“The House shall come to order. Members shall be in their chairs. We ask the Members to turn off their laptop computers, cell phones and pagers. We ask our guests in the gallery to rise and join us for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. We shall be led in prayer today by the Reverend Noah Panlilio of the United Methodist Church in Lemont. Reverend Panlilio is the guest of Representative Eileen Lyons.”
“Good morning, Mr. Speaker and honorable men and women of this great assembly. Allow me to assure you with a brief moments of meditation. Almighty and loving God, our heavenly parent, thank You for this rare privilege and honor given me this morning in this hallowed halls invoking Your holy presence in our midst. We, as a people of many faiths, religions and backgrounds, come together as a sign of unity with one desire to ask for Your guidance and blessings so all Your servants in this chamber on this important day. On this day, dear God, we also remember those in the armed forces who have given their lives to protect our great country, to enjoy the benefits of freedom and democracy. Likewise, we also remember our… in our prayers the brave men and women in the law enforcement and fire protection for us who daily risk and give their lives to protect each and every one of us to safety. We also remember today the family of Representative David Wirsing of DeKalb. May You be their comfort and peace of the loss of their loved one, but we know it is another life that should be celebrated because You are the source of all 09300074.doc 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 life. As a nation and as a state, let us remember that all people have one common origin. Fill our hearts now with compassion for our neighbors, especially those who are in the fringes of society, the marginalized and the powerless. Help us to strengthen our power to love rather than to love power. Help us to share all the manifold blessings You bestow upon our… our lives each day. Help us to secure justice and equality for every human being. Help us bring an end to all barriers that divide us so that we may continue to build our state, our country on the foundation of peace, goodwill and progress. Help us always remember that despite our differences, we are but one human family. Almighty God, bestow Your special blessings and anointing upon the leaders of our state present in this assembly hall this day. May Your spirit guide them as they discern the ordinances and the Bills that will affect the life of the people of Illinois. Give them the vision, the foresight and the clarity of mind and purpose as they lead our state. And bless our whole nation and all our national leaders with Your mighty power. For we pray in Your great name, Amen.”
“We shall be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Representative Bailey.” Bailey – et al: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” 09300074.doc 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Roll Call for Attendance. Representative Currie.”
“Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record show that Representative Collins is excused today.”
“Mr. Bost.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect all Republicans are present.”
“The Clerk shall take the record. There being 116 Members responding to the Attendance Roll Call, there is a quorum present. Mr. Clerk.”
Clerk Bolin: “Committee Reports. Representative Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken November 17, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'direct floor consideration' for Senate Bill 31 referred to Second Reading; Senate Bill 37, Second Reading; Senate Bill 526, Second Reading; Senate Bill 771, Second Reading; Senate Bill 827, Second Reading; Senate Bill 857, Second Reading; Senate Bill 865, Second Reading; Senate Bill 867, Second Reading; Senate Bill 978, Second Reading; Senate Bill 1215, Second Reading; Senate Bill 1216, Second Reading; Senate Bill 1553, Second Reading; Senate Bill 1559 to Second Reading; Senate Bill 1604 to Second Reading; Senate Bill 1736 to Second Reading and Senate Bill 1944 to Second Reading.”
“Representative Novak in the Chair.”
“Representative Novak in the Chair. Mr. Parke, for what reason do you rise, Sir?” 09300074.doc 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker.”
“Good afternoon.”
“And a position in your… an individual in your position is called a short timer. So, we just wanna say, hello, Mr. Short timer. Good to see ya.”
“Thank you, Mr. Parke.”
“I’d like to know a little bit about the day’s activities since we’re in a… sort of an unusual Veto Session. Perhaps, you can let the Body know what the intent of the Chair is today, so we get a sense of where we’re going and how to handle ourselves. Thank you.”
“We will advise you shortly. Thank you.”
“Thank you.”
“Mr. Stephens, for what reason do you rise, Sir?”
“A point of personal privilege, Mr. Speaker.”
“State your point, Sir.”
“If I can have the Body’s attention, I’d like to introduce a special guest, a city councilwoman from the City of Greenville, Miss Lisa Neudeck is in the Republican gallery. Let’s give her a good Republican welcome.”
“Welcome to the General Assembly. Thank you. On page 4 of the Calendar there’s Senate Bill 1935. The Lady from Cook, Majority Leader, Representative Currie. Mr… Mr. Clerk, please read the Bill.”
“Senate Bill 1935, the Bill’s been read a second time, previously. Amendment #1 was tabled. Floor 09300074.doc 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 Amendment #2, offered by Representative Currie, has been approved for consideration.”
“Representative Currie on Floor Amendment #2.”
“Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. The Revenue Committee inadvertently adopted this language last week, but, in fact, the Amendment was not then properly before us. What this Amendment does is to reenact the earned income tax credit with one additional technical issue and that is making sure that the federal monies that will pay for the refundable part of the credit would be deposited in the income tax refund fund in the Department of Revenue. The issue is this. Some believe that we need to reenact the EITC in order for it to have full effect for people in this current year with respect to their income taxes, others believe this action is unnecessary. But just making sure that we dot all of our i’s and cross all of our t’s, I invite your support for this Amendment which will become the Bill. I’d be happy to answer your questions. And I’d appreciate your support.”
