"The House shall come to order. The Members shall be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by Pastor Jeff Robinson of the Lincolnway Christian Church in New Lenox. Pastor Robinson is the guest of Representative Kosel. The guests in the gallery may wish to rise and join us for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance."
"Let's pray. Creator, Redeemer, and Lord we give You praise, for You are above all things. You are our God to whom we must answer for the choices that we make. So Lord, God, please forgive us for choosing to neglect the poor by simply throwing money at them; for choosing to demonize the rich and yet accept contributions from them; for choosing to listen to the powerful and ignoring the powerless; for choosing to make promises we cannot or will not keep. Help us, Oh Lord God, to choose the excellent over the expedience, to choose what is worthy over what works. Help us, Lord, to choose our convictions over convenience and principles over power. Help us, Lord, to choose the dignity of life over death and help us, Lord, to choose You, our invisible God of all time, over the idols of our times. Lord, I thank You for these men and women who serve the people of Illinois, I thank You for the sacrifice of time and energy and family. And, Lord God, please watch over their families for the burdens that they share. So, Lord Jesus, grant these men and women the wisdom to choose Your principles and Your purposes, grant these who serve in places of power the humility and courage and strength to see that they have a charge to keep, a promise to fulfill, and a destiny to discover. Thank You, Lord, for hearing our prayer. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen." 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
"We shall be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Representative Calvin Giles."
Giles - 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."
Speaker Madigan: "Roll Call for Attendance. Representative Currie. Representative Currie."
"Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record show that Representative Collins is excused today."
"Mr. Poe."
"Mr. Speaker, let the record show that Representative Ron Stephens is excused today."
Speaker Madigan: "Let the record reflect those excused absences. Mr. Clerk, take the record. There being 116 Members responding to the Attendance Roll Call, there is a quorum present. Mr. Clerk."
Clerk Rossi: "Committee Reports. Representative McCarthy, Chairperson from the Committee on Child Support Enforcement, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 2298, House Bill 2301, House Bill 3125, and House Bill 3128. Representative Reitz, Chairperson from the Committee on Cities and Villages, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 2379 and House Bill 2380; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 1011. Representative Scully, Chairperson from the Committee on Commerce and Business Development, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 732. Representative Brosnahan, Chairperson from the Committee on Disabled Community, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 2398 and House Bill 3130; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 2230. Representative Giles, Chairperson from the Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 1808 and House Bill 2390; 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 1096, House Bill 1869, House Bill 2063, House Bill 2204, House Bill 2255, House Bill 2425, House Bill 2472, House Bill 2519, and House Bill 2523; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 875, House Bill 1050, House Bill 1692; 'do not pass as amended' House Bill 806. Representative Novak, Chairperson from the Committee on Environment and Energy, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 984, House Bill 3019; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 2, House Bill 439, and House Bill 759. Representative Feigenholtz, Chairperson from the Committee on Human Services, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 2091, House Bill 2384, House Bill 2473, House Bill 3003, House Bill 3071; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 House Bill 632; 'be adopted Short Debate' House Joint Resolution 8. Representative Dart, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary I - Civil Law, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 906, House Bill 1039, House Bill 2220, House Bill 2222, House Bill 2288, House Bill 2392, House Bill 2435, House Bill 2464, House Bill 2477, House Bill 2531, House Bill 2550, House Bill 3024; 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 2227, House Bill 2280; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 2026; 'do pass as amended Standard Debate' House Bill 1789. Representative Stroger, Chairperson from the Committee on Labor, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 1720, House Bill 2221, and House Bill 2567; 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 850, House Bill 852, House Bill 945, House Bill 2382, and House Bill 3036; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 3066. Representative Saviano, Chairperson from the Committee on Registration and Regulation, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 2535; 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 1805,House Bill 1954, House Bill 2303, House Bill 2400, House Bill 2539, House Bill 2565, House Bill 2566, House Bill 3014, House Bill 3015, House Bill 3048, House Bill 3049; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 438, House Bill 858, House Bill 921, House Bill 1695, House Bill 2391; 'recommends be adopted' House Joint Resolution #10. 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Representative Kenner, Chairperson from the Committee on State Government Administration, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 306, House Bill 2179, House Bill 2235, House Bill 3037; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 328 and House Bill 1785; 'recommends be adopted' House Joint Resolution #6. Representative Erwin, Chairperson from the Committee on Higher Education, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 7, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 862, House Bill 2395, House Bill 2396, House Bill 2436, House Bill 2518; 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 975, House Bill 3113; recommends 'be adopted as amended' House Resolution 55."
Speaker Hartke: "The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Sangamon, Representative Poe."
"Mr. Speaker, I'd like to make a Motion to waiver the posting on House Bill 3320."
"Have you cleared that with the other side of the aisle."
"I'm sorry."
"Have you cleared that with the other..."
"Yes, that's already went through Rules."
