“The House shall come to order. Members will please be in their chairs. We shall be led in prayer today by Reverend Heidi Weatherford of the McKinley Presbyterian Church in Champaign. Reverend Weatherford is the guest of Representative Naomi Jakobsson. Our guests in the gallery may wish to rise and join us for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. Reverend.”
“Let us pray. Great God, author and giver of life, giver of all good and gifts, we give You thanks for the privilege of serving as citizens and Representatives of this State of Illinois. We give You thanks for the talent and intellect which You have given to us that we may use in that service. And we give You thanks for continued health which enables us to serve the people of this state daily. We ask this day for wisdom, compassion and truth that they will be present in our deliberations and in our actions. We pray that You will help us to remember when facing the difficult challenges, especially the budget challenges that you have given us the ability as leaders to compromise and be collegial so that the best work can be done for the citizens of this state. We ask that You will bless our actions this day. We ask that You will bless our family, friends, constituents at home while we are here today working. We ask always that You will bless the State of Illinois and all who live within its bounds. All this we pray by the power of Your name, oh God, our Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer. Amen.” 09300026.doc 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
Speaker Hartke: “We shall be led in the Pledge by Representative Jakobsson.”
“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 Hartke: “Roll Call for Attendance. Representative Currie, a report on the Democrat side.”
“Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record reflect that Representatives Delgado, Lang and Morrow are excused today.”
“Representative Bost.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Please let the record reflect that Representatives Lindner and Black are excused today.”
“Mr. Clerk, take the record. There are 112 Members answering the Roll Call, a quorum is present. And we’re ready to do business of the state. On page 10 of the Calendar, on the Order of Third Reading, we will start off where we left yesterday and proceed down the Calendar. So, please be attentive and be ready to call your Bills. House Bill 497. Representative Hannig. Representative Hannig. Out of the record. House Bill 499. Representative Dunkin. Representative Dunkin. Out of the record. House Bill 516. Representative O’Brien. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 516, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative O’Brien.” 09300026.doc 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 516 prohibits a posting on any Internet site, not just a pornography site, adult obscenity or child pornography along with identifying information such as name, address, telephone number or e-mail address. If the adult subject of the adult obscenity consents, however, then it may be posted along with identifying information. I’ll be happy to answer any questions.”
“Is there any discussion on House Bill 516? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 516?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 497. Representative Hannig. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 497, a Bill for an Act concerning state finance. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Hannig.”
“Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of this House. Over the last couple of years our Secretary of State, Jesse White, has done an outstanding job of trying to make the drivers license abstracts much more easily available to people who are interested in purchasing that information, which… which under law he’s allowed to do. So, the good 09300026.doc 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 news has been that because of his good work he has been able to collect a larger amount of money than he anticipated. So, what he’s asking us to do with this Bill is provide that we change the cap in the dedicated fund where he has… where he collects this money and deposits it, so that basically he can retain the money in his fund, which he primarily uses to upgrade his technology. So, basically what we’re asking your support in this Bill is to allow the Secretary of State to continue to use the money that he collects from improving the technology in his office to continue to improve the technology in his office. There should be no… there should be no down side to this for the Central Management Services, who will still receive under the Secretary of State’s estimates at least $1.5 million that they have received in the past. So, this is an effort to allow the Secretary of State to keep up the good work. I’d like to commend him for the good work that he’s done and ask for your support on this proposal.”
“Is there any discussion on House Bill 497? Representative Parke.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, one quick thing is, what do you need the $3 million for?”
“Representative, he’s… he’s generated this additional money in this statistical… or in this fund and there’s a cap on the amount of this money that he can use and he’s 09300026.doc 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 suggesting that we raise the cap to reflect the fact that he’s collected more money than we thought he would.”
“Where’s the money coming from?”
“Representative, when someone who looks… most of the money comes from the $6 fee, half of which is deposited into this fund when someone, primarily an insurance company, checks a drivers license abstract. In other words, they wanna know if you’re a good driver or not, so they check with the Secretary of State. They pay a fee for that. He’s made it easier for them to pay the fees and consequently collected more money.”
“So, you wanna change the cap that can come out of that fund. Is the people that pay into that fund… do they have expectations of how that money’s gonna be used, as far as you know, ‘cause if there is and then you transfer 3 million out of that fund into another fund, will people be irritated? Do you know that?”
“Well, Representative, we’re actually asking that he retain more of the money in this fund. This is… this is a fund that in part what he uses the money for when it’s collected is that he uses it to upgrade his technology so he can continue to do this kind of work.”
“So, give us an example of what… what this money’ll be used for.”
“The Secretary of State would use this money to try to provide hardware and/or software to make it better for private insurance companies to check on driving records of potential drivers who wanna buy insurance. It makes it 09300026.doc 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 easier… he’s made it easier for the whole process to operate, so that when you call your insurance agent, say I want a quote on insurance, they can very quickly check your driving record and get back to you and say, ‘Terry, this is what it’s gonna cost ya.’”
“Okay. So… so, you don’t know of anybody that’s objected to this, they… it’s just good business and the Secretary of State continues to provide good, better services because of this?”
“There were no objections in committee, Representative.”
“All right. Then I have no objection. Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 497?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Granberg. Representative Flowers. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 104 Members voting ‘yes’, 8 Members voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 517. Representative O’Brien. Out of the record. House Bill 525. Representative McCarthy. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 525, a Bill for an Act concerning disclosure of information. Third Reading of this House Bill.” 09300026.doc 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Representative McCarthy.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 525 is an initiative of the Cook County State’s Attorneys Office. We passed this Bill last year, I think with over a hundred votes to tell you the truth. And it basically allows the state’s attorney or a state’s attorneys investigators to look at the Public Aid Code in order to obtain the address of a victim of felony or a witness to a felony. It also amends the Unemployment Insurance Act to allow the state’s attorney or a state’s attorneys investigator to obtain the address of the victim of a felony, a witness to a felony or an individual against a arrest warrant is outstanding. I think it’s a needed piece of legislation that’ll help our law enforcement community. And I’d ask for an ‘aye’ vote.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Parke.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.”
“One thing about this, is this… does this preempt any kind of privacy rules or laws?”
“I do not think… basically amends those two codes, the Public Aid Code and the under… the Unemployment Insurance Act and…”
“So, this could be done…”
“…I’ve really had no questions about the privacy concerns in committee at all.” 09300026.doc 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Does this interfere with the new ruling that came out of the Federal Government in March on the privacy legislation that was passed under…?”
“I wouldn’t believe so, there’s a lot of exceptions to both of these codes already and these were just what we thought were missing and should’ve been made exceptions before. So, this would just add these categories as far as victim and witness to a felony to the exceptions so they can release that address. And it basically has to do with last year in Cook County more than 10 percent of the subpoenas that were issued were not able to be delivered because they couldn’t find these people. So hopefully, we’ll do a better job as far as prosecuting the crimes if we can find the people. It will help us do that.”
“Is this information deemed to be confidential and kept on a right to know basis so that people’s personal information is not shared in a way that would be inappropriate?”
“Well, there were those questions, basically the legislation amends the Public Aid Code so if we’re looking for a person who’s a victim of a felony or a witness to a felony we can now access the Public Aid records. Public Aid or Unemployment Insurance filed no slip on the Bill, though.”
"Okay.”
"And I think the way they wrote it was last year there was an Amendment put on at the request of 09300026.doc 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 Representative Cross and they kept true to that as far as in this year’s legislation.”
“Could this be used for… in a case of child support?”
“This does not… it could be if there was an arrest warrant issued for someone who had fallen behind. I… usually child support, ya know, if there’s a problem with child support it doesn’t fall into the felony charec… category, so unless there was an arrest warrant issued, which unfortunately is few and far between in the deadbeats, but… So, if it was I guess it could be, but I don’t think that’s gonna happen too often.”
“Okay. Thank you, Representative.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative McCarthy to close.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think it’s a fine piece of legislation. I’d ask for an ‘aye’ vote.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 525?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Representative Soto. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 499. Representative Dunkin. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.” 09300026.doc 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“House Bill 499, a Bill for an Act concerning driver’s permits. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Dunkin.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. This Bill is very straightforward. All it does is changes complete a motorcycle course to successfully complete the motorcycle course of the Illinois Vehicle Code. So, I ask for your support on this Bill.”
“Representative Parke.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.”
“Now, Representative, you worked very hard and long on this Bill?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“And you… you’re presenting the Body… to the Body this Bill because you think it’s extremely important that we have this in… in law at this time? And this is your first Bill that you’ve presented to the Body?”
“Yes, Sir, but no one knows that.”
“Nobody knows that, oh well, then perhaps we shouldn’t talk about it then. Have you had an opportunity to talk to any of the motorcycle organizations in the state to make sure that… that they are in agreement with this legislation, a group such as ABATE or other groups that are concerned about motorcycle enthusiasts?”
“Yes, Sir, as a matter of fact the motorcycle foundation, along with ABATE supports this, if I’m not mistaken.” 09300026.doc 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“So… but you talked directly to them? Did you talk directly to them?”
“Just one second, let me…”
“Okay.”
“Okay. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation supports this, Representative.”
“You said what… say that again, I’m sorry.”
“The Motorcycle Safety Foundation supports this Bill.”
“Yes, but did you talk to ABATE?”
“Ya know… No, I have not, personally.”
“Have you heard from them?”
“No, Sir, not even in opposition.”
“All right. Well, it’s my understanding that… that special interest groups ought to contact you and discuss this kind of legislation with you, but if you haven’t heard from them there’s not much you can do. But this sets up some kind of a training program, did you say?”
“Yes, it currently simply amends the vehicle… the Motor Vehicle Code by adding the word ‘successful’ in terms of complete. Right now it’s just complete a motorcycle course, this successfully completes a motorcycle course. ‘Cause as you know, you can spend the 20 hours in the motorcycle course and just be there whether you pass or fail. What this language does or this one word, Representative, does is simply adds the word ‘successfully’ complete the motorcycle review course.” 09300026.doc 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Now, do they have a graduation program and do they have… bring the parents and do they provide flowers to the people who pass, like they do at other graduations?”
“Yeah, what they do is they give them flowers, a bowl of chitlins and… yes, and a certificate.”
“Okay. Do you know how many people do you expect to be in the first graduating class?”
“That’s kinda hard to determine, because you have a number of universities that are supporting this Bill… excuse me, universities that already provide this service, Illinois State University, University of Illinois, Southern, Northwestern and it’s absolutely free to anyone who wants to take this particular course. So, it’s a… it’s a good… it’s a cleanup Bill is what it is.”
“Now, do they… is there a master’s program once they complete this, can they go on to some master’s or doctorial program in the motorcycle training?”
“Right, well, it also adds… it’s an experienced riders course, as well, that they also add, but… no, they don’t receive a master’s degree in this here. This is a simple re… motorcycle review course that reviews the roads of the… Rules of the Road when you’re riding a motorcycle and it guarantees or insures that individuals successfully pass or complete the course, ‘cause otherwise they’ll just, ya know, you can just sit through the course and it’s a part of the Secretary of State’s improvement of folks even being required or qualified to take the motorcycle review course.” 09300026.doc 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Have you suggested to the Secretary of State, Jesse, to be at the first graduating class to present the diplomas? And by the way, do they get a diploma?”
“No, they get a certificate.”
“A certificate?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Now, have you suggested the Secretary of State might wanna be at the first graduating class to present the certificates and diplomas?”
“Ya know what, I could ask him, he generally likes to attend events of this nature, because it’s… it’s just the right thing to do, it adds value to the graduates and encourages them. It enhances their certificate appreciation. So, I’ll ask him to make sure that he gets down to southern Illinois if he’s in the neck of the woods when there’s a graduation that’s gonna take place over at Northwestern, which is not far from where he lives or at University of Illinois. So…”
“Northwestern’s offering this course?”