Speaker Novak: “There any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, ‘Shall Floor Amendment #2 be adopted?’ All those in favor say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, Amendment #2 is adopted. Any further Amendments?”
“No further Amendments.”
“Third Reading. Representative Currie.”
“Shouldn’t the Clerk read the Bill?”
“Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk.” 09300074.doc 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Senate Bill 1935, a Bill for an Act in relation to taxes. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“Thank you, Speaker, Members of the House. This is exactly what I said when we adopted the Amendment, the reenactment of the earned income tax credit. Some don’t believe this action is necessary, but it never hurts to have an insurance policy should they be wrong. I would be happy to answer your questions. And I’d appreciate your unanimous support for the readoption of the earned income tax credit as we… you gave it your unanimous support in May.”
“Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, ‘Shall… Excuse me, Mr. Black…”
“Thank you very much.”
“…the Gentleman from Vermilion.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor’ll yield.”
“Representative, this is basically the cleanup of the earned income tax credit that you and I have worked on, off and on, for many years. There’s nothing new in here, there’s nothing radical in here. I know that not everyone supports the earned income tax credit. I certainly do and I just want Members on both sides of the aisle to understand what they’re voting for. I think it’s a good Bill. I think you’ve explained it well. And I look at this as nothing more than some technical cleanup language. Would that be your…” 09300074.doc 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“There is one technical change from the measure we voted on in May and that is making sure that the monies from the maintenance of effort, dollars in the federal TANF Program, go into the right fund so that it can be used for refundability…”
“Fine. Than… thank you very…”
“But, the issue is one of the timing at which we passed the original Bill. My recollection, Representative Black, is that you made a stirring speech in favor of passage of the earned income tax credit, as not only a permanent feature of the Illinois tax landscape, but you also particularly approved the refundability provisions and I’m delighted to have your renewed support.”
“Yes. All right. Thank you for those kind words and Representative, I still stand in strong support. This is one thing we can do until we get the legislative will and/ or perhaps courage would be the better word to revise the Illinois Tax Code. We tend to tax first dollar income. I think that’s wrong. I think it’s a disincentive. I think the earned income tax credit, with this Amendment, is a necessary and vital piece of legislation to many people, not only throughout Illinois, but I can guarantee you, it certainly impacts many people in my district. I intend to vote ‘aye’.”
“Thank you, Mr. Black. Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 1… 1935 pass?’ All those in favor vote ‘aye’; all those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all 09300074.doc 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Mendoza. Representative Davis. Mr. Hultgren. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 115 voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. Having reached the required Constitutional Majority, Senate Bill 1935 is hereby declared passed. Representative Daniels, you wish to seek recognition, Sir? Okay. Mr. Black on a Motion.”
“Yes, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. With leave of the Body, I would ask that we waive the posting requirement for House Bill 3851, so that it can be heard in the Revenue Committee and also waive the posting requirement for Senate Bill 1412 so that Bill could be heard today in the Judiciary I Committee.”
“You’ve heard the Motion. Is there leave of the Body? Leave being granted the Motion is carried. Any further announcements? Will the staff please retire to the rearage… rear of the chambers, please. Will the staff please retire to the rear of the chambers. The Chair recognizes Minority Leader Cross.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And as all of you know by now, this has not been a good week for any of us in this chamber with the loss of our good friend, Dave Wirsing, over the weekend and I think many of us, if not all of us, are still in a state of shock and… among many other things and a host of emotions we go through. I had the opportunity this morning to talk to Dave’s wife, Nancy, and we had a good conversation and I have to tell ya that as to the extent 09300074.doc 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 that you can have a good frame of mind, she said, Tom, we’re hanging in there and we’re gonna focus on celebrating his life and she felt good about that and that’s what she thinks Dave wanted… would have wanted and she’s trying to keep that in mind in the next few days of celebrating his life and as you know, he had… she thought he had a good life and just went through life trying to make friends. So, the Speaker was very kind to us this week in reaching out to talk our side about the idea of a memorial here on the floor and perhaps a Resolution, but we’ve just thought that perhaps we’d wait until January to do that. This, obviously, is a tough week for the Wirsing family, will be tough for many of us. What I… what we’re gonna do now is just remind you or let you know of the funeral arrangements of David and his family and as you know, he’s from the DeKalb County area. The visitation will be Thursday afternoon starting at 3:00 on the 20th of November at the Sycamore Methodist Church at 160 Johnson Avenue in Sycamore. The phone number is available if you need it. Friday morning will be the funeral. It will be at 11:00 on Friday morning the 21st. There will be visitation the morning of the 21st starting at 10:00 and that will be at Sycamore Methodist Church. The burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery. And I, just thought as kind of a somewhat of a humorous note, Nancy said that after the service on Friday they are gonna go back to, I believe, the church, I think that’s where she said and don’t hold me to that. And the family’s decided to decorate the hall as if it was a 09300074.doc 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 victory celebration after an election, that that’s something Dave would like. And they’re gonna have it in his campaign colors and have, you know, confetti and all kinds of banners up. So, they feel very good about that and they’re excited about that to the degree you can be. So, I’m… just incidentally, a memorial fund has been established in the care of Quiram Funeral Home and that’s at 1245 Somonauk Street in Sycamore. The phone number for the funeral home is 815-895-6589. So, I appreciate your attention. I know that the Speaker, his office and our office have been working to make sure that or try to arrange it where we can all get there or at least those that want to. We’ll certainly work with you on transportation. Dave thought the world of this place, thought the world of… it was very important to Dave and I… I knew Dave fairly well that he had a relationship with those of you on the other side of the aisle as much as he had on this side of the aisle. That was very important to David that he worked well with the Democrats and Republicans. He had a lot of pride in that. And as the Speaker told me the other night when I called him about Dave, he said, you know Dave used to come up and talk to me all the time and was a guy… an individual I enjoyed talking to. So, I know many of you are… those of you on the other side are concerned and thinking of David as we are, so thank you for that and Mr. Speaker, thanks for the… the opportunity.” 09300074.doc 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
Speaker Novak: “You’re welcome. Thank you. The Chair recognizes Mr. Daniels.”
“Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I’m pleased to have with us today the great cross country team from York Community High School in Elmhurst, Illinois, who just won their 23rd state championship. And by the way, as a side note, they’ve also won 19 national championships. And I wondered if you could read the Resolution and if we could honor these great athletes and then I’d have a few comments afterwards. And I wonder if I could ask the York Cross Country Team to stand up, they’re in the gallery here, so that we can recognize ‘em during the time we’re reading the Resolution.”
Speaker Novak: “Thank you, Mr. Daniels. I believe, the Resolution is not here yet. One second, Sir. Oh, you have it.”
“It’s been filed, but I have a copy.”
“Our Clerk is searching it out right now, Sir.”
“Okay. We’ll find it.”
“House Resolution 556, offered by Representative Daniels. WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives offer our sincere congratulations to Coach Joe Newton, the 2003 York Community High School Boys Cross Country Team, and the entire York Community High School on winning the Class AA State Championship Title; and 09300074.doc 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 WHEREAS, The Dukes began the season ranked number one and finished the season first at the Class AA meet at Netweiller Park in Peoria; and WHEREAS, Coach Joseph Newton, one of the most talented cross country and track coaches in history, has led the York Community High School Dukes to a remarkable 23 State titles; and WHEREAS, The Dukes Cross Country team completed the season undefeated at the freshman, sophomore, and varsity levels; and WHEREAS, The Dukes won the West Suburban Conference Championship at the freshman, sophomore, and varsity levels; and WHEREAS, The Dukes also won the Palatine and Peoria Invitational at all levels; and WHEREAS, Before winning the Illinois High School Association State Meet, the Dukes won the Hinsdale Central Regional and the Niles West Sectional; and WHEREAS, The Dukes won the State boys cross country meet with 86 points, with the assistance of Sean McNamara who finished third overall; and 09300074.doc 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 WHEREAS, Sean McNamara, Mark Fruin, Eric Dettman, Matt Dettman, John Fry, Brian Marchese, and Josh Sharko worked as a team to win by an 88 point margin; and WHEREAS, Matt Montgomery, Roger Billhardt, Mike Arnold, David Montgomery, Nick Kuczwara, Matt Edwards, Lionel Montenegro, Tim Jung, and Konrad Piotrowski assisted the York Dukes in their battle for victory as alternates; and WHEREAS, Also supporting the Dukes drive for victory were Antonio Fasano, Keith Eadon, Mike Gasca, and Pat Tomasiewicz, the team managers; and WHEREAS, We recognize the dedication of Coach Newton, the Athletic Department, and the entire York High School community in their tireless efforts to train and educate superior athletes and well-rounded students; and WHEREAS, The Dukes have given countless hours and all of their energy to winning the Cross Country State Championship; and WHEREAS, This victory is shared with the families, friends, York Community High School, and the entire Elmhurst community, who have cheered on the team all season; and WHEREAS, This title is a source of great pride for the team, school, and community; and 09300074.doc 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 WHEREAS, We recognize the talent of these young athletes and their coaches; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we do hereby offer our congratulations to Coach Joe Newton and the members of the York Community High School Boys Cross Country Team on their 23rd State Championship Title; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Coach Joe Newton, Superintendent Dr. Joel Morris, Principal Dr. Linda Yonke, Athletic Director Craig Davelis, Assistant Coach Charlie Kern, Team Doctor Michael Calcagno, York Community High School, and the team members.”
“Mr. Daniels.”
“Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. We have in our midst some extraordinary athletes. Just listen for a second, if you will, 23 state championships belong to York High School. The team that’s with us today that we honor, up in the gallery here to my right, is our 23rd state champion from York Community High School. They hold 19 national championships in their history. They’re led by Sean McNamara, a junior, who took third place in the race along with his teammates who won this great meet in Peoria just recently. Their co-captains are Josh Sharko and Mark Fruin, people that have worked tirelessly and run miles and miles. In fact, in Elmhurst, Illinois, where I come from, 09300074.doc 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 it’s kind of a symbol of our community because you look out when you’re driving through their neighborhoods and you see runners and you know that these runners are from York High School and they’re running 25, 30, 40 miles a week and more. But most importantly, is the man standing next to me is the legendary, and I mean this in every sense, the legendary coach of the York Dukes, Joe Newton, who himself has been honored as the Olympic coach in the past. And by the way, I think the only time in history of the Olympics that a high school coach was selected as an Olympic track coach for our… representing our team. This man has led our community, has led our young men to championships and has shown people how to be true champions in life. He also represents everything that’s good about a community and makes us, in Elmhurst and DuPage County, extremely proud. So, please join me in honoring the York Community High School York Dukes 23rd straight championship, champions of the State of Illinois, York Dukes and Joe Newton along with principal Linda Yonke, Craig Davelis, the assistant or the athletic director and Charlie Kern, the assistant coach. York Dukes, congratulations, all. You’ll notice, by the way, how nice they look. They’re dressed in tuxedos because they also want you to know the high respect they hold this chamber for and whenever they win a championship, Mr. Speaker, they come back dressed in tuxedos to show how their… honored they are at this. Thank you very much, Members of the General Assembly. I move for the adoption of the Resolution.” 09300074.doc 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Thank you. The Motion is, ‘Shall… shall the Resolution be adopted?’ All those in favor say ‘aye’; those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the Resolution is adopted. Thank you very much. On page 5 of the Calendar, under Total Veto Motions, there is Senate Bill 83. The Gentleman from Cook, Mr. Saviano. Is Mr. Saviano in the chambers? Out of the record. On page 5 of the Calendar, under Total Veto Motions, there is Senate Bill 606. Mr. Molaro, the Gentleman from Cook. Mr. Molaro on Senate Bill 606. Mr. Clerk. Mr. Molaro.”
“Oh. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This, again, is that Bill that’s a little complicated. So, we’re clear on this, from everything we’re told this is not a tax increase. What is does is it’s a convoluted way that Cook County does their property tax work and they have different classifications. In the law now, when you come off of a TIF district or you come off of any other incentive anywhere in the State of Illinois, it gets picked up as new property, but when there’s an incentive in Cook County, and it comes off of Cook County, they don’t pick it up as new property. This is a technical change. It was the Governor didn’t understand it, now he does. Their office is not working against this. No one’s been called by the Governor’s Office. It passed the Senate basically unanimously and it’s here again today to override the Governor’s Veto that I feel was given in error. I’ll answer any questions, if there are any.” 09300074.doc 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Is there any discussion? The Gentleman from Adams, Mr. Tenhouse. Mr. Tenhouse.”
“Mr. Speaker, I just rise on a point of personal privilege. We’re honored today to have some other young people from this area, Ashland and Chandlerville, the AC Central High School is here right now and we welcome you to Springfield.”
“Welcome to Springfield. Mr. Black.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor’ll yield.”
“Representative, the Governor’s Veto language stated, if I may paraphrase, he vetoed this Bill because he thought this would increase property taxes in Cook County. Now, was the Governor wrong in his assessment? I mean, that… that was… I’m paraphrasing, but…”
“Yeah.”
“…his Veto Message just stated, if the assessor is allowed to do what the underlying Bill did, that it would have the effect of increasing property taxes in Cook County. Now, if I lived in Cook County, that Veto Message, I think, would resonate with me.”
“Well, I… I think the Governor read it wrong and he misunderstood it. This is not an exception to the tax caps. This was when the tax caps were written, there was an error which this qual… this sort of takes care of where in Cook County only Cook County has these classifications and only Cook County has these incentives. So, all there 09300074.doc 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 is when we did it with the tax… when you’re done in a TIF district, if there’s language now in statute that allows you to pick it back up on the rolls. In Cook County, for this narrow incentive, it doesn’t allow it. The Governor wasn’t here, that’s why, Representative, you haven’t had the Governor’s Office calling you or anybody from the Governor’s Office working against this Bill. I don’t think you’re gonna have the Governor come to the floor and say I didn’t read it correctly, but obviously, in my opinion, in the opinion of all the Senators, in the opinion of our staff, his message was erroneous.”
“All right. Your words… Representative, your words, not mine. For the record. I… I would not say that the Governor was erroneous. So that the transcript reflects, those were your words, not mine. Correct?”
“Well, someone on the Governor’s staff. Our Governor never makes an error and I want that on the record, but his staff sometimes does and I don’t think the person who wrote this is working for him any longer, but I’m not sure.”
“Has… has the Governor talked to you about this Veto override?”
“No.”
“What?”
“Because… because I think he knows that his staff made a mistake.”
“Are any of the Governor’s legislative liaisons on the floor?”
“I don’t know if they’re still permitted after…” 09300074.doc 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Well, if they are, get them up and have ‘em come over and talk to us.”
“I don’t know if they’re still permitted after two weeks ago, but I think there are. But in all seriousness, they are here…”
“All right.”
“…and of course…”
“Bear with me, on a serious note, for just a moment. This invol… What this Bill gets to the heart of is if there’s been a property tax… Correct me if I’m wrong. If there has been a property tax exemption granted for a… an industry that located or a commercial facility that located in Cook County, generally, they’re granted for a period of ten years, I think, in some cases maybe 15 or 20. So, if I understand this right, when that exemption comes off, the assessor under your Bill, should we override it, would then classify that as new property. Correct?”
“That’s correct. That’s correct.”
“All right, now, the owner of the property would… would… would seem to me that the owner would want… goes on the tax rolls, but surely not at the value of the first year, when it was brand new.”
“Right. Right.”
“Would… would it reflect the ten years depreciation or the 15 years depreciation of that property?”
“Yes.”
