"House shall come to order. Good afternoon Mr. Brady. We shall be led in prayer today by Lee Crawford, the Assistant Pastor of the Victory Temple Church in Springfield. The guests in the gallery may wish to rise and join us for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance."
"Let us lift up our hearts before His throne. Most gracious and kind Father, the God of mercy and worthy of glory, we come humbly before You with a confidence that whatever we ask You according to Your will that You will hear us. And that if You hear us, that our hearts have the petitions that it desires of You, for You know those things that we have need of, even before we ask them. Now I pray that You would kindly and lovingly bless this House with Your grace and with Your tender mercy. This I pray in Christ name. Amen."
"We shall be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Representative Hartke."
Hartke - 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."
"Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record show that Representative Bugielski is excused. You may have read in Capitol ____________ Fax that he underwent heart bypass surgery on Friday. I'm happy to report that he was home by Monday. He sounds as cheerful and bright-eyed as ever he did and his doctors assure him that he will be the healthiest candidate running for a seat in the Illinois House or Senate in November 2002. So give him a call, he's doing very well. 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002
"Mr. Poe."
"Yeah, Mr. Speaker, let the record show that Representative Sid Mathias is excused today. And also today, we're going to welcome Jim Watson, first day as being sworn in to take Representative Ryder's place. So let's welcome him to the General Assembly."
Speaker Madigan: "Mr. Poe, I think you have a second Member to introduce. I think so. Replacement for Representative Moore.
"We also have Representative Simpson here for the first day in the House chambers and let's also welcome her."
"Mr. Clerk, take the record. There being 116 Members responding to the Attendance Roll Call, there is a quorum present. Mr Clerk."
"Introduction to Resolutions. House Resolution 589 is assigned to the Rules Committee. Committee Reports. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on January 9, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'to the floor for consideration' House Bill 148 to the Order of Concurrence. House Joint Resolution 54; to the Order of Resolutions. Senate Bill 119; to the Order of Second Reading Second Debate. Senate Bill 151; to the Order of Senate Bill-Second Reading Standard Debate. Senate Bill 1104; referred to the Order of Third Reading Short Debate. Introduction - First Reading of House Bills. House Bill 3715, offered by Representative Jerry Mitchell, a Bill for an Act concerning the transfer of township funds. House Bill 3716, offered by Representative Granberg, a Bill for an Act in relation to unemployment insurance. House Bill 3717, offered by Representative Daniels, a Bill for an Act 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 in relation to criminal law. House Bill 3718, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act in relation to credit and debit cards. House Bill 3719, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act in relation to highways. House Bill 3720, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act relating to political solicitations and contributions. House Bill 3721, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 3722, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act in relation to electronic fund transfers. House Bill 3723, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act concerning tobacco. House Bill 3724, offered by Representative Fritchey, a Bill for an Act concerning State employees. House Bill 3725, offered by Representative Forby, a Bill for an Act in relation to vehicles. House Bill 3726, offered by Representative Brunsvold, a Bill for an Act concerning municipal fees. House Bill 3627(sic-3727), offered by Representative Hartke, a Bill for an Act concerning petroleum marketing. House Bill 3728, offered by Representative Hartke, a Bill for an Act concerning taxes. House Bill 3729, offered by Representative Osterman, a Bill for an Act concerning schools. House Bill 3730, offered by Representative Schmitz, a Bill for an Act concerning counties. House Bill 3731, offered by Representative Reitz, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. House Bill 3732, offered by Representative Collins, a Bill for an Act relating to education."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, Representative Poe has already announced that there are two new Members with us today. First, there's a new Representative, Jim Watson replacing Representative Ryder. Mr. Watson, would you 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 please introduce yourself to the Members. Turn on Mr. Watson. Say hello."
"Hi. It's a pleasure to be here. Thanks. I just want to thank Leader Daniels for his assistance and Art Tenhouse and thank the Speaker for the introduction. I appreciate it, thank you."
Speaker Madigan: "Also, there's new Representative Suzanne Simpson replacing Representative Andrea Moore. Suzanne."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to say it's a pleasure to be here and I look forward to working with all of you in the upcoming year."