“Yes, Sir, they’re providing it at no charge to us, other than the motorcycle… a portion of the motorcycle regulation and drivers fees.”
“Does a person that gets this degree then they can drive on the roads of our state and if they don’t have it can they still drive on the roads?”
“Currently, they can, because all they have to do is successfully… excuse me, all they have to do today is complete the course, that’s it, not successfully complete. 09300026.doc 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 We need them to successfully complete the course, because we don’t… we want the best on the road, the more conscientious on the road, people who have taken… studying for the motorcycle exam very, very seriously.”
“How… how long is the waiting list to get into this course?”
“I’m not sure exactly.”
“But there is one, isn’t there?”
“You know what, I’m not sure, ya know, because it’s so regionally situated and it’s of… it’s offered on a regular basis or at least once a quarter, once a semester. I’m not sure, I can check on that for you, Representative.”
“Okay. Now, if an organization such as ABATE, which puts a training program on…”
“Just to add, Representative Parke, Southern Illinois actually comes up to Jacksonville, Illinois and offers the course.”
“And could an organization… do you allow in your legislation a group like ABATE, which I know provides a training program ‘cause I actually went to one and watched them, do they have the ability to pro… to structure a program and be able to offer the same kind of degree…?”
Speaker Hartke: “Mr. Parke, your time has expired. Chair recognizes Representative Lou Jones.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he’ll yield.”
“Yes, Ma’am.” 09300026.doc 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Representative, where did you get this Bill from? Who gave you this Bill?”
“The Secretary of State.”
“Our Jesse White?”
“Yes, Jesse White, who…”
“Gave you the Bill.”
“Yes, Ma’am.”
“What… Explain this, what does the Bill do?”
“This Bill simply guarantees that there is successful completion of the motorcycle course that they typically are already are required to take at the various universities that provide this motorcycle course review.”
“How long is the course?”
“The course is 20 hours per session, wherever it is.”
“And where do you take the course at?”
“You take it at Illinois State University in Bloomington, at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, at Northwestern University in Chicago, along with University of Illinois in Champaign and on occasion those universities travel to certain regions of the state and provide that course, that 20-hour course.”
“Will they… they’re traveling into any of our districts and do this course?”
“I’m not sure, Representative, I’m not sure about that.”
“Do you have a motorcycle?”
“No, Ma’am.”
“Do you know anybody that got a motorcycle?” 09300026.doc 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Yes, as a matter of fact I do, yeah.”
“Do you…”
“Donnie Trotter has one, Mark has one.”
“Do you think you should wear a helmet if you are driving a motorcycle?”
“I would… I would wanna wear a helmet…”
"No.”
"…for safety reasons.”
“Do you think anyone, everyone should wear a helmet if they drive a motorcycle?”
“I’m not sure, I would wear one personally, if I were driving.”
“You’re not sure that you would wear a helmet, a safe… and that’s a safety issue. Don’t you think, that’s a safety issue. Right?”
“Yes, Ma’am.”
“But you would promote a Bill to have someone go to a course outside of they district in Champaign or downstate, but you don’t think everybody should have a helmet… wear a helmet?”
“Well, I’m not passing any judgment on anyone, I know I would wear a helmet.”
“I’m trying to find out do you support helmets or not?”
“It’s a personal choice.”
“Okay. And that’s a personal choice, but can I take this course at 39th and King Drive?” 09300026.doc 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“No, but you could take it at Northwestern University at Chicago Avenue and Michigan Avenue in your district, Representative.”
“If I fail the course, what happens then?”
“If you fail the course you’ll probably wanna study for it again and take it over.”
“To the Bill.”
“Shhh. To the Bill.”
“I know this young man is a freshman and he…”
“Shhh.”
“…got a good Bill from the Secretary of State, who we all love very dearly and… but I don’t think anybody that doesn’t wear a helmet, which is a safety issue, should even be involved in getting a license or doing a course… or having a course for driving a motorcycle. I think if you are… are gonna promote everybody to do a… to take this course, which is not in my area, by the way, ‘cause I don’t live near Northwestern, but they don’t support fully you wearing a helmet and driving a motorcycle. So, I think everybody in this House should think of that very, very, very… look at it very closely when you vote for this Bill.”
“Chair recognizes Representative Giles.”
“Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Will the Sponsor yield for a question?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.”
“Representative Dunkin, unlike my colleague who… who thinks this a excellent piece of legislation, I’m kind of 09300026.doc 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 shocked and appalled that you would bring such a piece of legislation before this Body. You have…”
“Shhh.”
“…you have asked… you have answered some questions, I have not heard the issue of dealing with a minor in this piece of legislation. Could you explain to me in your definition what is a ‘minor’?”
“The definition of a ‘minor’?”
“That’s correct. Representative, you’re asking minors to successfully complete…”
“Anyone under 18.”
“…a course that is very dangerous. A minor is anyone that’s over 18?”
“Anyone under 18.”
“Anyone that’s under 18?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“So, we… do we allow individuals that’s under 18 to… to get driver’s license or a driver’s permit, do we… do we allow those individuals to do so?”
“Sure, Representative.”
“Sure. What are we sure about? Are we sure that we allow individuals that are 16 years of age to receive a drivers permit and… and are we sure about we allow those individuals to get a driver’s license? Which one are we sure about?”
“Yes.”
“Representative, ya know, in this legislation as I read it, we’re allowing a minor to enter a course that I feel 09300026.doc 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 that’s truly dangerous being on a motorcycle and my previous colleague just made a statement that we’re allowing these individuals to access or being able to take a course to get a license to ride a motorcycle without a helmet. Could you tell me what is the cost of this particular course? Is there… is there any fees involved in taking this course?”
“Actually, there isn’t a cour… no, Sir, no fee.”
“There’s no fees at all?”
“No… yes, Sir.”
“Are you sure about this, Representative?”
“Yes, there are currently no fees involved as it relates for the individual to take the course, however there is… this course is provided or paid for by portions… funding portions of the motorcycle registration and driver’s license fees.”
“Okay. Ya know, I… this, I think, on the front end as you’re stating this may not cost… may not be a cost to it. Is there a fiscal note to this piece of legislation? If we pass this and this become a State Law will this… will any fees be assessed, I mean will the state… will the taxpayer have to pay any cost for us allowing this Bill to become a law?”
“No, Sir.”
“Okay.”
“All this will simply do is add value or put teeth in successfully… excuse me, completing the course. Instead of 09300026.doc 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 just completing the course it’ll successfully… or require you to successfully complete the course.”
“Okay. Well…”
“’Cause right now, Representative, you only have to complete the course. In other words, if you’re sitting in this course for 20 hours whether you pass or fail it still would allow you to get a certificate of having completed the course and that will allow you…”
“Okay. Representative, okay, I think you’ve tried to answer that. Let me just ask another question here. What is the procedure of a minor since this individual is a minor, not an adult taking this course? Ya know, when you go and get a driver’s license you know you have the police officer in the car with you when you’re taking the actual test to receive these driver’s license. In this particular situation, will the police officer get on the back of a motorcycle with the minor to… to go through the test to get a license to be able to ride a motorcycle?”
“You know, I have to point this out, Representative, I have never taken… I don’t know how to ride a motorcycle personally.”
“You don’t know how to ride a motorcycle? You don’t know what the procedures are and you’re carrying such an important Bill of such that may cost the lives of minors as we’re stating here. Well, let me ask you another question, Representative. What if a minor… what if an adult tried to pose as a minor since we don’t have these restrict…” 09300026.doc 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“You may answer the question. Your time has expired, Representative Giles.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. I see that the Representative has some problems trying to answer some of these questions, ya know, I… ya know, as a… as an office… as a officemate we share the same secretary. I thought he would come with something a little bit better on his first Bill. I just got so many problems with this piece of legislation. At this time, Representative, I think I’m just gonna have to either vote ‘present’ or just ‘no’ on this piece of legislation. And would you consider just simply taking this Bill out of the record until we can straighten out some of these problems?”
“No, Sir.”
“Thank you, Representative, thank you for your indulgence.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Boland.”
“Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think that everybody should be aware, I think Representative Dunkin is… is trying to kinda slip under the radar here on the last day on, ya know, that we’re in Session for the week, on his first Bill. And so I’d like to ask him just a couple of questions.”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Ya know, as I look around, I think almost all of us or all of us have had to endure questioning and grilling by Representatives Lang and Black on our first Bill and I 09300026.doc 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 don’t see them in the chamber. And so I wanted to ask the… the Sponsor of the Bill here, Representative Dunkin, don’t you feel a little guilty that you’re getting off a little bit easier than all the rest of us have had to do?”
“Yes.”
“Well, since you do feel guilty would you mind taking this out of the record and waiting ‘til next week and maybe on a nice Tuesday morning or something when Representative Lang and Representative Black and all the rest of us are all perky and ready to go to question you on this?” Dunkin: No.”
“All right. I guess we’re all just gonna have to vote your Bill down then, Sir. All right. Thank you.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Jefferson. Representative Jefferson.”
“…Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.”
“Thank you. Representative, is this your first Bill?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Let me understand something, you said in a previous conversation that you didn’t know how to ride a motorcycle?”
“Yes. Actually I do, on the back.”
“You don’t own a motorcycle?”
“No, Sir.”
“Why are you worthy to carry this Bill?” 09300026.doc 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Well, because it’s good legislation and it provides… and it helps to insure that… it’s help to insure that we have qualified motorcyclists on the road who have successfully completed the motorcycle course and it just adds that much more value to individuals taking the exam, being on the road and being great motorists in the State of Illinois.”
“The Bill you said would require a training course?”
“Yes, Sir.”
“And the training course is for how long?”
“Twenty hours.”
“And what are the age limitations on the Bill as far as it relates to minors?”
“Sixteen.”
“So, a ten-year-old couldn’t take this course?”
“No, no, no.”
“Okay. And the other question you said with this course, if in fact you pass it, you get a certificate, a driver’s license…”
“Yes, Sir…”
“…and a bow…”
“…you get your certificate. You get the opportunity to take or sit for the motorcycle exam.”
“Did I understand you to say you also get a bowl of chitlins with the completion of this course?”
“No, not a bowl of chili, a bowl chitterlings.”
“Bowl of chitlins. Okay. How big a bowl of chitlins?” 09300026.doc 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Representative Franks and Representative Lang prepares.”
“Was it chitlins or chili?”
“It’s…”
“What are chitlins? Representative, could you give me the definition of ‘chitlins’?”
“Chicken… chitlins…”
“Chitlins.”
“Chitlins or chitterlings if you’re… if you’re lettered, basically is the pig’s intestines that’s cleaned thoroughly, that’s seasoned and marinated with hog maws and usually prepared around special times, holidays, you do it for Thanksgiving, for Christmas, for New Years, you put hot sauce on ‘em with onions, from Vidalia onions, you can put pepper or salt on them, you usually wanna eat them with your macaroni and cheese, your turkey, dressing…”
“Representative…”
“…your ham…”
“Representative, I thought this was…”
“…as a combination.”
“…supposed to be an achievement.”
“It’s a delicacy.”
“Not a penalty, an achievement. I thought once you finished this course you would be actually awarded, not penalized.”
“Mr. Jefferson, would you please keep your remarks to the Bill.” 09300026.doc 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you, Mr. Chairman. To the Bill. I think this young freshman has worked very hard, I think it’s a good Bill. And I would urge each and every one of you to support this Bill. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. ”
“Thank you. Ladies and Gentlemen, we still have five people seeking to question the Sponsor of this Bill. What is your pleasure? Shall we go with the four people and give them one minute? Okay. Representative Meyer, you have one minute.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.”
“No.”
