"The House shall come to order. The Members shall be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by the Reverend Ann Schmitt of the McHenry County Church of Religious Science in Woodstock. Reverend Schmitt is the guest of Representative Jack Franks. The guests in the gallery may wish to rise and join us for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance."
"Thank you. It is indeed an honor to be here this morning. And I invite you to become comfortable as we come together in prayer and please join me in the consciousness of unity as we enter that silence of our own hearts with the spirit of creation which is everywhere present at all times is here now in this capitol building. It is in this gathering and it is in our hearts. We know that spirit must have need of us for an important work because we have been called and we are here. We are prepared to do what we know in the depth of our being and in the silence of our heart is for the greatest benefit of all concerned. There is something of divine wisdom to be expressed here today. Our State Representatives have been called to be here and to act on behalf of the people that they represent from the State of Illinois. I know that each one is guided by the wisdom in their own heart. I invoke and acknowledge God's blessing on each Member of the House and on each person who speaks at this Session. I know that each person, in this room, and each person who presents an issue for consideration speaks from the illumination of a compassionate heart and is stimulated by the divine intelligence, infinite love and perfect wisdom within them, nothing but good can result. As we see the evidence of divine order in the universe expressed in so many ways, it is in the perfect symmetry of a rose and in 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 the marvelous and mysterious progression of our seasons. The deliberations of this Session also now proceed as a reflection of that perfect order and so we know that there is no issue in the universe too large and none too small to be resolved in the spirit of peace, harmony, cooperation and prosperity. This is divine order reflected on a human scale. I declare that this meeting is surely blessed and so are we and so it is. Amen."
Speaker Madigan: "We will be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Representative Connie Howard."
"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
Speaker Madigan: "Roll Call for Attendance. Representative Currie."
"Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record reflect that we have no excused absences to report on this side of the aisle."
"Mr. Poe."
"Mr. Speaker, all the Republicans are present today."
"Mr. Clerk, take the record. There being 117 people responding to the Attendance Roll Call, there is a quorum present. Mr. Clerk."
"Committee Reports. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 30, 2000, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'direct floor consideration' House Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 1658. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 705, offered by Representative Wojcik; House Resolution 706, offered by 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 Representative Lang; House Joint Resolution 54, offered by Representative Saviano; House Joint Resolution 55, offered by Representative Wirsing; and House Joint Resolution 56, offered by Representative Cowlishaw. These Resolutions are referred to the House Rules Committee."
Speaker Madigan: "Representative Hamos. Do you wish to call House Resolution 686? Representative Hamos."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen. This is a simple Resolution that congratulates Margaret Black Scheer as the first president of the State Federation of Labor AFL-CIO. And I ask for your concurrence."
Speaker Madigan: "You've all heard the Lady present the Resolution. Mr. Black."
"Yes. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Yes. Representative, did you sponsor one when Don Johnson was elected president?"
"If I had been here, I certainly would have sponsored it."
"I see. And I know you would have. Have you sponsored a congratulatory Resolution for Don Johnson upon his retirement?"
"No, but that was a very excellent idea. I like that."
"Well, I will anticipate that follow-up. Thank you."
Speaker Madigan: "The Lady moves for the adoption of the Resolution. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The Resolution is adopted. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 1550?"
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1550 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading."
"Mr. Clerk, place that Bill on the Order of Second Reading. On the Order of Senate Bills-Second Reading, there appears Senate Bill 1319. Representative 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 Monique Davis. Is Representative Davis in the chamber? Is Representative Silva in the chamber? Is Representative Lopez in the chamber? Mr. Brosnahan. Did you wish to call Senate Bill 1638 on the Order of Third Reading? Mr. Clerk, read the Bill. Senate, 1638."
"Senate Bill 1638, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Public Aid Code. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Mr. Brosnahan."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 1638 addresses a situation that occurs when a person that's entitled to child support payments either does not received a payment from the State Disbursement Unit or the payment is delayed and that person's credit rating is adversely affected. What this Bill would do upon the request of the adversely affected recipient, the Illinois Department of Public Aid would send a letter verifying that the delayed or undisbursed child support payment was their fault and then at that point the recipient could give it to the appropriate credit agency. I know of no opposition to the Bill and I'd be happy to answer any questions."