Speaker Hartke: "You've heard the Gentleman's Motion. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; opposed 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the posting requirement is waived. The Chair recognizes Representative Joe Lyons, for an announcement." Lyons, J.: "Thank you, Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This being St. Patrick's month, next week being St. 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Patrick's week, in anticipation of next Saturday, a week from Saturday, which will be St. Patrick's Day, I've been informed by Kenny Harrington from Harrington's Corned Beef in Chicago that I will be bringing down 200 of the world's finest corned beef sandwiches for lunch next Tuesday. Lunch Tuesday from Harrington's."
"Thank you very much. The Chair recognizes Senator Cullerton on the floor. Let's welcome him to the chamber. The Chair is starting to move some Bills from Second to Third. So, if you would, listen up. We're going to move this as quickly as possible. On page 2 of the Calendar appears House Bill 39. Representative Poe. House Bill 39. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 39, a Bill for an Act amending the Illinois Vehicle Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Motions have been filed. No Floor Amendments approved for consideration."
"Third Reading. House Bill 64, Representative Lang. Out of the record. House Bill 65, Representative Lang. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 65, a Bill for an Act amending the Abused and Neglected Long Term Care Facility Residents Reporting Act. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 71. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 71, a Bill for an Act relating to simulated voting by minors. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
"Third Reading. House Bill 123, Representative Bellock. Patty Bellock. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 123, a Bill for an Act amending the Illinois Vehicle Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 128, Representative Schoenberg. Out of the record. House Bill 148, Representative Berns. Representative Berns. Out of the record. House Bill 151, Representative Turner. Out of the record. House Bill 158, Representative Dart. 158, Representative Dart. Out of the record. House Bill 176, Representative Hoffman. Out of the record. House Bill 185, Representative Fowler. 185, Representative Fowler. Out of the record. House Bill 210, Representative Kenner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 210, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 211, Representative Franks. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 211, a Bill for an Act concerning privacy. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 228, Representative Meyer. Representative Black, for what reason do you seek recognition?"
"An inquiry of the Chair, Mr. Speaker. I know you're in a hurry, I'll make this brief. Our files indicate that the Sponsor of House Bill 211 indicated he would hold this Bill on Second Reading pending an Amendment, and said this in 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 committee. If we're wrong, I'll withdraw my objection. If not, I would like the Sponsor to respond."
"Representative Franks. Mr. Black has indicated that you indicated in committee that you would hold this Bill on Second Reading until you spoke with him. Representative Black, would you respond? 211. While you're checking that out, we'll come back to 211. House Bill 228, Representative Meyer. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 228, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. The Chair recognizes Representative Meyer. Out of the re... He indicates he does not wish to speak. On page 4 on the Calendar appears House Bill 279. Representative Burke. Representative Burke. Out of the record. House Bill 312, Representative Feigenholtz. Out of the record. House Bill 326, Representative Persico. Out of the record. House Bill 376, Representative Ryder. Representative Ryder. Out of the record. House Bill 397, Representative Fritchey. Out of the record. House Bill 448, Representative Acevedo. Out of the record. House Bill 479, Representative Younge. Out of the record. House Bill 582, Representative Lang. Out of the record. House Bill 599, Representative Dart. Out of the record. House Bill 623, Representative Curry. Julie Curry. Out of the record. House Bill 630, Representative Crotty. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 630, a Bill for an Act concerning schools. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. Representative Black, have you 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 conversed with Representative Franks?"
"Second Reading."
"Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 211?"
"House Bill 211 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading."
Speaker Hartke: "Move that Bill back to Second Reading, for the purpose of an Amendment, at the request of the Sponsor. On page 6 on the Calendar appears House Bill 654. Representative Brosnahan. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 654. The Bill has been read a second time, previously. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 681, Representative Novak. Representative Novak. Out of the record. House Bill 898, Representative O'Brien. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 898, a Bill for an Act concerning schools. Second Reading of this House Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 911, Representative Hamos. Out of the record. House Bill 934, Representative Acevedo. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 934, a Bill for an Act concerning law enforcement. Second Reading of this House Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. Several notes have been requested on the Bill and have not been filed."
"That Bill will remain on Second Reading. House Bill 942, Representative Moore. Andrea Moore. Out of the record. House Bill 1033, Representative Tenhouse. Mr. Tenhouse. Out of the record. House Bill 1040, 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Representative Brunsvold. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 1040, a Bill for an Act relating to insurance. Second Reading of this House Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in Committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 1069, Representative Hoffman. Representative Hoffman. Out of the record. On page 3 of the Calendar appears House Bill 219. Representative Wait. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 219, a Bill for an Act in relation to the transmission of drug information by the Internet. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 810, Representative Bost. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 810, a Bill for an Act in relation to vehicles. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 1099, Representative Davis. Monique Davis. 1099. Out of the record. House Bill 1694, Representative Krause. Carolyn Krause. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 1694, a Bill for an Act concerning the emergency telephone services. Second Reading of this House Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 1704, Representative McCarthy. Kevin McCarthy. Out of the record. House Bill 1734 on page 8, on Second Reading. Representative O'Brien. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 1734, a Bill for an Act concerning day care. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 1820, Representative Cross. Tom Cross. Out of the record. House Bill 1842, Representative Durkin. Representative Durkin. Out of the record. House Bill 1843, Representative Durkin. Out of the record. 1844. Out of the record. House Bill 1889, Representative Miller. Representative Miller. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill. 1895. Excuse me, 1889."