“Representative, you indicated… it’s very noisy in here and I really couldn’t hear what you were you saying. I’m over here. Hey.”
“Okay. How ya doin?”
“This side of the aisle.”
“All right.”
“Ya know, we can tell you’re new down here, you don’t even know which side we sit on yet.”
“I’m sorry.”
“Do you know which side you sit on?”
“I thought you were over here. I’m…”
“Yeah, come on over here, you can sit over here.”
“I’m so…”
“Listen. I didn’t hear, do you have motorcycle?”
“No, Sir.”
“Do you have a motorcycle license?” 09300026.doc 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“No, Sir.”
“Have you ever taken this test?”
“No, Sir.”
“Well, how do you know what this test… how do you know what’s on that test? This test that no one can pass, how do you know what’s on it?”
“Well, I’ve never had a baby, but I vote on maternity Bills.”
“In other words, you just don’t know what your Bill is about. Let me ask you this, Representative, and I just got one or two things I wanna ask about…”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Winters. Your clock is running.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A question for the Chair.”
“Yes, Sir.”
“I think that this Sponsor probably should not be carrying this Bill. We’re not allowed on the House Floor to carry special legislation for ourselves and I think that Representative Dunkin probably isn’t even 18 years old yet, he’s so young, he looks like a freshman. I wanna have him verify that he is 18, he’s qualified to sit in this House of Representatives and it is not in fact special legislation. Did you flunk this motorcycle course, Representative?”
“Representative Winters, you’re out of line. Representative Dunkin to close.”
“Distinguished Body here in the House of Representatives in the great State of Illinois, this Bill 09300026.doc 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 is a good Bill. It improves the safety, the reliability and the successful… Thank you, Sir.”
"You’re welcome.”
"Please support House Bill 499.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 499?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Mr. Clerk… Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question… on this question, there are 111 Members voting ‘yes’, 1 person voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Chair recognizes Representative Acevedo. Congratulations, Mr. Dunkin. Representative Howard.”
“Apparently, my system does not work the way it’s supposed to and I had every intentions of supporting this legislation. So, firstly, record that I would’ve voted ‘yes’. And secondly, send someone over here to check the system.”
“Okay.”
“Thank you.”
“The Journal will reflect your wishes on a ‘yes’ vote on this piece of legislation. Representative Acevedo.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise a point of personal privilege.”
“State your point.” 09300026.doc 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“I’d like the House to help me welcome the eighth grade class and their parents, along with their teacher, Mr. Vollinger, eighth grade class of St. Paul/Our Lady of Vilna from the Pilsen Community. Welcome to Springfield.”
“Welcome to your State Capitol, kids. House Bill 526. Representative Ryg. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 526, a Bill for an Act in relation to local government. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Ryg.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. On behalf of the 22 recorders and 80 clerk recorders throughout the State of Illinois, I present House Bill 526 amending the Counties Code providing that the fees collected by the… Am I cutoff? Okay. Thank you. I’ll just pickup where I left off. …that the fees collected by the county board of any county for the filing of documents with the county recorder deposited into the recorder automation fund may be used to defray the cost of providing electronic access to records through the Internet. This Bill does not establish or increase fees, but merely provides for additional use of an existing restricted fund. By way of background, legislation passed in 1984 allowed county boards to provide for an additional charge of $3 for ev… for the filing of every document in order to defray the cost of converting the county recorders document storage system to computers or micrographics. This legislation required the treasurer of the county to setup a special fund restricted to this purpose, basically entering and 09300026.doc 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 retrieving recorded data… I’ve been cutoff again. …since that time recorders’ offices have automated their operations using these funds to implement new data storage technologies, including the capability to use the Internet to provide access to records. Customers of the recorders office are now requesting this access and there’s an opinion of the Attorney General’s Office and State’s Attorneys that recorders… to the recorders that the statute is silent and that authority stat… is needed in the statute to offer electronic access. This Bill simply provides that authority, but additionally expands the use of the fund collected by some counties for their Geographic Information System to allow Internet access to that system as well. I ask for your support of House Bill 526 and I’m open to any questions. Thank you.”
“Is there any discussion? Mr. Franks, you have five minutes.”
“Oh.”
“Every… every questioner after that will get one minute. Mr. Franks.”
“Before I ask the Sponsor some questions, parliamentary inquiry. Isn’t there a rule that we don’t do first Bills on getaway day, Mr. Speaker?”
“There should be.”
“I think there should be, I’ll be presenting that. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.” 09300026.doc 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Representative, I’m reading my analysis here and it says that the original Bill says that it allows an additional fee of $3 to apply to the cost of providing access to records through the Internet. Is that correct?”
“No, it is not correct. The additional fee of $3 was passed in 1984.”
“So, this Bill…”
“This Bill would not provide for any additional or fee increase, just access to the funds that were generated by that $3 fee.”
“What Bill are you amending, do you know?”
“I’m sorry.”
“Which… which Bill or which statute are you amending?”
“The County Code.”
“The County Code. And all you’re saying in this is that they can use the fees any way they want?”
“No.”
“What are you saying then?”
“We’re saying that there is an existing restricted automation fund that has been accrued based on the $3 recording fee, we would like the authority to expand access to that fund beyond automation of using books to computers to also defray the cost of putting information on the Internet.”
“Thank you. I have no further questions. Thank you.”
“Thank you.”
“Mr. Franks, are you finished? No one else is seeking recognition. Representative Ryg to close.” 09300026.doc 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you. I look for your support on House Bill 526.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 526?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 110 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 531. Representative Hoffman. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 531, a Bill for an Act in relation to civil procedure. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Hoffman.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. All this would do is authorize the Bi-State Development Agency to use as quick-take proceeding from September 2003 to September 1, 2004. This is for the completion of the MetroLink Light Rail System. There is still some purchases that need to be made to complete the system.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Stephens.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The quick-take authority for the… for SWIDA is the mo… probably the most important tool for development in our area, without it we wouldn’t have the Gateway Raceway, which seats over a hundred 09300026.doc 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 thousand people for NASCAR races. Representative Hoffman and Holbrook…”
“Excuse me, Mr. Stephens. Mr. Hoffman.”
“Yes, just… I hate to interrupt the speaker, this only has to do with Bi-State. This only has to do with Bi-State, not with SWIDA.”
“Mr. Speaker, I stand corrected, this is the second most important quick-take in the region, one of the fastest growing regions in the world, including Bi-State Development, which is going to the new MidAmerica Airport. Fly on down and see us.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Parke.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Yes, would you like for me to turn your timer on?”
“That’s your call, Mr. Speaker. Why do you need a train to go to an airport that nobody uses?”
“It doesn’t… this… this is… this is… this is to go to Scott Air Force Base also, which is the military facility. The military facility at Scott Air Force Base is a joint use facility with MidAmerica Airport. All this does… the funding is in place for the completion of the MetroLink System, all this does is allow Bi-State Development Authority to get the rest of the property completed.”
“I thought that… also that that airport… military airport was being… that base was being closed and phased out also?” 09300026.doc 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“I apologize, I missed the question. I apologize.”
“Is the Scott Air Force Base…”
“No, I… I… the military base, no, is not… it better not be closed.”
“They’re not phasing it out?”
“I mean, if that was closed it would really be a threat to… a danger and would really hurt our area economically.”
“And you… and you’ve tried eminent domain and you need the quick-take instead?”
“Well, this… this… the quick-take authority has been in place, this is just the extension of the quick-take authority.”
“All right. Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Representative Meyer.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.”
“Representative… Representative, you’re asking to extend the quick-take. Why cannot eminent domain be used in this instance?”
“Well, the quick-take authority was in place, all this is doing and I’ll answer your question. All this is doing is extending the authority for one year. The funding is just coming through, the funding… the longer we wait, the more it’s gonna cost. The eminent domain process doesn’t allow us that quick-take ability to get it so we can complete the project, it would put us way back and far behind. This does not in any way take away from landowners 09300026.doc 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 and the landowners rights to get full compensation, it’s just gonna allow us to stay within our budget and complete the… the MetroLink System, which as Representative Stephens says, is vitally important and has been… the ridership has been overwhelming. And this would just complete this line of the system or allow us to complete it.”
“Certainly, Representative, I don’t have a quarrel with basically what you’re asking, I wanna totally understand it. I’ve certainly supported quick-take up in my area, too and I don’t have a problem supporting yours. Is there a problem in setting the value of that property so that the owner could be compensated quickly?”
“I… I don’t… I don’t think so. I’m not familiar with the individual properties, I don’t have anything to do with that. I think that the way quick-take works, my understanding is, you put an amount of money into an escrow account that an appraiser says it’s worth and then the individual landowner later will get that money and whatever additional a judge may say it’s worth.”
“I understand that. The difference between quick-take and eminent domain though is that with eminent domain the property value is set, the money is there to pay it, the money transfers, with quick-take sometimes that can go off into future years, a very long period of time before you arrive at that fair market price. And my concern is that that property owner is fairly compensated on a timely basis, is what I’m driving at.”
“Yeah, I agree. I agree with you on that.” 09300026.doc 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
"Okay.”
"I wanna make sure that they’re compensated on a timely basis, also. All this does again, is extends the authority that we already gave to complete the MetroLink line…”
“Well, Representative, you’ve been…”
“…and we just need it to complete it.”
“…you’ve been very forthright with your answers and I can acc… I can support your legislation. Thank you.”
“Thank you.”
“Representative Hoffman to close.”
“Once again, all this does is it just extends an authority that a Legislature already gave the Bi-State Development Authority in order to complete the MetroLink line, which goes from Lambert Airport to Scott Air Force Base.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 531?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 74 Members voting ‘yes’, 38 Members voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Millner, are you ready? House Bill 532. Representative Millner. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.” 09300026.doc 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“House Bill 532, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Mr. Millner.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members of the House. House Bill 532 provides that a peace officer will have police powers in any jurisdiction within the state if the officer while on duty as a peace officer is requested by an appropriate state or local law enforcement official to render aid or assistance to the requesting law enforcement agency that is outside the officer’s primary jurisdiction. And the legislation arose out of the need for additional assistance after the 9-11 terrorist attacks. What had happen as an example, Oak Lawn and Bridgeview requested police assistance, police officers would come to the communities and they don’t have the authority to make arrests, write tickets or act as peace officers, so this will fix that. And are there any questions?”
Speaker Hartke: “Is there any discussion? Representative Parke.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Now, let me understand. Now, does this police officer have to have probable cause?”
“No, he does not.”
“I didn’t hear that.”
“No, he does not.”
“So, you’re expanding the police officer’s ability without probable cause? What would be the reason for a police officer to do this?” 09300026.doc 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“No, we’re not expanding the probable cause requirement.”
“You what…”
“This has nothing to do with probable cause, this just provides the authority to make arrests when necessary.”
“Well, yeah, but if he’s gonna have an arrest he’s gotta have some reason for it, shouldn’t he? I mean, there should be some reason that that police officer has been flagged by that person so that they can. Are you saying that if a police officer in a ‘x’ city is chasing somebody and that perpetrator breaking the law goes into ‘b’ county, they could still go into that county and make the arrest?”
“What it is, it let’s the officer from another jurisdiction come into your jurisdiction, the requesting agency’s jurisdiction and act as a police officer would in that jurisdiction.”
“Do you know if all the police officers in Illinois are for this Bill?”
“No, I do not.”
“Do you know if anybody has testified in court and said… in committee hearing that this Bill is a bad Bill, because it’s your first Bill. Did anybody say that?”
“I was told that there’s gonna be a reason that that would happen today, yes.”
“That it would happen? So, on your first Bill, you’re trying to expand the authority of police officers in this state. No one spoke in opposition to this…”
“No.” 09300026.doc 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“…when it was presented?”
“As presented, no.”
“And ACLU doesn’t think that you’re infringing on individual rights and liberties by allowing this expansion?”