"On a point of personal privilege, the Chair recognizes Representative Ron Stephens, on a point of personal privilege."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just wanted to take a couple of minutes of the Body's time. Everyone is aware of the commitment that the military and others are making in defense of freedom. Army Special Forces Sergeant Nathan Chapman, age 31 of San Antonio, Texas was killed on Friday in a fire fight in Eastern Afghanistan. His parents, Wilbur and Lynn Chapman, said their son died for a cause he believed in. He believed in this country and he believed in the fight for freedom. He knew it was a continuous battle and he was willing to do his part, his father said. President Bush said that I can assure the parents and loved ones of Nathan Chapman that he lost his life for a cause that is just and important, and that cause is the security of the American people, and that cause is the cause of freedom and a civilized world. The Chapmans said they last spoke to their son on Christmas Day, expressing regret at his absence from the family on the holiday. Lynn Chapman, his mother, said he reassured them that he was okay, 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 telling his parents that he was with his second family. His wife, Rene Chapman, said that Sargent First Class Nathan Ross Chapman talked about his upcoming Special Forces duty before he left. She asked him, 'How important is it, do you really want to go? Yes, it is me. I have to go.' He told her, 'Honey there's a 50/50 chance that I'm not coming home.' He gave her a heart pendant, and they broke it so she could wear half, and he left. Chapman, a Green Beret communications specialist, died Friday when he was hit by small arms fire in an ambush in Afghanistan. Asked why her husband joined the Special Forces, she said, 'That's so easy. He had seen so much of the world. For instance, he called me on a satellite phone and he said he sees women and children being beaten with sticks just for walking down the street, and he wanted to fight against that.' He gave everything he had, everywhere he was, to everyone he knew. He will also be remembered for the love of his children, Amanda, 2 and Brandon, 1. He never sat around, he was always doing something, taking them for a walk, giving them a bath, playing with them in the park. A father of two. Nathan's job as a Special Forces soldier, an Army Green Beret, took him all over the world and into war zones. He parachuted into Panama in 1989, he served in the Gulf War with one of our new colleagues, and he was deployed in Haiti. But he was much more that a professional soldier, his parents want us to remember. When asked about her husband's legacy, his wife Rene said, 'I want them to remember him as a quiet professional, who just wanted to change the world. Nathan would be happy that the nation supports what he believes in, justice and freedom.' Chapman's parents were asked, what could we do to honor their son's memory? Mr. Chapman said, 'Support 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 our country and what we are doing and don't give up.' His mother said, 'Remember him, Nathan Ross Chapman, American soldier, American hero.' We'll remember him. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
Speaker Madigan: "For the purpose of an announcement, the Chair recognizes Representative Erwin. For the purpose of an announcement, the Chair recognizes Representative Erwin."
"Thank you, Speaker. I just wanted to remind the Members of the House Education Elementary & Secondary Education Committee, Elementary & Secondary Approp, Higher Education Committee, and Higher Education Approp Committee that there is a joint committee hearing this afternoon at, I guess, we're going to say closer to 3:30, because I do understand there may be some caucuses. For the purposes of hearing from the Joint Education Committee and the Joint Education Committee as you know is Dr. Hazel Loucks, the Governor's Office, the State Board of Education, the Board of Higher Education, ICCB community colleges, and ISAC on the issue of teacher quality and educator and teacher shortages in the State of Illinois. I would invite all of you to attend, certainly, but the Members of the committee in particular are welcome to ask questions. But everyone's invited to come, and it is in Room 114. Thank you."
Speaker Madigan: "On Supplemental Calender #1, on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading there appears Senate Bill 1104. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of that Bill?"
Clerk Rossi: "Senate Bill 1104 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading."
Speaker Madigan: "Put that Bill on the Order of Second Reading. Is Representative Berns in the chamber? Mr. Berns. On the Order of Concurrence there is a House Bill 148. Mr. Berns." 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move for a concurrence with Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 148."
Speaker Madigan: "Mr. Berns did you wish to explain the Amendment?"