"House Bill 1889, a Bill for an Act concerning insurance coverage. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 1895, Representative Hoeft. Out of the record. House Bill 1904, Representative Saviano. Out of the record. House Bill 1926, Representative Reitz. Out of the record. House Bill 1929, Representative Mulligan. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 1929, a Bill for an Act in relation to child care. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 1935, Representative Collins. Representative Collins. Out of the record. House Bill 1956, Representative Moffitt. Out of the record. House Bill 1967, Representative Scott. Out of the record. House Bill 1980, Representative Boland. Out of the record. House Bill 2023, Representative Meyer. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 2023, a Bill for an Act concerning solicitation. Second Reading of this House Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
"Third Reading. House Bill 2052. Out of the record. House Bill 2062, Representative Joe Lyons. Representative Lyons, Joe Lyons. Out of the record. House Bill 2079, Representative Wait. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 2079, a Bill for an Act in relation to health. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 2112, Representative Mulligan. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 2112, a Bill for an Act concerning insurance. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 2113, Representative Novak. There's been a note request on the Bill. It will remain on Second Reading. House Bill 2139, Representative Osterman. Representative Harry Osterman. Out of the record. House Bill 2143, Representative Klingler. Out of the record. House Bill 2149, Representative Garrett. Susan Garrett. Out of the record. House Bill 2155, Representative Garrett. Out of the record. House Bill 2159, Representative Madigan. 2159. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 2159, a Bill for an Act concerning state budget stabilization. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 2161, Representative Klingler. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 2161, a Bill for an Act in relation to vehicles. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
"Third Reading. House Bill 2244, Representative Kosel. Representative Kosel. Out of the record. Mr. Clerk, read that Bill."
"House Bill 2244, a Bill for an Act concerning vehicles. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 2249, Representative Bugielski. Representative Bugielski. 2249. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 2249, a Bill for an Act concerning certain lending practices. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 2253, Representative Scully. George Scully. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 2253, a Bill for an Act in relation to highways. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 2254, Representative Ryan. Representative Ryan, 2254. Out of the record. House Bill 2263, Representative Winters. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 2263, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bill 2376, Representative Bugielski. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 2376, a Bill for an Act in relation to banking. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 2377, Representative 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Durkin. Out of the record. House Bill 2411, Representative Burke. Out of the record. House Bill 2528, Representative Bost. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 2528, a Bill for an Act to amend the Fish and Aquatic Life Code. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 2554, Representative Krause. Carolyn Krause. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 2554, a Bill for an Act concerning payment of insurance claims. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Hartke: "Third Reading. House Bill 2556, Representative Osmond. Tim Osmond. Out of the record. House Bill 3016, Representative Crotty. Out of the record. House Bill 3052, Representative Flowers. His notes have been filed and will remain on Second Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen, we're going to try and move a couple of Third Bills today and pass them off over to the chamber. So, if I would have your cooperation, I would appreciate it very much. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Cook, Representative Osterman."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. I'd like to rise on a personal privilege..."
"State your point."
"...to welcome to us today, up in the gallery, the Elementary School... Swift Elementary School band that was down here earlier to play some music for us at the Howlett Center. If you'd give them a round of applause, I'd appreciate it. Thank you."
"Let's give them a warm welcome to their State 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Capitol. On page 12 of the Calendar appears House Bill 233. Representative Klingler. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 233, a Bill for an Act to amend the Illinois Pension Code. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Klingler."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. House Bill 233 is one which affects certified state employees who have been laid off and then rehired by the state. It allows them to purchase, at their cost, both the employee and the employer cost, up to two years of credit. This Bill has passed the Pension Laws Commission last year, it passed the Pension Laws Commission again this year, and it also passed the Pension and Personnel Committee. There has been no opposition to this Bill. Very few people will be affected. I was approached on this issue by a constituent who testified at the hearing. And at the hearing, another constituent also came. I would imagine that there are probably less than two dozen people that would be affected. Again, the pension impact note indicates that there would not be a cost to the state because the employee would be paying both the employee and the employer part of the buyback."
"You heard the Lady's introduction. Is there any discussion? Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is... Representative Black, is your light on?"
"Yes."
"Representative Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor will yield."
"Representative, on the purchase of the two-year credit, 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 is it only applied to the employee's portion, or does the employee have to pay the state portion, as well?"
"The employee has to pay both the employee and the state contribution."
"All right. What if it was a case where, during the layoff, someone was fortunate enough to be hired, albeit on a temporary basis, for a salary much higher than they were making when they were laid off? Could they claim that kind of credit or transfer that kind of credit? For example, let's say they moved to University of Illinois-Springfield and were employed during that layoff period and contributed under the SURS system. Can they then transfer not only buyback the two years that they were technically laid off, but then ask a transfer additional credit that they may have earned for employment they found during the layoff?"
"Representative, this Bill is focused on persons that had been in the State Employee Retirement System and then coming back into the State Employee Retirement System."