“I haven’t called ACLU to ask their opinion.”
“They haven’t said anything. And who spoke for it, did anybody in committee speak on behalf of this legislation?”
“Yes, Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police.”
“Just the Chief of Police?”
“The proponents were the Fraternal Order of Police, I believe, the Chiefs of Police and if I look at my analysis…”
“Sir, you’re gonna have to quit mumbling…”
“Hold on.”
“…and you have to speak into the microphone, because we can’t hear you.”
“Yes, I’m looking at my analysis at this minute to tell you. Our proponents are the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, the City of Chicago, Chicago Police Department, Cook County State’s Attorney, Fraternal Order of Police, Illinois State Police and Illinois Sheriffs’ Association and Jim Sacia.”
“And who?”
“And Jim… Representative Sacia.”
“Is that because he thought he was a mil… a FBI agent at one time, is that the…” 09300026.doc 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“That and perhaps he’s a new freshman and he hasn’t had his Bill called as well.”
“Probably a deterrent for this legislation then. What’s the effective date of this Bill?”
“The effective date will be if it’s… if it passes the House today it will be next year after the Governor…”
“Is that… is that December 31 of 2003 or is it January 1 of 2004?”
“That would be, I think, January 1 of 2004.”
“You think, I mean aren’t you the Sponsor of the Bill?”
“Ya know, that’s a good question, Representative Parke, I just read that and for some reason I have a mental block at this time.”
“Well, yeah, I know it’s a good question, that’s why I asked it. So, you don’t know? You’d think that somebody who’s presenting their first Bill would have this down cold.”
“Yes, Sir.”
“What if the… what if somebody in the other county doesn’t want that police officer to make an arrest in their county? Can they throw the police officer out and tell him to… that he only has jurisdiction in his own… won’t we have some kind of confusion on whose jurisdiction it is to make the arrest?”
“Oh no, not at all. But going back to your last question, if the Bill passed prior to June 1 of a calendar year that does not provide for an effective date in terms of the Bill shall become effective on January 1 of the 09300026.doc 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 following year or upon its becoming law, whichever is later.”
“So, it’s January 1 of 2004?”
“That’s correct.”
“I see. Okay. All right. Well, Representative, I guess I’m confused because I don’t know whose jurisdiction this is and if you’re gonna allow one police officer coming into another police officer’s jurisdiction, who makes the arrest?”
“What happens is if Springfield Police were to call for help and let’s say there’s a police convention down here and they want the police officers to assist, they would call for help to the… to those agencies that are… they would like. For example, if Elmhurst where down there and they say we need Elmhurst’s help, Elmhurst would then be…”
“You’re gonna have to speak into that microphone, ‘cause…”
“…Elmhurst would then be the… the police officer would be allowed to have the same authority as a Springfield Police Officer if the Springfield Police Department requested that assistance.”
“And what’s the genesis of this Bill, what gave you… what gave you this great idea for this Bill?”
“The Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police after 9-11, Bridgeview and Oak Lawn had an incident there where they called for help from the surrounding communities and the communities responded, but then the officers realized 09300026.doc 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 they didn’t have the police authority. For example, there were many businesses owned by some people of Middle Eastern descent that they were required to patrol, but they didn’t have the authority to do that. Additionally, there were people who were driving erratically in the area, they didn’t have any authority to conduct any traffic stops. So, this would cleanup… this would be language to clean that up.”
“Did you ask for this to be your first Bill or did you… would you have preferred some other Bill to be your first Bill?”
“This would be fine for my first Bill.”
“Very good. Thank you, Representative.”
“Thank you very much.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Schmitz. The timer is on.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative Millner, does this Bill affect the Tort Immunity Act at all in regards to police officers crossing over the jurisdictional boundaries?”
“The responding agency is responsible…”
“Shhh.”
“…each officer is responsible for their own jurisdiction.”
“Does there a… under the tort immunity does there… that immunity follow them from jurisdiction to 09300026.doc 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 jurisdiction? So, if Schaumburg responded over to, say, Aurora, would it follow with them?”
“If… if the… for example, if… if Naperville went into Aurora, Naperville would be responsible for that Naperville Police Officer’s performance.”
“Okay. Great. Thank you. Representative Millner, I think it’s a great piece of legislation and I’m glad it’s your first Bill.”
“Thank you.”
“Representative Bost, you have one minute.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“And I know it’s your first Bill and… and… but I’ve got some serious question here. In the Bill, it says the officer will… while on duty as a peace officer is requested by an appropriate state or local law enforcement officer or official to render aid or assistance as requested and that outside the officer’s primary jurisdiction. Now, my question is, I thought right now, that as a sworn police officer in the State of Illinois, whether you’re a city police officer or county police officer, you have police power anywhere in that state… in the state, as of right now?”
“We have limited police powers… police officers have limited police powers. If they witness a felony or certain misdemeanors they’re allowed to make an on-view arrest.”
“Mr. Bost, please continue.” 09300026.doc 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“So, what… what I need to know is, I need to understand what special powers this gives them at this time then?”
“It would give them the same powers that the community that’s requesting their assistance would have. For example, would give ‘em powers to write a ticket, it could be as simple as writing a parking ticket, a traffic ticket, patrolling, asking stopping people for temporary questioning. All of those that an officer within that initial jurisdiction would have that now they…”
“Okay. Then they don’t have that now?”
“No, they don’t.”
“Okay. Well, I appreciate that information, ‘cause I didn’t realize that wasn’t the case. Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Representative Brady and then Biggins. Representative Brady.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, just a quick question here, regarding the jurisdictional situation is what we’re doing here. Correct? In other words, we’re giving the peace officers the authority to cross over jurisdictional lines. Is that correct?”
“That’s correct.”
“Does this Bill have anything to do with the peace officers in high pursuit in the left lane on interstates in the State of Illinois?”
“As long as they’re in fresh pursuit they should be fine.” 09300026.doc 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you very much. I look forward to supporting your legislation.”
“Representative Biggins, you have one minute.”
“Yeah, thank… thank you, Mr… thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, you said earlier in answer to a question from one of our colleagues that this was your own idea. Is that correct? This Bill.”
“Actually, yes, when I was president of the Chiefs of Police Association it came…”
“You didn’t get this Bill courtesy of the stepson of a certain State Senator, did you?”
“No, I didn’t. No, I did not.”
“The step… the son-in-law.”
“No, the stepson is correct and the answer is, no.”
“Plagiarism is a very ugly word down here, my colleague.”
“Yes, it would be.”
“As long as I have that assurance. I have a question of the Chair.”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Thank you for your answers. There were some items passed around to every desk in the chamber, but they ran out of them before they got to myself or my colleague, Mr. Saviano. Does this mean we can get our scholarships back instead?” 09300026.doc 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Your time has expired. Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative Millner to close.”
“I wanna thank my distinguished colleagues for the opportunity to present this Bill. This Bill was also presented last year, I don’t think it actually got presented, but Representative O’Connor had it and it stopped, so we’re just continuing it on. I wanna thank you for the spirited discussion, the most thoughtful questions and I urge passage of this Bill. Thank you very much.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 532?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 109 Members voting ‘yes’, 2 Members voting ‘no’, and 1 Member voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 11 of the Calendar appears House Bill 535. Representative Cross. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 535, a Bill for an Act in relation to the Secretary of State. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Cross.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. House Bill 535 is an initiative that was similar to one passed in the State of Ohio which would establish the Juvenile Diabetes Research Trust Fund, which the Department of Public Health would 09300026.doc 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 administer. And there is absolutely to fiscal cost to the state or fiscal impact to the state. And it would provide that when you apply for your driver’s license or reapply there would be a… a… the option to make a one dollar voluntary contribution at the time of that application for your driver’s license or state ID. Secretary of State’s Office is neutral on this. As I said, there’s no impact… fiscal impact on this Bill. Diabetes, not just juvenile diabetes, is a growing disease of the State of Illinois and not only does it affect adults, but type 2 diabetes, not juvenile, is a growing problem throughout the state and throughout the country with young children. And it is the belief that through this fund we not only would create awareness, but also provide money for research that we can do a better job handling this disease of diabetes. And I’d be glad to answer any questions.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Feigenholtz.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.”
“Representative Cross, could you tell me the mechanics of how this Bill will work at the Secretary of State’s Office?”
“I can’t hear you, Sara.”
“I have a similar Bill on blindness prevention and I’m curious as to how your Bill is gonna work. How are you… at what point are people going to make this donation?” 09300026.doc 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“At the time they apply for their driver’s license or their… I guess not everybody gets a driver’s license some people just get a state ID who don’t want a driver’s license, but the time you go in to make that application or reapplication, if you will, for many of us, you would have the opportunity to donate a dollar for this. I’m not aware of the one you have. It’s the first I’d… first I’d heard about your particular Bill. But at that time the Secretary State’s Office would collect the dollar and then ultimately it’d be appropriated by the General Assembly to the Department of Public Health.”
“And do you have a special fund set up with the Department of Public Health and there’s already a mechanism in place for the Secretary of State to transfer that money there. Do you know?”
“Well, we’re in the process of doing that, but it would be through the state treasury.”
“Okay. So, are you gonna amend this Bill or is it… can I use it as a model for mine?”
“You can… I’d be glad for you to copy this one… just let… let me get ahead of you and go first.”
“Tom, I just wanna say that we’re really suffering from a lot of hard budget times and I think that we have to do everything we can to be innovative in these kinds of ways to try and raise money for these kinds of causes. And I know this is an issue that is near and dear to your heart, as well as mine. And I can’t wait to see how you’ve managed to make it work. Thank you…” 09300026.doc 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thanks, Sara.”
“…and I encourage everyone to vote ‘aye.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Molaro.”
“Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Is this your first Bill as Minority Leader?”
“Possible. I actually don’t remember.”
“Well, I think it is.”
“It may be.”
“So, then let me ask you this, you said three times there’s no cost to the state.”
“Right.”
“Now, between us, what’s the cost to the state?”
“You’ll use, Representative, the money that’s collected on a voluntary basis would be used to administer the program. So, it would be the voluntary contribution would be the money… that money would be used to administer the program. So, there is no cost to the state.”
“Okay. Now that we have that on the record, come on, what’s the cost to the state? Seriously.”
“I can give you the same answer if you wanna hear it again.”
“No, thank… thank you.”
“There isn’t one.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative Cross to close.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And thanks to Representative Feigenholtz for her comments and her observations about 09300026.doc 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 this particular problem and others. And I would appreciate an ‘aye’ vote.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 535?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Lou Jones. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 536. Representative Cross.”
“House Bill 536, a Bill for an Act in relation to violence against women. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Cross.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I appreciate the opportunity to present House Bill 536. For those of you that were in the General Assembly last year you may remember this, we passed a Bill, House Bill 1414, that was identical. This is the gender violence Bill. And I will… and it’s kind of ironic that Representative Feigenholtz spoke on the last Bill, this is actually a Bill that she started working on several years ago and it was an idea that she put forth before the Illinois General Assembly. This is a rather, somewhat of a condensed version and does not include all of the parameters of Representative Feigenholtz, but at the essence of the gender violence Bill is that it would give both not only criminal relief, which 09300026.doc 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 we have in the current statute, but civil relief to people that have been harmed as a result of their particular gender. As I said earlier, it passed out of here unanimously. But it would also… it would take care of issues like assault and battery, criminal sexual assault, as well as hate crime. It’s a Bill that is somewhat modeled after a federal Bill, the 1994 Federal Violence Against Women Act, which was done at the… passed at the federal level which gave women the option to sue in Federal Court. That ultimately was overturned and it was the belief that this is something we ought to do at the state level and that perhaps is the most appropriate place. So not only do we have criminal remedies, we would now under this Bill have civil… civil limit… civil remedies and the statute of limitations is a lot longer under this Bill. Be glad to answer… try to answer any questions.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Flowers.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Excuse me, Representative Cross, I didn’t quite… would you explain to me what is your Bill doing again in regards to Gender Violence Act?”