"Mr. Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative, take me through the steps. I have people in my office, in my district, excuse me, that have worked with my office and they have been negatively impacted by the ungodly delay in the child support checks. The result, I might add, of a misguided federal mandate, but that's a whole other story. And I do have people whose credit 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 ratings have been impacted, I'm sure of it. Now, what do they have to do to get this letter?"
"They would have to contact the Illinois Department of Public Aid, request a letter that the payment, the delayed payment, was the fault of the Department of Public Aid and at that point, the Department would obviously verify that information and send a letter on to the recipient. Then, at that point, it would be the recipient who then... The Bill was originally written that the Department of Public Aid would write the letter to the credit agency, but I think, a good idea was we're not gonna let them do that. We'll give it to the recipient and then the recipient could then forward the letter to the appropriate credit agency."
"Okay. The only thing that scares me about that is having the constituent contact the Department of Public Aid. I mean, I've had people contact the Department of Public Aid and they've never been heard from again. You know, I mean, that sometimes can be the black hole of Calcutta, no offense. You're liable to get lost. Is there gonna be a contact person set aside in the agency to respond to these people? Because you can contact the Department of Public Aid now and get a form letter and say we're reviewing your case, sometime between now and 2010, we're gonna get back to you."
"I would think that'd be an excellent idea and I know the Department is gonna implement the rules. And I would definitely suggest to them that they should have an individual that'd be in charge of this. And I'd think... "
"Yeah. I would think that that would be critically important because if you simply, 'if that constituent simply sends a letter to the Department', quote unquote, I doubt that they'll ever hear another word. It's gonna have 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 to be directed to somebody's attention who will be instructed by the director to expedite these requests and I think, these are reasonable requests. And I do appreciate your advancing the legislation. The only other question I have, has anybody contacted the various credit bureaus and informed them of the difficulty and in fact, that some of these letters might be forthcoming because I anticipate a problem with some of those agencies, as well? Say, oh, yeah, sure, you've got this letter, but thanks but no thanks. You're a bad credit risk and you're gonna stay that way."
"Representative, I'm sorry, I didn't hear the question. I didn't hear the beginning of that question."
"Yeah. Has anyone bothered to check with any of the credit rating bureaus because eventually, you know, like the credit bureau of your home county or mine, if they're not aware of this letter, my fear is that it'll either be canned or put in a file and no notation made and a damaged credit rating remains intact. I know there are things in law people can do, but we're not... some of these people harmed by this child support fiasco... what's the word I want to say? They're not used to having to do this and I'm not sure that they're going to be on top of the situation and get their credit rating reviewed and or revised. So I wonder if anybody has thought to contact the association that represents these credit reporting bureaus so that they know what's coming. That they're gonna cooperate with them."
"Representative, I've just been told, by Representative Scully, that under Federal Law the Fair Credit Reporting Act, that Federal Law mandates that that letter has to be in the file." 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
"Yeah. All right, I understand that and there are other laws that these people can utilize. My fear is, if we don't work with these associations, the letter will go in the file, but the credit reporting unit won't make any change in their credit rating and then you open up a whole other can of worms. I mean, I'm gonna vote for your Bill. I'm not trying to raise any red herrings, here. There are people who have had their credit rating seriously impacted by this fiasco that the Federal Government mandated on all the states. I just want to make sure that we have some kind of hook... Well, let me ask you this. If we need to, would you and the Senate Sponsor be willing to do a trailer Bill if some of these people get caught up in the bureaucracy and it isn't working, hopefully, we could come back in the fall Session and do a trailer Bill 'cause I have some hunch that I just have a feeling that some people are really gonna get caught up in this bureaucratic mess."
"I, obviously, can't speak for the Senate Sponsor, but I certainly would agree to that."
"Okay. Fine. Thank you very much."
"Thank you."
"Mr. Brosnahan moves for the passage of the Bill. Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 117 people voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Holbrook."
"Thank you, Speaker. The purpose of an announcement. The Tourism Committee scheduled for 10 a.m. tomorrow in 122-B has been cancelled. The Sponsor's not ready with his legislation. The Tourism Committee is cancelled for 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 tomorrow."
Speaker Madigan: "Representative Monique Davis. Do you wish to move Senate Bill 1319? Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 1319?"
