"The House shall come to order. The Members shall be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by Pastor John Price, of the Springfield Church of Christ. Pastor Price is the guest of Representative Gwen Klingler. The guests in the gallery may wish to rise and join us for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance."
"Good morning everyone, Happy Valentine's Day. The _____ reads in the Book of Colossians, Chapter 3, 'Whatever Bible you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.' Let's pray. Our heavenly Father, we thank You for this new day. Thank You, God for this Body of men and women who serve in this great State of Illinois. We recognize, God, that although as elected by the citizens of the state, as sovereign Lord You're ultimately chosen by You. Today, God, I pray that You strengthen, You enable them, You give them great wisdom and great courage, great strength of character that God, whatever they do today, that they work at it with all their heart, as working for You. Bless this day, it's in Jesus' name we pray. Amen."
"We shall be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Representative Eileen Lyons." Lyons, E. - 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 today."
"Mr. Bost."
"Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect that Representatives Durkin and Berns are excused today." 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002
"The Clerk shall take the record. There being 114 Members responding to the Attendance Roll Call, there is a quorum present. Mr. Clerk."
"Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 664, offered by Representative Dart; House Resolution 666, offered by Representative Mendoza; House Resolution 668, offered by Representative Flowers; House Resolution 669, offered by Representative Art Turner; House Resolution 670, offered by Speaker Madigan; House Joint Resolution 59, offered by Representative Garrett; House Joint Resolution 60, offered by Representative Wirsing. These Resolutions are referred to the House Rules Committee. Committee Reports. Representative Julie Curry, Chairperson from the Committee on Appropriations-Elementary & Secondary Education, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 3673. Representative Mautino, Chairperson from the Committee on Insurance, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 4989. Representative Hoffman, Chairperson from the Committee on Transportation & Motor Vehicles, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 3794, House Bill 3797, House Bill 4218, House Bill 4292, House Bill 4365, House Bill 4407, House Bill 4448, House Bill 4911, House Bill 4933, House Bill 4941, House Bill 4948, and House Bill 4974. Representative Smith, Chairperson from the Committee 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 on Agriculture, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 4438, House Bill 4889 and House Bill 4890. Representative Burke, Chairperson from the Committee on Financial Institutions, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 4952. Representative Flowers, Chairperson from the Committee on Health Care Availability & Access, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 3933, House Bill 3983 and House Bill 4220. Representative Boland, Chairperson from the Committee on Elections & Campaign Reform, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 4130; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 3642; 'do pass Standard Debate' House Bill 4397 and House Bill 4898; 'do pass as amended Standard Debate' House Bill 3810. Representative Fritchey, Chairperson from the Committee on Consumer Protection, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 3632. Representative Steve Davis, Chairperson from the Committee on Constitutional Officers, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, February 13, 2002, reported the same back with 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 3712, House Bill 4159, House Bill 4229, House Bill 4311, House Bill 4326 and House Bill 4331; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' House Bill 4328. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following legislative measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 13, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: direct floor consideration and referral to Second Reading for House Bill 86, House Bill 582, and House Bill 661; direct consideration and referral to Third Reading Standard Debate for House Bill 3036.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, if we could have your attention and if the staff would please retire to the rear of the chamber. So, if the staff could retire to the rear of the chamber. If the Members would take their chairs. Mr. Black, could you take your seat. If the Members will please take their chairs. We're very honored today to have a distinguished guest from the State of California and the City of San Francisco. Mayor Willie Brown, currently serving as the Mayor of San Francisco, previously served in the California House of Representatives and served as a long term Speaker of the California House. Having been elected, I think, on at least two occasions with a combination of Democrats and Republican votes to retain the Office of the Speaker. He no longer serves as the Speaker because of a terrible thing called term limits. It's my... It's my great pleasure to introduce you to the Mayor of San Francisco, former Speaker of the House, Willie Brown."