“It in essence, Representative, it would provide those harmed in a physical way whether through a battery, a hate crime, a criminal sexual assault to give them a civil remedy and actually the statute of limitations is a longer period of time than you might see in other cases. It would provide for a financial remedy for someone that’s harmed, 09300026.doc 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 not just in the criminal court system. Right now, if someone’s harmed by a battery they could certainly go to the criminal court… through the criminal courts and someone could be charged with the crime. This would give someone a way to be compensated in a financial way.”
“How is this different from the Crime Witness Victims Act that we have here?”
“I don’t… I’m not familiar with that.”
“It… and basically what it does it gives them an opportunity to get monies because of the harm that was caused.”
“Representative, I’m sorry if you asked a question, I’m… I’m not following.”
“I was just wondering how was this different from the Crime Witness Victim Act? Because there a person who’s been violated is able to get monies for the crime that’s been perpetuated on them.”
“Mary, I’m not… I’m not really sure… we’re not sure over here what you’re talking about. Now, there may be a fund that’s administered or collected as part of a… as a fine basis, or when a fine is imposed against a defendant in a criminal case, people might be able to utilize money or attain money through a victims’ fund. But this would actually allow someone to sue for their damages against the person that committed the act, in a civil way. And I… I’m just… I’m not sure what else is out there.”
“Representative, I understand now. Thank you very much. I appreciate you… I understand what the Bill does.” 09300026.doc 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you.”
“Thank you, I appreciate that.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Representative Froehlich.”
“Representative Cross, is this relief available only to women or could male victims also get some compensation under this law?”
“It would apply both ways.”
“Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative Cross to close.”
“Very briefly, Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to present this. It is as I said, a Bill that many think is needed especially since the Federal Courts threw out the Federal Violence Against Women Act back from 1994. It’s a remedy that many women in this state, and I hopefully other states will follow, will be available to them if they are harmed by spouses, boyfriends, or whomever. I would appreciate an ‘aye’ vote.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 536?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘aye’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Granberg. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 538. 09300026.doc 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 Representative Acevedo. Out of the record. House Bill 544. Representative Hannig. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 544, a Bill for an Act concerning fire protection districts. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Hannig.”
“Yes, thank you, Mr. Speakers and Members of the House. Last year, in an effort to try to help some local… small local governments, the Comptroller’s Office worked to rewrite the statutes in a way that some of the very small, small units of local government townships would no longer be required to have a full-blown audit filed with his office. We really were trying to reflect the fact that over the years as revenues increased these threshold have never been increased. So, that Bill passed and is signed and it’s part of the law now, but for whatever reason fire protection districts were left out and they’re still under the old threshold of $200 thousand in which they are, at that point, required to file a financial statement… financial… audited financial reports with the government. We’re suggesting that they should be consistent with the rest of the local governments and that would be $850 thousand worth of revenues. So, even so at $850 thousand worth of revenues you’re talking about the smallest fire protection districts around the State of Illinois. We’re trying to get some uniformity and consistency. I’m not certain why we forgot to include fire protection districts last year, but they’ve come to me and asked if they’d be included this year. The comptroller has no objections. I 09300026.doc 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 think that, ya know, it’s a good idea and I’d be happy to answer any questions. I’d ask for your ‘yes’ vote.”
“Is there any discussion on House Bill 544? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 544?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Boland, Novak and Granberg. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 people voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 546. Representative Kelly. Out of the record. House Bill 547. Representative Feigenholtz. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 547, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Feigenholtz.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. House Bill 547 amends the hate crime statute to include harassment through electronic communications as a predicate offense for hate crime. I’d be glad to answer any questions.”
“Is there any discussion on House Bill 547? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 547?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘aye’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted 09300026.doc 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1087. Representative Daniels. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1087, a Bill for an Act concerning the Department on Aging. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Daniels.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 1087 requires the Department on Aging to provide financial assistance to older Illinois residents that are the primary caregivers of family members with developmental disabilities. This Bill is subject to appropriation. And the need for increased support for aging caregivers is growing even more urgent as the population of both caregivers and disabled continue to increase in age. I seek your favorable support.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Parke.”
“Mr… thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“You mentioned that this Bill is subject to appropriation, what is the appropriation estimate on this?”
“I don’t have a fiscal note. I wasn’t asked to get one.”
“Do you have any idea what the Department on Aging is…?” 09300026.doc 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Well, there’s an estimated 54 million American adults serving as the primary caregiver for a parent, spouse or child, 75 percent of which are women. While opting to keep a loved one at home can prove to be less costly to the state, it also proves to be a financial burden for the caregiver. So, this is actually a financial benefit to the state and I guess you could say that instead of putting someone is a nursing home or paying… having the state pay more, keeping them at home is a positive financial aspect.”
“Well, I mean, we all appreciate the underlying Bill and the underlying objective that you’re trying to do, but at a time when the state has absolutely no money…”
“That’s not the point, the point is that this saves the state money, that’s what I tried to say to you.”
“In the long run, but does it cost money to do it now? If we implement your legislation…”
“Do you wanna put ‘em in nursing homes or do you wanna save the state money? That’s what this does.”
“It’s not a matter of what I want, I mean, we all wanna solve the problems of the state. I just wanna point out to the Body that we have to continue to think about how we’re gonna pay for legislation and this Bill is no different than others. And I… though the underlying idea is worthy and that the Sponsor is well intended, I just wanna point out that we continue to pass spending Bills when there’s no money to spend. Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative Daniels to close.” 09300026.doc 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Unfortunately, Representative has wrong, this saves the state money by keeping people at home instead of placing ‘em in nursing homes. I seek your favorable support.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1087?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Rules Report.”
“Attention Members. The Rules Committee will meet immediately in the Speaker’s Conference Room.”
“On page 11 on the Calendar, on Third Reading appears House Bill 1089. Representative Joyce. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1089, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Joyce.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of this House. House Bill 1089 mandates the forfeiture of money and real property acquired from any animal fighting or involved in animal fighting. Be happy to entertain any questions.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Feigenholtz.” 09300026.doc 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Representative…”
“The timer is on.”
“…Joyce, could you please tell me what this Bill does?”
“He will respond to questions.”
“Is this about dogs and cats?”
“It is about dogfighting. It is a big business today, Representative Feigenholtz, and the only way to really put a stop to it is to get… get at the perpetrators’ pocketbooks.”
“Could you repeat that and speak into the microphone? I think he’s having some technical problems with his microphone.”
“Is that okay?”
“A little better.”
“Well, Representative Feigenholtz, this is a Bill about going after the business of dogfighting and the only way to stop dogfighting is to take the money and the profits out of this business.”
“Now, on my analysis in the last paragraph it says, property taken under the Bill is not subject to replevin, r-e-p-l-e-v-i-n. Now, before I got here there was a guy who used to represent the 12th district and his name was Rep. Levin. What is he doing in a dogfighting Bill?”
“I think that’s a question for LRU or LRB.”
“Is there… is this a Bill about condominiums?”
“No, it is not.” 09300026.doc 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“So, Kevin, I know this is your first Bill. Is this your first Bill? In the microphone.”
“Yes, it is.”
“So, tell me what kind of property… so, explain this to me. I have a dog… I have two dogs and they fight. Right?”
“You do?”
“I’m asking you.”
“Do you?”
“So… so, what do I lose if my dogs fight?”
“Are you training them for professional fighting?”
“Oh, this is about professional fighting. And how do you define professional dogfighting?”
“When it’s done for profit or gambling is taking place on it.”
“Profit for who?”
“Well, I would say…”
“The dogs?”
“…that the real definition is, if you see two dogs fighting in the park on their own, I doubt anyone’s gambling on them, unless there’s people up there surrounding, watching the fight.”
“Representative Joyce, does this Bill also include monkeys? Monkeys, monkeys. Does this… this is a serious question, does the Bill include monkeys?”
“Sure does. Do you have monkeys, Representative Feigenholtz?” 09300026.doc 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“So, if I’m wagering on a monkey fight I have to for… I will then… what am I forfeiting? If I get… How come Ellis Levin and monkey fighting are in a… are in this Bill? Can you explain that to me, Mr. Joyce?”
“Ellis Levin is not in this Bill. Any animal fighting done for profit, which includes the cruelty to animals or any betting purposes are in this Bill. But I don’t know if you have monkeys or monkey fighting is a concern, but I do know one thing is that dogfighting’s a big concern and so is the criminal activity that surrounds it.”
“Dogs aren’t the only animals that fight, I mean what about kangaroo boxing and… and… and beta fish? Representative Fritchey just brought that up. I think Dr. Miller here has some concerns about teeth. Can you talk a little bit about kangaroos as, I mean… How many other states have this?”
“Well, I can’t talk about kangaroos…”
“How many other states have a Bill about Ellis Levin and monkey fighting in it?”
“No other states, Representative, but this is not about other animals, this is about dogfighting, criminal activity and criminal organizations that are heavily involved. And if you sat in committee, you would know that we’ve seen pictures where there are perpetrators involved in this criminal activity that rub it in our face…”
Speaker Hartke: “Let the Sponsor answer the question. Representative Feigenholtz, your time has expired. 09300026.doc 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 Representative Joyce, you may finish answering the question.”
“There is… the criminals that are involved in these cases rub it in our face on a daily basis because they have magazines, t-shirts, hats, clubs, members of clubs, dogfighting clubs across this state that engage in heavy betting and a lot of other criminal activities go… that go along with it. They actually put these dogs on steroids, they hang ‘em from ropes to strengthen their jaws and then when they’re done with ‘em they release ‘em out into our communities and put our families and our children at great risk. Thank you.”
Speaker Hartke: “We have two people seeking recognition, Representative Bost and Representative Winters. You’ll each be given a minute. Representative Bost.”
“Thank… thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, I’m noticing in… in the Bill… I’m looking and I’m trying to find where does it say dog… specifically ‘dogs’ in the Bill? And maybe I’m just missing it.”
“No, you’re not missing it, it does not say that. It specially… it specifically says ‘animals’. It refers to ‘animals’, Representative Bost.”
“Ju… to animals. Okay. Well, what… the former… define ‘animals’ if you could. Does it do that?”
“You want me to define ‘animals’ for you?” 09300026.doc 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Well, do we… do we allow… do we allow… the human species falls under animal.”
“No, I don’t think in this particular case. It talks about animal cruelty…”
“Put Mr. Joyce back on.”
“Can I…”
“Mr. Winters, you have one minute.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Well, we’re going back to the definition of an animal and I guess I’d like, since there’s a whole lot of time, I’ll define an ‘animal’ as anything that has a warm heart and a brain. So, are you and I animals? Are you an animal? Am I an animal?”
“I’m a human being.”
“Well, is a human being an animal? If a human being is an animal then are you trying to outlaw prize fighting in this state? Because two animals are going to be fighting for the entertainment, there’s many times wagers on those. Have you narrowed the Bill down well enough that you’re not going to eliminate professional boxing or wrestling or toughmen contests?”
“Representative Win…”
“I mean you’re a big guy do you want, ya know, we could get one going here.”
“Hey, whenever you’re ready.”
“Them’s fighting words, if I ever heard ‘em.”
“Last time I checked gambling on boxing…” 09300026.doc 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Let Mr. Joyce finish. Mr. Joyce, you can finish answering the question and then close.”
“Representative Winters, last time I checked gambling on boxing matches in the State of Illinois was illegal.”