"But the five systems have some degree of reciprocity. And what I'd like to make sure of is that, and I have no problem with your underlying Bill. I'd just like a clarification if someone is fortunate enough to... well, use this as an example, they were laid off, got angry, ran for the General Assembly, served two years in the General Assembly, decided not to run or were defeated, went back... had recall rights to their previous state job, then wanted to transfer the GARS pension contribution to the SERS system, so in effect, they could buyback two years and get an additional two years under one of the other state pension systems."
"Representative Black, this Bill would apply when someone has been laid off. It would not apply in a 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 situation where someone that, for example, had been a State Representative under the General Assembly System did not run and then came back. They would have an option, at some point, to buy up ahead further time in a municipal retirement program. But this was very very narrowly drafted. We added the word 'certified' state employee to indicate that it was not a part-time employee and it really affects just a very few number of people."
"But if you think it's, you know... because I know of at least two people who were state employees, served in the General Assembly, left, and went back to state employee service. If you think that this will not allow them to transfer their GARS two years plus buyback two years of SERS, it's fine with me. I mean, I just... I just want to make sure that it is as narrowly drafted as you indicate."
"I would have to look at more detailed exactly the scenario you laid out. But this was drafted as tightly as possible..."
"Okay."
"...for a maximum of two years. And it was to be for the two years in between the time of layoff and then rehired by the state."
"Okay, fine. Thank you very much."
"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 233?' 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 233, there were 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. The 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Representative Flowers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I would like for Members to recognize, in the gallery, the 2nd Annual Capital Forum. Would you please give them a hand, Ladies and Gentlemen. Thank you."
"Welcome to Springfield. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Kankakee, Representative Novak. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Yes, Mr. Speaker, thank you. A point of personal privilege."
"State your point."
"You know, I was pleasantly surprised yesterday when I discovered throughout the day, you know, we have 118 Members in this Body. Everyone has their own unique personality and agendas and wishes for their constituents in Springfield. But, I was wonderfully surprised yesterday that one of the Members on the Democratic side of the aisle has a twin brother. I mean, I met his twin brother yesterday and he looks exactly, exactly, right down to the glasses and everything that he wears, he looks exactly like this current Member that's sitting on the Democratic side of the aisle. And, as a matter of fact, I believe in all my heart, his twin brother is sitting in his chair right now. And with that, Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce Representative Devin, that's with a capital D, McCarthy. Devin McCarthy. Glad to have you, Devin."
Speaker Hartke: "Welcome to the chamber, Devin. On page 13 of the Calendar appears House Bill 543. Representative Righter. Representative Righter. Dale Righter. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 543, a Bill for an Act concerning tort 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 immunity. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Righter."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 543 would amend a section of the Illinois Local Governmental Tort Immunity Act and provide for a two-year statute of limitations for medical malpractice actions. That would affect approximately 28 hospitals and their employees out of the 200 in the state. This Bill, quite simply, is an attempt to level the playing field for those patients who are cared for in community and county hospitals. Right now, patients in other hospitals that are not county or community enjoy the benefit of a two-year statute of limitations if they choose to bring a medical malpractice action. And this would bring the Local Governmental Tort Immunity Act in line with the Code of Civil Procedure, in that regard. And I'll be happy to answer any questions."
"Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 543?' 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 543, there were 112 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 2 Members voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 14 of the Calendar appears House Bill 854. Representative Beaubien. Representative Beaubien. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 854, a Bill for an Act concerning veterans homes. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Mr. Beaubien." 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill is an initiative of the Department of Natural Resources and supported by numerous groups such as bowhunters, taxidermists, et cetera. What it does is basically two things. 1) The State of Illinois is now becoming a premiere deer hunting state, also becoming a premiere turkey hunting state. The first part of the Bill brings us more in line with other states for nonresident hunting fees for turkey which could go from 75 now up to 125. And out-of-state nonresident deer hunters from $100 now... No, 1854, that's my Bill. Oh no, I don't want to hear that now, not now. It was 1854 I wanted. It's curious that 854 and 1854 have a similar number..."
"That's close."
"...but 1854 is the Bill I want to call."
"You want 1854. Take that Bill out of the record, Mr. Clerk. It was a good start, there. House Bill 1854, Representative Beaubien. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Bolin: "House Bill 1854, a Bill for an Act concerning wildlife. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Mr. Beaubien."
"Okay, let's try this again. I'd like to incorporate by reference all of my previous comments, and go on to the second part of the Bill."
"Is there any discussion?"
"The second part of the Bill deals with the licensing of outfitters. There was a voluntary provision, previously. It is not working very well. The department wants to promulgate rules to license outfitters to make sure that they're qualified. Most outfitters in the state are very, very good, but we do have some bad apples out there. And we... the department wishes to start 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 promulgating rules, with their cooperation, to make sure that all of the licensed outfitters are qualified."
"Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes Representative Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. An inquiry of the Chair. Representative Beaubien has had two attempts to pass this Bill, Mr. Speaker, while some of us can't get a Bill called once. What's the deal here?"
"Mr. Black, are you on my list?"
"No."
"It's a good thing."