Mayor Willie Brown: "Thank you, thank you, thank you. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted that you would share this moment with your Membership for an old retired Speaker. It brings 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 back wonderful memories. When I walked through the door and heard the noise and the level of inattention, I knew I was home. It has now been 5 years since I addressed any House of any legislative Body. I left my job that I thought was a lifetime job as Speaker of the California State Assembly on June 3rd, 1995, as I sought the Mayorship of San Francisco. I ran for Mayor because I was being chased out of the House by term limits, and whatever you do in life, do not let term limits become a part of the portfolio. As the founding fathers so aptly put it, in the debate about term limits in American politics the debate boiled down to an argument made by one of the esteemed gentlemen who said, 'For some, one term is too many'. And I've thought that about most of my opponents, one term is too many. But it has been a delight to have had a 31-year career in the Legislature and 15 of those years presiding over the House. There's nothing as interesting, as attractive, and as rewarding as serving as Speaker of an august Body of this nature. And your Speaker, I'm sure, cherishes every moment. It is such an incredible honor to so serve with so many people from so many different sections of a given state with all kinds of views and to accept the challenge to deal with the issues in the way in which they need to be dealt with. And it's particularly rewarding when times when there's a lot of money to be distributed for things to be done in peoples' districts and in peoples' neighborhoods. But it's even more rewarding when there are limited resources and when there are real issues that must be carefully crafted for institutional change. And I'm sure as a legislative Body under your Speaker's leadership you do exactly that. I now handle potholes as a Majority Leader mentioned to me in the room. 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 I now do dog doo. I do all of the wonderful things that make quality of life as they call it for people. And it is just a... it's delight to even have the opportunity this late in my career to accept that challenge. I must tell you one story. Mr. Speaker, during the time that I have served as Mayor, I have gone to the business, since you have to deal on a daily basis with the constituency. I mean like every minute of your life somebody approaches you to tell you something. Now, being a state Legislative Leader for all those years and a Member of the Legislature, you know, we have always had these open-door policies, because no constituent could ever get to the capitol to visit with us. So, when I went back to San Francisco as the Mayor, I announced boldly that every Saturday morning, starting at 7:00 a.m. any citizen can come in to visit with the mayor for ten minutes on any issue. While little did I know how tough to keep that obligation was going to be, particularly since the psychiatric community approached me about interfering with their trade and their craft and that they... it was what they get paid for, to listen to that stuff. And I finally cut it down to like once a month. It also became a problem when I suggested that I was going to have a home... my home number was going to be listed, so I'd always be accessible. And of course, all of my opponents just could not believe that I would be doing such things. But sure enough, my home number is still listed. And the most interesting experience I had with that home number is about 2:00... 2:30 in the morning my telephone rings. And I know it's got to be another emergency, because mayors have to answer emergencies. I answered the telephone and it's Ms. Simpson, who said she lived on 9th St., near Howard and for three weeks the lights on her 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 street have been out and she was really embarrassed to call me at such a late hour, but there was no one else in city government she's been able to get a response from. She voted for me and would vote for me again if I gave her the opportunity and I could do something about her street lights. And I took down the information about her lights and I took her telephone number and I went back and raised hell with the people that do street lighting. People working at the local government level don't always understand you have to get elected. They have security. Either they have a wonderful contract put together by their union, or they have a civil service protection and sometimes both. And so they don't... they move on their own schedule and they just put her street lights in line. Well, I got it moved up. And of course, I insisted that they let me know when her lights would be fixed. And when they gave me the information that her lights had been fixed, I went home and I set my clock for 2:30. And I called her at 2:30. She was outraged that I would call her at 2:30. I'm sure I never got her vote, but I have told that story, I had it printed in the newspaper. So nobody now calls me at 2:30, except one drunk. There is one guy who was just totally and completely loaded. He'd been hanging out with some lobbyist half the night or whatever he'd been doing. And he, he... 4 a.m. in the morning he calls me and he tells me who he is. He always uses his name and he said, 'I've decided I'm not going to vote for you for reelection.' And so I said, What time is it?' He said, '4:00 in the morning.' 'So if you're not going to vote for me for reelection don't you think you could've called me like 9 or 10 in the morning, 'cause that's bad news. Why would you want to wake me up for bad news?' I 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 said, 'But since I'm awake I'm going to insist that you tell me why you are not gonna vote for me for reelection.' He says, 'First of all, you are not very accessible.' Well, I called him a sack full of whatever. And so those kinds of challenges and those kinds of people are out there and you get blamed for everything under the sun. There are 11 members of my city council and my board of supervisors and let me tell you with no authority to discipline them, they are really terrible people to get along with. They think they ought to be mayor, except they fear running for mayor. One of them ran against me and I beat him really badly and I remind him of it with some regularity. And so it's not a good situation to have councilmen, I think, if you're gonna be mayor and if you get the chance and if there's any possibility that any of you may run for mayor, first thing you want to do is abolish city councils before you go to take the job as mayor. Because if you're gonna be a true CEO, you can't be in committees debating the issue. There's no philosophy about removing whatever is on the streets. There's no philosophy about repairing the streets. And then finally, of course, you have to be pretty fleet of foot. I walked into a meeting and on one side of the room were all these well-dressed people like Mike and Willie and on the other side were these people in jogging clothes and, ya know, just kinda hanging out, tennis shoes and what have you. Well, I immediately sensed that there's something wrong with this audience and I gotta figure out what it is. I made my presentation and then I took questions. This side, the guy stands up, nice blue suit, red tie, white shirt, the whole bit, and he said, 'I don't know if you noticed, but some of us are on one side of this room and some of us are on the other. What you are 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 dealing with here, Mr. Mayor, is you're dealing with those of us who are dog lovers and dog walkers versus those soccer mommas. We can't use the same space compatibly in the park, and we want you to tell us how you will solve the issue.' I said, 'I'm gonna tell you how I'm gonna solve the issue. I'm running for reelection and you think I'm gonna lose either one of your votes, you are out of your mind. You deal with the executive who handles that problem. Next question. You have to be fleet of foot and move on and they were so entertained it was that way. But I'm delighted to see all of you. Come to California, come to San Francisco, come and spend a lot of money. Your Speaker did. He came out, he had his family with him. We had a good time while he was there. We really need you to come spend. I have a deficit in my city budget of $174 million. And unlike what I formerly did at the state level, every time there was a deficit I simply ordered those who estimated revenues to up 'em and those who estimated expenditures to lower them, and the budget was balanced. You can't do that at the local level, they're watching you. So, I got a problem and I need to have you come give me some assistance. Thank you."
