I would ask for 'aye' vote."

Speaker Hartke: "You've heard the Lady's Motion. All those in favor will signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed will vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, 18  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 take the record. On House Bill 19, there are 117 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 5 of the Calendar, appears House Bill 357. Representative Hannig. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"House Bill 357, a Bill for an Act to amend the State Finance Act. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. A couple of years ago, we passed legislation as part of the school funding reform that provided for $30,000,000 to be available for the School Technology Revolving Loan Fund. Now there was some problem with the language and the previous comptroller determined that she could not make these grants until we clarified the language. The new Comptroller, Dan Hynes, also reviewed the language and is in agreement with his predecessor. And so, he has come forward with us, to us, with this proposal which clarifies the language so that he can make grants to those school districts who've already applied and who've already been accepted. So, I would ask that we could move this language and this Bill along as quickly as possible, so that those school districts that are already waiting for their money have an opportunity to receive it as quickly as possible. It's been an effort from both sides of the aisle and in committee and I look forward to working with Members on both sides and I'd be happy to answer any questions."

"You've heard the Gentleman's Bill. Is there any discussion? Seeing that... the Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Cook, Representative Giglio."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. I rise in support of House Bill 357 and I would urge the Members 19  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 on the other side of the Capitol, in the Senate to please rush this to Governor Ryan's desk, so our schools can get that money that's been waiting for them. Thank you."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Cook, Representative Parke."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"Sponsor indicates he will."

"Thank you. Representative, why is this necessary? I mean, why can't you just do it anyway, or why is this necessary?"

"Well, Representative, the previous comptroller, Comptroller Didrickson, felt that the language was not clear for her to make this transfer to the revolving fund. And the new comptroller has reviewed the language and also agrees that it is not clear for him to make the transfer. So, now we have a situation where we have appropriations coming from a fund to our school districts, but actually no money going into it. So, this would allow the comptroller to transfer the money into the fund so that we could... we could appropriate it out."

"Well, I mean, isn't this pretty much just stylistic changes? Representative, isn't this sort of... our analysis says there's just a stylistic changes to this. Is this really a vehicle Bill?"

"What we're trying to do, Representative, is allow this program that we set up, to work. We have to make the language legally binding so that the comptroller can have the authority to issue the checks. Both this comptroller and the previous comptroller, do not believe that the language that we enacted a couple of years ago is correct. So we're just perfecting a program that we already 20  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 enacted."

"Well, my understanding is... and I know that... a lot of school districts have submitted requests for this fund. How much is in this fund currently, Representative? How much is in this fund, Representative?"

"Representative, there's a total of up to $30,000,000. And I understand that you have a school district..."

"...yes I do..."

"Community Consolidated School District that's in line to get $573,100,000..."

"...It's a wonderful district..."

"...as soon as the Governor can sign this Bill."

"I know it's a wonderful district, but my understanding is that you can already do this. I thought the comptroller agreed that they had the statutory authority to do it and just said they can do it. Why do we have to do legislation to do this?"

"Representative, I think the point is, that this comptroller and the previous comptroller both agree that we need additional clarifying language before they can issue the checks and that's what we're tempting to do in this Bill. To clarify that they can clearly make this transfer so that they can send this money to the school districts."

"Well, that's what we all want. But I'm not sure that this Bill does that. It looks to me like it's a vehicle Bill to be determined later. We don't know what that later is. Why don't you just hold this Bill until you can tell us, really what you're going to do and tell us the... why... tell us factually what this Bill will do and I just don't why..."

"...Representative, my intention..."

"...move it along." 21  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"... is to send this Bill to the Senate and have them send it on to the Governor so he can sign it and the comptroller can issue the checks. It's that simple. I have a school district that's waiting for money, as well. And I think there are a number of colleagues on both sides of the aisle who have school districts that are waiting for these checks and the comptroller simply does not have the authority to issue these... this... these checks until we perfect the language through this Bill."

"Well, Representative, I guess it's a matter of semantics. We believe you do have the authority, you don't need this, but if he's not going to take action, and as I said, I have a school district related to this, and others do too. Then I guess you'll move it along, regardless of what we say and not hold it. And I hope that the compromise you work with the Senate, ultimately does what you want, but the sooner the better. I think you could do this now and issue those checks now, without this. And now what you're doing is, you're making my school districts wait longer because you have some kind of a misunderstanding, or you don't think you have the statutory effect. We think you do. And so, I guess we'll just have to have those school districts wait longer, cause the Democratic Comptroller doesn't feel like they have the authority. Thank you."

"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Hannig to close."

"Yes. This is really not a partisan Bill. There are school districts on both sides of the aisle throughout the state that need this money. Comptroller Didrickson made the ruling that she needed this language. Comptroller Hynes agrees. So both sides of the aisle, who have had that position as comptroller agree that we need to perfect 22  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 the language. I think we need to go forward and do it and this Bill does. And I'd ask for a 'yes' vote."

"You've heard the Gentleman's Motion. All those in favor of House Bill 357 will indicate by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 357, there are 116 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 4 of the Calendar, appears House Bill 33. Representative Poe, would you like to call your Bill? Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 33. A Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Representative Poe..."

"...Mr. Speaker. Today, I got a Bill here that we passed out of the House last year, 117 to 0. It's a domestic violence Bill. It amends the Criminal Code of 1961 and increases the mandatory minimum penalty for a person that's convicted of an offense of a domestic battery. A Class A misdemeanor provides that all persons convicted of a domestic battery shall be required to serve at least 48 hours in jail. Thank you."

"Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Representative Crotty."

"Thank you. I really need an electrician at my button. It is not working. Otherwise, I won't be able to be voting at all today, so... And in that last Bill, would you please mark me as a 'yes?'"

Speaker Hartke: "The record will so indicate. Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from 23  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Madison, Representative Hoffman."

"Thank you, Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative, this essentially is the same Bill that we passed out, you indicated, last year... was it last Session or the Session before?"

"It was two years ago."

"And if I remember correctly at that time, this was an initiative of the Coalition Against Domestic Violence, is that... is that correct?"

"Yes. Still is."

"I wasn't in your committee. Were there any opponents to the legislation, do you recall?"

"No, Sir."

"Well, it's my understanding..."

"Wait a minute, whoa. It's not on my sheet, but I think the State Bar might be opposed to it."

"Okay. It's my understanding that the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence is in favor of this, but there's, I guess some different schools of thought within the domestic violence... anti-domestic violence community as to whether they're for or against this Bill. But I can't remember exactly what, who's for it, who's against it. I'm not trying to hurt your Bill in any way. I just would like the Members on this side of the aisle to be voting intelligently on the issue. Do you recall...?"

"Does your staff analysis list those?"

"No. No it doesn't."

"Our staff analysis, it doesn't list anyone at all either."

"Okay. Well basically, I'm in support of the legislation. Essentially, what it... what it does is that... I think it addresses an issue to try and ensure 24  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 that there is a deterrent effect when we attempt to enforce domestic battery laws here in this state. Now, we're talking about... when we talk about the 48 consecutive hours of imprisonment, we're talking about county jail time. We're not talking about in the Department of Corrections. Is that right?"

"Yes, Sir."

"So, when you say the term 'imprisonment' you're not talking about imprisonment in the Department of Corrections Facility, you're talking about a local facility."

"Yes, Sir."

"Now, do the Sheriffs' Association, have they taken any position for or against the Bill?"

"No."

"Like I indicated, I think that this addresses a need that we need to address; however, for the people on our side of the aisle, maybe someone could enlighten us a little bit more as to what the others, why somebody might be opposed to this. Thank you, Representative."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Representative Mulligan. The Chair recognizes Representative Black."

"Mr. Speaker, I don't want to interrupt the debate on this Bill. I do have an inquiry of the Chair. If you'd come back to me after we complete action on this Bill, I'd appreciate it."

Speaker Hartke: "Will do. Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Representative Ronan."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"I appreciate Representative Hoffman raising some of these concerns and I must tell you, there is some disagreement, 25  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 and I don't claim to be an expert in this area, but I do know that the Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women's Network have traditionally been against mandatory arrest. And I just wanted to raise that now. And I think their rationale was that if this were the case, it could be a disincentive for women to call the police, if they knew jail time would come. I'm... I know that didn't testify in committee..."

"This isn't mandatory arrest, this is mandatory sentence, after a conviction."

"So, this is just after a conviction?"

"Yes."

"Well, I think... So, would you please, could you just describe... "

"...what, now..."

"...the specifics of it please?"

"Now, it's more or less at the discretion of the judge, when he sentences the person after a conviction. What this would do now is, put a minimum of 48 hours sentence after the conviction. It has nothing to do with the arrest."

"Okay. Yes, so, it's just 48 hours, kind of a cooling down period is the thinking?"

"Yes."

"Okay. All right. Well, thank you for describing that and have you heard from other groups throughout the state? Have other groups been talking to you about this besides the Illinois Coalition?"

"No, Ma'am."

"Okay, with your permission, I'd like the... to ask the Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women's Network to maybe give you a call and look at this and..."

"Okay."

"But, I support your Bill and thank you for working on 26  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 this very important issue."

"Thank you."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Representative Davis. Monique Davis." Davis, M.: "Thank you. Representative, you're yielding for questions?"

"He'll yield." Davis, M.: "Thank you. If a lady or if a woman calls the police and states that she's being or has been beaten by her husband, is that correct? Then she... there's a court hearing, is that correct?"

"This Bill has nothing to do with the arrest." Davis, M.: "It has to do with when the judge sentences the person?"

"Right." Davis, M.: "So, you're asking us to take any discretion away from the judge. You are saying, that no matter what the circumstances may be, no matter what those circumstances are, that this person has to be incarcerated for a minimum of two days?"

"Explain, if a judge has the discretion before the... before the conviction to use his discretionary where he can be court supervised. So, the judge has that option before he either found guilty or innocent." Davis, M.: "The judge has the discretion of..."

"Under a Class A misdemeanor, the judge has the discretion to do court supervision before judgment." Davis, M.: "He can give court supervision or incarceration, is that correct?"

"Or conviction." Davis, M.: "Well, I mean, if he's got court supervision, he'd have to be convicted, wouldn't he?" 27  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Court supervision becomes before the conviction." Davis, M.: "My question to you, Representative, is, at what point is it mandated that this person spends two...?"

"I'm... I need to be corrected. Because that law doesn't apply to the one we're talking to under domestic battery. You're right, supervision can't be given." Davis, M.: "Are you asking, Representative?"