"Am I headed that direction?"
"Could."
"Well, he just took this Bill out of the record. We went right back to it."
"That was 854, not 1854."
"Well, if he can't pay attention, he shouldn't get two bites of the apple."
"I'll remind you of that later."
"All right. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor will yield."
"Representative, there are some substantial increases in permit fees in your Bill. These permit fees increased for nonresidents, correct?"
"The nonresidents, in terms of the deer and turkey permits. The outfitters would be both nonresident and resident. And there is a fee charged to them for that."
"All right. So the outfitter fee, if I'm reading this correctly..."
"It will apply to both resident and nonresident."
"...almost jump, almost double, for the outfitter."
"I think it's 1000 for the resident and 2000 for the 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 nonresident, or up to 2500 for the nonresident."
"Okay. So, if a nonresident deer hunter applies for a permit, under your Bill, what is it now, and what will it be, should your Bill become law?"
"If you're talking about a deer hunting permit, it is now $100. They have the authority to go up to $200 which, again, is very competitive with surrounding states."
"Okay. The important issue, and I want to make sure I'm right, this does not increase any fee for a resident hunter to apply for a wild turkey, deer, or any other upland game permit."
"That is correct."
"All right. There have been several similar Bills dealing with outfitters in committees. And I've listened to the debate on one or two. And I don't think it was your Bill, but I know the bowhunters had some serious concerns about one of the outfitter Bills, but I don't believe it's this one. Are you aware of any of the sporting groups that have registered any concerns with you on this Bill?"
"No, I have not. As a matter of fact, the United Bowhunters of Illinois are one of the sponsors."
"Okay. And this is a DNR initiative?"
"Yes, that's correct."
"This does not allow... and one of the issues in my district, and that's why I'm asking you this question. It does not allow for the increase in outfitter... the number of outfitter permits available? Because that's a hot issue in deer country when people are getting dozens of permits because they are leasing 2500 acres of land and the individual deer permit applicant may not even get a deer permit one year. And so that makes him very angry if the outfitter suddenly says; well, I have 35 permits available, 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 but this is what I sell them for. You're not doing anything to increase the number of outfitters or permits they can apply for?"
"No, I do not."
"All right. Okay, thank you very much."
"Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Kankakee, Representative Novak."
"Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"He indicates he will."
"Yes, Mr. Beaubien."
"Yes."
"Mark. I've got a couple of questions for you."
"Yes, Sir."
"What is the cost of an out-of-state permit for turkey hunting in Wisconsin or Indiana? Do you have any idea?"
"Yes, I do."
"Are the turkey hunters in favor of your veteran Bill? No, never mind, go ahead."
"Well, let's see, Iowa's turkeys are 75, Missouri's 125, Wisconsin's 114, there's a list."
"Okay."
"We can go..."
"Are there any registered outfitters in Illinois, now?"
"I don't believe they are. There's a provision in the law that exists that's being eliminated in this Bill that allowed for voluntary licensing of outfitters. And the fact of the matter, nobody signed up for it. So, this is a way to get them to come in and make sure that they're qualified to be... allow the residents and the hunters in Illinois to be safe."
"Are there going... are you going to be limiting the size of the outfitters, at all?" 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
"There's no limit in the size of the outfitters, no."
"Can they resell the permits? Can they resell... can they sell these permits that they're going to get from DNR?"
"You're talking about the permits to be outfitters?"
"Right."
"I don't believe..."
"Can they trans..."
"...they can. I assume that will be in the rule making, that the permit will go to the individual outfitter."
"Okay. So, they're not... they won't be transferable. All right. And Mr. Hartke asked me if I should ask you this question. Does this include hunting for mushrooms, ginseng, walnuts, and hickory nuts, as well?"
"No."
"Okay. Listen, I've got a question I want to ask you. Is there any references, in this Bill, to leasing of land by outfitters? Out-of-state outfitters coming into Illinois, getting this permit, then going down in Southern Illinois and leasing 5000 acres of prime hunting land, and then contracting out or advertising for you to come on this land that I'm leasing. And for them, since they're leasing the land, in-state people can come in and hunt without paying any types of fees for anything if you're hunting. Is there any reference to that?"
"I understand, through this process, that there is a concern and an issue out there about outfitters in-state and out-of-state going to individual landowners and tying up their property. That's part of the free enterprise system. This Bill does not deal with that. It deals with the licensing of the outfitters themselves, not with the issue of the fact that, in many areas of the State of 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Illinois, outfitters will come in, go to the local landowners, and tie up a great deal of their property."
"Do you know of any rule making by DNR that's going to allow that, Mr. Beaubien?"
"I'm not aware of any. I know there's an issue out there, but this Bill doesn't deal with that."
"Well, the reason why I asked, I received a number of letters from people around the state with Whitetails Unlimited and other hunting organizations that were concerned about this issue. So... But that's not in this Bill.
"No, it's not."
"This just simply registers the outfitters?"
"It registers the outfitters, that's correct."
"And there'll be a rule making on it?"
"I'm sorry, I couldn't hear you."
"There'll be a rule making on it?"