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1319, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Madigan: "Third Reading. Representative Silva. Is Representative Silva in the chamber? Do you wish to move Senate Bill 1428? Mr. Noonan, could you step aside? Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 1428?"
"Senate Bill 1428, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Saviano. Mr. Saviano. Representative Silva. Senate Bill 1329. Do you wish to call that on Third Reading? 1329. The Lady indicates she does not wish to call the Bill. Mr. Lopez. Is Mr. Lopez in the chamber? Representative Flowers. Mr. Lopez. Did you wish to call Senate Bill 1555? The Gentleman indicates he does not wish to call the Bill. Mr. Moffitt, did you wish to move Senate Bill 1387? Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 1387?"
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1387, a Bill for an Act in relation to public and community service. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Winters. Mr. Winters. Senate Bill 1626. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 1626?" 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
"Senate Bill 1626, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Vehicle Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Rutherford. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 1317?"
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1317, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions Filed."
Speaker Madigan: "Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, let's go back to Senate Bill 1387. What is the status of that Bill?"
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1387 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading."
"Mr. Clerk, put that Bill on the Order of Second Reading. And what is the status of filed Amendments?"
"No Floor Amendments have been filed to the Bill."
"Mr. Moffitt, the Clerk advises that no Floor Amendments have been filed to the Bill. Mr. Moffitt."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Amendment from the committee was put on as an accommodation for Representative Hamos only in the condition that she didn't get some other legislation passed which now has and I think, she's here to concur. So actually, we would like to remove the Amendment. But I'd like for her to concur that we've accommodated what... "
"Mr. Moffitt. Did you wish to move to table the Committee Amendment?"
"I'd like to move to table the Amendment."
Speaker Madigan: "Mr. Clerk, how many Committee Amendments were there?"
"One Amendment was adopted in committee." 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
Speaker Madigan: "Mr. Moffitt moves to table the Committee Amendment. The Gentleman has moved to table the Committee Amendment. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The Amendment is tabled. Are there any further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments."
Speaker Madigan: "Third Reading. Mr. Tom Johnson. Mr. Tom Johnson. Mr. Saviano. Did you wish to call Senate Bill 1339? Mr. Clerk, Senate Bill 1339, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1339, a Bill for an Act to amend the Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics and Nail Technology Act of 1985. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 1339 has two provisions in it, one is that a person with a documented learning disability may reapply for an examination without having to complete the additional 1500 hours of instruction required that's to accommodate people who wish to get their licenses fail the test, they don't have to perform another 1500 hours of instruction because of their disability. The other component of the Bill is that pursuant to the licensure we needed to replace the word 'total' with 'program' so it was applicable uniformly across the board. Also provides a window for cosmetologists, a two day window, for some of the Members' constituents who have fallen through the cracks and failed to get licensure in the past. And I would ask your approval on Senate Bill 1339, as amended. Thank you."
"Mr. Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. An inquiry of the Chair or the Clerk, I'm sorry. Could the Clerk inform us as to whether or not Committee Amendment #1 has been adopted to the Bill?" 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
"Mr. Clerk."
"I'm sorry. The staff tells me it's Committee Amendment #2. Is that correct?"
"Amendments 1 and 2 were adopted to the Bill in committee."
"Okay. The Amendments do not become the Bill, correct? They simply add to the Bill."
"Well, Mr. Black, I don't know that the Clerk is in a position to answer that question."
"The Clerks know everything, Mr. Speaker. They have told me that, repeatedly."
Speaker Madigan: "All right. What does your staff tell you regarding those Amendments, Mr. Black?"
"They're telling me to stall. And I thought I was doing a very good job, Mr. Speaker, until you interrupted me."
"We've always known that you're very adept at talking and saying nothing."
"Yes, thank you. And then back to the original question, whatever that was, the Clerk said it was Committee Amendment #1 and 2, correct?"
"That was his response, Mr. Black."
"Well, his response got lost somewhere. It's the radio waves emanating from this fish net above my head. It's not been the same all year. Well, then would the Sponsor yield, Mr. Speaker?"
"Sponsor yields."
"And who is the Sponsor? Oh, Representative Saviano. Representative, there was some concern about the dermatologists had some concerns about the Bill, I think that's been addressed by what, Committee Amendment #1?"