"The Amendment modifies the original Bill to allow the inclusion of officers from sheriffs department in the same category as those of municipalities with regard to the age limitation exemption."
"The Gentleman has explained the Amendment. And the Gentleman moves that the House concur in Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 148. There being no discussion, the question is, 'Shall the House concur in Senate Amendment #1?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? This is a Third Reading Roll Call. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 116 people voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. The House does concur in Senate Amendment #1. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On the Order of Resolutions there appears HJR 54, Mr. Berns."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move for the adoption of House Joint Resolution 54, which urges The United States Congress to continue to fund the Illinois lock and dam system on the Mississippi River and the Illinois River."
"The Gentleman has moved for the adoption of the Resolution. Is there any discussion? There being no discussion the question is, 'Shall the House adopt HJR 54?' Those in favor signify by saying 'yes'; those opposed by saying 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The House does adopt HJR 54. Mr. Daniels... Mr. Clerk, House Resolution 592."
Clerk Bolin" HOUSE RESOLUTION 592 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 WHEREAS, The members of the House of Representatives wish to extend their sincerest congratulations to State Representative Andrea Moore, who retired from her legislative duties on December 31, 2001; and WHEREAS, A former PTO mom, local business woman, and community leader, Representative Moore served for nine years in the Illinois House representing the 61st Representative District; during her tenure in the General Assembly, she has combined hands-on experience in local government and community service with a strong record of achievement; and WHEREAS, First elected to the Illinois House in 1992, Representative Moore was promptly named "Outstanding Freshman Legislator" by the Illinois Hospital Association and "Champion of Local Government" by the Suburban Mayors Action Coalition; she was reelected by district voters in 1994, 1996, 1998, and 2000 and has served her constituents and the State of Illinois well as Spokesman of the House Revenue Committee, Vice Spokesman of the Environment and Energy Committee, and Co-Chair of the Conference of Women Legislators; and WHEREAS, Representative Moore has always made improving families' safety and quality of life her top priority; during her tenure she authored and passed new laws enabling parents to access vital health coverage for their children, and ensure their safety in day care; she also successfully adopted additional protections for domestic violence victims seeking assistance; and WHEREAS, A strong advocate of better, not bigger government, Representative Moore has passed legislation providing more senior access to needed property tax relief through a State property tax deferral program; she has also fought to create jobs and to support the business community, earning a "100% rating" from the 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 Illinois Chamber of Commerce; she earned the "Voting Rights Award" from the Independent Voters of Illinois for her work advocating democratic reforms; and WHEREAS, Prior to her distinguished service in the Illinois General Assembly, Andrea Moore served for many years in the public and private sectors in Lake County; she began her career in public service in Libertyville in 1975 as village clerk, followed by two terms as a village trustee; from 1984 to 1992, she was a member of the Lake County Board, serving two years as vice chair and also serving as President of the Lake County Forest Preserve; and WHEREAS, Representative Moore has taken her commitment to protecting the environment and preserving our natural areas to the General Assembly, creating the landmark "Open Space Preservation Program", dedicating $160 million over four years to protecting, preserving, and enhancing our natural lands; for her work supporting statewide conservation efforts, Representative Moore was awarded the Illinois Environmental Council's Commendation, the Illinois Association of Park Districts "Outstanding Legislator Award", and the "Friends of Ryerson Woods Award; and WHEREAS, Representative Andrea Moore officially resigned from her duties in the General Assembly on December 31, 2001 and has started a new chapter in her career as Assistant Director with the Department of Natural Resources; her presence, ambition, and dedication will be deeply missed by members on both sides of the aisle; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate Andrea Moore for her distinguished record of service and dedication in the Illinois General Assembly and to the residents of the 61st Representative District; and we wish her well in her 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 position as Assistant Director with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Andrea Moore as an expression of our esteem."
"Mr. Daniels."