“No further discussion, Representative Joyce to close.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. In all seriousness, I do believe that we need to empower our law enforcement officials in this state so that they can go after the big business so that we can accomplish two things. One, protect our children and our families from being victimized by these animals after they’ve been trained for fighting purposes for people’s entertainment and for people’s personal gain on illegal activities. I would appreciate an ‘aye’ vote.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1089?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 111 Members voting ‘yes’, 1 person voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. On page 11 of the Calendar is House Bill 1096. Representative Phelps. This must be freshman day. Out of the record. Oh. House Bill 1094. 1094. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.” 09300026.doc 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“House Bill 1094, a Bill for an Act concerning wildlife. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Phelps.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 1094 was introduced by the hunting preserve industry to update several provisions of the Wildlife Code that deal with licensed hunting preserves. The Bill is introduced at the request of the Illinois Hunting and Sports Association. It’s the organization that represents these hunting preserves. The Bill has strong industry support and has no known opponents. So, I would take any questions there is.”
“Chair recognizes Representative Stephens.”
“Mr… Mr. Speaker.”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Well, I’m not sure what the question is. I’d like to ask the Gentleman a question. Representative…”
“Yes, the Sponsor will yield.”
“…how do you… how do you spell Bill?”
“Bill.”
“Bill. You said it was a Bill, a House Bill.”
“House Bill, yeah.”
“How do you spell that?”
“B-i-i-i-i…”
“Good luck.”
“B-i-l-l.”
Speaker Hartke: “Furth… further discussion? Representative Bost.” 09300026.doc 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“I think it’s appropriate that I rise, because I speak his language.”
“What would that be?”
“Ya know, Represent… Will the Sponsor yield?”
"Yes.”
"Class B license of game breeding. Is that correct?”
“Yeah, it creates a Class A and a…”
“Does this have anything to do with fighting animals?”
“No, Representative, it does not.”
“Who came… who came to you with this Bill?”
“The Illinois Hunting and Sports Association in conjunction with DNR.”
“I’m sorry. I couldn’t hear. Go ahe… repeat again.”
“The Illinois Hunting and Sports Association in conjunction with DNR. They have gotten together to do this Bill to make government more efficient for them.”
“So… so, DNR has brought you this Bill?”
“Actually, it was Steve Longton from the Illinois Hunting and Sports Association.”
“And what is… is there already a Class B license established?”
“No, this creates a Class B license.”
“And everybody’s okay. It looks… it says it’s got a fee involved and everybody’s okay with that fee?”
“Yeah. Ya know what, like I said, this was a Bill that hunting preserves put on themselves to introduce it to DNR to make it more efficient. Right now, there’s not a fee. This just creates a Class A or a Class B license. A Class 09300026.doc 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 A license says that you can hunt in a seven and a half month span, the Class B license allows a hunting preserve to stay open year-round.”
“How many of these hunting preserves are there?”
“There’s approximately 200 in the State of Illinois and this would only probably impact 20 percent of those.”
“Now, wait a minute, you’re saying that these… that we have seasons for hunting particular game, these particular hunting preserves can hunt year-round?”
“Yeah. Class A says… Class A license says you can only hunt for seven and ha… seven-and-a-half-month span, a Class B license says that you can hunt year-round. And a lot of times, as you know, Representative Bost, there’s a lot of guys that bring their dogs down and do before the main hunting season for training… dog training.”
“What… so what is… who decides Class… who’s Class A and Class B?”
“The… the DNR, Department of Natural Resources.”
“So, we’re supporting…”
"The hunting…”
"…somebody who might be a lesser class, is what you’re saying.”
“No. No, Sir. No, it’s not.”
“Or somebody that has no class.”
“No. The hunting preserve themselves say if they wanna be Class A or Class B.”
“So, they decide what class they are?”
“Yes. Yeah.” 09300026.doc 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Well, I know a lot of people that like to try to decide what class they are. I’m still not understanding how it is that we can have these special places where, ya know, you and I… if I’ve got a hunting license I only get to go out and hunt squirrel during the time that DNR says that the… that the squirrel season’s in, or rabbit or whatever we’re hunting. Now, you’re saying that on these places they can hunt year-round?”
“Yeah. On the private hunting preserves.”
“How do the squirrels and rabbits feel about that?”
“Actually, these hunting preserves are mainly for quail, chukar and pheasant.”
“Okay. You say chukar.”
“Chukar.”
“Chukar. Now, ya know, sometimes when somebody goes out and has to much to drink they become a chucker. Is it… that’s not…”
“No, a chukar is a bird that’s not here in Illinois, but is brought in from other states to… for a game bird hunt.”
“It’s an imported bird?”
“Yes, it is.”
“Is it… is it an American-made bird?”
“Not to my knowledge, no.”
“How do the unions feel about this?”
“They’re for it.” 09300026.doc 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Well, Representative, I’m… I’m not sure if we can create a special class here or not and I’ll have to watch it very closely, but we’ll see.”
“Okay.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Representative Steve Davis, you have one minute.” Davis, S.: “One minute. Give me a break.”
“That’s all I’m giving everybody else. One minute.” Davis, S.: “First Bill. Representative Phelps…”
“Yes, Sir.” Davis, S.: “…what were the three game birds? Pheasant, chukar and quail. Right?”
“Pheasant, quail and chukar.” Davis, S.: “What happens when they breed a pheasant with a chukar? What do they call that?”
“A cheasant. A cheasant. I had to think on that one real quick.” Davis, S.: “Are you one of those singing Phelps Brother from the Phelps Brothers Quartet?”
“No, I didn’t get that talent.” Davis, S.: “Well, how ‘bout singing us a song?”
“Mr. Davis, please keep your remarks to the Bill.” Davis, S.: “Just a minute, Mr. Speaker. Ya know, this Gentle… this… this man right here has an uncle who wrote and sang a song called The Working Man. And it seems to me that Representative Phelps, the least he can do for this Body is 09300026.doc 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 to write a song about the hunting man. And… and it… hear it for the hunting man, everybody give that man a hand, he’s a hero of our land, let’s hear for the hunting man.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? The Chair recognizes Representative Mathias.”
“Will the Representative yield? Will the Representative yield?”
“Will the Representative… Yes, he will yield.”
“Yeah.”
“Representative, I am just very, very angry at this Bill. I know how I can support this. Why are you against strawberries?”
“Excuse me? Why am I against?”
“I just read this Bill and I wanna know why you’re against strawberries and raspberries.”
“Oh, I’m not.”
“Well, why would you wanna hunt preserves then? I mean, I think that’s awful.”
“Further discussion? Representative Mendoza.”
“Representative Phelps, I noticed that your Bill amends the Wildlife Code. Correct?”
“Yes.”
“Does this apply to Steve Davis, who as we all know is the ‘wild thing’?”
“Since no one else is seeking recognition, Representative Phelps to close.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I just thank you for the opportunity to introduce 09300026.doc 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 this Bill and be glad to be with you. Just ask for your support for House Bill 1094. Thank you.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1094?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there were 111 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1099. Representative Bill Mitchell. Mr. Mitchell, is this your first Bill? Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1099, a Bill for an Act concerning the Department of Employment Security. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Mitchell.” Mitchell, B.: “Thank… thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 1099, it requires that the Department of Employment Security coordinate with the Workforce Investment Board to implement pilot programs aimed at increasing recruitment and retention of personal assistants and direct care workers for the disab… care for the disabled. And this is a direct result of the workforce taskforce for persons with disabilities.”
“Is there any discussion…” Mitchell, B.: “Yeah.”
“…on House Bill 1099? Representative McKeon.” 09300026.doc 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill came up in the Labor Committee and one of the concerns was how this Bill was going to be paid for and the witnesses indicated that there were… for this particular Bill there are federal dollars that the state can acquire to pay for it. And so, it should be, if implemented properly, revenue neutral. And I urge you to… the Members of the House to vote ‘aye’ on this Bill. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.”
“Is there any further discussion? Seeing no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1099?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Granberg. Representative Krause. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1103. Representative Daniels. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1103, a Bill for an Act concerning human services. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Daniels.”
“Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, House Bill 1103 requires the Department of Human Services to make grants to special recreation associations. This legislation is also subject to appropriation. I seek your favorable support.” 09300026.doc 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1103?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Davis. Mr. Mautino. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1100. Mr. Mitchell. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1100, a Bill for an Act concerning the Executive Branch. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Mitchell.” Mitchell, B.: “Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 100 (sic-House Bill 1100) requires at least one member of the Illinois Workforce Investment Board to be a representative of individuals or organizations that represent or advocate on behalf of persons with disabilities in the workforce. And again this is a recommendation of the workforce taskforce for persons with disabilities.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative McKeon.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just for the information of the Members of the House, there’s no limit on the number of people on the workforce development board, the Federal Law 09300026.doc 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 only requires that a majority be from the private sector. So, this will not displace or create any problems by adding one member from the disability community. And I urge your support.”
“Is there any discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Mulligan.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, do you mean the big workforce board or the individual ones that are distributed across the state? I serve on the IWIB board and I’m not sure which one you mean by your Bill?” Mitchell, B.: “The Workforce Investment Board.”
“The Workforce Investment Board oversees the individual one-stops across the state and there are any number of people on the Workforce Investment Board that represent either human service agencies, some with… there’s usually someone there about dis… for disabilities. I’m… I don’t know if they’re…” Mitchell, B.: “Representative, I… excuse me. I believe that’s correct. That’s the board that we’re talking about here.”
“All right. Well, that’s the large board and then they oversee all the boards a… the one-stops where, I think, people with disabilities wanted to also be represented on the one-stop boards. But on the big board, there’s a lot of different people on there.” Mitchell, B.: “That is correct and I think there’s not as, Representative McKeon said, there’s not a limit on that, I 09300026.doc 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 believe there’s 60 some members on the board at present. But this is the board that these groups have indicated that they wish to be… at least have a guaranteed member.”
“All right. I would look into that. I presume that you’re correct if they’re saying they have no one that is an appointed member, but there’s been people there that speak up for them quite regularly. Also, the department… the different department… the Department of Human Services is a participant on that board.” Mitchell, B.: “That’s correct.”
“So, I could go ahead and vote for this, but I’m not sure that you’re absolutely correct in what you’re saying. You want that to be a designated member of the large board, not one at each of the individual one-stops across the state.” Mitchell, B.: “The staffs indicates that each of the smaller boards are step-up outside of law, this is… would be within, of course, the state statute.”
“Each of the… each of the small boards are step-up under the auspices of the large board, which…” Mitchell, B.: “That is… that is correct.”
“…took a lot of work and effort on the part of the board. And I don’t know, may be Representative Hamos would know…” Mitchell, B.: “I appreciate your comments.”
“…she also sits on…” Mitchell, B.: “The larger board, it’s my understanding, can encourage the smaller boards.” 09300026.doc 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“I think we have. I have to go back and pull up all my stuff on it, but I’m… I don’t think there was an oversight intentionally. And that that has been brought up, the one-stops are equivalent to what the old employment security offices would be but much further expanded and I don’t think that they’ve eliminated a member from the disabled community on the large board. I know DHS is on the large board.” Mitchell, B.: “Yeah, I think the purpose of this legislation is not to try to limit the smaller boards. This again, was a recommendation of the workforce taskforce, so…”
“Which taskforce?” Mitchell, B.: “This is one that’s set up under House Bill 3392, which is now Public Act 92-303.”