"Representative, Committee Amendment #1 removed the opposition from the Illinois Society of Dermatologists and 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 the Illinois State Medical Society. What was in the Bill previous, was that cosmetologists could perform this dead skin removing process. They had some concerns about it and I think, at this point in time it was decided, with Committee Amendment #1, to take that out so over the next several months we could sort of educate all parties concerned on what extent that procedure would entail so for now, we took that out of the Bill. The remaining underlying Bill stayed intact and then we added the two day window for cosmetologists, with Amendment #2."
"All right. Representative, it doesn't do anything with the... I can remember a few years ago we did a relatively minor Bill for cosmetology and then we found out there was a continuing ed requirement in it that, particularly in the downstate areas, really created a problem. This Bill doesn't change or impact the continuing ed requirements in any way, does it?"
"Representative, you remember back then, we reduced the number of hours for continuing ed requirements because of the hardships it provided for downstate cosmetologists. That provision stays intact and this Bill, by no means, addresses that issue."
"Refresh my memory. Didn't we go back and finally grandfather some people? If they'd had a license for like 40 years and they were... been practicing continuously and they were at a certain age, we grandfathered them on the continuing ed requirements, didn't we?"
"That's true. I think, that was back in around '93 or maybe '94 we did that and with the added Amendment #2, this would address additional people who didn't take advantage of it at that time 'cause they simply did not know... "
"Okay." 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
"... and we're trying to insert them in so the state has jurisdiction over their licensure."
"All right. Thank you very much."
"Representative Hartke in the Chair. Further discussion? Seeing no one is seeking recognition, Representative Saviano to close."
"This is a relatively simple Bill. There's no opposition to it. And I would ask for your approval. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall the House pass Senate Bill 1339?' 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? Four people have not voted. Have all voted who wish? Someone... Is Mr. Turner or Mr. Granberg in the chamber? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On Senate Bill 1339, there were 116 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no' and 1 person voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. For what reason does Mr. Brunsvold seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and Gentlemen, the big game is tomorrow night. Senate/House softball game. Hey. Lincoln Park at 5 p.m. Lincoln Park, as most of you remember, is out by the fairgrounds. And we'll get started about 5:00. Today, House Members, if you haven't picked up your shirt yet, they're back here by my desk. You should come back and get them. We are practicing this afternoon at 4:30 at the Sacred Heart field. That's on Washington Street, out west a little bit by Sacred Heart. It's on Amos, Amos and Washington. So Members of the softball team, 4:30 to 5:30 tonight, practice. So let's get ready, 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 folks. Be at the game tomorrow night and root the House on."
Speaker Hartke: "The Chair recognizes the Gentlemen from Fulton, Representative Smith. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For the purpose of an announcement."
"State your announcement."
"To Members of the Agriculture and Conservation Committee, our meeting scheduled for tomorrow has been cancelled. That's the Agriculture and Conservation Committee meeting for 10 a.m. tomorrow, including you, Mr. Speaker."
"Thank you. On page 7, of the Calendar, on Second Reading, appears Senate Bill 1477. Representative Fowler. Out of the record. On page 7, on the Calendar, on Second Reading, appears Senate Bill 1382. Representative Schoenberg. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1382, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 3, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill, on Third Reading, appears Senate Bill 1332. Representative Bugielski. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1332, a Bill for an Act to amend the Rights of Crime Victims and Witnesses Act. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Bugielski."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 1332 seeks to permit the victims of certain drug crimes and those that deal with drug deliveries which occur 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 within 1000 feet of schools, parks, churches, public housing, truck stops and safety rest areas to testify at the sentencing hearing as to how the specific criminal behavior perpetrated by this specific criminal offense affects the victims quality of life. Presently, whenever there is a crime, the judge will call in the witnesses and they must be an actual representative of a school, of a housing development, public housing, of a church and all we're saying is that, this would change whereby a police officer that is working that neighborhood, that is working that beat, would be able to come in and testify that the actual area where this drug activity was taking place was actually a school or a church or a public park or a housing area, public housing development. This Bill passed out of the Judiciary-Criminal Law Committee (sic-Judiciary II) 13-2, I mean, 13-0 and also the Amendments that were adopted in the Committee, all passed out unanimously, 13-0. And I would ask for a positive Roll Call."