"No. I'm telling you, I've been corrected." Davis, M.: "Okay. I understand."

"That... that..." Davis, M.: "Supervision cannot be given in a domestic battery case..."

"...domestic violence situations." Davis, M.: "But you're mandating that a person convicted of domestic violence, the judge can't say probation, or the judge can't sentence to counseling, or you know, you're saying, and if the wife says, 'well it's never happened before and I don't think it'll happen again.' You're saying this person must spend a minimum of 48 hours in a jail?"

"Yes. And the reason we want to do this is a deterrent, we hope, that would stop this. This is one of the fastest growing crimes committed." Davis, M.: "You know, Representative, to the Bill. I should vote for this, but I can't. And the reason I can't is: 1.) The jail in the City of Chicago, in the County of Cook, is severely overcrowded. It's severely overcrowded. Now my question is, where will these people... not that there may be, I don't know how many there are, you may know. Where are they to... to go? I mean, are we going to build some new jails for them?"

"My concern is over battered women. My concern's over 28  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 children in jeopardy, and those kinds of things. I think that's probably up to the department... " Davis, M.: "... so, if a judge... a judge hears this case, and he decides, he says, 'Well, I'm looking at this person's record. I'm going to base my decision on the information that comes before me.' We're taking all of that discretion away from that judge and we're saying, we are mandating, we are mandating, no matter what those circumstances might have been, we are mandating that you spend 48 hours in a jail cell."

"Yes Ma'am..." Davis, M.: "I'm not sure, I'm not sure that's a deterrent and the reason is domestic violence is a very complicated issue. It's usually not planned and thought out. It's usually something that is a result of an emotional situation. It's wrong, it's harmful. But I really hesitate to determine what all of the basis of these conditions might be and taking all discretion away from that judge. And the reason I do, Representative, is, many times, even though this person has committed a domestic violence act, they still work, they still bring home dollars. So, now we're going to set up a situation where they're going to miss work, perhaps lose a job because they miss work. And perhaps create more havoc for that family. As much as I detest domestic violence, I still believe this issue is important enough. It's serious. It's significantly serious, when we talk about family life, that we should leave this up to the discretion of that judge. And I urge a 'no' vote."

"Thank you, Representative Davis. I might remind the Members that this Bill is on Short Debate and I've extended it too, out of courtesy. But if we're going to move these Bills along, we should bring our remarks brief 29  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 and to the point. The Chair recognizes Representative Harris."

"Mr. Speaker. And to the point. Representative, does this include battered men also?"

"It would be on any conviction of domestic violence."

"Thank you."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair sees that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Poe to close."

"Yeah. I would just like to say that this Bill did pass out of here unanimous the last time, and I'd appreciate a 'yes' vote."

"You've heard the Gentleman's Motion. All those in favor will signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed will vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 33, there are 112 Members voting 'yes'; 2 Members voting 'no', and 1 Member voting 'present'. And this Bill having received a Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. Representative Black, I indicated that I would get back to you. For what reason do you rise?"

"Yes. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. An inquiry of the Chair."

"State your inquiry."

"And I'm not picking on any Member. I think it has more to do with the noise level in the chamber, but I've noticed already today, we've had two Members get up and say, 'I want the record to reflect, I voted 'yes' on the Bill' and you say, 'it will be so recorded.' Now, it's my understanding that the Journal will say, had they been present, they would have... would have voted 'yes', but they're recorded as having not voted. Isn't that correct?" 30  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"That is correct. The record..."

"All right. But the Journal will reflect that they... because when you said it will be so recorded, I thought we were changing the rules and saying, well you could come back and later change your vote, and I know that we've not been able to do that for a number of years."

"I don't recall exactly what I said, but you're absolutely correct. If I did state that..."

"Okay."

"...the Journal would reflect that 'had they been present..."

"All right."

"... they would have voted yes."

"And it's no reflection on... on you, Mr. Speaker, you do an excellent job. But I do think we wouldn't have to have that done, if when we're on Third Reading, you would be kind enough to ring the bell on each Bill and bring some order in the chamber. Third Reading is what we get paid to do. And I think we should be at our desks and vote our switch and maybe we wouldn't have to do repeated Motions to the Chair had we been at our switch, we would have voted 'yea' or 'nay'. I think when we're on Third Reading, we ought to get to a little more business-like atmosphere in the House."

Speaker Hartke: "Thank you for the advice. We did ring the bell as we started Third Reading. We still are on Third Reading. I rang it three times. Check your hearing aid. On page 4 of the Calendar appears, House... on Third Reading, appears House Bill 164. Representative Lang. This Bill is on Short Debate. Representative Lang. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 164, a Bill for an Act amending the 31  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Illinois Act on Aging. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Representative Lang."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This Bill involves the Meals On Wheels Program and provides that everyone who qualifies for home delivered meals, under the Federal Older Americans Act, should receive the services subject to appropriation. It also provides that by January 1 of each year, the Department on Aging will provide to us, and to the Illinois Council on Aging, estimates of the funds necessary to fund the program completely. This does not mean we have to fund every person who qualifies, but it means we should identify who qualifies and determine what it would cost to take care of their needs, if we chose, as a General Assembly, to fully fund the Meals on Wheels Program. I know that the seniors in your district would appreciate this and I would ask for your support."

"You've heard the Gentleman's Bill presented. Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, this Bill's on Short Debate. I just have one or two questions of the Sponsor. I think we've all voted for this Bill in the past, so I would we not debate it for the next 15 minutes. The only question I have of the Sponsor, 'Are we creating an expectation for service that we may then in fact, not deliver?'"

"I don't think so, Representative. I think we have a responsibility to determine who qualifies. Two years ago, I believe, we had a special supplemental appropriation to put more money into the Meals On Wheels Program and that took care of some numbers of thousands of people. But I think 32  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 we should know if there is 75,000 that qualify, if we're only taking care of 10,000. If there's a hundred thousand that qualify, if we're only taking care of 8,000. We should know whether we're doing a quality job in this area. Now the funds we do supply, the people we do take care of, we do very much of a quality job. But I think we need to have a better handle on who is being helped and who is not."

"So, would it be your intent then Representative, if in fact, the figures show that, we have a shortfall of 70,000 people, then the safeguard in your Bill is that we then have to decide, 'Are we going to appropriate to do the full service under the Act, or we may have to back off?' I mean, there obviously must be some safeguard in your intent."

"Well that's why it says, 'Subject to appropriation'. So ultimately we will have to decide how much of this we're going to fund." Black "Fine. Thank you very much, Representative. As I said earlier, this Bill passed out unanimously a year ago. And I think the idea is sound and the Representative is on the right track. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."

"Further brief discussion? The Chair recognizes Representative Parke from Cook."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Thank you, Representative Lang. Have... has there been a fiscal note filed on this?"

"Yes, Representative."

"And what was the result of the fiscal note?"

"The... it simply says, 'the only concern is that if the annual assessment presents increasing need for meals, then 33  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 an additional budget pressures may be created.' But there's no dollar amount on it, Sir."

"Do you know what the minimum amount of people might be falling through the cracks that your Bill will be addressing? Can you give us... ?"

"I do not, but I think we're all aware that there are quite a few people that are falling through the cracks now. What the Bill will do is enable us to determine how many there are, because the statistics will have to be compiled and then we can make a determination through the budget process as to whether we believe more seniors should be able to avail themselves of these services."

"Well, I just, I think the underlying Bill has merit, but I'm just concerned on how much money it's going cost us to do this. And then with the strains on the budget for trying to give so much more new money to education, how much money will be left for other services and other agencies is a genuine concern that I have and I think this Body ought to. So, we continue to keep putting out Bills that affect the other services and to some degree, I think we should. There is a real strain on our budget now, with the commitments that the Legislature and the Executive Branch has made to provide so much more funding to education that Bills like this one that affects our seniors may not be able to get as funded as well because we may not have the revenues available, which is something I think that this Body needs to start thinking about is that with the commitment of giving so much more money to education, what's left for all the other agencies and other services and needs that this state has. Thank you, Representative."

"Representative Lang to close."

"Thank you. I don't disagree with the previous speaker, 34  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 except to say that that's why we put 'subject to appropriation' in the Bill. So, ultimately this Body will have to decide how many people will be eligible for Meals on Wheels through our appropriations process. I think this will give us a good handle on who is getting it, who is not getting it. I would ask your help."

Speaker Hartke: "You've heard the Gentleman's Motion. All those in favor of House Bill 164 will indicate by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 164, there are 116 Members voting 'yes'; 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill having received the Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. For what reason does Representative Erwin seek recognition?"

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on a point of personal privilege. I would like all my colleagues to join me in wishing my office mate, Ricca Slone, a happy birthday, which is actually tomorrow. She was nice enough to bring you some nutritional treats for her birthday. Happy birthday."

"Happy birthday, Representative Slone. On page 4 of the Calendar appears House Bill 135. Representative Lindner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 135. A Bill for an Act concerning appropriation Bills. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Representative Lindner."

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, I mean Mr. Speaker. House Bill 135 creates the Agency Appropriation Act requiring separate legislative Bills for appropriations to each state agency. This was brought because of frustration on both 35  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 sides of the aisle of doing a large omnibus budget Bill that we have no time to read or before we vote on it. And this Bill did pass the House last year 114 with 2 'present' and 2 'absences'. So, I would ask for a favorable vote again."

"Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Cook, Representative Schoenberg."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This excellent suggestion, which passed the House last year has been adopted in this year's rules. And I agree with Representative Lindner that we need to codify this practice into law in order to insure that we're getting the most out of our taxpayer dollars. And I'm pleased to be a cosponsor of this measure. Thank you."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Lindner seeks a 'yes' vote on her Bill. All those in favor of House Bill 135 will indicate by voting 'yes'; those opposed 'no'. The polling is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 135, there are 116 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill having received a Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. Page 5 of the Calendar appears House Bill 275. Representative Burke. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"House Bill 275. A Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Thank you, Speaker. On the face of this legislation it might appear that it would be rather frivolous, but in committee I had suggested to Members, I had a request from former Members, that were seeking to be qualified for retired Member plates. This would change the requirement, 36  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 limit it to bring it down to two years rather than the previous six in age requirements previous. Similar to the vanity plates that exist in our state, these retired Members having served two years in the General Assembly would be paying that premium cost for vanity plates, which is $125.00 to initially qualify and then $58.00 annually. So there would be no additional cost to the state, in fact, there is additional revenue generated. And I'd be happy to answer any questions."