"Chair recognizes Mr. Hartke for the purpose of an announcement."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It's my pleasure today to introduce the Rantoul High School kids up with their instructor, Jan Niccum, is in the audience today. It's good that they had an opportunity to listen to the Mayor and Speaker of California, some insight on how to run the State Government and municipal governments. Please recognize them with a round of applause."
"Mr. Joe Lyons for an announcement." 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 Lyons, J.: "Thank you, Speaker. And to all Members of the House Revenue Committee our meeting will come to order at 10:00 tomorrow morning, not 9. So House Revenue will meet 10:00 tomorrow morning not 9:00, Room 115. Thank you, Speaker."
Speaker Madigan: "The Chair recognizes Representative Slone for the purpose of an announcement. Representative Slone."
"Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Conservation and Land Use Committee meeting for tomorrow morning at 10 is canceled."
"Representative Shirley Jones." Jones, S.: "Yes, Mr. Speaker, Telecommunication is canceled."
"Representative Schoenberg."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Appropriations-General Services Committee scheduled for 4:00 today will be canceled."
"Mr. Lang."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Calendar indicates there's a joint committee hearing today with the Disabled Community Committee and the Mental Health and Patient Abuse Committee to discuss the Lincoln Developmental Center. I want the Members of the Mental Health Committee to know this is no longer a joint hearing. After four hearings we have completed our work on Lincoln, and so this is a Disabled Community Committee only. Thank you."
"Mr. Scully."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to announce that the House Commerce Committee scheduled to meet this afternoon has been canceled. Thank you."
Speaker Madigan: "Is Mr. Burke in the chamber? Representative Burke. On page 2 of the Calendar, on the Order of House Bills-Second Reading there appears House Bill 3641. Representative Julie Curry. Do you wish to call the Bill? The Lady indicates she does not wish to call the Bill. 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 House Bill 3703. Representative O'Brien. The Lady indicates she does not wish to call the Bill. House Bill 3729. Mr. Osterman. Is Mr. Osterman in the chamber? House Bill 3776. Mr. Kenner. Mr. Howard Kenner. Gentleman indicates he does not wish to call the Bill. House Bill 3938. Representative Flowers. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 3938, a Bill for an Act concerning schools. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Madigan: "Third Reading, House Bill 4037. Mr. Fowler. The Gentleman indicates he does not wish to call the Bill. House Bill 4073. Mr. Acevedo. Mr. Acevedo. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 4073, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. 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 4104. Mr. Giles. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 4104, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendment. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk let's go back House Bill 3776 by Mr. Kenner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 3776, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Madigan.: "Third Reading. House Bill 4107. Representative Coulson. The Lady indicates she does not 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 wish to call the Bill. House Bill 4110. Representative Lindner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 4110, a Bill for an Act concerning Appropriation Bills. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Committee Amendments. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. House Bills-Third Reading there appears House Bill 3653. Mr. Holbrook. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 3653, a Bill for an Act concerning public bodies. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Mr. Holbrook."
"Thank you, Speaker. House Bill 3653 simply puts the tourism boards under the Open Meetings Act. We passed this similar Bill out of here 116-0 last Session. We did add an exception in here for contracts, which seemed to be the problem they had in the Senate, when they are doing proposals to get different conventions in town. So... I'd be glad to answer any questions."
"The Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. The Chair recognizes Mr. Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Thank you. Representative... I don't understand the rationale for this. Has something occurred that has brought this to your attention and you want to pass this legislation?"
"Yes, there was a problem in the southern district where the tourism board refused to release their financial reports to the county chairman down there the different counties, on how they were spending there money. And these 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 counties were voting their authorization to this board. Again, this Bill passed out like 116-0 last Session, putting 'em under. But the Senate had a problem over some of the issues over contracting, like when they're making proposals to bring in like a Corvette Club or something. And we put that exception in this Bill, and again I know of no opposition. I think one of the early analysis said the Press Association may have opposed it. But I double-checked with them again, they do not oppose it. They are in support of this Bill."
"That's... that's quite frankly what confused me, because I could not understand why there was a notation that the Press Association would oppose a Bill bringing more publicly supported bodies under the Open Meetings Act. So, you're telling me they are not in opposition to this Bill?"
"Yes, I had checked with them before and they weren't, and then in committee when someone said they had a notation that they were, I double-checked with Beth Bennett, again with the Press Association. She said that was incorrect. They support this Bill. So, the Press Association is in support of this Bill."