"Mr. Speaker, Ladies, and Gentlemen of the House. This is one of the more bittersweet moments because this a Resolution, of course, about a Member of ours that's been a Member of this chamber and a faithful Representative to not only her constituents but matters that she believes in since 1992. Of course, the great part about this, Andrea, it's not a Death Resolution, although Raymond Poe stood up right away. He wanted to recognize it. I said, 'Raymond, you don't have to stand up on this Resolution, yet.' I think everybody here knows the pleasant smile of the woman that we're honoring today, the pleasant personality, and the ability that she brought to the position of the Representative in the General Assembly. I've had the pleasure of working with Andrea now for many, many years and recognizing the talents that she brought to the Illinois House. Resident of Libertyville, mother of three children, attended Drake University, and had a sterling civic community and political involvement prior to becoming a Member of the Illinois General Assembly. From Commissioner of the Lake County Board, to Village Clerk of Libertyville, board of directors at Condell Medical Center, an advisory board for the Lake County Vets Organization, all culminated in her service as President of the Lake County Forest Preserve in 1991 and 1992. This, of course, gave rise to the appointment and why Governor Ryan recognized her ability and named her in the spot that she has now assumed as Assistant Director with the Illinois 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 Department of Natural Resources. Bringing to that Department her expertise in the areas that she has loved so many times and served in in the past in her responsibility. Her awards, of course, are numerous. But those of us that know Andrea Moore know of her dedication to her constituency, to people that she represented, and loves and makes sure as always first and foremost in her heart. She has been a leader in business matters, in fact, was named as one of the ten outstanding Legislators and one of the outstanding people in Illinois with a hundred percent rating from the Chamber of Commerce. A woman of achievement by the YWCA and Legislator of the Year by the Hospital Association and Management Association of Illinois. And this list goes on and on and on that we can highlight. But suffice it to say, that this Body, this organization, this fraternity of men and women has been honored to have her as a Member. Andrea, we will miss you as a Member of the House, but we will always remember the contributions that you have given to us, to the people of Illinois, and recognize that because of that background you're continuing on in your public service. We wish you well, we want you to know you are part of our Body, part of this fraternity and invite you back on a constant basis. Please stay in touch, we wish you the best in your future. Congratulations."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, one last time. I want to thank everyone so much for that nice round of applause and I want to tell you that that this business of public service that we are in, is all about relationships. Either relationships with our constituents, relationships with all the people in the departments, with our staff and the relationships that we have with each other. We all know 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 that we could not be successful without help from each other on both sides of the aisle. And building relationships on both sides of the aisle. And that is true almost everywhere we go. My success in my life has depended on other people in large part. I have worked hard, yes, but it's been the relationships that I've had with all of you here that have really enriched my life so much, and I just want to say it feels a little bit like I'm leaving a very, very exclusive club. And I have more people saying why are you doing this. Well, the job that I have is a lifelong dream for me as far as where I might end my career and I hope to stay there for several years, and I am very grateful for that and looking forward to it and I thank all of you here very much for the support, and especially for the love and caring that I've received all these years. Thank you."
Speaker Madigan: "Representative Mendoza, did you wish to speak on the Resolution?"
"Yes."
"Representative Mendoza."
"I would also like to add my name to the long list of people that are congratulating Representative Moore today. As a freshman Legislator, you know you come in here and all of you can remember what is was like when you first walked in here and perhaps having so many questions and not knowing who to go to. And I can say that Andrea has been a huge mentor for me, on the other side of the aisle. And I really have the greatest amount of respect for you, Representative, will continue to have that. And I'm sure I'm joined by the rest of the freshman in saying that we really appreciate all of your support, your hard work for the State of Illinois, and your guidance, as a woman for me 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 and as a Member of this Body. Thank you very, very much. We wish you the best of luck. I'm sure you'll do great. Thanks."
"Mr. Parke."
Representative Parke: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I, also, rise in saying that I always enjoyed Andrea's enthusiasm and excitement for... for her legislation. She and I did not always agree on some of her legislation but she was always informed, she always was somebody that honestly believed in what she believed in and I never fault anybody for that. So I, too, rise in saying good luck and that I look forward to knowing that you're there so that I have somebody that I can go to and work with. So, good luck."
"Representative Erwin."