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass Senate Bill 1332?' 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? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On Senate Bill 1332, there were 117 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 3, of the Calendar, on Third Reading, appears Senate Bill 1550. Representative Saviano. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill. What is the status of Senate Bill 1550?" 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1550 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Second Reading. It's been read a second time, previously."
"Third Reading. On page 5, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1268. Representative Mathias. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1268, a Bill for an Act to amend the Criminal Code of 1961. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. On page 7, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1387. Representative Moffitt. What's the status of that Bill?"
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1387 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading."
"Okay. Take that Bill out of the record. What's the status of Senate Bill 1582?"
"Senate Bill 1582, a Bill for an Act to amend the Counties Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 8, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1504. Representative Poe. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1504, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. On page 8, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1540. Representative Biggins. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1540, a Bill for an Act to amend the 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 Solicitation For Charity Act. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 9, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1734. Representative Schmitz. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1734, a Bill for an Act to amend the Military Code of Illinois. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. On page 5, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1248. Representative Bost. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1248, a Bill for an Act creating the Fire Equipment Distributor and Employee Regulation Act of 2000. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"On page 6, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill... Third Reading. On page 6, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1304. Representative Bost. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1304, a Bill for an Act to amend the Property Tax Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 8, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1537. Representative Righter. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1537, a Bill for an Act concerning the Illinois prepaid tuition program. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Kendall, Representative Cross. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With respect to waiving the posting notice on the Telecommunications Committee scheduled to meet today at 4:00, despite agreement, will meet tomorrow morning at 8:30 in Room D-1, I believe. And I'd move to waive the posting requirements with respect to that committee."
Speaker Hartke: "The Gentleman asked leave. Leave is granted. Representative Dart. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It's for purpose of an announcement."
"State your announcement."
"Thursday morning's Prison Management Reform Committee at 9:00 has been cancelled. So there will not be a Prison Management Committee meeting this week."
"On page 7, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1376. Representative Meyer. Jim Meyers (sic-Meyer). Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1376, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Municipal Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 9, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1658. Representative Osmond. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1658, a Bill for an Act concerning workers' compensation self-insurance pools. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 Osmond, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Osmond."
"Correction. Representative Mautino."
Speaker Hartke: "Would you explain your Amendment? Representative Mautino. Representative Mautino on Amendment #2. Floor Amendment #2."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Floor Amendment 2 makes some corrections that were brought up in the Bill which is previously passed and what it does is just does not make that legislation retroactive. I have agreement from the Sponsor, from the department, all parties involved. I'd appreciate an 'aye' vote."
"Is there any discussion? Seeing no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House adopt Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 1658?' All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; opposed 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments."
"Third Reading. On page 4, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1655. Representative Kosel. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1655, a Bill for an Act concerning orders of protection. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Kosel."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 1655 amends the Criminal Code of 1963. And it would allow departments, the State Police Department, to record and process foreign orders of protection, that means orders of protection from other states, as we do with it once in the State of Illinois. And I would ask for your positive vote on this piece of legislation." 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from McHenry, Mr. Skinner."
"I wonder if the Sponsor could answer a question or two?"
"The Sponsor will yield."
"So let's assume someone's in California, goes to a judge, says, this person is threatening me or whatever the requirements are in California for an order of protection and that person is physically in Illinois, but nevertheless, since these are ex parte hearings, you don't have to notify the person being charged with the alleged threatening. An order of protection is issued in California and you're telling me that that order of protection can come to the State of Illinois and be enforced against the person that's never been in the State of California?"
"The order of a protection could be... would be filed in the State of Illinois in the Leads System just like orders of protection within the state are now filed, and it would be done at the request of the person who had the order served at them. They would give that to the police and then would then be logged."
"So the answer to my question is 'yes'?"
"I think so."
"I didn't hear you?"
"I believe so, yes."
"Please, we're on Third Reading."
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, these orders of protection are very interesting creatures. They are ex parte creatures. I'm not a lawyer, but I'm told that means the person against whom the complaint is made doesn't have 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 to be told about it until afterwards. That person doesn't have to be in the courtroom. In fact, that person never gets a chance to go to the courtroom. And now, we're saying that someone in California could make a complaint against somebody living and actually, physically, in the State of Illinois at the time of the complaint and have an order of protection entered against him or her and that would then be transmitted, I assume, electronically, to the State of Illinois and enforced in the State of Illinois. Does that sound fair to you? It doesn't sound fair to me."