"Yes, there will."
"Okay."
"They will sit down with the outfitters and determine the fee..."
"Okay."
"...the schedule, and what the rules should be."
"Okay, thanks."
Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Rock Island, Representative Brunsvold."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill."
"To the Bill."
"Just a little background for the Members. We've been meeting, now, for quite a long time, a couple of years now, with an ad hoc committee with the DNR talking about outfitters and what we need to address regarding 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 outfitters. Fact is, today, that we don't know how many outfitters are out there, we don't know what they're... how much land they own, we don't know how much land they lease, we don't know what kind of services they provide for a person that buys a hunt from Massachusetts, or anyplace where they have these shows, and they sell deer hunts in Illinois. So, a person from out-of-state may come to Illinois and pay $2500 for a hunt and get here and find out he's got no place to hunt or someone tells him to go sit in this tree and see if he can find a deer. We don't know that. So, even the outfitters are really supportive of some sort of a provisions that will, if you will, kind of keep the outfitters that are not doing the proper things, as far as the outfitting services are concerned. The Bill simply says that DNR should regulate. We didn't want to get down to specifics, because there has to be negotiations with the outfitters sitting down with the DNR and deciding what kinds of things ought to be put into the administrative rules regarding the outfitters, knowing how much land they lease, how much land they own. And the services will be mandated, because they should provide certain services for hunters. That's what this Bill does. It's a way of trying to get a little handle on what's happening in the outfitter business in Illinois. The raising fees is pretty much agreed by everybody that our fees for out-of-state hunters, in a lot of cases, are too low. And we need to raise those up. So, I stand in support of Mr. Beaubien's Bill."
"Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, Representative Beaubien to close."
"Yes, now that we're on 1854 instead of 854, I would appreciate your 'aye' vote on House Bill 85... 1854." 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
"The question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 1854?' 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? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 1854, there were 71 Members voting 'yes', 41 Members voting 'no', 1 Member voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 15 of the Calendar appears House Bill 1089. Representative Hassert. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 1089, a Bill for an Act concerning banking. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Hassert."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill just simply amends the Illinois Banking Act and increases the basic loan limits for a person from 20 to 25% of the bank's unimpaired capital and surplus. And there's no opposition to this Bill that I'm aware of."
"Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 1089?' 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 1089, there were 110 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 5 Members voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 16 of the Calendar appears House Bill 1822. Representative McAuliffe. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 1822, a Bill for an Act relating to 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 higher education student assistance. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative McAuliffe."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I have House Bill 1822, which is closing a loophole in the law, previously, of a Bill that was passed. What we're trying to do here is make sure that anyone that gets a grant from the Illinois Student Commission or Assistant Commission is honorably discharged from the Armed Forces. And I'd be happy to answer any questions you have."
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Champaign, Mr. Berns."
"Mr. Speaker, I would suggest that on House Bill 1089, I intended to vote 'present', and mistakenly pushed the wrong button. My apologies. If you'll change the record."
Speaker Hartke: "The record will reflect your wishes. Is there any discussion on House Bill 1822? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 1822?' 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 1822, there were 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 16 of the Calendar appears House Bill 1908. Representative Meyer. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 1908, a Bill for an Act concerning schools. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Meyer."
"Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 1908 provides that the offices of 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 township treasurer and trustees of schools are abolished on July 1st, following the consolidated election at which the question abolishing those offices was approved by the voters. Currently, it's referenced for nonpartisan election. There are no more nonpartisan elections. So, to bring this up to date with the current laws of the State of Illinois, allowing for the people to have a say in this matter, I would like to change this to the consolidated election and this Bill so does that."
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? Is there any discussion on House Bill 1809 (sic-1908)? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 1908?' 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 House Bill 1908, there were 113 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 2 Members voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 15 of the Calendar appears House Bill 1029. Representative Currie. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 1029, a Bill for an Act concerning the media. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Currie."
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. This is a simple Bill. It updates the Freedom of Information Act so that media references include electronic formats as well as print. And all this is doing, it is trying to sort of bring us into the point at which we already are in terms of electronic and Internet and other capacities. It's an initiative of the Press Association. I know of no 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 opposition. I'd be happy to answer your questions and I'd appreciate your support for the Bill."
"Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor indicates that she will yield."
"Representative, what subcommittee of the Revenue Committee did this go through?"
"I believe it went to State Government Administration..."
"Oh well, no wonder it got out."
"...where they have no subcommittees."
"I see. That explains why it's out here on the floor. If you're expanding the FOIA Act to electronic media, have there not, in fact, been Supreme Court cases that have indicated that a television station does not have to turn over a video tape under the Freedom of Information Act?"
"This Bill has nothing to do with a court case like that."
"It would be the first step. It would be the proverbial camel's nose under the tent."
"No. No."
"If you're expanding the definition of what's covered under the Freedom of Information Act, why do you want to add electronic media to that Act?"
"Because that's the way a lot of the media operate these days. All this measure does, does not expand any substantive activities under the Freedom of Information Act or the State Records Act or the Department of State Police Law of the Civil Administrative Code or the Local Records Act, et cetera, et cetera, so forth. All it does is to define when the media is define, for purposes of any of 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 those Acts, it defines the media as whether print or electronic. It's a cleanup..."