“All right. I’ll check on it. My understanding was, there was such a member on that board.” Mitchell, B.: “Thank you, Representative.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative Mitchell to close.” Mitchell, B.: “I would just… Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would appreciate an ‘aye’ vote.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1100?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Acevedo. Representative Bailey. Representative Feigenholtz. Mr. Clerk… Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting 09300026.doc 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1121. Representative Smith. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1121, a Bill for an Act authorizing a horse feed checkoff. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Smith.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This legislation would create the Illinois Equine Research and Promotion Act commonly known as the horse… horse feed checkoff Bill. This is an initiative of the Illinois Horsemen’s Council. It would establish a volunteer assessment on horse feed that will be dedicated to the enhancement and growth of the Illinois horse industry. That industry is made up of 77 thousand horse owners and a conservative calculation of over 15,500 jobs for Illinois citizens. This would help promote research in educational programs at Illinois universities concerning horse nutrition and horse care and management and it would continue the therapeutic assistance programs using interaction with horses. These programs are an ongoing service and benefit to Illinois citizens and the Illinois economy. This is a good example of an industry coming forward to help themselves. I know of no opposition to the Bill at this point. And I would be happy to answer any questions.”
“Is there any discussion? The Chair recognizes Representative Meyer.” 09300026.doc 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, what is the purpose of this checkoff?”
“Well, as I said, it has three main purposes. It would establish a fund that would enhance work for the promotion, an enhancement of the horse industry. It would go towards research and educational programs at our universities concerning horse nutrition, horse care, health and management, and then it would also be used for the continuation of therapeutic assistance programs. There would be a board set up that would make the determination about the… the use of the funds. It’s similar, Representative Meyer, to the other checkoff programs that we have for corn, soybeans and some of the livestock industry.”
“How… how is this checkoff to be collected?”
“It is a… it’s a volunteer assessment. It is… it is on horse feed, it’s collected by the manufacturer. However, an individual horse owner can request a… a refund from the board, which is similar also to the other checkoff systems.”
“It’s very noisy in here, Representative, I may have misunderstood. Are you saying that this is a voluntary checkoff that not everybody is going to have to pay for it? How are we gonna…”
“It’s…”
“…are we monitoring this to see who is paying, who isn’t, who’s collecting the money and not turning it in?” 09300026.doc 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“As I said, this is similar to other checkoffs that already exist for corn, for soybeans, some of the livestock industry. This is a volunteer assessment. You do pay in at the time you purchase horse feed. For the average horse owner it would amount to about a dollar eighty per horse, per year. Now, if they… if they choose to not pay that fee or to… to not participate in the checkoff they can ask for a refund of that assessment. And they do that to the board that is set up under this legislation.”
“Are you indicating that this works… this checkoff works identical to that which is asses… can be assessed on the corn and soybeans and things?”
“I can’t say that it’s identical, Representative, but it’s very similar.”
“Well, my… my understanding this is for a bag of feed, the other is more of on a commodity basis. Representative…”
“This was drafted… this legislation was drafted after the other checkoff systems that already exist.”
“Representative, perhaps you could answer me this, is anyone opposed to this?”
“Representative, I don’t believe anyone put… filed a slip. I know that the manufacturers had some concerns, but I don’t believe they filed a… a position in opposition.”
“My records indicate that the Grain & Feed Association is opposed to it. Do you know why?”
“They would represent the… the feed manufacturers and I think they were just concerned about some burden upon them. 09300026.doc 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 But, ya know, this is going for a good cause, this a voluntary program among horse owners. There would be a referendum that would have to be conducted. The University of Illinois extension has agreed to do that. So, there will be a referendum of all horse… registered horse owners in the state prior to this going into effect.”
“All right, Representative. Thank you for answering those questions.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative Smith to close.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen. This is an important piece of legislation for the horse industry in the State of Illinois. They are a major component of the ag economy in the state, which is a major sector of the state’s economy. We do not have a state program that helps in the… the assistance and enhancement and promotion of education and research for the equine industry. This is a piece of legislation that has brought all the horse groups together. For those of you that know, we hear from ‘em on racing issues, this has the Harness Horsemen, the Thoroughbred Horsemen, everyone together on a nonracing issue. It will be good for Illinois horsemen, for the Illinois economy. And I would urge your ‘aye’ vote.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1121?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all those voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative 09300026.doc 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 Soto and Representative Bradley and Turner. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 89 Members voting ‘yes’, 23 Members voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1135. Representative Forby. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1135, a Bill for an Act concerning wildlife. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Forby.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is House Bill 1135. This is the same Bill I run last year at 4… House Bill 417. There’s no opposition to this Bill. It went through the House last year, went through the Senate and got tied up at the Governor’s desk. What this Bill does, allows DNR to add another hunting day to deer season. And why that I’m really looking forward to this Bill is I live in a county where we got overpopulation of deer, we’re getting ‘em hit by cars and the farmers are going out and shooting ‘em and leavin’em in the field. So, I would like to see one more hunting day in counties… that where counties overpopulation so we can take care of that. I had a lot of calls from the insurance companies and a lot of calls from the police department. I’ll ask any questions.”
“Chair recognizes Representative Bost.”
“Thank… thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.” 09300026.doc 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Gary, the… the question I have is, is this not within the power of the director of DNR at this time if the deer population has reached a point where they feel it’s necessary to increase the amount of take for that year?”
“Mike, I think you’re right on that, I think they do have the power, but my deal is to talk ‘em and realize there’s some counties that’s overpopulation on this… on this deal and you live in that county. We’ve had a lot of problems in our county where things are overpopulation and I think this will help DNR. And it’s their… their writing when it came up to help me on this.”
“Does… does it give the option to the director to not do this, as well? For instance, if the population falls and… and it’s… it’s really not necessary to have an extra season… extra day of season, can he… can he take that back off?”
“Yes, that is, Mike. When I first started… started this Bill I wanted to add one more day to deer season and I had some counties up north say, Gary, we don’t have many deers in our… in our county, if we add one more day in a few years we wouldn’t have a deer. So, what I’m doing just a flexibility for DNR, if they think there’s a county that’s got overpopulation they could add one more day to it or take away.”
“Okay. Thank you. I now understand. Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Representative Parke.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor indicates he will yield.” 09300026.doc 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Why one day? Why not one week?”
“Well, that…”
“I mean…”
“…would be up to the DNR, ya know, they understand what the population is. I’m not saying just one day, I’m saying I’m just giving ‘em flexibility if they wanted to have a special hunt, a special for handicapped people, or something like that, just to give them a flexibility. There’s not a day involved in that.”
“Now, I guess I don’t understand. Then what’s one day? Why do you pick one day?”
“We…”
“Is there some kind of…”
“Well, when I first came up with the Bill, I… when I wrote the Bill up, I just added one more day to deer hunting and then counties called me, said, Gary, we don’t have very many deers in our county, if you add one more day in two years we wouldn’t have any deers. So, what I done was DNR wrote the Bill up where it was just… where they could add a day or two days or half a day, whatever they wanted to do.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Slone.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Gentleman yield?”
“The Gentleman will yield.”
“Representative Forby, I don’t know if this is still like this, but the original version of the Bill had the 09300026.doc 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 hunting season starting on a Thursday. What was the reason for that? Do the deer know what day it is?”
“The hunting season now starts on a Thursday to Sunday. That’s something DNR came up with, that’s their days, ya know, that’s whatever they wanna do and they think that’s the best day and I guess the hunters think that’s all right.”
“Okay. Thank you very much.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? No one seeking recognition, Representative Forby to close.”
“I just ask for an ‘aye’ vote. Thank you.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1135?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all those voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1157. Representative Hamos. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1157, a Bill for an Act in relation to child custody. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Hamos.”
“Thank you, Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen. This is the Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act. This is one of the many uniform laws that we deal with here. Already 31 states have adopted this and there’s no 09300026.doc 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 more important issue really than child custody that requires uniform procedures between the states. So, I would say this is an important Bill, but it’s not that big of a leap from where we are today. Again, remember the concept here is to try to get every state to treat these cases where children and custodial parents and noncustodial parents are moving around and there’s a question about which courts have the jurisdiction, what kind… and how to do enforcement of the court orders. And that’s really what the two new concepts have to do with, jurisdiction and enforcement. So, I’d be happy to answer any specific questions. As far as I know, there is no opposition to this. And I ask for your favorable Roll Call.”
“Is there any discussion? Seeing no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1157?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘aye’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Representative Flowers. Representative Watson. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 Members voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1175. Representative Eddy. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1175, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. Third Reading of this House Bill.” 09300026.doc 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Representative Eddy.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. House Bill 1175 amends the Illinois Controlled Substance Act and requires a person convicted of manufacturing methamphetamines or in the possession of methamphetamine manufacturing chemicals to pay restitution for the cost of the emergency response to the site where the manufacture had occurred and the restitution payment… the cleanup payment would be limited not exceed $5 thousand per responding agency. I ask for a favorable vote.”
“Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition, the question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1175?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 persons voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, and 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. House Bill 1177. Representative Joyce. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
“House Bill 1177, a Bill for an Act relating to education. Third Reading of this House Bill.”
“Representative Joyce.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. 1177 probably been… should’ve been my first Bill. It simply recommends to the State Board of Education that 09300026.doc 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 they study what it would cost to reduce class size from kindergarten through third grade.”
“Is there any discussion? Seeing that no one is seeking recognition… Representative Parke.”
“Yeah, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, I’m not sure I understand this. This has to do with the lottery and you’re… you’re gonna have a study? Can you explain this a little bit more about what this Bill does?”
“It’s all… it refers to, not just the lottery, I think in your analysis it says where money for education goes now. But it asks to look at all the funding from all gambling receipts in the state to see how much it would cost to reduce class size from kindergarten through third grade to under 15 students… 15 students or less.”
“You mean how much more gambling will be needed in the state to do that so that there’s funding for them? Are you going to… is it the intent of this that all this money from increased gaming would be used for K through 3. Is that what this Bill does?”
“No. No, Representative Parke. The intent here is to find out what the real cost estimated by the State Board of Education would be to reduce class size from kindergarten through third grade and also find out what the funding from gambling right now goes to education is, the true funding.”
“So, in other words, for all gaming, how much money is going to the education fund of the State of Illinois?” 09300026.doc 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“That’s correct.”
“Can’t you just get that from the Comptroller’s Office?”
“As it relates to what it would cost to reduce class size from K through 3, no.”
“Well, then let me… the practical effect is you’re gonna find out how much money comes into gaming and then you’re gonna find out that number, that’s ‘x’, and then you’re gonna wanna find out how much more you’re gonna have to have from ‘x’. Well, how do… how do you… how does it equate? How do you get down to what it’s gonna…”
“I’m asking the State Board of Education to determine how much money from gaming it would require to reduce class size from kindergarten through third grade.”
“Well, if it’s all going into the… if it’s… well, if the lottery goes into the gam… the gaming… to the educational fund, are you talking about taking other gaming moneys and putting it in that fund also and how much you need to do to reduce the class size?”
“I’m asking them to look at all gambling receipts, regardless of lottery, riverboats, whatever it is to come up… maybe… maybe they’ll come back and say there’s not enough money to do this.”
“Right.”
“But that’s… that’s what we wanna find out.”
“I guess I don’t have a problem with finding out how much money’s going and what it costs to… I just don’t… I don’t know why this legislation is necessary. I would think that you could go to the comptroller or the Economic 09300026.doc 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 and Fiscal Commission and ask for a study to be done to find this out and then you can ask what it woud… the state board to find out what they estimate K through 3 what it costs to reduce the size to 15 students. I don’t know what you need legislation to do that. Are they saying they can’t do it on their own? Are they gonna… are you gonna fund… how many people are gonna be on the taskforce?”
“It’s just… it’s just an internal function of the State Board of Education. It doesn’t cost any money to do it, it’s something that we can actually take a… take a look at the numbers, see how much it would cost before anyone starts throwing proposals out there for this.”
“Well, I guess… I guess you could do this, but I think you have the resources already. I just don’t understand why this is necessary, but sobeit.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Meyer.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sp… Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, do you find… define the class… how class size will be determined in terms of you’ll have to look at certain criteria that come into making up a class size average. Have you decide… have you given the formula for that and what you wanna accomplish?”