“All right. Fine. Since you are the only county that uses the classifications and at some point I’d love to get 09300074.doc 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 into that issue, but this isn’t the time or place, it would appear to me that I think most other counties capture that property…”
“They do.”
“…when that… when that exemption rolls off. Otherwise, there would be no incentive for anybody in my county to grant that exemption.”
“Exact...”
“And we would grant an exemption to most anybody willing to build a manufacturing facility or a commercial facility for obvious reasons. We want… we want the jobs. We want the payroll taxes. And when that exemption runs out, I would be less than honest if I would not to tell you that’s what we do. We put it on the books. And I can’t see why we would want Cook County to have any less, I sometimes worry if you want more, but in this case, I can’t think that we would let you have less than what I believe the practice to be in all the other counties. I stand in support of your Motion.”
“Thank you.”
“Is there any further discussion? Mr. Molaro to close.”
“Thank you. Representative Black actually closed for me and it does exactly what he said it would do. It’s not a tax increase. It just allows the people who were incentified to get back on the tax rolls and all those people are in total agreement. And so I would ask for an ‘aye’ vote.” 09300074.doc 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Thank you. The question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 606 pass, the Veto of the Governor notwithstanding?’ This Motion requires 71 votes. This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘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 76 voting ‘yes’, 38 voting ‘no’, 1 voting ‘present’. This Motion, having received the required Three-fifths Majority, the Motion to override prevails and Senate Bill 606 is declared passed, notwithstanding the Governor’s Veto. On page 5 of the Calendar under Total Veto Motions, the Lady from Cook, Representative Munson on Senate Bill 1353. Representative Munson.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. In the Spring Session, two Bills passed both Houses granting authority to townships to use various funds to provide for leaf and brush disposal for their residents. The House version authorizes the use of general road and bridge funds and town funds. Senate Bill 1353 adds permanent road funds to this list. The Governor vetoed Senate Bill 1353, believing it was identical to the House version. I respectfully ask you to cast an ‘aye’ vote to override the Governor’s Veto.”
“Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 1352… 1353 pass, the Veto of the Governor notwithstanding?’ This… this Motion requires 71 votes. This is final action. All those in 09300074.doc 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 favor signify by voting ‘aye’; all those opposed say… 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 116 voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. This Motion, having received the required Three-fifths Majority, the Motion to override and… on Bill… Senate Bill 1353 is declared passed, notwithstanding the Governor’s Veto. Mr. Brauer, for what reason do you rise, Sir?”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to a point of personal privilege.”
“State your point.”
“Well, actually, it’s a point of clarification. In today’s Illinois State Journal on page 18, there is a picture of Representative Poe celebrating his 40th wedding anniversary. I just wanna point out the fact that I was nine years old at the time that he got married.”
“Thank you.”
“I… I think it would be appropriate if everybody in this Body congratulated Representative Poe and especially Carol on this 40th wedding anniversary.”
“Happy anniversary, Representative Poe. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of Senate Bill 526?”
“Senate Bill 526, the Bill’s been read a second time, previously. Amendment #1 was referred to the Rules Committee. No Floor Amendments have been approved for consideration. No Motions filed.” 09300074.doc 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Third Reading. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. Mr. Verschoore, the Gentleman from Rock Island.”
“Senate Bill 526, a Bill for an Act concerning zoos. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“Mr. Verschoore.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. What this Bill does is amends the Forest Preserve Zoological Park Act and provides for zoos that must be opened without charge for a total number of days during the year. To schedule a time during that calendar year equivalent to at least one day for each seven days the zoo is open. Allows the manager to authorize authority… managing authority of the zoological park to limit the number of school groups that may attend the zoo on any given day and establish other rules and regulations that regionally insure safety, accessibility and convenience including, without limitations, standards of conduct and supervision. I’d accept any questions at this time.”
“Is there any discussion? The Gentleman from Vermilion, Mr. Black.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Representative, it might be easier if you would tell me what… what zoo does this apply to? You’ve exempted almost every county in the state that has a zoo that I’m familiar with.” 09300074.doc 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“This zoo is Niabi Zoo in Rock Island County up in my district.”
“What zoo?”
“Niabi Zoo.”
“Miami?”
“Niabi.”
“Oh, Niami, Niami?”
“Niabi.”
“And where is this located?”
“In Coal Valley, Illinois, Rock Island…”
“Coal Valley, Illinois. It’s a fine community.”
“It’s what?”
“It’s a very… it’s a fine community. I’ve been there. Now, why… why are you making this apply to the, what appears to be, one zoo in the… in the state?”
“Well, it’s already been passed in… up in the Chicago area. Representative Yarbrough had exempted their zoo from this thing. Well, it doesn’t… it doesn’t limit the number of days. All it does is let the authority there, the zoo authority, pick the days they want because what is happening is it gets so crowded that their fear for safety of the children and stuff. So, they’re trying to pick the days where they can… they can do it and have reasonable safety precautions.”
“Was… was this a Bill that at one time had been sponsored by then Representative Brunsvold…”
“Yes.”
“…now the director of Natural Resources?” 09300074.doc 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Yes, it was.”
“Now, you told me that this applies to all of the other zoos like Lincoln Park Zoo, Brook…”
“No, it doesn’t.”