"All right. So they... they aren't then focusing any opposition on the exception to the Open Meetings Act, that you talked about it. If a board... a civic center board is discussing the rates for a convention, that could be done in a closed meeting? Correct?"
"Correct."
"And the Press Association has no problem with that."
"Correct."
"For the simple reason I would think that in your area particularly if it became known what inducements were being made to attract a convention, then obviously a neighboring 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 civic center or meeting facility could immediately counteract that proposal. So, it would seem reasonable to me that that would be done in closed Session. But... and for the benefit of the members, all of these bodies are generally supported by, if not entirely, certainly by a majority of their funds are public monies. Are they not?"
"Absolutely."
"And so the public... has there been a case where a board would not release its financial statement for public review?"
"Yes."
"Was that in St. Clair?"
"It was in southwest. It covered 8 counties down there."
"Okay, fine. Thank you, very much. I certainly appreciate you clarifying the Illinois Press Association notation on the analysis."
"Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Cross, Parke, and Wojcik, have they voted? Cross, Parke, and Wojcik. The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 107 people voting 'yes', 8 people voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 3657, Mr. Hoffman. The Gentleman indicates he does not wish to call the Bill. House Bill 3672, Mr. Hannig. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 3672, a Bill for an Act relating to schools. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 This Bill deals with people who are called up to serve in the National Guard, and it makes two basic changes in the existing law. It provides that after September 1st of this year, anyone who's called up either by the order of the President or, and this is new language, the order of the Governor, will be covered by this Act. And then secondly, it provides that anyone who is called up because of an order of the President or the Governor that such active military duty shall not result in the loss or diminishment of any employment benefit, service credit, or status accrued at the time of the duty commenced. So, it basically protects those people who have joined the National Guard and that are called up either because of a national or state emergency. And it was received very well in the Education Committee and I would be happy to answer any questions and move for the passage of the Bill."
Speaker Madigan: "The Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. There being no discussion, the question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 115 people voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 3708. Mr. Saviano. 3708. The Gentleman indicates he does not wish to call the Bill. House Bill 3710. Mr. Brunsvold. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 3710, a Bill for an Act in relation to forest preserve districts. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 House. This Bill is very simple. It lowers the number from 150... a hundred and fifty thousand residents of a county to a hundred and forty thousand. Our zoo in Rock Island County and our county population has dropped below that hundred and fifty thousand number and our zoo uses that number as part of its forest preserve district number to operate. So, Building Committee, we had no opposition and I know of no opposition to the Bill. It simply lowers the number from 150 to 140. I'd ask for your support."
Speaker Madigan: "The Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. There being no discussion, the question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 115 people voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Saviano. House Bill 3998. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 3998, a Bill for an Act concerning the regulation of professions. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. House Bill 3998 is simply the extension of the Licensure Act for another ten years... excuse me, another four years. This Act sunsets at the... on December 31st, it will extend it for an additional four years. We have no opposition on the Bill. And I would ask for your approval. Thank you."
"The Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. There being no discussion, the question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 115 people voting 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Saviano, House Bill 3999. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 3999, a Bill for an Act concerning the regulation of professions. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. House Bill 3999 again is simply an extension of the Funeral Directors Licensure Act for an additional 10 years. This Bill is an Agreed Bill. It's been worked out and I would ask for your approval. Thank you."
"The Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. There being no discussion, the question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 115 people voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Saviano, House 4 (sic-Bill) 4004. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 4004, a Bill for an Act concerning the regulation of professions. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Mr. Saviano."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Representative Burke, I would defer this to Representative Burke and let him handle this."
"Chair recognizes Mr. Burke on House Bill 4004."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This sunset licensure for the practice of naprapathy in our state, when I brought this issue to the Legislature over ten years ago, we are delighted that this practice has existed in our state for a 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 decade. There has been no indication of malpractice over this ten-year practice and I would ask for the Body's reception of this continuation of a very good professional medical practice in our state."
"The Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. The Chair recognizes Mr. Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Sponsor... or Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative, it's my understanding the Department of Professional Regulation would prefer that this Act, in fact, sunset. Is there a reason for that, that they don't like naprapaths or do they have a particular reason why they would like this to sunset?"
"Representative Black, in committee it was insisted... suggested that over the last ten years there have been 14 complaints against the practice of naprapathapy, over ten years.
"The practice of what? Would you say that again?"
"Naprapathy. Would you like me to spell it for you?"
"I just love to hear you pronounce it."
"And may I further recommend to you, that one of the Members of the Committee, Representative Eileen Lyons, had inquired of the representative of Department of Professional Regulation, that in ten years of practice, there being 14 complaints, maybe that would be a recommendation to indeed continue the licensure of this profession? And I would suggest to you that in ten years 14 complaints is probably, in fact, indeed, recommendation that this profession continue."
"Had the right Honorable Representative Lyons filed one of these complaints, perhaps?" 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002
"Maybe the Representative will care to offer remarks. Representative Eileen Lyons. Mr. Speaker, would you acknowledge Representative Lyons?"