"Thank you, Speaker. I, too, would like to rise and say what a pleasure it has been for all of us to work with you, Andy. I thought you and I were going to be able to walk out the door at the same time, later on this year, but I'm delighted that you have a new, exciting chapter of your life and career. And on behalf of, importantly, on behalf of all of the women in the Legislature, I want to thank you so much for all that you've done to make the Conference of Women Legislators a reality and a stronger institution, and you have made the House and the Senate and all of our colleagues, male and female, better Representatives for your efforts. Thank you very much."
"Mr. Rutherford."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to talk to my seatmate for a minute because we were elected together in 1992 and when we had the pleasure to sit together she was very gracious to help me understand what a proper voting 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 record should be about. Andy, the... the times that we sat at Saputo's having pinot grigio and to Representative Erwin, in regards to the Conference of Women Legislators, congratulations on what you did there, but I also want you to know I think you are still being discriminatory in not allowing men the opportunity to be Members and a voting part of the Conference of Women Legislators. You can be a member, you gotta pay the dues, but you don't have the full rights. But I just want to say, Andy you are a dear, dear personal friend and I look forward to maintaining our close friendship over the years to come. Congratulations to you."
Speaker Madigan: "The question is, 'Shall the House adopt the Resolution?' Those in favor say 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The House does adopt House Resolution 592. And we are very anxious to here from you in your new capacity, Representative Moore. Thank you. Mr. Daniels on Resolution 593. Mr. Clerk."
Clerk Bolin" HOUSE RESOLUTION 593 WHEREAS, The members of the House of Representatives wish to extend their sincerest congratulations to State Representative Vincent A. Persico, who is retiring from his legislative duties on January 9, 2002; and WHEREAS, Born on December 9, 1948 in Oak Park, Illinois, Representative Persico received his bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois in 1971 and his master's degree from Northern Illinois University in 1986; and WHEREAS, Representative Persico has served the residents of the 39th Representative District in the Illinois General Assembly 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 since 1991; his legislative assignments included: Committees on Aging; Committee of the Whole; Environment and Energy; Financial Institutions; Electric Utility Deregulation (Co-Chairperson); Labor; and Telecommunications Rewrite; and WHEREAS, Representative Persico was instrumental in developing and passing a rewrite of the Telecommunications Article, which greatly improved telecommunication service standards for every citizen of the State of Illinois; due to his efforts, the new law provides strong consumer protections by setting clear, strict service quality standards, opens up the telecommunications market to competition which will lead to choice, lower prices, and higher quality service, and enhances "slamming, cramming, and jamming" protection; and WHEREAS, Representative Persico was instrumental in the passage of the Illinois Electric Service Customer Choice and Rate Relief Law of 1997, which restructured the State's electric utility industry to offer customers choices about who supplies their electric power, competitive prices for that power, and new services; due to his efforts, all non-residential customers have the option to choose their electric supplier and residential customers will soon have a similar option; and WHEREAS, Representative Persico has been an active member of numerous civic and community organizations, including service on the Board of Directors of the Milton Township Committee of Youth, as a board member of Glen Ellyn Family Services, as a Trustee for Milton Township, and as a member of the Kiwanis Club and the Glenbard West Booster Club; in addition, he served as a member of the Ad Hoc Committee, Family Services and the Wheaton Affordable Housing Committee, and was active in Glen Ellyn Boys Baseball and the PTA Board at Hadley Junior High School; and 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 WHEREAS, Representative Persico has been supported in his legislative and community service by his wife Donna and son Derek; and WHEREAS, Representative Vincent Persico will officially resign from his duties on January 9, 2002 and establish a lobbying firm; his presence, dedication, and service will be deeply missed by members on both side of the aisle; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate Representative Vincent A. Persico for his distinguished record of service and dedication in the Illinois General Assembly and to the residents of the 39th Representative District; and we wish him well in his new career; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Representative Vincent A. Persico as an expression of our esteem."
"Mr. Daniels."