“Okay. But you said they’re already covered under a different…”
“I don’t know about all of the other ones. I know the one up in the Chicago area that Yar… Karen Yarbrough, Representative Yarbrough sponsored. They have adopted this policy.”
“I… I don’t know, I used to know, the Legislator who represented the Brookfield Zoo, for example, quite well and I’m not even sure who has that anymore. But I… I’m trying to figure out whether that impacts a previous action of the General Assembly, whether that requires a zoo the size of Brookfield Zoo to have free admission ‘x’ number of days out of the year.”
“I think it does.”
“Does it also apply to the various museum campuses in Chicago?”
“I don’t believe it does.”
“Well, I know I took my grandson up not long ago and I… it was well worth it, I’m not complaining, but I was a little shocked at some of the admission fees to some of the museum campuses up in the City of Chicago. The days of the dollar and a half are long gone, believe me.”
“Yeah.” 09300074.doc 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“But I… you don’t know whether there’s an existing Bill that also covers the…”
“No, I don’t. No, I don’t.”
“…Museum of Science and Industry, Field Museum?”
“No, I don’t.”
“Okay. So, the zoo that this impacts has no problem with the Bill?”
“Pardon me?”
“The… the zoo…”
“No, no…”
“…that this Bill will affect has no problem with what you’re trying to do?”
“No, no.”
“And… and I’ve noticed that the Municipal League is a proponent, that they’re in favor of the Bill. Could you tell me why the Municipal League…”
“Could…”
“…would weigh in on this Bill?”
“Could… could you repeat that. I couldn’t hear ya.”
“Yeah. The Municipal League is listed as a proponent of the Bill. It… I’m… I’m just curious why… why did the Municipal League sign on as a proponent of the Bill?”
“I… I can’t answer that. I don’t know.”
“Well, maybe they’re in favor of zoos or something.”
“Could be, I don’t know.”
“Yeah, it’s… What about the Springfield zoo? Does it impact it?” 09300074.doc 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Not that I’m aware of. It’s just for Niabi Zoo.”
“What about this chamber that I’ve often thought would make an excellent zoo. Does it impacted by any…”
“No, no.”
“All right. It’s kinda like a zoo in here today.”
“Yeah, kind of.”
“The penguins are quaking, the bears are growling.”
“Yeah.”
“The tigers are yelling and consequently, you can’t hear anything.”
“Right.”
“All we need is an elephant to come out, but I won’t go there. Now, did you put Floor Amendment #2 on the Bill?”
“No, I didn’t.”
“Is that the antismoking Bill?”
“Yeah. I… I think Representative Yarbrough had this Bill. She turned it over to me when we got here in the Veto Session. But I’ve talked to the zoo director last night and he was… in regards to this and they said that they have… I mean, that the smoking Bill’s not a big deal with them, but if it’s in there, so we’re gonna go with it because they have procedures at the zoo anyhow.”
“So, is Floor Amendment on the Bill or…”
“It’s…”
“…not on the Bill?”
“…it’s on the Bill.”
“It’s on the Bill. Are there any other Amendments pending?” 09300074.doc 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“No.”
“So, in other words, if a camel wanted to smoke a Camel at the zoo, the camel couldn’t, right?”
“I didn’t hear you. I’m sorry.”
“If a camel at the zoo wanted to smoke a Camel at the zoo, the camel wouldn’t be able to do so…”
“Yeah.”
“…at the zoo, right?”
“Right.”
“Would a penguin be able to smoke a Kool?”
“I’m sure he would.”
“I assume then the antismoking provision is aimed at people and not the animals, right?”
“Exac… exactly.”
“So, if an animal wanted to smoke, that’d be all right?”
“I’m assuming so. I don’t know.”
“Well, Representative, we need the tax money, ya know. I mean, maybe it’s not good for people, but it might be good for… Representative, would you… let me just… Mr. Speaker.”
“Yes, Sir.”
“Could I… could we take a cigarette break?”
“Smoking is not allowed in the House chamber, Mr. Black.”
“And I only wish it were enforced, Mr. Speaker, but that’s another story. I do have an…”
“Yes, that is another story.”
“…inquiry of the Chair, Mr. Speaker.” 09300074.doc 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Yes, Sir, state your inquiry.”
“There… there is some question on our side of the aisle from staff as to whether or not Floor Amendment #1 has been adopted to the Bill. That is the antismoking in the zoo Bill. Has that Floor Amendment been adopted or inquiry of the Chair?”
“Mr. Clerk, are any… have any Amendments been adopted to this Bill?”
“No…”
“State the status of the Bill.”
“No Amendments have been adopted to Senate Bill 526.”
“It is on or it has not…”
“Is not.”
“Is not. So, if we pass this Bill, then the Bill doesn’t say anything about whether or not you can smoke in the zoo or the restroom of the zoo or behind a tree in the zoo. So, I assume that… Representative, so I assume then that if you wanna smoke in the zoo, zoo can do so, right?”
“In certain areas, the way I am…”
“In designated smoking areas…”
“Right.”
“…of the… of the zoo.”
“Right.”
“Well, if I had it my way, the designated area would be in the tiger cage, but be that as it may. So, there is no antismoking ordinance in the zoo?”
“No.” 09300074.doc 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Well, I’m sure that’s a big relief to the animals. And you are demanding that you get in free to the Miami Zoo.”
“Niabi Zoo, yes.”