“Representative Meyer, the purpose of this is to look at class size and reduce class sizes from kindergarten through third grade to under 15 students or under.” 09300026.doc 88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Again, Representative, I don’t have a problem with maybe what you’re trying to accomplish, but one of my concerns is and I’ve sat in Education Committee with you down here before for a number of years, one of my concerns is, every time we talk about class size we’ve got the librarian figured into the equation, we’ve got the special education instructor figured into education, we’ve got the classroom teacher who’s in front of the students a hundred percent of the time figured into the equation, everybody but the janitor and sometimes, I think, they include the janitor in that formula that they use to determine what the class size is. And at some point if you sit in that committee you’re gonna hear some kind of glowing testimony from some group out here that says we’ve achieved max… a great class size average in this state. And yet I know teachers that once they say they’ve… they’ve achieved class size averages of ‘x’ amount in whatever grade it is, I know teachers that are out there that have two and three and four more kids per class than what… what’s being reported to us. And one of my concerns is if we’re going to identify class size that we have a good structure out there to determine what goes… what’s in that formula that will make up that classroom size average. Who can be counted as far as being a teacher? Is it only the teacher that’s in front of the class a hundred percent of the time, is it that librarian are they part of the mix, is it part of the special education teacher? Do you understand where I’m coming from on that?” 09300026.doc 89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“So… I’m just referring to the children, the students.”
“Well, I know, but a classroom is made up of a certain group of kids and you need to take a look at that as you move your legislation along. And I’ll support it here, but when you get a Senate Sponsor, I think you need to take a look at how is that classroom size gonna be determined, by whoever it is that’s determining it, whether the Board of Education criteria is used, whether it’s new criteria that is sent out to school districts to respond to. How do we determine a classroom size? And I’d be happy to work with you on this side after this, but it is certainly something that I would like to see you push over to the Senate in terms of deter… making… making sure that we’re counting the right way and the proper way to determine what really is that teacher faced with when they’re out there trying to teach these kids.”
“Thank you.”
Speaker Hartke: “Further discussion? Chair recognizes Representative Steve Davis.” Davis, S.: “Thank you, Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“The Sponsor will yield.” Davis, S.: “Thank you. Kevin, I support your Bill and I think it’s a good concept. I think that what Representative Meyer just talked about he outlined some of the problems that we face as a Legislature trying to get class sizes reduced. My que… I’m gonna be very brief, but my question is, according to the analysis, you wanna use… you want the ISBE to use a… figure out a way to use gaming proceeds to 09300026.doc 90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 reduce class size. It was my understanding that the gaming moneys go into the common school fund and it ends up being into the Budget Reconciliation Act when we’ve got an 8.3, 8.5 billion K-12 budget, elementary and secondary. So, what’s the purpose of even specifying the fact that… to use gaming proceeds? Why not just require the ISBE to study this issue and don’t… and not even mention the gaming proceeds part of it or am I wrong in my thinking on that?”
“No, I don’t think you’re all together wrong on your thinking, I just wanted to identify a source of additional or transitional revenues that we could use to go after reducing class size in term… for the purpose of improving reading, ‘cause I think the biggest problem that we have in this state is the lack of people… lack of ability of children to read. And we don’t start… ya know, we have… holding kids back in seventh and eighth grade like they had done in the City of Chicago Public School System it’s too late. If they can’t read by third grade they’re facing an uphill battle the rest of the way.” Davis, S.: “No, I don’t disagree what so all with what you say, I think that… that they need… they need to study this issue, they need to come up with a funding source within the budget to be able to fund a literacy program for our children, for our youth, I think it’s extremely important. So, I mean, I’m going to support your Bill, I have no problem with that. But I think that we need to make it clear to the ISBE that we’re serious about this issue and we need to work on it.” 09300026.doc 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Since no one is seeking recognition, Representative Joyce to close.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I do urge an ‘aye’ vote on this measure and I do think that it is a very important social issue that we improve reading in this… in this state and I don’t think that we can wait ‘til seventh or eighth grade to start holding kids back if they can’t read at grade level. And that’s the purpose of this Bill. Thank you.”
“The question is, ‘Shall the House pass House Bill 1177?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘yes’; those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Representative Dunn. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 89 Members voting ‘yes’, 22 Members voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Chair recognizes Representative Linda Chapa LaVia. What for?”
“Thank you, Speaker. I’d just like to have the record reflect on House Bill 532 my switch was broken I wanted ‘yes’.”
“The Journal will so reflect your wishes. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 2277?”
Clerk Bolin: “House Bill 2277 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading.” 09300026.doc 92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Move that Bill back to the Order of Second Reading for the purposes of an Amendment at the request of the Sponsor. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 1251?”
Clerk Bolin: “House Bill 1251 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading.”
“Move that Bill back to the Order of Second Reading for the purpose of an Amendment at the request of the Sponsor. House Bill 339. Representative Kurtz.”
Clerk Bolin: “House Bill 339 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading.”
“Move that Bill back to the Order of Second Reading for the purposes of an Amendment at the request of the Sponsor. House Bill 1383. Representative Fritchey. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill. That Bill will remain on Second Reading. There’s been several note requested on the Bill. Keep that Bill on Second Reading. Representative Joe Lyons.” Lyons, J.: “Speaker, I rise in a… for a purpose of an announcement to the General Assembly, one that most of the veterans look forward to every year around St. Patrick’s month. Freshman, listen up, you’re in for a treat on Tuesday. As has been my tradition the last seven years on a particular Tuesday before St. Patrick’s Day, I’ll be bringing a couple hundred of Harrington’s corned beef sandwiches for lunch on Tuesday. The tradition lives on. Thank you, Speaker.” 09300026.doc 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003
“Chair recognizes Representative Hassert. For what reason do you seek recognition?”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Realizing that we’re coming up on a deadline for posting of Bills we have a whole host of Bills on the Republican side that have not yet been posted for committee. I would like to put on the record that we request that the Chair would make sure that the Republican Bills get posted for committee. Thank you.”
Speaker Hartke: “Your request will be looked into. Representative Fritchey, your light is on. Representative Feigenholtz.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would like to be recorded as voting ‘aye’ on Representative Millner’s Bill, House… House Bill 532. I was voted… voted ‘no’. It was his first Bill. Thank you.”
“The record will so reflect your wishes. Mr. Clerk, the adop… the Adjournment Resolution.”
Clerk Bolin: “Senate Joint Resolution 25, offered by Representative Currie. BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING HEREIN, that when the two houses adjourn on Thursday, March 6, 2003, they stand adjourned until Tuesday, March 11, 2003, at 12:00 noon.”
“Representative Currie moves for the adoption of the Adjournment Resolution. All those in favor signify by saying ‘aye’; opposed ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Adjournment Resolution 09300026.doc 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 is adopted. Anyone else, further announcement? The Chair is prepared to adjourn. Representative Currie now moves that the House stand adjourned, allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, ‘til the hour of 12 noon on Tuesday, March 11. All those in favor signify by saying ‘aye’; opposed ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the House stands adjourned.”
“The House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Committee Reports. Representative Howard, Chairperson from the Committee on Computer Technology, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1165, House Bill 2354, House Bill 2972 and House Bill 3017. Representative Bradley, Chairperson from the Committee on Personnel & Pensions, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 2216 and House Bill 2434; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 79 and House Bill 1195. Representative Giles, Chairperson from the Committee on Elementary & Secondary Education, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 2191, House Bill 2298, House Bill 2332, House Bill 2375, House Bill 2533, House Bill 2551, House Bill 2782, House 09300026.doc 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 Bill 3058, House Bill 3068 and House Bill 3073; 'do pass Standard Debate' for House Bill 2584; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 337, House Bill 430, House Bill 514, House Bill 1244, House Bill 2352 and House Bill 2490. Representative Burke, Chairperson from the Committee on Executive, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 297; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 132, House Bill 183, House Bill 320, House Bill 1459 and House Bill 2257. Representative Delgado, Chairperson from the Committee on Human Services, to which the fol… to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 197, House Bill 2374, House Bill 2386, House Bill 2501, House Bill 2598, House Bill 2650, House Bill 2895, House Bill 2900, House Bill 2934, House Bill 2996, House Bill 3044 and House Bill 3071; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 414, House Bill 1272, House Bill 1630 and House Bill 2502. Representative Fritchey, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary I-Civil Law, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1239, House Bill 1380, House Bill 2146, House Bill 2251, House Bill 2330, House Bill 2493, House Bill 09300026.doc 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 2552, House Bill 2903, House Bill 2997 and House Bill 3020. Representative McKeon, Chairperson from the Committee on Labor, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1324, House Bill 2983 and House Bill 3108. Representative Osterman, Chairperson from the Committee on Local Government, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1468, House Bill 2319, House Bill 2403, House Bill 2450, House Bill 2477, House Bill 2574, House Bill 2601 and House Bill 3100. Representative Saviano, Chairperson from the Committee on Registration & Regulation, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 464, House Bill 2369, House Bill 2778, House Bill 2864 and House Bill 3057. Representative Franks, Chairperson from the Committee on State Government Administration, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 221, House Bill 239, House Bill 244, House Bill 349, House Bill 496, House Bill 1194, House Bill 2185, House Bill 2481, House Bill 2527, House Bill 2815, House Bill 2848, House Bill 2968, House 09300026.doc 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 Bill 3038 and House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 7; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 1582 and House Bill 2318; recommends 'be adopted Short Debate' for House Resolution 28. Representative Holbrook, Chairperson from the Committee on Tourism, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1243 and House Bill 3009; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 2825. Representative Scully, Chairperson from the Committee on Commerce & Business Development, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 2867. Representative Holbrook, Chairperson from the Committee on Environment & Energy, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 353, House Bill 1530 and House Bill 2779; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 360, House Bill 548 and House Bill 1250; recommends 'be adopted' for House Resolution 26. Representative McCarthy, Chairperson from the Committee on Higher Education, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Wednesday, March 05, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1364; 'do pass Standard Debate' for House 09300026.doc 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 Bill 2591; and 'do pass as amended Standard Debate' for House Bill 344. Representative O’Brien, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary II-Criminal Law, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1359, House Bill 1507, House Bill 2311, House Bill 2391, House Bill 2411, House Bill 2412, House Bill 2446, House Bill 2454, House Bill 2524, House Bill 2579, House Bill 2582, House Bill 2653, House Bill 2798, House Bill 2799, House Bill 2902, House Bill 2913, House Bill 2927, House Bill 2930, House Bill 2932, House Bill 2980, House Bill 3024, House Bill 3050, House Bill 3078, House Bill 3091 and House Bill 3114; 'do as amen… do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 191, House Bill 223, House Bill 416, House Bill 1448, House Bill 1535; and 'do pass Standard Debate' for House Bill 213. Representative Daniels, Chairperson from the Committee on Developmental Disabilities & Mental Illness, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 2449 and House Bill 3095; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 76 and House Bill 1104. Representative McGuire, Chairperson from the Committee on Aging, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for 09300026.doc 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 26th Legislative Day 3/6/2003 House Bill 2967. Representative Molaro, Chairperson from the Committee on Revenue, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1490 and House Bill 2186; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 2246. Representative Daniels, Chairperson from the Committee on Developmental Disabilities & Mental Illness, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 2449 and House Bill 3095; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 76 and House Bill 1104. Representative Collins, Chairperson from the Committee on Juvenile Justice Reform, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Thursday, March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' for House Bill 1415 and House Bill 2545; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' for House Bill 2203. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 06, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'direct floor consideration' for Amendment #1 to House Bill 136, Amendment #1 to House Bill 206 and Amendment #2 to House Bill 310. There being no further business, House Perfunctory Session shall stand adjourned.” 09300026.doc 100