Representative Daniels: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Of course, I stand and rise to recognize our great colleague Vincent Persico and to honor his retirement from the General Assembly. Now, I know that there are a few people that are going to be very disappointed about this retirement, Vince, because we just saw a picture of you and I think the people, they call themselves 'Vinnie's girls'. Is that right? I wonder if they could stand up so we could recognize 'Vinnie's girls' here. Politically incorrect, Bill Black says. The women of the Legislature. To Vince Persico, the man with the great floral arrangement in front of him, where of course another moment that we have a little bittersweet appreciation for what we are doing today, because we are 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 again saying goodbye to a colleague as a Member of this House, but of course, again congratulating him on what his future may hold and for all the good and bright things that we're sure it will hold. Vince Persico joined the General Assembly in 1990 from the 39th Legislative District in the heart of DuPage County. As a matter of fact, many of us were quite envious of him, because he's recognized as having had the strongest Republican District in the State of Illinois and one that frankly, once you win the primary there, all you have to do is show up at the election day, because it's such a strong Republican District. But he lives, of course as you know, in DuPage County, married to Donna with one child, educated at the University of Illinois, oskiwowow, in 1971, master's degree from Northern Illinois University in 1986. And of course, those of us know Vince Persico is a great teacher and educator of young minds and served in his educational position for many, many years, committing his dedication to education here in the General Assembly, as well. He also served, as you know, as our point person on electric utility deregulation. Mr. Speaker, you know on the Republican side of the aisle we have an awful lot of conferences. What you didn't know is that when Vince Persico spoke at our conferences most of us were ready to go to sleep, because he wanted to talk about electric deregulation. He seemed at times to be the only one that knew what he was talking about, but at the end of the day he certainly did, because he got the job done, helped pass a major deregulation Bill which will carry on for years for helping people in Illinois in electric rates and all costs in the electric utility field. Vince served on the Elementary & Secondary Education Committee, Environment & Energy, Financial Institutions & Insurance. 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 And Vince, for one that has known you personally and professionally for many years now, we congratulate you for the years of service to this Body. We recognize you as one of our more popular Members, a person that people hold in great high esteem and respect. We certainly send you our wishes for the best in your future. We know that you're going to go on into another profession and work very hard at that, so we do understand that we'll be seeing more of you in the future, as well. We send our best to you and to your family. We want you to know the great esteem that we hold you and certainly thank you for the service to the people of Illinois. God bless you, Vince Persico."
"Hassert. Brent Hassert."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is a sad day, actually for me, to loose my good friend, my mentor. You know when I came down here, Vince kinda took me under his wing and guided me and that's probably not a good thing, but he did do that. And you know to lose Vince's intellectual capabilities on this House Floor, 'cause Vince's idea of the best invention over the last century was sweatpants. We're gonna... we're gonna definitely miss his intellectual capability. But all true and said Vince is a great guy, he's taken the time out to mentor a lot of us down here. And I thoroughly will miss him, in particular, his office where we enjoyed his company after hours for quite a few times and I'm sure everybody else would. I just want to say thank you, Vince, it's been a great pleasure being here. I know you're still going to be around, but thanks for all of what you've done for me. Thank you."
"Mr. Novak."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I too, would like to add some comments. I had heard some time ago... I know Vince's 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 served for ten years and I heard some time ago he had a nickname called Sir-lunch-a-lot. And I don't know, I can't remember who told me about that nickname, but I think there's a little private joke about that. Vince Persico is one of the renowned Members of this Body. He and I have worked together on many, many issues over these years and have grown to become very, very good, close friends. When they say people argue about Democratic philosophies or Republican philosophies, the vast majority of us oftentimes work on issues together for the betterment of the citizens of our district and our state. And I want to say that my good friend, good, close personal friend, Vince Persico is a standout in this Body, Ladies and Gentlemen, and we're certainly going to miss him. He's provided an effective voice for his constituents. And I know, Vince, your new job is only about 35 feet away from here to the north, so I just want to wish you the best of everything and God bless and I'm sure we'll see you soon, whether it's having lunch, or maybe on the golf course, or just talking about anything in particular. Congratulations to you, Vince. Bye."