"Representative Lyons." Lyons, E.: "No. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On behalf of the Sponsor, it did come up in Committee, and I remarked that because there were no complaints, obviously the naprapaths are doing a very good job and that their license should be extended. Thank you."
"Mr. Black."
"Well, that certainly shed some light on that. I guess the question is, and I seldom ever vote against anything that Representative Lyons is for, how many naprapaths are there in the State of Illinois?"
"Representative Black I'm sorry to tell you that there only 90 practicing naprapaths in our state. When I introduced this legislation ten years ago, I thought this profession would have expanded to the point where it would be familiar to us as defibrillators would be."
"You always have to remind of that, don't you? If there are only 90, then the Department's opposition... Is this licensure and inspection self sustaining or does the department have to spend dollars over and above licensure fees to regulate the practice?"
"I was afraid you were going to go to that point, and indeed, it does cost us. It does."
"All right."
"There are not sufficient members of the practice of naprapathy to sustain, with respect to the financial level. But I might also recommend to you and I think through my exposure to this particular profession and my commitment to their involvement and their dedication to the human body, 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 that maybe those couple of bucks that we miss collecting on the back-end would be returned to the society of our State of Illinois."
"But we're not... Are you talking about... What sum of money are we talking about, a $50 thousand expenditure, or would it be in six figures or less than six figures?"
"No, it's not even... not even $50 thousands. It's minimal."
"Okay. Perhaps, since there are only 90, should we move this profession from under the umbrella of the Department of Professional Regulation to the Endangered Species Act, under Natural Resources?"
"I would be delighted to consider that after the sunset."
"I see. And the sunset now will go out to what point?"
"2013."
"2013? All right."
"Yes, Sir."
"Hate sunset clauses that end in 13, but I'll defer to your judgement."
"Yeah, ya know, it's a strange number, but ya know, an odd number, too, as a matter of fact."
"Well, all right. I appreciate your a... as always your very forthright response to these questions of vital interest to the future of our great state."
"Mr. Hartke."
"Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Mr. Burke, I've listened to this conversation for quite... quite well. You said it's under 50 thousand, but more than a couple of dollars. Do you have the specific amount what the Department estimates this costs us to run the program?" 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002
"You were referencing Representative Black's comment... "
"Yes... "
"On a $50 thousand amount."
"Yes, you said it was under $50 thousand."
"It's under, under."
"Do you have a specific amount that you know?"
"No, I could get it for you, though."
"Well, that'd be great. I'd like to know. What does the licensure cost for the naprapath license?"
"I believe it's $700."
"$700. Can you tell us what range that is in compared to doctors?"
"We're not talking about medical practitioners here. We're talking about an alternative... "
"I understand, what about dental hygienists?"
"Maybe if there was some staff around I could give you some stats on this, but I... "
"I appreciate you knowing that their licensure is $700. What do we have for a teacher certification? What kind of amount is used for that? The point I'm getting at is, if there are not enough members, maybe the... maybe it ought to be self sustaining. I do know that many professions charge a fee for their licensure that is equivalent to what it costs the Department to administer the program. And if we're losing, ya know, 40 thousand a year, maybe if we raise the price to a thousand, we would be able to make it self sustaining."
"You know, I would certainly entertain the idea that maybe the fee should be increased. But I would not limit the opportunities of this profession to exist by virtue of what we would suggest the state is losing. I would insist to you and, Representative Hartke, you do indeed, through my 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 involvement with this profession, understand that these professionals, naprapaths, are offering our constituents a very important service in this society. And whether they be 90 or whether they be 9 thousand they are providing a very important service to human beings in this community."
"Representative Burke, I have no argument with that and the services that they provide. I'm just trying to make it so that, you know, the state is in a crunch and if this is costing us extra money, maybe we ought to look at that aspect as well."
"I'd certainly be inclined to, considering the increase of the fee. And I think, Mr. Speaker, Representative Wojcik would like to make a comment with respect to this profession, I believe. Mr. Speaker, Representative Wojcik."
"Yes, I'm finished. Thank you."
"Representative Wojcik."
"Yes, Mr. Speaker. I'm listening to the debate regarding should they or should they not be sunsetted. I certainly would like to point out that I think when you you are in this field you would be better off to be licensed by the state and they would have certain guidelines that they would have to adhere to. This practice is well done. It's noninvasive. It causes no pain whatsoever and they are doing an excellent job in the State of Illinois. I believe they pay $250 for their license. It's a well-deserved amount. If they wanted to raise the fees, I don't think they would be bothered by that. But by all intents and purposes, this is an excellent Bill, it should be passed. We listened to the debate. When you look at a group of people like this who have no malpractices. I mean, how many doctors have had malpractice? They do not. This is a 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 very viable group of people and this Bill should pass."