"You have heard the Gentleman present his Bill. Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Kendall, Representative Cross."

"Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative, as you know, a little loud in here. Retired Members?"

"That's correct."

Clerk Bolin: "Any retired Members are eligible for a license plate?"

"Having served two years in the General Assembly."

"Where would the former esteemed Member from Southern Illinois, Representative... former Representative Bradford, fit into this?"

"Representative Burke?"

"Inquiry of the Chair? Did that individual serve here for two years?

"I'd... is there a definition of 'serve'?"

"Well, I know I might have to make a call to the local pizza parlor to see how many pizza's were actually served... that's what was served here. Pizza."

"Delivery would count, as well. If he was acting on delivery capacity." 37  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Delivered. Delivered."

"Oh, we certainly wouldn't want him to be without a plate. Nor do we want him to serve anymore. We like who you have here now."

"And, it's... it's not the vehicle plate you're referring to, is it? It's the dinner plate that you're talking about."

"Well, then he would certainly qualify. He has many, many years. Well, once again, I think, his successor and predecessor is doing a lot better job. Thank you."

"Mr. Cross, your inquiry? The Clerk indicates that he did not serve two years."

"Well, I guess those questions are moot. I apologize"

"Speaker, in other words that... Speaker, another inquiry."

"Yes, Sir."

"Follow up on that inquiry? So in other words, that individual would not qualify for these plates? Thank you."

Speaker Hartke: "That is correct. According to the Clerk. Representative Cross."

"He's not going to attempt to amend this Bill to have him qualified, is he? I'd like to know his intentions."

Speaker Hartke: "The Sponsor indicates that he will not seek to attempt this for that provision."

"Thank you."

"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Burke to close."

"Thank you again, Speaker. Literally, it's just a matter that was brought to my attention from some former Members that are so vain as to think that having a retired General Assembly plate on their car will give them some privilege that they otherwise wouldn't enjoy on the streets. I 38  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 sometimes find it to be more of a burden than it is a benefit that everyone knows where you're at, like Mr. Morrow here from Chicago. So, I would ask that we consider the request of our former colleagues and give them this privilege to spend additional dollars for this particular vanity plate."

Speaker Hartke: "The Gentleman has asked for favorable consideration on House Bill 275. All those in favor will indicate by voting 'yes'; those opposed voting 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 275, there were 91 Members voting 'yes', 24 voting 'no' and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill having received a Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. On page 4 of the Calendar appears House Bill 240. Representative Black. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 240. A Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. Third Reading of this House Bill."

Speaker Hartke: "Could we give our attention to Representative Black?"

"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect I intended to call this Bill. House Bill 240 simply amends the Public Aid Code, and increases the cap on payments authorized from public aid funds for a public aid funeral from the current $650.00 to $1000.00 and for a cemetery burial from the current $325.00 to $500.00. It's effective immediately. The Bill had a very full and fair hearing in committee. It passed out of committee on unanimous vote. I think this is the least we can do for somebody who is on public aid. The last thing we do should have a measure of 39  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 dignity attached to it. I'd be more than happy to answer any questions that you have and I would ask for a favorable vote."

"The Representative has explained his Bill. Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Madison, Representative Hoffman."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"Reluctantly, he indicates he will."

"I just have a brief question. I know, I agree with the Bill and I think almost everybody does. I think it's long overdue. But the budget implications, was that in the proposed budget? The money?"

"I don't know if it's in the Governor's proposal. I do know that Representative Saviano has filed a Bill that would appropriate the funds for this fiscal year to do this. Because it does have an immediate effective date."

"And how much are we talking about, Representative?"

"I believe Representative Saviano's Bill and I would defer to him. I believe that was $2,000,000."

"Okay. Thank you very much."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? Seeing that no one is... the Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Madison County, Representative Steve Davis." Davis, S.: "Yes. Thank you, Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will." Davis, S.: "Representative Black, what's the fiscal impact of the Bill?"

"You know, Representative, with apologies to you, nobody requested a fiscal note. I know the Department of Human Services did oppose the Bill, based on cost. But I don't think, excuse me just a minute, I might have the answer. The department estimated a cost of 3.3 million, $3,300,000 40  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 additional in FY2000." Davis, S.: "Per year, and..."

"Per year." Davis, S.: "Okay. Can I ask you, Representative Black, does the cost... does this Bill address the cost of the headstone, on the burial plot itself, do you... are you addressing..."

"Only..." Davis, S.: "... Are we addressing that at all in this Bill?"

"No. Well only if the cemetery burial would include the cost of a headstone. It's my understanding that most of them don't. The Bill is silent as to a marker." Davis, S.: "Okay. Thank you very much. I support the Bill. I think it's a good Bill."

"I thank you, Representative." Davis, S.: "And I believe that we need to increase the fees. Thank you very much."

"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Black to close."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I think the very fact that the department issued an emergency rule last September allowing someone on public aid to maintain $4,000 in a pre-paid funeral plan, other than the old amount of $1,500 is prima facie evidence that they realized that the cost of a funeral has increased. And to keep the current rates in effect, could very well, and I don't say this to scare anybody. But it could happen in some areas where funeral homes just simply would say 'I'm not going to take the individual. I'm losing a thousand dollars or more dollars on this funeral. I'm not going to do it.' And in those counties without a morgue or without some sort of resource to handle that at the taxpayer expense, I would hesitate and hate to say what 41  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 the solution might be. I think it's a reasonable cost. I think the department by it's emergency rule making last September understands that these costs have increased. This is the last thing we can do with somebody. I think a measure of dignity is long overdue. And I urge an 'aye' vote."

Speaker Hartke: "The Gentleman has asked for favorable consideration on House Bill 240. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 240, there are 115 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill having received a Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. On page 5 of the Calendar appears House Bill 340. Representative Mautino. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 340. A Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Justice Information Act. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Representative Mautino."

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, (sic-Speaker) Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 340 adds a member to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. We had this legislation last year. It will add the Director of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standard Board. And we passed this out unanimously from committee and from the House last year and this year, as well. Be happy to answer any questions."

"Representative Mautino."

"Yes. I'm done." 42  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Excuse me, I was detracted here."

"Appreciate your 'aye' votes."

"Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the Gentleman has asked for favorable consideration of House Bill 340. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 340, there are 115 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill having received a Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. Someone indicated to me that we have a stranger on the floor, and we would ask maybe that he check with the doorman if he should be here or not. Senator Noland. On page 5 of the Calendar appears House Bill 343. Representative Durkin. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."

"House Bill 343. A Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. House Bill 343 does two things. First of all, it creates a crime of directing a laser on a peace officer. It makes it a Class A misdemeanor and also the Bill will include an Amendment to the Extended Term Sentencing Code under the Unified Code of Corrections. Which will make it a qualifying... a qualifier for extended term sentencing if you commit a felony with a laser-sited weapon. The reason why I've created this crime is that there's been a growing problem of people using laser pointers, and particularly are... directing them at... on peace officers. And unfortunately, police officers don't know if whether or not someone is playing a joke on them or if it's a gun with a laser. And if you talk to anybody who is a police officer, I've talked to one who got shot four 43  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 times. I prosecuted the guy who shot a Chicago police officer four times with a laser scope. It's a very terrifying thing for police officers have to go through. And they should... if they're going to use them, they should be used responsibly. In some of these situations they're not. They tried to arrest somebody three weeks ago with aggravated assault, and unfortunately, the statute did not provide for that type of offense. So, I think this will cure up any problems in the future. But I think police officers will welcome this Bill and I will entertain any questions."

"The Gentleman has explained his legislation. Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Madison, Representative Hoffman."

"Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Yes, Representative. Excuse me. It's my understanding under the original Bill, there was something in here about simple possession of a laser. Is that... laser pointer... is that...?"

"The Bill was amended and there was a provision which would have made the possession of a laser attached to a gun would have been, similar to having a silencer, a Class III felony. And after consideration I felt that that was not exactly what I was trying to get at. I eliminated that provision and also the provision which would have prohibited the sale to underaged children. So, it's strictly only doing two things. You are just creating the offense of aiming a laser at a peace officer and also making it a possibility for extended-term sentencing if a laser-site is attached to a weapon which is used in the course of a felony." 44  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Okay. The... first of all, so now the Bill doesn't address the issue of minors with the laser pointers at all. Like Representative Blagojevich, I think, former Representative Blagojevich, now Congressman, has done something, I believe I saw in the Chicago _______________ Tribune something about children and laser pointers or kids and laser pointers..."

"...No. No, I think Representative Blagojevich and myself, probably are sphere's apart on ideology on certain issues, but the fact is, you know, they are an annoyance... some kids are using irresponsibly, if you go to a theatre, you go to a concert. I'm not concerned about that. What I'm concerned about is someone who directs it at a police officer and he's got to be in a situation where he's going to have to draw his weapon. And unfortunately there's going to be a situation in which he's going to draw his weapon, he's going to fire a gun, and it's going to be somebody who's playing around and being cute. And that's happening all over the city right now."

"Right."

" So, I think that this is the type of thing that needs to be sanctioned."

"So essentially, this does two things. First of all, it creates the Class A misdemeanor if you point it at a police officer, and I understand from reading the Bill, that it says, 'knows or reasonably should know that it's a police officer', is that right?"

"That's correct."

"Now. My only concern, I guess with that, I'm for the Bill. I think it's a good... it's a good move, but the terminology 'reasonably should have known that he's a police officer' may create some problems when police 45  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 officers may not be wearing a uniform or something like that."

"Well, I think the case law is quite... say the situation that it does come up in a courtroom and there is an instruction that there has to be a knowing requirement that this person... has knowledge that this person is a police officer. That's the only way you're going to be able to secure a conviction under this offense. That is what we do with other types of situations where we say there's an aggravated battery to a police officer. There has to be a know..., that person who's being charged has to know that this person is a peace officer or police officer in that situation."

"Yes, I understand that. My only concern, a little bit, is with the phrasing 'reasonably should have known' when you're dealing with undercover police officers."

"Well, that's the... well you know, if the person doesn't, you know, all of a sudden say, 'no, I didn't know it was a police officer', but unfortunately if he's five feet away from him, and he goes, and the guy's got his badge on. I mean, if the person denies that he was shooting, aiming it in the direction of a police officer, it's up to the state then, to prove through circumstantial evidence that he, that it was a police officer. And that's why that language is in there."