"I don't understand why we need to define the word 'media'."
"It's a cleanup Bill, because we currently define the media. And this is just an effort to make sure the definition matches what media do these days."
"How would this impact the print media who now have web sites? Are you telling me that their web sites are not currently considered a media format under the FOIA Act?"
"The way the definition generally reads today is, 'a newspaper or other periodical issued at regular intervals; a news service, a radio station, a television station, a community antenna television service, or a personal corporation engaged in making newsreels.' We're adding to that language, whether in print or electronic format, and including a television network, as well as a television station."
"All right."
"All this does is clean up these various Acts. Because, you know, the world is a different place, Representative, from what it was when you and I were tots."
"Does... What's a definition of the 'jumbo tron' in the House? Is that a... Is that going to be covered under the FOIA Act?"
"I don't believe that it's a news operation. It provides information, but it is not a news operation, in the sense that it is making money from its operation."
"Well, we have no definition of what this video system is in the House. That's one of the things that concerns me. So if I wanted to... You know, it's standard practice, I can get a copy of the debate, that's no problem. Can I get 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 a copy of the video under the Freedom of Information Act that would be in real time from the Illinois House of Representatives?"
"I believe that that is in the public domain."
"So, if someone taped it from the Internet, could I then ask for a copy?"
"No."
"Why not?"
"Because the Freedom of Information and all these other Acts do not apply to individuals, rather they apply to units of government."
"Oh. There's something about this Bill that does not compute. And I'm not sure that I... Was this an initiative of the Illinois Press Association?"
"I believe I mentioned that, Representative. I think the problem here..."
"Well, you may have. I didn't hear it, I'm sorry. I'm getting old. I apologize."
"I think that the problem here is that it is a very simple Bill that is pretty straightforward and so..."
"Oh, I've had..."
"...it's hard to..."
"I've had several Bills that were very straightforward that I thought were very simple, but they turned out not to be. So, I just... I'm trying to get to the root of the issue here. Did the Attorney General testify on behalf of this Bill?"
"He did not."
"Who would enforce this expanded definition of the FOIA Act? Is that not under the domain of the Attorney General?"
"Well, it would be if the state agency were involved. 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 And it would be were the Legislature to adopt House Bill 2233."
"All right. Do you have a Senate Sponsor in mind for this Bill?"
"No."
"Would, perhaps, Senator Philip be someone you would be considering?"
"Might well. As I say, it's just a..."
"I think that would be an excellent choice."
"...cleanup proposition. And I read in the paper that he had one good Bill this Session, perhaps he'd like another."
"I... Could I join you in the meeting when we discuss that? Thank you very much."
Speaker Hartke: "Further discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 1029?' 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 1029, there were 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 16 on the Calendar appears House Bill 1983. Representative Lindner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 1983, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Lindner."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This House Bill amends the Public Aid Code. It is the domestic violence exception to TANF, it was the initiation of the... initiative of the Committee on the Status of Women. The Governor supports it and it passed the House last year by 118-0." 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 1983?' All those in favor will 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? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On House Bill 1983, there were 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 15 of the Calendar appears House Bill 1030. Representative Persico. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 1030, a Bill for an Act concerning banking. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Representative Persico."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. House Bill 1030 adds a new subsection to the Section 46 of the Illinois Banking Act. Section 46 currently prohibits persons or entities from falsely representing to the public that they are a bank. This legislation would further prohibit the unauthorized use of a legitimate bank's name in a deceptive attempt to reach the target of a marketer solicitation. Some marketers have adopted a practice of designing solicitations by using the name of the perspective customer's bank on the outside of the envelope or directly in the marketing material. Passage of this Bill would prevent bank customers from being misled into believing that their privacy has been violated. It has the support of the Illinois Community Banker's Association and the Illinois Banking Association. There's no known opposition. And I would request your 'aye' vote on House Bill 1030."
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? Is there any 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, 'Shall the House pass House Bill 1030?' 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 1030, there were 113 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 2 Members voting 'present'. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 36? 36."
"House Bill 36 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading."
Speaker Hartke: "Mr. Clerk, place that Bill on the Order of Second Reading for the purposes of an Amendment at the request of the Sponsor. On page 18 of the Calendar appears House Resolution 41. Representative Hamos. Mr. Clerk, read the Resolution."
"House Resolution 41, offered by Representative Hamos.
"Representative Hamos."