"The question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Has Representative Granberg voted? Representative Mulligan, has Mulligan voted? Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 104 people voting 'yes', 11 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 4007, Mr. Jerry Mitchell. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 4007, a Bill for an Act concerning commemorative dates. Third Reading of this House Bill." Mitchell, J.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I bring you House Bill 4007. This Bill will establish February the 6th as a state commemorative holiday in honor of President Ronald Reagan. Does not grant state employees a day off, however. Ronald Wilson Reagan was the first and only President of the United States who was actually born and raised in the State of Illinois. Reagan was born in Tampico and I would be remiss as Mayor Brown said, you must come to Tampico and visit his birthplace and spend some money in the Tampico Museum and eat at the Dutch diner. We need the revenue. Before moving... on he was born in Tampico in 1911, before moving to Dixon as a child. His boyhood home still stands in Dixon and it's another wonderful place to visit, if you haven't already. The Dixon boyhood home was recently named a National Historic Site and is now in the National Registry. While in Lee County, Reagan was a lifeguard on the Rock River, and is credit with saving 77 lives. He graduated from Eureka College in Peoria County, before beginning his career as the voice of the Chicago Cubs for WHO Radio in Des Moines, 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 Iowa. Was later elected as President of the Screen Actors Guild, a position which required him to stand up to the investigations of Senator Joseph McCarthy in the early 1950's. He spent 7 terms as President of the union before becoming Governor of California in 1966 and reelected in 1970. In 1980, Ronald Reagan was elected President of the United States. I think this is something that should be done for 'Dutch' Reagan. He is a native son of Illinois and I'm very proud to carry this Bill, which makes his birthday a commemorative holiday in the State of Illinois. Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
Speaker Madigan: "The Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. There being no discussion. The question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Has Mr. Tom Dart voted? The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 115 people voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 4044. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
Clerk Rossi: "House Bill 4044, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Mr. Mautino."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. And I'm very happy to bring to you House Bill 4044. I cosponsored along with Representatives Tenhouse, O'Brien, Leitch, and Meyer. And this Bill will clarify a problem that we've had within the law here in Illinois as regards to the towing industry for the barge industry. And it brings clarity to the current State Law. Specifically, it exempts the barge line industry from provisions of the Minimum Wage Law and the One Day Rest in Seven Act. This 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 Bill was debated in committee and received no opposition. And to basically sum this up, for the past 50 years, labor and management in this industry have agreed that they have operated under Federal Law. A recent decision which came down from the Illinois Department of Labor, was the Garvey-Marine case. This will not reverse any of those decisions. It's prospective only, but it brought to light a problem, that the Fair Labor Standards Act exempts seamen from the minimum wage structure and this is how our operations have worked. People who work on the barge, work 21 days on river, 21 days off; 6 hour shift on, 6 hour shift off. They've been paid as a daily rate as opposed to an hourly wage and that complies with the federal standards. This Bill will put us into compliance and I appreciate your 'yes' votes and answer any questions that you have."
"Gentleman moves for the passage of the Bill. The Chair recognizes Mr. Leitch."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Gentleman yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Frank, I'm totally in support of the Bill. My only question is, I think it should be retroactive. I'm curious as to what process occurs, where just out of the blue somebody can make a ruling that a practice that's been in place since 1938 is all of the sudden not applicable. And then impose hardship on the individuals involved."
"Well, thank you. I understand the concern, as well. The Garvey case is on appeal within the court system now. And they've gone in to try and reverse the claim made by our Department of Labor. But for any of... any of the laws that we're doing, this would have to be prospective from this point forward." 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002
"Thank you. I just think it's extremely unfair to the parties involved that they would be subjected to this after it had been the practice for so many years. And has caused the people involved with great hardship and expense to try and get themself out of something that I don't believe should have ever been brought upon them to begin with. Thank you."
"Thank you, I agree and I hope that the courts will decide in favor on that. But this Bill does not relate to the court case, but it has shown to us a problem that can affect the entire river carrier industry and potentially raise costs of transportation, so we'd like to address it now."
"Mr. Tenhouse."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I simply rise in support of this Bill. I think the Sponsor is addressing an issue that can have a tremendous economic impact on anyone on the Illinois River. And I stand strongly in support of it and urge the Members that look to do the same. I don't think... really it just corrects a problem that came about as a result of a Department of Labor ruling, but I don't think there's any opposition to it. He's done a good job with working with folks on both sides to reach an agreement. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall this Bill pass?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Has Mr. Arthur Turner voted? The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 115 people voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Howard, did you wish to call House 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 Bill 4092? Mr. Clerk, read the Bill."
"House Bill 4092, a Bill for an Act concerning HIV/AIDS education. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. House Bill 4092, provides that the Department of Public Aid shall fund an HIV/AIDS community service pilot program in the African-American community. This program would include HIV primary care, HIV counseling and testing, case management services, prevention case management services and street outreach services. Unfortunately, I must say that in some parts of the African-American community AIDS is devastating. Although, the African-American community is 12% of the United States population, the reported cases of AIDS are 37%. It is very important that this kind of program be supported and implemented and I ask for the support of this Body."