"And then, it's, then the second part of this is if, it allows for extended terms, if the weapon that is used in the commission of an offense, has one of these laser scopes on it. Is that correct?"

"Absolutely. That's correct."

"Now that doesn't require any type of action against a police officer. That's used in any type of an offense." 46  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"That is just using it. If someone uses it in an armed robbery, if someone shoots someone and they are charged with an attempt first degree murder, aggravated battery, it will allow for the sentence to be doubled under the extended terms sentencing. Let's say, aggravated battery with a firearm carries a 6 to 30 range penalty. Now, if that person is convicted, the possibility, I mean the judge can go up to 60 years, 'cause it is an aggravating factor under the extended term sentencing."

"Right. Well, I'd like to compliment you. I had some concerns about the original legislation. I think that you've narrowed this such, that it addresses an issue. It's a tough issue to deal with for us as Legislators, as well as society in general. Because these things do have a valid purpose. However, they're being used irresponsibly and unfortunately deaths are occurring. So."

"Exactly, that's the reason why I was doing it. I mean, it's... people are going to be, it will be annoying in certain situations in movie theaters. But if you place it on a police officer, I think that there, you are putting yourself in a very, very difficult situation and if you ever talk to a police officer who's been shot, and lived through it, who's been shot with a laser scope, it's a very terrifying thing. There was a Chicago police officer shot about a month ago, who was killed with a laser scope weapon. He can't test... he can't tell us about it. But I know a guy, who, and I tried the case, and it's a very chilling effect what it has on police officers. And I think we owe that amount of protection to them."

"And I urge an 'aye' vote."

Speaker Hartke: "This Bill is on Short Debate and there are several Members seeking recognition. Is it your will to 47  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 continue the discussion? The Chair recognizes Representative Giles."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Representative (sic-Sponsor) yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative, I believe I understand the purpose of the legislation. You want to try to prevent individuals that are using laser pointers towards an officer with the intent of just simply playing around and we do not want that officer to draw that weapon and to think that that may actually be a laser from one of the guns that we know that use lasers. However, do you have any statistics on individuals that have actually used a laser on police officers?"

"Well, I'll tell you what, there was Officer McKnight was killed in Chicago about a month and a half ago, with a laser scope. I tried a case in which a defendant by the name of Walter 'Tank' Carter is now serving 20 years in the Department of Corrections for shooting an officer at 51st and Prairie with a laser scope attached to a semi-automatic gun. And, there was an issue that was brought to me by a Hillside detective, in which he had the scope pointed on him, he's the one who said, 'Could you do something about this? There's nothing that prohibits this.' And the thing is, that he drew his weapon and it was a very, it was a difficult thing for him to do. And the thing is someone was playing around with it and being cute. But the thing is, it forces police officers to take, do something in which they don't want to do is to draw their weapon. But the thing is, I know of three situations so far."

"Okay, help me to understand. Maybe I'm thinking something different when I'm looking at, when I'm talking 48  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 about laser pointers. I'm talking about a little pen item that you could buy from a store that when you turn it, you will see a laser light, which individuals use during meetings or giving presentations in which the lights are turned out and this little laser light is very apparent to point out detailed information during a presentation. Am I correct? Is that what we talking about?"

"Absolutely."

"Okay."

"If you use it, there's no problem with people using them in the proper way. But if you're going to be reckless and you're going to direct it at a peace officer, I think that there needs to be punished."

"So. So, we have a situation where is it's a very sunny day outside and we have a kid comes outside with one of these laser pointers that have gotten from my upstairs in my office and they have gotten this laser pointer and come outside and begins to play with. And once they begin to play with that laser and they, they're playing with their friends and they may accidently shine that laser pointer around and just so happens the police... officer of the peace is around, and they... that laser get pointed at that police officer, maybe purposely, jokingly, or maybe accidently. So, you're telling me at this particular time, that that young person is in violation and will be subject to the fines and penalties of your legislation."

"Well, first of all, we have an intentional and knowing requirement. And second of all, with every other thing in which we create a criminal offense, I mean that there's a sense of proportionality and that's it's a question of enforcement with the police officer. I mean, I think on your situation if someone is playing around recklessly, 49  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 that does not fit into this offense. However, if someone... what I'm talking about is a situation, you know, a police officer is walking down an alleyway at night and all of a sudden a beam comes on, I mean, he's going grab a gun and it's someone laughing in the corner at him. And that's the, I mean, I'm getting at the situations where young people are being careless and they are just flailing with the beam. That is not what this statute, it does not make that a penalty. It does not make that a crime."

"Well, that's the reason why I asked the question. I want that to be emphasized, because there are situations where an innocent child will take one of these, attractive and the pen is a little heavy so, it's something that is very attractive to them and they may turn it on to see there's a light. And then they begin to play with that and we don't want..."

"Well, it's just like anything else. Like a house knife or something along those lines. The question is, if your being careless and the thing is that's the situation we're trying to avoid."

"Sure, could you tell me exactly, once again, what is the penalties for... that's been imposed?"

"Directing it at a police officer..."

"...sure..."

"...is a Class A misdemeanor which, it's a probationable offense. It is something at the most maximum..."

"...so, you're saying it's simply a slap on the hand..."

"...penalty, if anybody, if it was ever enforced would be up to 1 year in county jail or a $1000 fine."

"...simply a slap on the hand, don't do it again."

"Well, a little bit more than that..."

"...a little bit more than that?" 50  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Absolutely. It's a Class A misdemeanor, similar to, with aggravated assault, which is a threat with a handgun is a Class A misdemeanor."

"Let me just say in closing, to the speaker, I understand, Representative, what you're trying to do. I, my only concern is I don't want a child to accidently take one of these laser pointers out just for fun and all of a sudden we wind up and this individual is being charged with a misdemeanor Class A offense. And that's something serious. We have incidents in the City of Chicago and maybe not in some parts of the State of Illinois, in which young individuals get accused wrongly because they may fit the situation. I'm just a little concerned about it. I understand what you're really trying to do. And that is to prevent anyone from pointing a laser pointer at someone because they will intend that this is a pointer from a gun. And so, I support the legislation, just looking at it. But I still have some reservations and I don't want an innocent child to get shot by a police with their 38 because a kid was playing with a laser pointer."

"Well I don't want it either. But the fact is I want to ensure..., make sure that people should not be doing this type of thing, because it's going to put an officer in a very difficult situation where he's going to have... he's doesn't know whether someone is playing or whether someone's got a laser scope weapon on him. Because there are police officers being shot with laser sights. Thank you very much."

"Thank you, Representative."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black."

"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. An inquiry of the 51  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Chair. Since this was on Short Debate, would it be, is it my understanding the Chair would rather we take this off Short Debate, rather than let something go on and on and on in violation of Short Debate Rules?"

"Yes, I would appreciate that."

"I would... joined by the appropriate number in citing the applicable rule, I move to take the Bill off Short Debate."

"Denied."

"Well, some things never change, Mr. Speaker."

"Wait a minute. Wait a minute. I just happen to see seven hands. So go ahead. This Bill is taken off Short Debate."

"Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield? Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Representative, I have no, there's no doubt in my mind that this Bill will get 100 or more votes. And I'm going to follow up on the previous Representative's questioning. As I read your Amendment, and I do some lecturing, not much, but some lecturing at community college in the state. And if I'm giving a lecture and I use a laser pointer, and I turn around to make a point of emphasis and I point my laser at a peace officer, in full uniform, and say, you know, 'Now what's the answer to the question?' Am I not, technically, in violation of this law?"

"It's a question of enforcement, you could."

"Well, the Amendment seems silent as to what the intent of my use of the laser pointer is."

"Well, we could always change that and make that as I was discussing 'who is performing...?'"

"Well, I, sure..."

"in the performance of his duties. But..." 52  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"I think I know what you're after, but what I don't want to get into is the, you know, this is a very litigious society that we live in. I don't want to get into the point where the legal and lawful use of a laser pointer in a lecture hall or even in a police training institute, where somebody might point the laser at a police officer and the police officer says, 'I take offense at that and furthermore, I'm going to the state's attorney. You have no right to point that at me.'"

"Well, I agree with your concern, but I think it's, once again, it's like with every other criminal Bill, it's a matter of enforcement and the intent is..."

"...okay..."

"...I mean that I'm trying to provide the intent..."

"...okay, well, I think that's the key..."

"...of what I'm getting at. I'd be more than happy to move it back to Second to address the..."

"...What the intent is..."

"...the intent is not... in those types of situation is when an officer is acting in the course of his duty..."

"...okay...sure."

"...and someone is..."

"...okay, sure and I..."

"...that's what I'm trying to get. That's the intent of it..."

"...well, I think in 99% of the cases, there would be no question, but, but here again knowing how litigious we are, one never knows."

"Well, I understand that. I think it's a..."

"...okay..."

"...enforcement aspect..."

"...okay... that's the only other question I have then, 53  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 and I think your Amendment addresses this. If I have already purchased a competition target handgun, with a laser sight, I can continue to use that in a lawful way. I do not have to take off..."

"Absolutely."

"Okay, because, it didn't... I thought the original Bill would make my laser sight illegal."

"That is a Bill which is not... not going to be called. I..."

"...okay... so..."

"All this Bill does, it makes it, for someone who uses a weapon that has a laser sight attached to it..."

"...In violation of the law..."

"...in the comm... in the course of a felony..."

"...okay..."

"...they use that weapon, it is possible that they will be sentenced to an extended term sentence, which is double..."

"...Yes, good..."

"...of the minimum sentence..." Black "...that's fine and certainly have no qualm with that whatsoever, but I did have a couple of competition shooters, who were concerned that their, very expensive investment in the competition firearm..."

"...sure..."

"...would suddenly be illegal. So, that's, that's not..."

"...no... no"

"Thank you. Thank you very much, Representative."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Jackson, Representative Bost."

"Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will." 54  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"Now, I just... you've... now you've answered most of the questions and I appreciate that and I agree with your Bill. I just want to confirm a few things. For instance, in this House, a few years ago, one of those laser pointers showed up and it moved around the House. At that time, Representative Saltzman was in the chamber. Now he is a known police officer. That would show up on him and that could be a violation?"

"If we are going to strictly define every law which we have in the State in Illinois, obviously there's, that situation could be. But like I said, the intent and what we are going to is the enforcement of this action, and I see you're smiling at the response. But the fact is, no that is not the intent. That's quite clear, and second of all, no, no law enforcement officer's going to pursue that matter."