“Niami?”
“Niabi.”
“Niabi Zoo. Representative, will… will you send us a memo so that we can take our families and in my case, my grandchildren to the Niabi Zoo. I wanna know when the free day is.”
“I will let you know.”
“Thank you very much, Representative. You’ve done an outstanding job. I think, in all due respect to you, Sir, the future of the western world, as I know it, hinges on this free admission to the zoo Bill.”
“Yeah.”
“And you’ve done an excellent job of carrying it. And I’m sure that you’ll be amply rewarded by the friends of the zoo and the animals of the zoo or you know, Blue’s Clues or whatever. You’ve done an excellent job.”
“Thank you.”
“You’re to be commended.”
“Thank you.”
“Further discussion? The Gentleman from Lake, Mr. Mathias.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Could you ex… explain to me the difference be…”
“The Sponsor’ll yield.” 09300074.doc 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Yes. Will the Sponsor yield? Would you explain to me the difference between existing law today on when a zoo can be opened and what your Bill does to change that?”
“That… What all it does is it gives them the option of picking the days that they wanna do it and so they can have crowd control and be a safer environment for the children.”
“So…”
“What’s happening is there are busloads after busloads of kids coming and they can’t control the crowds.”
“So, they could limit the amount of groups, but also… the beginning of the Bill also changes the number of days that a zoo can offer free admission. Is that correct?”
“Right.”
“What’s the difference in that part of the Bill between the… the existing law and your proposed Bill?”
“They can pick the days that they’re going to have free days. Now, they’re designated as a certain day and they wanna be able to pick the days that they can be… then they have a free day.”
“And my understanding is under existing law they have to be ov… they have to have one free day each week, but it doesn’t state which day it is.”
“Right.”
“Under your proposed Amendment, they could accumulate the days and basically say… let’s say, the zoo is open 30 days a year, for example. They could say the last month is 09300074.doc 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 all free and not have any free days during the rest of the year. Is that correct?”
“That’s the way I understand it.”
“Do you think that isn’t… that that’s going to encourage or discourage people from attending?”
“Well, I’m being told by the zoo director that it’ll encourage more than discourage.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t hear you.”
“I said, I’m being told by the zoo director that it would encourage ‘em more than discourage ‘em. It’s not… it’s not taking any days away. It’s just they’re picking the days that they’re gonna do it.”
“I understand the total amount of days will be the same, but by accumulating ‘em, like I said, the… you could have a whole free month and then the other nine or ten months it’s open there wouldn’t be any free days, if they wanted to do that.”
“If they wanted to do that, yes. That… but I don’t think that’s what they have in mind.”
“Okay. Thank you.”
“Thank you.”
“Further discussion? Mr. Parke.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.”
“Now, Representative, I’m sure you’re… you’re doing this, this Bill, because it’s important to your district.”
“Yes.” 09300074.doc 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“But is this… you’re working directly with the zoo to do this?”
“Yes.”
“Why do… why do you have to do it legislatively? Why can’t they just simply say it’s… it’s a free day?”
“I… I can’t answer that. I think their mandated is by State Law, evidently, that they have to do this and that’s why they’re asking for this Amendment or this change.”
“It’s mandated by… your zoo is mandated by State Law that they cannot give free admission?”
“I… I don’t know. I can’t answer that. It’s mandated by 70 ILCS 835/1.”
“And now what is the… just review again, what is the aspect of the no smoking phase? I mean, are you saying that this is a no smoking free zone zoo?”
“That… that was never adopted. That Amendment was never adopted.”
“So, that’s not part of it?”
“No and the zoo doesn’t have a problem with that. I talked to the director about that and he doesn’t have a problem because, like I told Representative Black, they have designated areas where they’ll let ‘em smoke anyhow. So, it’s not a big problem.”
“Now, does this legislation allow a smoking area or does not allow?”
“This Bill doesn’t… doesn’t affect smoking. That’s… that’s determined…” 09300074.doc 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Not at all.”
“…by the zoo.”
“Not at all.”
“No.”
“No smoking is involved in this. All right. So, this is simply a very simple, nondescript Bill to say that the zoo can have free days.”
“Pick the days that they wanna have free days, yes.”
“Thank you. To the Bill. Ladies and Gentlemen, I don’t even know why we’re… we’re addressing this Bill. I mean, it oughta be a local issue. I think it’s ridiculous that there’s any kind of a stat… I don’t think of any other zoo that’s gotta do this, but obviously, the Sponsor feels it’s important to do this and I don’t think we have a problem with it.”
Speaker Novak: “Any further discussion? Seeing none, Mr. Verschoore to close.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I would ask for a ‘yes’ vote on this. Thank you.”
“And the question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 526 pass?’ All those in favor signify by voting ‘aye’; all those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Millner. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 112 voting ‘yes’, 3 voting ‘no’, 1 voting ‘present’. Having rec… reached the required 09300074.doc 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 Constitutional Majority, Senate Bill 526 is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, what is the status of House Bill 3828?”
Clerk Bolin: “House Bill 3828 is on the Order of House Bills-Third Reading.”
“Place that Bill back on Second Reading. On page 5 of the Calendar under Total Veto Motions, Representative Saviano on Senate Bill 83. Mr. Saviano.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House.”