"Mr. Parke."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative Howard, I just have a question. Is this one pilot program in your district?"
"It's one pilot program within an African-American community, not necessarily my district but in an area where the numbers are very high. It could be on the west side of Chicago. It could be on the south side of Chicago. It could be in another area in some part of this state."
"Who picks it?"
"I'm not understanding you. What..."
"Who picks where the location of this pilot program will be located?"
"The program would be administered by the Department of Public Health. So, based on their numbers, I'd be 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 satisfied."
"All right. But again, you realize, of course, HIV affects everyone, regardless of race."
"I am well aware of that, but I am also aware that it disproportionately affects the African-American community. And this is the reason that I've asked that this pilot program be supported."
"Okay. Do you have any idea what it's going to cost the taxpayers to do this?"
"The last time that I proposed this pilot, they talked about about a hundred thousand dollars, I think about $150 thousand would be sufficient."
"Is there a line item paying for this in the budget? Is there a line item or is there... Do you have an agreement with the Governor?"
"I have no agreement with anybody. This would certainly be subject to Appropriations."
"Has the Department indicated that they're favorable to this or that they're going to work with you to achieve this?"
"They have not indicated to me that they're not favorable, in fact, I've heard no opposition from anyone."
"And so this is, in fact, an unfunded mandate."
"I am hopeful, Mr. Parke, that money would be made available for this program."
"Do you know where it'll come from?"
"I do not at this point."
"Will the Department have to take it from some other program?"
"I am not aware at this point where the money would come from. However, I think it's a very important issue. I think it needs to be addressed. And I'm hopeful that a 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 hundred and fifty thousand can be found someplace."
"Thank you, Representative."
"Thank you."
Speaker Madigan: "The Lady moves for the passage of the Bill. Those in favor... Chair recognizes Representative Flowers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, will the Lady yield for a question, please?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative Howard."
"Yes?"
"Is it true that the Ryan White Foundation has moneys to give for AIDS intervention and prevention and that money would be accessible if programs were put together for that use?"
"It is my understanding that Ryan White is certainly a resource that we can look to."
"Thank you very much."
"Again, the Lady moves for the passage of the Bill. The Lady moves for the passage the Bill. Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 113 people voting 'yes', 1 person voting 'no'. This Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Osterman, on House Bill 3729. The Gentleman indicates he does not wish to move the Bill. Mr. Clerk on House Resolution 681. Mr. Clerk."
"House Resol..."
"Mr. Clerk, excuse me. Is Mr. Burke in the chamber? Mr. Burke on House Resolution 681. Mr. Clerk."
Clerk Rossi: "House Resolution 681, offered by Representative Burke. 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 HOUSE RESOLUTION 681 WHEREAS, This year Mary Kathleen McGuire Dunn marks her thirtieth year of professional involvement with the legislative processes of Illinois State government; and WHEREAS, Kathleen first came to this chamber as a representative of the Illinois Catholic Hospital Association in 1973; and WHEREAS, Kathleen was the first woman to serve as a State agency legislative liaison when she represented the Illinois Department of Public Aid from 1974 until 1977; and WHEREAS, Kathleen continued to grace the floor of this House of Representatives and the Senate as a representative of the Illinois Department of Labor until 1986, when she began her distinguished career with the Illinois Hospital Association; and WHEREAS, Kathleen, in this role contributes to our understanding of the complex challenges facing the Illinois health care system; and WHEREAS, Kathleen is a product of the Illinois system of higher education, earning a bachelor's degree from Illinois State University at Normal and a master's degree in Communications from Sangamon State University, and completed graduate work at the University of Illinois at Urbana and Oriel College at Oxford, England; and WHEREAS, Kathleen continues to contribute to the institutions of our State as a member of the Illinois Issues Advisory Board, University of Illinois at Springfield Alumni Advisory Board, and is a member of the American Society of Association Executives, the Illinois Society of Association Executives and Illinois Women in 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 Government; and WHEREAS, Kathleen has over the last three decades served as a positive role model for her colleagues in advocacy through sensitive listening and communicating, understanding the goals and contributing to their achievement and, most of all, demonstrating respect for the legislative process and for all who participate in the interest of Illinois citizens, and WHEREAS, Kathleen remains today the delight she was thirty sessions ago when she approached legislators for the first time on an issue of importance to the Catholic Hospital Association, maintaining through all the years her good humor, her calm and cordial nature and her sense of the value of good friendships made along the way; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate Kathleen Dunn on the occasion of her thirtieth session as an advocate for positive policy to be enacted in this legislative chamber, and further express our best wishes for her continued professional achievements in the future; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Mary Kathleen McGuire Dunn as an expression of our esteem."