"And, and just to follow up on what Representative Black said, was in, in a case in my district, quite often the laser sights are used in hunting of predatory animals, such as coyotes. No problem...? "

"...no problem..."

"...it's still legal?"

"No. No. That's fine. You can use it. Someone can use it in a lawful manner, do hunting or whatever they feel is within their lawful rights. It's just the person who is committing a felony with a laser sight attached, they would be... have their exposure to sentencing would be greatly enhanced."

"Thank you very much, Representative."

Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? Seeing that nobody is seeking recognition, Representative Durkin to close."

"I would appreciate a vote. This is a Bill which, 55  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 obviously, comes down to enforcement but the intent is not to go after kids who are playing with... these are people who are intentionally seeking police officers in the dark corners of the alleys in Chicago and the other areas, metropolitian areas in Illinois, who are putting officers in peril. I would appreciate an 'aye' vote."

Speaker Hartke: "The Gentleman has asked for favorable consideration on House Bill 343. All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 343, there are 112 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 3 Members voting 'present'. And this Bill having received a Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 262?"

"House Bill 262 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading."

Speaker Hartke: "Mr. Clerk, let's move that Bill back to Second. The Sponsor has requested that it be taken back for the purpose of an Amendment. What was the status of House Bill 458?"

Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 458 is on the Order of House Bills-Second Reading."

"Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 227?"

"House Bill 227 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading."

Speaker Hartke: "The Sponsor's requested that that be moved back to Second for purposes of an Amendment. Put that Bill on Second Reading. On page 5 of the Calendar, appears House Bill 420. Representative Beaubien. Mr. Clerk, read the 56  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Bill."

Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 420. A Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. Third Reading of this House Bill."

"This Bill's on Short Debate. Representative Beaubien."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is a Bill on the School Code dealing with withdrawal from certain joint agreement programs. This is very specific to Lake County and District 220. They arranged with SEDL, which is a Special Education District of Lake County to withdraw from that program, which is 37 school districts under the control of the Lake County Regional Board of Trustees. And they reached financial arrangements for them to pay out their bond indebtedness. And the reason they want to withdraw is that it's about a two hour drive for some of the people in Barrington that's forming its own special district, which in fact, are taking care of most of their children already within that district. The problem comes, in order to do that, you need the approval of the regional... each county's regional board of trustees. In 1992, Cook County eliminated its board of trustees. So, it's a legal impossibility to do that. Then they go down to the township school board trustees and none of the townships involved have that. This matter had a full and complete debate in committee and it passed unanimously and unless there are any questions, I would ask for an 'aye' vote on this matter."

"The Gentleman has explained his Bill. Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Cook, Representative Parke."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I would like to know if the Sponsor would yield?" 57  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999

"He indicates he will."

"Representative. I'm, I know you tried to explain what this Bill does and I know it came out unanimous, but maybe you can highlight a few other things about what this Bill really does."

"Yes. It will allow Barrington School District 220, which is in four different counties to have its own special school district. It's a legal impossibility to do that now, because they do not have the Board of Trustees for Cook County in place. I'd like to point out that the SEDL District's Board of Trustees approved it. And all but one of the 37 school districts that are involved in SEDL approved it. And once again, I'd like to emphasize the reason for that is, many people, actually, come from your district in Hoffman Estates area, have to drive almost two hours, an hour and a half to get there. But I'd like to point out one other thing by the way. On the Republican analysis, it says the State Board of Education 'opposed' the Bill. Actually they put in a slip as 'proponents' of the Bill. And this just will make life better for the people that are in that district in our particular area."

"Do you know of any opposition anywhere on this Bill?"

"There's no opposition."

"Thank you, Representative."

"Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Macoupin, Representative Hannig."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"

"He indicates he will."

"Yes. Representative did you say this is for just one special district? And which district was that?"

"It's for the Lake County Special Education District, which has 37 school districts within that particular 58  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Special Education District. Two-twenty wants to withdraw. They have the consent of the board and all but one of the school trustee.. of 37 districts within the SEDL area. It's strictly a Lake County issue, but because Cook County does not have a regional board of trustees for school districts, the statute requires we get their consent. We cannot do that. All parties are in agreement on this matter. There's no one that I know that's opposing this Bill and it is specific to Special Education Districts that are in three or more counties. This is the only one in the state that is."

"Has this group indicated to you, or someone indicated to you that they wish to withdraw from this agreement? Is that why you came forward with this Bill?"

"I'm sorry, I couldn't hear your question."

"Has, has someone indicated to you that they wish to terminate this joint agreement? Is that what this Bill is about?"

"Yes. The Special Education District of Lake County, its Board of Trustees, and each of the 37 districts that form a separate board that advises it, all but one of those school districts approved that, approve that withdrawal. They have a written contract between SEDL and District 220, where 220 will pay approximately $175,000 a year for the next 15 years to pay off the bond indebtedness incurred when they were in the district. SEDL, the Special Education District, District 220, and the Lake County Regional Board of Trustees are all in favor of this Bill. I don't think... it doesn't affect any other area of the state that I'm aware of."

"And so, all the parties that are part of this current agreement are in agreement with this proposed legislation. 59  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Is that what you said?"

"Yes, they are. They have a written contract between all the parties."

"Okay. And it seems to me that maybe this is a bit of a convoluted way to approach it. I know you're trying to solve a problem in your district, but would there not be, maybe, a more straightforward method, a more positive way we could solve this problem?"

"Well, what the statute provides is, is that if you don't have the regional board of trustees, you go to the townships involved and ask the school board of trustees of that township to vote on it. Hanover Township and Barrington Township never have had a school regional board of trustees for the township and as of July of 1998, Palatine by referendum eliminated theirs. So, there's no place for them to go, that I'm aware of."

"Is there a sunset on this proposal? Once this is dissolved, this group, will this Bill sunset or could it potentially affect some other districts down the road?"

"I don't believe any other districts would fall within that definition, that would be in Cook County and have three different counties within that district. So, I think, almost by definition, it'll never come up again."

"And, I'm not familiar with the school districts in your region, but I would only want to have the staff, on maybe both sides, take a look at this and make sure that there aren't some potential other districts out there that could be affected by it. And if there is, you can always address that in the Senate. But, I appreciate your taking the time to answer the questions."

"Thank you very much."

"Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, 60  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Beaubien to close."

"Yes, thank you for your time in listening and I'd appreciate an 'aye' vote on this matter."

Speaker Hartke: "The Gentleman has asked for favorable consideration on House Bill 420. All those in favor signify by voting 'aye'; those opposed to vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted how wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 420, there are 109 Members voting 'yes'; 4 Members voting 'no'; and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill having received a Constitutional Majority is hereby declared passed. At this time, we're getting ready to adjourn. We have a couple of announcements to make. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Rock Island, Representative Brunsvold."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Sportsman's Caucus Members on the floor would like to remind everyone that the auction and reception is March the 2nd; and the Caucus Members, we'd like them to bring an auction item for the reception and auction. The proceeds will go to the Illinois Conservation Foundation for Youth and Handicapped Activities in the Department of Natural Resources. So, scrape around today and, or this week, and see if you can bring us something to auction off next week. Bring it to my office or Senator Madigan's office, Bob Madigan's office. And we'll proceed from there to have the auction at the Fairgrounds this year, at the Artisan Building, on March the 2nd. Thank you."

Speaker Hartke: "The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Will, Representative McGuire for an announcement."

"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For the Members of the Aging Committee, the Aging Committee meeting tomorrow has been 61  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 cancelled. The only Bill we have on the docket will not be called tomorrow. So, we are cancelling the Aging Committee tomorrow at noon. Please pay attention if you're a Member of the Aging Committee. No meeting tomorrow. Thank you."

"Mr. Clerk, you have an announcement?"

Clerk Rossi: "The House Rules Committee will meet at 2 p.m. in the Speaker's Conference Room. The Rules Committee will meet at 2 p.m. in the Speaker's Conference Room."

Speaker Hartke: "Does any Member have anything further? Gentlemen, before you leave, there is a bulletin being passed out regarding the schedule and some very important notifications and announcements. Committee meetings will begin at 2 p.m. at the appropriate rooms for the committees to be heard. Nothing further to come before the Body. Representative Currie now moves that the House stand adjourned allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, until the hour of 2 p.m. tomorrow. All those in favor say 'aye'; opposed 'no'. The House is adjourned."