"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Kosel to close."
"I would ask for your favorable consideration on this piece of legislation. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall the House pass Senate Bill 1655?' 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. Brunsvold, would you like to vote? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On Senate Bill 1655, there were 115 Members voting 'yes', 1 person 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 Senate Bill 1701. Representative Myers. Jim Meyers (sic-Meyer). Or Rich Myers. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1701, a Bill for an Act concerning insurance exchanges. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Myers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 1701 amends the Illinois Insurance Code in relation to insurance exchanges. It removes... it provides that any exchange that is created 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 or has been created, which we do have one, is separate and distinct from the state. And it makes several other changes in the Bill regarding provisions for public trustees of the exchange, it authorizes the establishment of a privately owned immediate access security association separate from the state to manage the liquidation of any insurance exchanges. And this is just a cleanup Bill proposed by those within the exchange. It's a result of a lawsuit at which a judge rendered a ruling that led one to believe that this was part of the exchange when the Legislature in previous times authorized this. It was meant to be separate and distinct from the state and a judge did not rule or see that in the legislation and this is cleaning that up. Would be happy to answer any questions."
"Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Cook, Representative Parke."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the... No. I just rise in support of this legislation. It is a issue that's kind of complex, but the Department of Insurance is in support of this and I think this is a good Bill."
"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Myers to close."
"Just ask for a favorable 'aye' vote."
Speaker Hartke: "The question is, 'Shall the House pass Senate Bill 1701?' 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? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On Senate Bill 1701, there are 117 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no' and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 hereby declared passed. Is Tom Johnson in the chamber? Would you like to call Senate Bill 742? Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 742, a Bill for an Act concerning spinal cord injuries. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Johnson." Johnson, Tom: "Yes, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 742 would create a Spinal Cord Injury Paralysis Cure Research Trust Fund and a Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund and set these funds up. Currently, there is no authorization for dollars going into these funds, but this is a genesis that'll, at least, get these two funds established both for research and for cure and treatment as it relates to those individuals who have suffered spinal cord injuries. And I would ask your favorable consideration of this Bill."
"Is there any discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass Senate Bill 742?' 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 Senate Bill 742, there were 117 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no' and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 7, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1391. Representative Lyons. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1391, a Bill for an Act to amend the Environmental Protection Act. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. On page 8, of the Calendar, 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 appears Senate Bill 1599. Representative Lyons. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1599, a Bill for an Act to amend the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. On page 8, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1508. Representative Lindner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"Senate Bill 1508, a Bill for an Act to amend the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 4, of the Calendar, on Third Reading, appears Senate Bill 1875. Representative Zickus. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1875, a Bill for an Act to amend the Telephone Solicitations Act. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Zickus."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 1875 is an initiative of AARP. It was voted out of the Senate 58-0. It protects consumers and seniors against fraudulent telemarketing and unauthorized verbal withdrawals via telephone from checking, savings and other bank accounts. Some of you may have received this handout from AARP. It says, did you know that anyone who has your bank account number and your Social Security number can do a one-time withdrawal from your bank account without your knowledge. As outrageous as that sounds, it's true. Even more frightening, unscrupulous, fraudulent telemarketers use this technique 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 for wiping out unsuspecting people's checking and saving accounts. Oftentimes, people unwittingly reveal this information by being asked to verify that they have won a prize or are eligible for buying something at a discount price. Actually, we're all very vulnerable. Current law, Illinois law, provides that few protections for consumers, unlike credit card transactions, Illinois law caps recovery on fraudulent credit card charges at $50 per charge, but no such consumer protection exists for a bank account. And what is happening is some seniors and other people have been having their accounts wiped out. So I ask your... I wanted to make one more mention that this in no way is intended to create any harm for any legitimate businesses. If someone has a contract with their company and are late with a payment, they would still be able to use this service. Thank you and would appreciate your support."
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? Seeing no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass Senate Bill 1875?' 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 Senate Bill 1875, there were 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 13, on the Calendar, appears House Resolution 695. Representative O'Brien. Mr. Clerk, read the Resolution."
Clerk Bolin: "House Resolution 695 offered by Representative O'Brien."