"Representative Lindner."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to say as a representative of 'Vinnie's girls', or sometimes better known as 'Vinnie's Vipers', every once in awhile that we are really going to miss him. We've had a wonderful time teasing Vince, peeking in at what he's doing with his golf outing, but we all certainly admire his legislative capabilities. We're going to miss him a lot. But I think he has made more progress than any man in this chamber. He has finally come into the 20th century and allowed women to play in his golf outing, so let's thank Vince for that."
"Representative Granberg." 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I just want to echo Representative Novak's remarks. Vince it's... been a pleasure working with you. You exemplify what's good about this process, people working together on a bipartisan basis getting things done for the betterment of all the people. And you are the consummate professional and one of my fondest moments was... enjoyed the fascinating conversations listening to you and Representative Novak talk about deregulation for hours on end, it was just fascinating. It was always very exciting and you guys have epitomized how the process works. And I am proud to call you a great public official, but I'm honored to call you a great friend. And you'll do very, very well and we look forward to working with you."
"Mr. Cross."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And for the record, I think it's Persico, and not Persico. But... Vince I... I don't know that people know this story, at least the newer people here, and I started back here about ten years ago, but for those of you that don't know, Vince actually ran three times in a primary before he won. And to... as a guy who epitomizes perseverance and hard work, Vince had three tough primaries before winning and then, of course, winning in the general election. And Vince sometimes has a reputation, think, undeservedly of only caring about things like golf, but he has the respect, I think he has the respect of this institution, perhaps more so than many of us. He teaches history or in government or did, until the other day in Glen Ellyn. And if you spend any time with Vince, he has a great understanding of the history of this institution and of many of the Members and that's one of the reasons he's so well... so well-liked and I think 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 respected by many of us. I sat next to Vince my first two years here in the Illinois General Assembly, back before I drank Mountain Dew. And there was a guy sitting to my right, Vince was to my left. And the guy sitting on my right, for those of you that remember, was a good 'ol guy by the name of Bernie Peterson. And Bernie was sick the first six months that I was here. Remember that, Vince? And Bernie came back and sat down and for about two or three weeks, watched me vote and I was not voting like Bernie would want me to vote. I was voting like Vince would vote. And Bernie leaned over to me and said, 'It's a shame I was sick that first six months, I might have been able to save your voting record.' And I think he actually believed it. Vince, you've been a good friend to me, you've been a good friend to many of us. And we wish you well in your new endeavors. I know that you have opened an invitation to all of us to take us to dinner tomorrow night in your new job and we appreciate that. I know you haven't told us where, but let us know. But Vince, again seriously, thank you for all you've done for all of us and best of luck."
"Mr. Leitch."
"It's a sad day to loose Andrea and Vinnie in the same day. But I'd like to wish you the very best, Vince. You are truly a class act. You know one of the important things here is even when Members don't disagree they must always keep that on an issue and not on a person. There's not a classier guy in the General Assembly than Vince Persico and we're going to miss you. But I just hope you may be at some point available for a golf lesson because I've never broken a hundred. But Vinnie, best of everything." 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002
"All right, Vince, you're up. You're up, Vince. Mr. Persico"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. It's not a speech that I've been looking forward to giving because I hoped that I can do it with the same calmness as Andrea Moore did. And it's a very difficult day for me, as well as yesterday was, as Leader Daniels mentioned that I have been a teacher of government and history in Glen Ellyn for 28 years. And yesterday I resigned my teaching career and that was a sad day leaving that fine institution. And today is just as sad because it's an institution that I am very proud of, one that I, to this day as many of you do, I'm sure when you drive by the Capitol at night and you see it all lit up and how gorgeous it is and how proud you are that you're able to serve such a great institution. I've been very fortunate to serve under Leader Daniels, Speaker Madigan now, and for the opportunities that both of them have given me to work on some very, highly complex issues. It makes it more than worthwhile being down here. It also makes the time go by much faster. So, I do appreciate that. I remember 11 years ago when I did first come down and we all went through the new Member orientation and how excited we were as new Members and how nervous we were and how they would shuttle us back and forth to different... from the Old State Capitol that was all lit up in period costumes and that and then they would shuttle us back to the Hilton or something. I also recall leaving my overcoat three times that night in different spots, 'cause I was so nervous and forgot to pick it up. I've also been very fortunate to be surrounded by, who they lovingly call 'Vinnie's girls'. I guess in my new profession I have to stop calling them 'Hag Hall'. So we love them, I love them, 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 they know I'm teasing them and they've been very supportive of all my issues, and of me and taking care of me in the 11 years that I've been down here. It's an institution that I'm going to miss terribly. It is a sad day, as well as yesterday was. Many of the colleagues and Representatives that I've met down here are going to be friends for life. And I think that's a... ya know, this is as I said is probably the greatest thrill of my lifetime being able to serve down here in the General Assembly. I will miss you all, you all do wonderful jobs, you all do wonderful jobs for your district and you represent your district the way that you feel that it should be represented. And I'll be looking forward to working with you in a different capacity. So, thank you very much."