"Mr. Burke, on the Resolution."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am delighted to rise in support of this Resolution honoring Kathleen Dunn, who for 30 years, has labored in these halls and offices of this State Capitol. I myself having been for just a little over a decade, I can still remember meeting Kathleen for the first time, as a very green freshman. Kathleen introduced herself in her lovely and demure manner, offered her help and advice. She was one of the first friends that I've 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 been fortunate to meet in this society. And I will forever be grateful for her kindness, her wisdom, intuition, and sincere respect for this process that we all engage in. I want to say thank you to Kathleen Dunn and congratulate her on her 30 years of patience, integrity, and humility. I have been privileged to have known Kathleen Dunn as a friend and I would like to take this opportunity to wish her nothing but the best of good luck as she will begin her, hopeful, next 30 years involved in this process. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Representative Lyons, I think."
"Mr. Lyons." Lyons, J.: "...Speaker. Thank you, Representative Burke. I fondly remember when I came down for the first time when I was seriously being considered as a candidate, when my predecessor, Bill Laurino, decided he wasn't going to be running for reelection. And coming down for the first time, and the very first person I met, the first lobbyist that I met, was Kathleen Dunn. She was an elegant lady and sincere and from the heart that very first day I met her, has been ever since then nothing but the same. When I did the assisted living Bill, which is probably the biggest piece of legislation I've had the honor to bring forth before this Assembly, Kathleen was right there, a part of that consortium every step of the way, working with me for its ultimate successful passage, along with making sure all the i's were dotted, the t's were crossed with some follow up work we had to do on it. So Kathleen, everybody on both sides of the aisle thinks the world of you. Congratulations on 30 years. I don't know if you'll want another 30 years, but as long as you want, you're going to have a lot of friends down here, Kathleen Dunn. God bless you." 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002
"Mr. Black. Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. It's unfortunate that we have encountered lately a very cynical world, where the word lobbyist or advocate to many people is a four-letter word. That is unfortunate because there are hundreds of them and particularly one that such as Kathleen Dunn, that are so outstanding, who can serve as a wealth, if you will, of knowledge, of institutional memory. And if you but seek them out for there advice or Kathleen's case, she will often seek you out, will give you background material, facts. If you ask her who is opposed, she will tell you and why. Why she takes the position that she takes. You will always get a straight answer and straight direction from her. And that kind of resource, regardless of what some cynics may say, is vital to this process. And she is... I think, represents all that is good in this process. She is a strong advocate for any issue that she takes on and represents. She has been a great help to me and a great help, I'm sure, to all of us in this General Assembly. It doesn't seem as if she could've possible worked here for 30 years. She must have started as a young teenager, but I, too, rise to commend her for her integrity, her credibility, and just the overall demeanor and class act that she brings to this process. All of us who have had an opportunity to work with Kathleen have grown to respect her knowledge and her love of the process and can always rely upon her to give practical advice and will never, ever let you go away with only half the picture. She is a remarkable woman and I congratulate her on her years of service to the governmental process of the people of the State of Illinois." 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002
"Representative Wojcik."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, rise to congratulate Kathleen. She and I have common name together. And whenever I speak with her, I say this is the other Kathleen and there she is, the other Kathleen. But I could think of nothing better, nor kinder words to be said as they were said for her today. Kathleen has been my mentor for the past 19 years. She's been by my side, has never ever strayed whenever I needed her help and always understood what I wanted her to do for me. She's a kind, wonderful lady and I think this is a great honor that's being bestowed to her today."
"The question is, 'Shall the House adopt the Resolution?' Those in... Mr. McGuire. Mr. McGuire."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise 'cause I heard my name mentioned in debate. But seriously, I want to add my congratulations to the 30th legislative Session for Kathleen McGuire Dunn. She not only exemplifies what the other speakers have said, knowledge and willingness to help, but I think I'd like to add to that, the wit and charm of Kathleen is what we should be congratulating. And I just want to add my voice to those who have supported that. Thank you."
"The question is, 'Shall the House adopt the Resolution?' Those in favor say 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. House Resolution 681 is adopted. Mr. Clerk, read the Agreed Resolutions."
"Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 658, offered by Representative Winkel and House Resolution 660, offered by Representative Bill Mitchell."
"The Clerk has read the Agreed Resolutions. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 97th Legislative Day February 14, 2002 'ayes' have it. The Agreed Resolutions are adopted. Mr. Black, did you have anything further? Did you have anything further to bring before the Body? Mr. Black."
"No, Mr. Speaker, but I certainly appreciate being asked. It's very kind of you. Perhaps I can prepare something for tomorrow."
"All right. Is there anything that anyone wants Mr. Black to speak to? Representative Currie moves that the House stand adjourned until 1:00 a.m. tomorrow, providing perfunctory time... 1:00 p.m. tomorrow, providing perfunctory time for the Clerk. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The House does stand adjourned until 1:00 p.m. tomorrow, providing perfunctory time for the Clerk."
Clerk Rossi: "House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Committee Reports. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 14, 2002, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'to the floor for consideration' House Bill 2579; refer to the order of House Bills-Second Reading and House Joint Resolution 62, refer to the Order of Resolutions. The House Perfunctory Session now stands adjourned." 35