Clerk Rossi: "The House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Committee Reports. Representative Tom Dart, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary I-Civil Law, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 37, House Bill 41, House Bill 129, House Bill 215, House Bill 231, House Bill 236, House Bill 281, House Bill 377, House Bill 477, House Bill 478, House Bill 520, House Bill 604, and House Bill 645; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 151, House Bill 283, and House Bill 404; Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 1544, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act regarding medical care. House Bill 1545, offered by Representative 62  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Brosnahan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Nursing Home Care Act. House Bill 1546, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act making appropriations to the South Metro Investigators Network. House Bill 1547, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act making an appropriation to the Department of Natural Resources. House Bill 1548, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act concerning taxation. House Bill 1549, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1550, offered by Representative Steve Davis, a Bill for an Act concerning taxation. House Bill 1551, offered by Representative Boland, a Bill for an Act to exempt school districts from certain taxes. House Bill 1552, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1553, offered by Representative Scully, a Bill for an Act in relation to State loans. House Bill 1554, offered by Representative Scully, a Bill for an Act in relation to taxes. House Bill 1555, offered by Representative Scully, a Bill for an Act to amend the Non-Support of Spouse and Children Act. House Bill 1556, offered by Representative Scully, a Bill for an Act concerning unbleached and nonchlorine bleached paper. House Bill 1557, offered by Representative Scully, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. House Bill 1558, offered by Representative Fowler, a Bill for an Act concerning tourism. House Bill 1559, offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act to amend the Senior Citizens and Disabled Persons Property Tax Relief and Pharmaceutical Assistance Act. House Bill 1560, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax 63  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Code. House Bill 1561, offered by Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act concerning tax relief. House Bill 1562, offered by Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act concerning tax relief. House Bill 1563, offered by Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act concerning property tax relief. House Bill 1564, offered by Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act concerning tax relief. House Bill 1565, offered by Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act to amend the Alcoholism and Other Drug Abuse and Dependency Act. House Bill 1566, offered by Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act regarding disabled persons. House Bill 1567, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the Drug Asset Forfeiture Procedure Act. House Bill 1568, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1569, offered by Representative John Turner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure. House Bill 1570, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure. House Bill 1571, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. House Bill 1572, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Health Maintenance Organization Act. House Bill 1573, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Health Maintenance Organization Act. House Bill 1574, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Health Maintenance Organization Act. House Bill 1575, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Lake Management Program Act. House Bill 1576, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Act on Aging. House Bill 1577, offered by Speaker Madigan, 64  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 a Bill for an Act to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act. House Bill 1578, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act. House Bill 1579, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Workers' Compensation Act. House Bill 1580, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1581, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1582, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1583, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1584, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1585, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act in relation to labor. House Bill 1586, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act in relation to labor. House Bill 1587, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Workers' Compensation Act. House Bill 1588, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Children and Family Services Act. House Bill 1589, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Savings Bank Act. House Bill 1590, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. House Bill 1591, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Act. House Bill 1592, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act. House Bill 1593, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1594, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Act. House Bill 1595, offered by Speaker 65  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. House Bill 1596, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 1597, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1598, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1599, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1600, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1601, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Savings and Loan Act. House Bill 1602, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1603, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Insurance Code. House Bill 1604, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Insurance Code. House Bill 1605, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. House Bill 1606, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. House Bill 1607, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Mechanics Lien Act. House Bill 1608, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. House Bill 1609, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Clerks of Courts Act. House Bill 1610, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Joint Contribution Act. House Bill 1611, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Human Rights Act. House Bill 1612, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Probate Act. House Bill 1613, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to 66  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 amend the Code of Civil Procedure. House Bill 1614, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Condominium Property Act. House Bill 1615, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Credit Union Act. House Bill 1616, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Health Maintenance Organization Act. House Bill 1617, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Nursing Home Care Act. House Bill 1618, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act concerning dispensing controlled substances. House Bill 1619, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Insurance Code. House Bill 1620, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Health Maintenance Organization Act. House Bill 1621, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act in relation to State health care policy. House Bill 1622, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act concerning benefits for certain health treatments. House Bill 1623, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Insurance Code. House Bill 1624, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act concerning medical malpractice insurance. House Bill 1625, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Workers' Compensation Act. House Bill 1626, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Minimum Wage Law. House Bill 1627, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Workers' Compensation Act. House Bill 1628, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. House Bill 1629, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. House Bill 1630, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an 67  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. First Reading of these House Bills. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 1631, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. House Bill 1632, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. House Bill 1633, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Act on Aging. House Bill 1634, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Act on Aging. House Bill 1635, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Act on Aging. House Bill 1636, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Act on Aging. House Bill 1637, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Nursing Home Care Act. House Bill 1638, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Act on Aging. House Bill 1639, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. House Bill 1640, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act regarding the distribution of tobacco settlement proceeds. House Bill 1641, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Act on Aging. House Bill 1642, offered by Representative Stroger, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1643, offered by Representative Stroger, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1644, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act concerning computer literacy. House Bill 1645, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1646, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act concerning computers. House Bill 68  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 1647, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act making appropriations to the Department of Central Management Services for the remedy of the year 2000 computer programming problem. House Bill 1648, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act to amend the Civil Administrative Code. House Bill 1649, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1650, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1651, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1652, offered by Representative John Jones, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1653, offered by Representative Currie, a Bill for an Act in relation to the Correctional Managed Health Advisory Committee. House Bill 1654, offered by Representative Currie, a Bill for an Act to amend the Voluntary Health Services Plans Act. House Bill 1655, offered by Representative Currie, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1656, offered by Representative Currie, a Bill for an Act to amend the Children and Family Services Act. House Bill 1657, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act to amend the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. House Bill 1658, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1659, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act to create the Pay Day Loan Regulation Act. House Bill 1660, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act concerning pay day loans. House Bill 1661, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Banking Act. First Reading of these House Bills. 69  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 House Bill 1662, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1663, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1664, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1665, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1666, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1667, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1668, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1669, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1670, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1671, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1672, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1673, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1674, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure. House Bill 1675, offered by Representative Curry, a Bill for an Act to amend the Rights of Crime Victims and Witnesses Act. House Bill 1676, offered by Representative Joe Lyons, a Bill for an Act creating Intermodal Trailer Chassis, and Container Safety Act. House Bill 1677, offered by Representative Hartke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Election Code. House Bill 1678, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning taxes. House Bill 1679, offered by Representative Hartke, a Bill for an Act making 70  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 appropriations. House Bill 1680, offered by Representative Winkel, a Bill for an Act in relation to voter registration. House Bill 1681, offered by Representative Hartke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act. House Bill 1682, offered by Representative Hartke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act. House Bill 1683, offered by Representative Winkel, a Bill for an Act to amend the Election Code. House Bill 1684, offered by Representative Hartke, a Bill for an Act to amend certain Acts in relation to the parent and child relationship. House Bill 1685, offered by Representative Brady, a Bill for an Act in relation to orders of protection. House Bill 1686, offered by Representative Curry, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 1687, offered by Representative Brady, a Bill for an Act to amend the Bingo License and Tax Act. House Bill 1688, offered by Representative Moore, a Bill for an Act concerned with property conservation rights. House Bill 1689, offered by Representative Moore, a Bill for an Act to amend the Public Utilities Act. House Bill 1690, offered by Representative Moore, a Bill for an Act concerning environmental protection. House Bill 1691, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Public Utilities Act. House Bill 1692, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1693, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1694, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1695, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1696, offered by 71  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1697, offered by Representative Parke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Insurance Code. House Bill 1698, offered by Representative Parke, a Bill for an Act to repeal the Parental Notice of Abortion Act. House Bill 1699, offered by Representative O'Brien, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1700, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Liquor Control Act. House Bill 1701, offered by Representative Parke, a Bill for an Act concerning parental notice of abortion. House Bill 1702, offered by Representative Bost, a Bill for an Act to amend the Medical Practice Act. House Bill 1703, offered by Representative Franks, a Bill for an Act to amend the Nursing Home Care Act. House Bill 1704, offered by Representative Hultgren, a Bill for an Act concerning senior citizens. House Bill 1705, offered by Representative Boland, a Bill for an Act concerning forced labor. First Reading of these House Bills. House Bill 1706, offered by Representative John Jones, a Bill for an Act concerning taxpayer refunds. House Bill 1707, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1708, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Clean Indoor Air Act. House Bill 1709, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1710, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act concerning bedding. House Bill 1711, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act concerning distribution of tobacco litigation settlement proceeds. House Bill 1712, offered by Representative Leitch, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. House Bill 1713, offered by 72  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Leitch, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1714, offered by Representative Fowler, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1715, offered by Representative Fowler, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1716, offered by Representative Scott, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1717, offered by Representative Scott, a Bill for an Act in relation to home modifications for older persons and persons with disabilities. House Bill 1718, offered by Representative Scott, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1719, offered by Representative Scott, a Bill for an Act to amend the Child Care Act. House Bill 1720, offered by Representative Scott, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1721, offered by Representative Cowlishaw, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 1722, offered by Representative Cowlishaw, a Bill for an Act to amend the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. House Bill 1723, offered by Representative Steve Davis, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. House Bill 1724, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Emergency Telephone System Act. House Bill 1725, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Emergency Telephone System Act. House Bill 1726, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to create the Certified Surgical Technologist and Certified Surgical Technologist/Certified First Assistant Practice Act. House Bill 1727, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the State Employees Group Insurance Act. House Bill 1728, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House 73  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Bill 1729, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the Public Community College Act. House Bill 1730, offered by Representative Woolard, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1731, offered by Representative Eileen Lyons, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1732, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Children's Health Insurance Program Program Act. House Bill 1733, offered by Representative Moore, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act. House Bill 1734, offered by Representative Delgado, a Bill for an Act to amend the Employment of Strikebreakers Act. House Bill 1735, offered by Representative Delgado, a Bill for an Act in relation to day labor services. House Bill 1736, offered by Representative Ronan, a Bill for an Act concerning psychologists. House Bill 1737, offered by Representative Silva, a Bill for an Act to amend the Alternative Health Care Delivery Act. House Bill 1738, offered by Representative Zickus, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1739, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act relating to Child Welfare. House Bill 1740, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Loan Brokers