Speaker Madigan: "The question is, 'Shall the House adopt House Resolution 593?' Those in favor say 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The House does adopt HR 593. Is Mr. Schoenberg in the chamber? Mr. Schoenberg for the purpose of an announcement."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. The House Appropriations Committee for General Services & Government Oversight will meet tomorrow morning at 9:00 a.m. in Room 114 for the purpose of holding a subject matter hearing on agency spending in the current fiscal year, for fiscal year '02. That's 9:00 a.m., Room 114."
"Representative Schoenberg has moved to suspend the posting requirement. Is there leave? Leave is granted. The posting requirement is suspended for the hearing tomorrow morning. Mr. Clerk."
Clerk Rossi: "The following committees will meet tomorrow morning: at 8:30 a.m. the Disabled Community Committee will 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 meet in Room 118. At 9:00 a.m. the Appropriations-General Services Committee will meet in Room 114. At 9:00 a.m. the Financial Institutions Committee will meet in Room D-1."
"Mr. Clerk."
Clerk Rossi: "In addition, the Rules Committee will meet immediately following Session in the Speaker's Conference Room. The Rules Committee will meet immediately following Session in the Speaker's Conference Room."
"Mr. Cross."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In light of the memo that we received both in our offices and at home is it... should we plan on being here on Friday or the weekend or I guess I'm asking, too, in terms of immediacy, should we check out of our hotel rooms tomorrow morning? Do you have any, can ya..."
"Current conditions would indicate that we'll go home tomorrow. Current conditions."
"So should we listen to the weather channel tonight for further input or how are we going to find out if current conditions change?
"Right. Right. A storm may blow in."
"I'm sure the potential is there for a storm... "
"Right. Right."
"... but at this moment, check out. Thank you."
"Thank you. Providing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Representative Currie moves that the House does stand adjourned until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow morning. Those in favor signify by saying 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. Before you start to move away, there are party caucuses immediately after adjournment. So again, party caucuses immediately after adjournment, Democrats in 118, Republicans in 114... Reverse it. Reverse it. Democrats 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 79th Legislative Day January 9, 2002 in 114, Republicans in 118. And all Democrats are strongly encouraged to go to caucus immediately. Thank you. Back to the Motion that the House stand adjourned until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow morning, providing perfunctory time for the Clerk. Those in favor say 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The House does stand adjourned until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow morning, providing perfunctory time for the Clerk."
Clerk Bolin: "House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Committee Reports. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following legislative measure/s was/were referred, action taken on January 9, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'direct floor consideration' for House Resolution 589; Rules recommends be adopted. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 3733, offered by Representative Osmond, a Bill for an Act in relation to taxes. House Bill 3734, offered by Representative Osmond, a Bill for an Act concerning public funds. House Bill 3735, offered by Representative Parke, a Bill for an Act in relation to alcoholic liquor. House Bill 3736, offered by Representative Parke, a Bill for an Act concerning the Illinois Economic and Fiscal Commission. First Reading of these House Bills. Introduction - First Reading of Bills. House Bill 3737, offered by Representative Granberg, a Bill for an Act concerning audits. First Reading of this House Bill. Perfunctory Session now stands adjourned." 25