"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen. This is a House Resolution brought to you by the House Special Committee on Gas Pricing. And it's a product of our bipartisan committee that did spend quite a bit of time, this last six months of the year 2000, looking at what happened with gas price spikes last June. Now, I don't want to get into a lot of detail about what we found. I think you've all received our report as of this point. But, the important thing about this Resolution is that we are concerned that there is a potential problem with the coming summer. And the reason we are concerned is twofold. And this is probably the most pressing reason for this 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 House Resolution and the reason we are asking for your vote today. The first is that since our committee finished its deliberations in June, a major refinery in Illinois did shut down, and that left a potential supply disruption that some oil industry representatives predicted might lead to even higher prices this summer than last summer. The second issue is, in fact, what did happen last summer with the fact that we have new EPA regulations that are now just a year old, there still will be this key transition between winter and summer gasoline. And that could, again, impact on the supply of gasoline. What this Resolution does is it asks the Governor's Energy Cabinet to take a hard look at what's going on, to sit with the refineries, to work with the oil industry representatives, and to really use the bully pulpit, which is appropriately the Governor's, to try to do something to help us all out and to help our constituents out this summer. Thank you and I ask for your favorable support."
Speaker Hartke: "Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from DuPage, Representative Biggins."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I rise in support of Representative Hamos' Resolution. We worked together very well, she did a fine job as Chairwoman, and we hope that you're pleased with the result."
"Further discussion? The question is, 'Shall the House pass House Resolution 41?' 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 Resolution 41, there were 115 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', and 0 voting 'present'. And 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 this Resolution, having received a clear Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 109, offered by Representative Saviano; House Resolution 110, offered by Representative Beaubien; House Resolution 111, offered by Representative Beaubien; House Resolution 112, offered by Representative Granberg; and House Resolution 118, offered by Representative Daniels."
"For the Agreed Resolutions. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; opposed 'no'. In the opinion the Chair, the 'ayes' have it, and the Agreed Resolutions are adopted. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Winnebago, Representative Scott. For what reason do you seek recognition?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. For the purpose of an announcement."
"State your announcement."
"The Urban Revitalization Committee scheduled for Tues... next Tuesday, March 13th, will be cancelled."
"So noted. Clerk, the Adjournment Resolution."
Clerk Rossi: "Senate Joint Resolution 16, offered by Representative Barbara Currie." SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION 16 RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING HEREIN, that when the two Houses adjourn on Thursday, March 8, 2001, the Senate stands adjourned until Tuesday, March 20, 2001, at 12:00 o'clock noon; and the House of Representatives stands adjourned until Tuesday, March 13, 2001, at 12:00 o'clock noon; and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 Wednesday, March 14, 2001; and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Thursday, March 15, 2001; and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Friday, March 16, 2001; and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, March 20, 2001 at 12:00 o'clock noon."
Speaker Hartke: "For the Adjournment Resolution. All those in favor signify by saying 'aye'; opposed 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it, and the Adjournment Resolution is adopted. Ladies and Gentlemen, we are not adjourned yet, in case you did not guess. Many Members... are not adjourned. Representative Currie now moves that the House stand adjourned until the hour of 12:00 noon on March 13th, 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 stands adjourned. Have a good weekend."
"House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Committee Reports. Representative Fowler, Chairperson from the Committee on Counties and Townships, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 8, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 27, House Bill 1932, House Bill 1957, House Bill 1972, House Bill 1973, House Bill 1988, House Bill 3007; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 1081 and House Bill 2200. Representative Novak, Chairperson from the Committee on Electric Utility Deregulation, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 8, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass as amended' House Bill 2237. Representative Slone, Chairperson from the Committee on Conservation and Land Use, to which the following measures 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 8, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 505, House Bill 1790, House Bill 2189, House Bill 2358, and House Bill 3006; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 417, House Bill 604, House Bill 927, House Bill 1696, and House Bill 2054. Representative Howard, Chairperson from the Committee on Computer Technology, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 8, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 1848 and House Bill 1920. Representative O'Brien, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary II-Criminal Law, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 8, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 136, House Bill 482, House Bill 546, House Bill 2087, and House Bill 2088; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 857; 'recommends be adopted Short Debate' Floor Amendment #1 to House Bill 2265 and Floor Amendment #1 to House Bill 2266. Representative Feigenholtz, Chairperson from the Committee on Tobacco Settlement Proceeds, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 8, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 2000 and House Bill 2001. Representative McGuire, Chairperson from the Committee on Aging, to which the following measures were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 8, 2001 reported the same back with the following recommendations: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 16, House Bill 2453, House Bill 1706; 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 2236; and 'do pass as amended' House Bill 686. Introduction and 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 23rd Legislative Day March 8, 2001 First Reading of Senate Bills. Senate Bill 103, offered by Representative Bost, a Bill for an Act amending the Downstate Public Transportation Act. Senate Bill 371, offered by Representative Daniels, a Bill for an Act in relation to public aid. Senate Bill 98, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act in relation to vehicles. Senate Bill 104, offered by Representative John Jones, a Bill for an Act in relation to coal. Senate Bill 149, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act in relation to medical care. Senate Bill 168, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning higher education. Senate Bill 187, offered by Representative Eileen Lyons, a Bill for an Act concerning orders of protection. Senate Bill 231, offered by Representative Daniels, a Bill for an Act concerning taxes. Senate Bill 314, offered by Representative Saviano, a Bill for an Act in relation to group insurance. Senate Bill 400, offered by Representative Mitchell, a Bill for an Act concerning railroad relocation. First Reading of these Senate Bills. The House Perfunctory Session now stands adjourned." 40