Act. House Bill 1741, offered by Representative Beaubien, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. First Reading of these House Bills. House Bill 1742, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act to amend the Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act. House Bill 1743, offered by Representative Beaubien, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1744, offered by Representative Beaubien, a Bill for an Act to amend the Corporate Fiduciary Act. House Bill 1745, offered by 74  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Environmental Protection Act. House Bill 1746, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the State Finance Act. House Bill 1747, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act relating to emergency telephone system dispatchers. House Bill 1748, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Riverboat Gambling Act. House Bill 1749, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. House Bill 1750, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Naprapathic Practice Act. House Bill 1751, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 1752, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Prepaid Tuition Act. House Bill 1753, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Notary Public Act. House Bill 1754, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act concerning prepaid tuition. House Bill 1755, offered by Representative Brosnahan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Hospital Licensing Act. House Bill 1756, offered by Representative Brosnahan, a Bill for an Act concerning taxation. House Bill 1757, offered by Representative Schmitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1758, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the Election Code. House Bill 1759, offered by Representative Zickus, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1760, offered by Representative Tenhouse, a Bill for an Act to amend the Riverboat Gambling Act. House Bill 1761, offered by Representative Biggins, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. House Bill 1762, offered by 75  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Hultgren, a Bill for an Act concerning treatment of addicts and alcoholics. House Bill 1763, offered by Representative Hultgren, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1764, offered by Representative Hultgren, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1765, offered by Representative Winkel, a Bill for an Act to amend the Board of Higher Education Act. House Bill 1766, offered by Representative Winkel, a Bill for an Act concerning community college foundations. House Bill 1767, offered by Representative Persico, a Bill for an Act to amend the Probate Act. House Bill 1768, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Domestic Violence Act. House Bill 1769, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1770, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois State Auditing Act. House Bill 1771, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act to amend the Wrongful Death Act. House Bill 1772, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act in relation to domestic violence. House Bill 1773, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Good Samaritan Act. House Bill 1774, offered by Representative Bellock, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. House Bill 1775, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1776, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act concerning campaign financing. House Bill 1777, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Cemetery Care Act. House Bill 1778, offered by Representative Biggins, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1779, offered by 76  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Julie Curry, a Bill for an Act to amend the Sale of Tobacco to Minors Act. House Bill 1780, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act creating the Health Care Professional Credentialing Act. House Bill 1781, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. House Bill 1782, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act to amend the Election Code. House Bill 1783, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Insurance Code. House Bill 1784, offered by Representative Cowlishaw, a Bill for an Act concerning good behavior allowances. House Bill 1785, offered by Representative Tom Johnson, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1786, offered by Representative Tom Johnson, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1787, offered by Representative Schoenberg, a Bill for an Act making an appropriation. House Bill 1788, offered by Representative Schoenberg, a Bill for an Act to amend the Cook County Forest Preserve District Act. House Bill 1789, offered by Representative Stevens, a Bill for an Act to amend the Pharmacy Practice Act. House Bill 1790, offered by Representative Winters, a Bill for an Act to amend the Election Code. House Bill 1791, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act concerning interest. House Bill 1792, offered by Representative Cowlishaw, a Bill for an Act to amend the Hospital District Law. House Bill 1793, offered by Representative John Turner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Act. House Bill 1794, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1795, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act to amend the 77  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Counties Code. House Bill 1796, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1797, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act to amend the Disabled Persons Rehabilitation Act. House Bill 1798, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1799, offered by Representative Boland, a Bill for an Act concerning the use of mail-in ballots in certain elections. House Bill 1800, offered by Representative Boland, a Bill for an Act concerning the use of mail-in ballots in certain elections. House Bill 1801, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act to amend the Pharmacy Practice Act. First Reading of these House Bills. House Bill 1802, offered by Representative Sharp, a Bill for an Act to amend the Senior Citizens and Disabled Persons Property Tax Relief and Pharmaceutical Assistance Act. House Bill 1803, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act concerning mortgage escrow accounts. House Bill 1804, offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act concerning law enforcements. House Bill 1805, offered by Representative Moffitt, a Bill for an Act to create the Auction License Act. House Bill 1806, offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1807, offered by Representative Coulson, a Bill for an Act to create the Local Public Health Accountability Act. House Bill 1808, offered by Representative Coulson, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Physical Therapy Act. House Bill 1809, offered by Representative Brosnahan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1810, offered by Representative Brosnahan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Highway Code. House Bill 1811, offered by 78  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Leitch, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1812, offered by Representative Schmitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1813, offered by Representative Eileen Lyons, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1814, offered by Representative Granberg, a Bill for an Act to create the Bricklayers Licensing Act. House Bill 1815, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act in relation to apprentice programs. House Bill 1816, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois School Student Records Act. House Bill 1817, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1818, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act to amend the Prevailing Wage Act. House Bill 1819, offered by Representative McKeon, a Bill for an Act making an appropriation. House Bill 1820, offered by Representative McKeon, a Bill for an Act to amend the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois. House Bill 1821, offered by Representative McKeon, a Bill for an Act to amend the Metropolitan Transit Authority Act. House Bill 1822, offered by Representative McKeon, a Bill for an Act to amend the Insect Pest and Plant Disease Act. House Bill 1823, offered by Representative Lopez, a Bill for an Act in relation to leave for employees who have sought relief under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act. House Bill 1824, offered by Representative Lawfer, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Farm Development Act. House Bill 1825, offered by Representative Lawfer, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Natural Areas Preservation Act. House Bill 1826, offered by Representative Zickus, a Bill for an Act to amend the Surface-Mined Land Conservation and 79  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Reclamation Act. House Bill 1827, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1828, offered by Representative Krause, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. House Bill 1829, offered by Representative Shirley Jones, a Bill for an Act to amend the Nursing Home Care Act. House Bill 1830, offered by Representative Hoeft, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1831, offered by Representative McGuire, a Bill for an Act regarding preventative services administration. House Bill 1832, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1833, offered by Representative McGuire, a Bill for an Act concerning preventive services. House Bill 1834, offered by Representative Cowlishaw, a Bill for an Act concerning public records. House Bill 1835, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Civil Administrative Code. House Bill 1836, offered by Representative Flowers, a Bill for an Act to amend the Hospital Licensing Act. House Bill 1837, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Interest Act. House Bill 1838, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Workers' Compensation Act. House Bill 1839, offered by Representative Kenner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Child Care Act. House Bill 1840, (sic-offered by Representative Saviano), a Bill for an Act to amend the Elections Code. House Bill 1841, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Elections Code. House Bill 1842, offered by Representative Steve Davis, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. House Bill 1843, offered by Representative Bassi, a Bill for an Act changing the date of the general primary, consolidated primary, and 80  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 consolidated elections. House Bill 1844, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act concerning health care coverage relating to cancer therapies. Committee Reports. Representative Howard Kenner, Chairperson from the Committee on State Government and Administration, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bills 285, House Bill 286, House Bill 516, and House Bill 517. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 1845, offered by Representative Bassi, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. House Bill 1846, offered by Representative Winters, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1847, offered by Representative Boland, a Bill for an Act to amend the Senior Citizens and Disabled Person's Property Tax Relief and Pharmaceutical Assistance Act. House Bill 1848, offered by Representative Tom Johnson, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law, amending named Acts. House Bill 1849, offered by Representative Durkin, a Bill for an Act to amend the Uniform Peace Officers' Disciplinary Act. House Bill 1850, offered by Representative Durkin, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. House Bill 1851, offered by Representative Osmond, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. House Bill 1852, offered by Representative Lawfer, a Bill for an Act in relation to contracts between nursing homes and residents. House Bill 1853, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act concerning courts. House Bill 1854, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act to amend the Judicial Vacancies Act. House Bill 1855, offered by 81  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Mulligan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1856, offered by Representative Mulligan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. House Bill 1857, offered by Representative Mulligan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1858, offered by Representative Klingler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. House Bill 1859, offered by Representative Klingler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Adoption Act. House Bill 1860, offered by Representative Klingler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Certified Shorthand Reporters Act. House Bill 1861, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1862, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Abortion Law of 1975 by adding Section 6.5. House Bill 1863, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unified Code of Corrections. House Bill 1864, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act concerning fees for death certificates, amending named Acts. House Bill 1865, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Public Utilities Act. House Bill 1866, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. House Bill 1867, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act concerning hunting license instruction. House Bill 1868, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1869, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1870, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1871, offered by 82  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1872, offered by Representative Klingler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1873, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act making appropriations to the Department of Natural Resources. House Bill 1874, offered by Representative Klingler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1875, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1876, offered by Representative Klingler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1877, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act concerning county and municipal open space. House Bill 1878, offered by Representative Delgado, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1879, offered by Representative Sommer, a Bill for an Act to amend the Pharmacy Practice Act. House Bill 1880, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act concerning growth planning. House Bill 1881, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act concerning impact fees. House Bill 1882, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act concerning impact fees. House Bill 1883, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. House Bill 1884, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act making appropriations to the Department of Agriculture. House Bill 1885, offered by Representative Mulligan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1886, offered by Representative Mulligan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1887, offered by Representative Krause, a Bill for an Act to amend the Local Governmental and Governmental Employees 83  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Tort Immunity Act. House Bill 1888, offered by Representative Biggins, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1889, offered by Representative Biggins, a Bill for an Act concerning taxes. House Bill 1890, offered by Representative Biggins, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. House Bill 1891, offered by Representative Biggins, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1892, offered by Representative Persico, a Bill for an Act to amend the Solid Waste Planning and Recycling Act. House Bill 1893, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Environmental Protection Act. House Bill 1894, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1895, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act regarding support enforcement. House Bill 1896, offered by Representative John Turner, a Bill for an Act in relation to law enforcement officers. House Bill 1897, offered by Representative Rich Myers, a Bill for an Act creating the Illinois Value-Added Agricultural Enhancement Program. House Bill 1898, offered by Representative Rich Myers, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1899, offered by Representative McGuire, a Bill for an Act to amend the Workers' Compensation Act. House Bill 1900, offered by Representative Fowler, a Bill for an Act concerning aqua-culture. First Reading of these House Bills. House Bill 1901, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Prevailing Wage Act. House Bill 1902, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Prevailing Wage Act. House Bill 1903, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Minimum Wage Law by changing Section 12. House Bill 1914 84  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 (sic 1904), offered by Representative Bill Mitchell, a Bill for an Act concerning Property Taxes. House Bill 1905, offered by Representative Biggins, a Bill for an Act concerning cultural organizations. House Bill 1906, offered by Representative Steve Davis, a Bill for an Act concerning collective bargaining with police officers and firefighters. House Bill 1907, offered by Representative Fowler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Department of Human Services Act. House Bill 1908, offered by Representative Fowler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Rural/Downstate Health Care Act. House Bill 1909, offered by Representative Bost, a Bill for an Act in relation to wine. House Bill 1910, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1911, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1912, offered by Representative Boland, a Bill for an Act to amend the Whistleblower Reward and Protection Act. House Bill 1913, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act relating to child welfare in the State of Illinois; providing guidelines for the consideration of race, culture, and ethnic heritage in foster family home placement. House Bill 1914, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Local Records Act. House Bill 1915, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act concerning the regulation of title insurers. House Bill 1916, offered by Representative Slone, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act. House Bill 1917, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois State Auditing Act. House Bill 1918, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act concerning sealing of court records. House Bill 1919, 85  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act concerning expungement of records. House Bill 1930 (sic-1920), offered by Representative Granberg, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. House Bill 1921, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. House Bill 1922, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Local Government Prompt Payment Act. House Bill 1923, offered by Representative Capparelli, a Bill for an Act to amend the Title Insurance Act. First Reading of these House Bills. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 1924, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Clerks of Courts Act. House Bill 1925, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Clerks of Courts Act. House Bill 1926, offered by Representative Capparelli, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Housing Development Act. House Bill 1927, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Clerks of Courts Act. House Bill 1928, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Clerks of Courts Act. House Bill 1929, offered by Representative Capparelli, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Housing Development Act. House Bill 1930, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Local Government Acceptance of Credit Cards Act. House Bill 1931, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1932, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act concerning clerks of courts. House Bill 1933, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act concerning court information management. House Bill 1934, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act making an 86  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 appropriation to the Supreme Court. House Bill 1935, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure. House Bill 1936, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1937, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Adoption Act. House Bill 1938, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Human Rights Act. House Bill 1939, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Clerks of Courts Act. House Bill 1940, offered by Representative Fowler, a Bill for an Act regarding respite care. House Bill 1941, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1942, offered by Representative Bellock, a Bill for an Act to amend the Abused and Neglected Long Term Care Facilities Resident's Reporting Act. House Bill 1943, offered by Representative Parke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1944, offered by Representative Capparelli, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1945, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1946, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1947, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1948, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1949, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1950, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1951, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act in relation to 87  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 debt issuance. House Bill 1952, offered by Representative Morrow, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1953, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the State Commemorative Dates Act. House Bill 1954, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act to amend the Minimum Wage Law by changing. Section 4. House Bill 1955, offered by Representative Art Turner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipality Code. House Bill 1956, offered by Representative Art Turner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1957, offered by Representative Art Turner, a Bill for an Act in relation to taxation. House Bill 1958, offered by Representative Art Turner, a Bill for an Act in relation to taxation. House Bill 1959, offered by Representative Stroger, a Bill for an Act regarding certain contracts for the delivery of human services. House Bill 1960, offered by Representative Bellock, a Bill for an Act to amend the Downstate Forest Preserve District Act. House Bill 1961, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1962, offered by Representative Brunsvold, a Bill for an Act concerning taxation. House Bill 1963, offered by Representative Brunsvold, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 1964, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act in relation to juries, amending certain named Acts. House Bill 1965, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the State's Attorneys Appellate Prosecutor's Act. House Bill 1966, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act in relation to State's Attorneys salaries. House Bill 1967, offered by Representative Mike Smith, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Farm Development Authority Act. House Bill 1968, offered by Representative Mike Smith, a 88  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Farm Development Act. House Bill 1969, offered by Representative John Jones, a Bill for an Act to amend the Oil and Gas Act. House Bill 1970, offered by Representative Stephens, a Bill for an Act to amend the Environmental Protection Act. House Bill 1971, offered by Representative Flowers, a Bill for an Act concerning minority and female franchise investments, amending named Acts. House Bill 1972, offered by Representative Righter, a Bill for an Act concerning off highway vehicles. House Bill 1973, offered by Representative Hultgren, a Bill for an Act to amend the Code of Civil Procedure. First Reading of these House Bills. Committee Reports. Representative Saviano, Chairperson from the Committee on Registration and Regulation, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bills 442 and House Bill 619. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 1974, offered by Representative Howard, a Bill for an Act in relation to wages. House Bill 1975, offered by Representative Lang, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Insurance Code. House Bill 1976, offered by Representative Giles, a Bill for an Act to create the Home Rule Integrity Act. House Bill 1977, offered by Representative McKeon, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act. House Bill 1978, offered by Representative Art Turner, a Bill for an Act regarding property. House Bill 1979, offered by Representative Art Turner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1980, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act to amend the Sale of Tobacco to Minors Act. 89  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 House Bill 1981, offered by Representative Pugh, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 1982, offered by Representative Kenner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Juvenile Court Act. House Bill 1983, offered by Representative Giles, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 1984, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making an appropriation to the Department of the Secretary of State. House Bill 1985, offered by Representative Boland, a Bill for an Act to amend the Senior Citizens and Disabled Person's Property Tax Relief and Pharmaceutical Assistance Act. House Bill 1986, offered by Representative Lang, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 1987, offered by Representative Pugh, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. House Bill 1988, offered by Representative Novak, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Income Tax Act. House Bill 1989, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. House Bill 1990, offered by Representative Klingler, a Bill for an Act to amend the Hospital Licensing Act. First Reading of these House Bills. Committee Reports. Representative Todd Stroger, Chairperson from the Committee on Labor and Commerce, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do adopt Short Debate' House Resolution 18. Introduction of Resolutions. House Joint Resolution #9, offered by Representative Monique Davis, is assigned to the Rules Committee. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 1991, offered by Representative Kenner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Enterprise Zone Act. House Bill 1992, offered by 90  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Representative Kenner, a Bill for an Act to amend the State Finance Act. House Bill 1993, offered by Representative Kenner, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. House Bill 1994, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1995, offered by Representative Cross, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 1996, offered by Representative Bradley, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code. House Bill 1997, offered by Representative Bradley, a Bill for an Act to amend the Environmental Protection Act. First Reading of these House Bills. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 1998, offered by Representative Ronen, a Bill for an Act to amend the Child Care Act. House Bill 1999, offered by Representative Monique Davis, a Bill for an Act to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act. First Reading of these House Bills. House Bill 2000, offered by Representative Flowers, a Bill for an Act to amend the Medical Practice Act. House Bill 2001, offered by Representative Dart, a Bill for an Act to amend the Liquor Control Act. First Reading of these House Bills. Introduction and First Reading of House Bills. House Bill 2002, offered by Representative Flowers, a Bill for an Act to amend the Liquor Control Act. House Bill 2003, offered by Representative Flowers, a Bill for an Act to amend the Liquor Control Act. House Bill 2004, offered by Representative Burke, a Bill for an Act to amend the Emergency Telephone System Act. House Bill 2005, offered by Representative Stroger, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 2006, offered by Representative Bugielski, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 2007, offered by Representative 91  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 Shirley Jones, a Bill for an Act to amend the Emergency Telephone Systems Act. House Bill 2008, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act creating the 25th Avenue Railroad Relocation and Redevelopment Authority. House Bill 2009, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. House Bill 2010, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Dental Practice Act. House Bill 2011, offered by Representative Stroger, a Bill for an Act to amend the Environmental Protection Act. First Reading of these House Bills. Committee Reports. Representative Calvin Giles, Chairperson from the Committee on Local Government, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 18, 1999, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bills 473, 'do pass Consent Calendar House Bill 541, House Bill 607, and House Bill 668. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 2012, offered by Representative Stroger, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. House Bill 2013, offered by Representative Bost, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. House Bill 2014, offered by Representative Joe Lyons, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. First Reading of these House Bills. Introduction and First Reading of House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment #9 offered by Speaker Madigan. HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #9 RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING 92  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 HEREIN, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the State for adoption or rejection at the general election next occurring at least 6 months after the adoption of this resolution a proposition to amend Section 7 of Article V of the Illinois Constitution as follows: ARTICLE V THE EXECUTIVE If the Attorney General, Secretary of State, Comptroller or Treasurer fails to qualify or if his or ______ her office becomes vacant, the Governor shall fill the office by appointment. The appointee shall hold office until the elected officer qualifies or until a successor is elected and qualified as may be provided by law and shall not be subject to removal by the Governor. If the Lieutenant Governor fails to qualify or if his or ______ her office becomes vacant, it shall remain vacant until the end of the term. SCHEDULE This Constitutional Amendment takes effect upon being declared adopted in accordance with Section 7 of the Illinois Constitutional Amendment Act. House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment #10 offered by Representative McCarthy. HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING HEREIN, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the State for adoption or rejection at the general election next occurring at least 6 months after the adoption of this resolution a proposition to add Section 12.5 to Article VI of the Illinois Constitution as follows: 93  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 ARTICLE VI THE JUDICIARY _____________________ SECTION 12.5. RECALL ______________________________________________________________ (a) An elected Supreme, Appellate, or Circuit Judge may be __________________________________________________________________ recalled from office by the electors of the Judicial District or __________________________________________________________________ Judicial Circuit from which the Judge was elected. A recall __________________________________________________________________ demand shall be initiated by filing with the State Board of Elections a petition signed by __________________________________________________________________ electors equalling at least 15% of __________________________________________________________________ the number of votes cast in the Judicial District or Judicial __________________________________________________________________ Circuit for all candidates for Governor at the most recent __________________________________________________________________ gubernatorial election. A recall petition shall state the grounds for the recall demand in ________________________________________________ no more than 200 words. ______________________________________________________________ (b) If a Judge resigns within 5 days after a recall petition __________________________________________________________________ is filed against him or her, that Judge's office becomes vacant __________________________________________________________________ and shall be filled as provided in subsection (c) of Section 12 of this Article. __________________________________________________________________ If a Judge does not resign within 5 days after a __________________________________________________________________ recall petition is filed against him or her, the State Board of __________________________________________________________________ Elections shall certify the question of the recall to the __________________________________________________________________ appropriate election authority or authorities for placement upon the ballot at an election designated __________________________________________________________________ by law and occurring within a ________________________________________________________ reasonable time after the filing of the recall petition. ______________________________________________________________ (c) The recall ballot shall include the statement of the __________________________________________________________________ grounds for recall that appeared on the recall petition and, in no __________________________________________________________________ more than 200 words, the Judge's justification of his or her _________________ course in office. ______________________________________________________________ (d) A Judge against whom a recall petition is filed and who __________________________________________________________________ has not resigned or whose office has not otherwise become vacant shall continue to perform the duties __________________________________________________________________ of office until the result of _________________________________________________________ the vote upon the recall question is officially declared. ______________________________________________________________ (e) If a majority of the votes are cast against recall, the __________________________________________________________________ Judge shall be declared elected for the remainder of his or her 94  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 __________________________________________________________________ term. If a majority of the votes are cast in favor of recall, the __________________________________________________________________ Judge shall be declared recalled and that office becomes vacant and shall be filled as provided in __________________________________________________________________ subsection (c) of Section 12 of _____________ this Article. ______________________________________________________________ (f) A recall petition may not be circulated against a Judge __________________________________________________________________ until that Judge has served at least 6 months of his or her __________________________________________________________________ current term of office. A subsequent recall petition against a __________________________________________________________________ Judge who has withstood a recall demand may not be filed during the same term of office until the __________________________________________________________________ subsequent petitioners pay a __________________________________________________________________ portion provided by law of the expense of the unsuccessful recall __________________________________________________________________ vote to the election authority or authorities who bore that __________________________________________________________________ expense. If a recall question appears on the ballot at an __________________________________________________________________ election at which the Judge seeks retention in office, the result __________________________________________________________________ of the vote upon the recall question takes precedence over the _______________________________________________________ result of the vote upon his or her retention in office. SCHEDULE This Constitutional Amendment takes effect upon approval by the electors of this State. First Reading of House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment #10. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 2015, offered by Representative Stroger, a Bill for an Act to amend the Minimum Wage Law. First Reading of this House Bill. Introduction - First Reading of House Bills. House Bill 2016, offered by Representative Granberg, a Bill for an Act to amend the Environmental Protection Act. House Bill 2017, offered by Representative Granberg, a Bill for an Act to amend the Public Utilities Act. House Bill 2018, offered by Representative Hassert, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. House Bill 2019, offered by Representative Hassert, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Banking Act. House Bill 2020, offered by Representative Hassert, a Bill for an Act to amend the School Code. First Reading of these House Bills. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will 95  STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 13th Legislative Day February 18, 1999 stand adjourned. The House will reconvene in regular Session at... tomorrow at 2 p.m." 96