"Representative O'Brien."
"This is a congratulatory Resolution for Adams Township 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 in LaSalle County commemorating their 150th year of existence and I would just urge an 'aye' vote. Thank you."
"The Lady has asked for the adoption of House Resolution 695. All those in favor signify by saying 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Mr. Clerk, read the list of the Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 677, offered by Representative Burke; House Resolution 679, offered by Representative Black; House Resolution 680, offered by Representative Bill Mitchell; House Resolution 681, offered by Representative Bill Mitchell; House Resolution 682, offered by Representative Bill Mitchell; House Resolution 683, offered by Representative Bill Mitchell; House Resolution 684, offered by Representative Osmond; House Resolution 688, offered by Representative Persico; House Resolution 689, offered by Representative Schoenberg; House Resolution 690, offered by Representative Julie Curry; House Resolution 691, offered by Representative Cross; House Resolution 693, offered by Representative Wirsing; House Resolution 694, offered by Representative Crotty; House Resolution 696, offered by Representative Reitz; House Resolution 697, offered by Representative Reitz; House Resolution 698, offered by Representative Shirley Jones; House Resolution 700, offered by Representative Hannig; House Resolution 701, offered by Representative Monique Davis; House Resolution 703, offered by Representative Bill Mitchell; House Resolution 704, offered by Representative Howard; House Resolution 707, offered by Representative Feigenholtz; House Resolution 708, offered by Representative Gash."
Speaker Hartke: "All those in favor of the Agreed Resolutions 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 signify by saying 'yes'; opposed 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the Agreed Resolutions are adopted. Mr. Clerk for announcements."
"Members should note that there are several Bills on the Order of Concurrence and they need to file Motions on whether they wish to concur or nonconcur with the Senate Amendments. Notes may be filed at the House well or in the House Journal Room."
"Mr. Clerk, would you reinform the Members of the cancellation of committees."
"The following committees for tomorrow have been cancelled. The Agriculture and Conservation Committee at 10:00 tomorrow has been cancelled. The Tourism Committee at 10:00 tomorrow has been cancelled. And the Prison Management Reform Committee at 9:00 tomorrow has been cancelled."
"The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Madison, Representative Hoffman."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to inform the Members of the Transportation Committee that committee will also be cancelled tomorrow morning. The Transportation Committee will be cancelled."
Speaker Hartke: "Further announcements? Members should be advised that tomorrow there will be a National Guard exhibit on parking lot O and that some Members may be asked to have their cars parked in various spots. Also, tomorrow there will be a ceremony on the House Floor so Members are asked to be here on time. Representative Schoenberg. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to make an announcement that the hearing tomorrow for the Appropriations Committee on General Services and Government 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000 Oversight which is scheduled for 10 a.m. will be cancelled. The committee will meet on Thursday as scheduled, but tomorrow's committee meeting for the Appropriations Committee on General Services and Government Oversight will be cancelled."
"Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 1404?"
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1404 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading."
Speaker Hartke: "Place that Bill on the Order of Second Reading at the request of the Sponsor for the purposes of an Amendment. Representative Dart. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Purpose of an announcement. The Judiciary I Committee (sic-Civil Law) will meet at 9:00 not at 8:30 tomorrow."
Speaker Hartke: "On page 9, on the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1735. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of that Bill?"
"Senate Bill 1735, a Bill for an Act concerning the regulation of professions. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 5, of the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1277. Mr... What is the status of that Bill?"
"Senate Bill 1277, a Bill for an Act concerning military memorials. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. On page 9, on the Calendar, appears Senate Bill 1780. What is the status of that Bill?" 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 91ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 115th Legislative Day April 4, 2000
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Bill 1780, a Bill for an Act regarding appropriations. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen the... For what reason does Representative Crotty seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on a point of personal privilege."
"State your point."
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, I would like you to join with me in welcoming the Saint Christopher's from Midlothian's eighth grade class up in the gallery. Thanks for coming down."
Speaker Hartke: "Welcome to the Illinois House. Ladies and Gentlemen we're prepared to adjourn. Anyone else for further announcements? Representative Lang now moves that the House stand adjourned until the hour of 11 a.m. tomorrow allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; opposed 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the House does stand adjourned until the hour of 11 a.m. tomorrow." 29