“Correction. Correction. Senate Bill, I’m sorry, 83, pardon me.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 83 passed this chamber back in our Spring Session. This is the Bill that assists 16 park districts throughout the state who at the time of the tax cap were frugal and responsible and didn’t have a chance to maximize their potential in gaining the revenue they needed to rebuild their parks. It also includes bonding authority to assist the Chicago Botanical Garden and the Brookfield Zoo. That would be through the county board and the forest preserve district which we know… the Cook County Legislators know that our forest preserves need… are in dire need of rebuilding our infrastructure in the way of their shelters and other facilities. That money is totally earmarked for infrastructure rebuilding not for operating expenses. It simply gives them the bonding authority up to a hundred and fifty million doesn’t mean they have to maximize that bonding authority. They will take whatever it needs to rebuild that infrastructure. This Bill passed previously 09300074.doc 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 and I would ask that we override the Governor’s Veto on Senate Bill 83.”
“Any further… any discussion? The Gentleman from Will, Mr. McGuire.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would just rise to support Representative Saviano’s efforts. A lot of us have been involved with Senate Bill 83 over the years, particularly for our park districts. Joliet Park District and about 16 others in the northern part of the State of Illinois were caught short in 1991 when many of us weren’t here, I was one of those who was here. We enacted property tax caps. Several of the park districts got caught short. We’re trying to just adjust. We’re not gutting the tax caps at all. We’re trying to make adjustments. Anything that was passed in 1991 could stand a little bit of adjustment. And I would support Representative Saviano’s efforts. Thank you.”
“Further discussion? The Gentleman from DuPage, Mr. Biggins.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise in strong support of this Bill. This Bill corrects an inequity that exists under previous legislation, enacted into law a few years ago, giving some park districts less of an opportunity than other park districts already have. It gives a competitive edge, if you will, to many, many other park districts in Illinois. This Bill just seeks to give them the same opportunity and to have them be subject to… to the voters as well because the park boards has to make the decision to 09300074.doc 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 go ahead with this, individually, and if they do so, then the public can announce their feelings to their local park districts. This is a fair Bill. It creat… It does erase an inequity that exists in Illinois law. Puts a stable tax policy throughout the state and I urge an ‘aye’ vote.”
“Further discussion? The Gentleman from DuPage, Mr. Froehlich.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Bill. All the units of local government affected here could go to referendum to seek voter approval. They’ve chosen not to do that instead they’ve come to us to bypass local voter control. If we pass this measure, it’s a safe prediction other units of local government are gonna come to us to do the same thing. If this measure fails, the forest preserve and the park districts could go to their local voters to make the case. I think that’s what we should send ‘em. We should not overrule local control to raise property taxes.”
Speaker Novak: “Further discussion? The Gentleman from Vermilion, Mr. Black. Is Mr. Black in the chambers? Yes, Sir.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor’ll yield.”
“Representative, if these bonds are to be issued and sold, these bonds as I understand it are not the responsibility… they are not backed by the full faith and credit of the State of Illinois. Correct?”
“That is correct. The state has no exposure on…” 09300074.doc 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“These are… these are local bonds.”
“That’s correct.”
“Thank you very much.”
Speaker Novak: “Any further discussion? Seeing none, Mr. Saviano to close.”
“Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. I’ve been here 11 years and this Bill has displayed an immense amount of bipartisan support. Everybody in this chamber that helped with this Bill, I want to thank you. We know the importance of this Bill. It’s important not only to Cook County, but to park districts across the state and two of our jewels: the Brookfield Zoo and the Chicago Botanical Garden who have long needed this funding to improve their facilities. I would urge an ‘aye’ vote. Thank you.”
“Thank you. The question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 83 pass, the Veto of the Governor notwithstanding?’ This Motion requires 71 votes. This is final action. All those in favor vote by signifying… by voting ‘aye’; all those in favor 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 75 voting ‘yes’, 40 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. This Motion, having received the required Three-fifths Majority, the Motion to override prevails and Senate Bill 83 is hereby declared passed, notwithstanding the Governor’s Veto. On page 21 on the Calendar there is Senate Bill 212, the Gentleman from St. Clair, Mr. Holbrook. On a Veto Motion, Mr. Holbrook. Is Mr. Holbrook in the chambers? 09300074.doc 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 Mr. Holbrook on a Veto Motion… Override Motion on Senate Bill 212.”
“Thank you, Speaker. I move for an override on this. The language in this we feel that the Governor overstepped his constitutional boundaries. We don’t disagree with some of the language he’s added to this when it concerns the development authority. We think it’s a good idea. In fact, we’re gonna come up with a trailer Bill that puts this exact language and even some more restrictions on this quick-take portion of this development authority. I would… I’d ask for the Body’s support in this override. And I commit to you that come next spring, in this Session, we’ll be running some restrictions that includes the Governor’s concern on this. There’s one other additional piece in this Bill and that concerns the extension of the program for the TIFs in Palatine. This was put in at their request. We’ve included it for them and the Governor had lined that out also. And I’d ask the Representatives from that area to be able to address that issue if they have some specific concern on the Palatine portion of this Bill. Again, I’d… I’d ask for an override on this Bill.”
“Thank you. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 212 pass, the Veto of the Governor notwithstanding?’ This Motion requires 71 votes. This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting ‘aye’; all 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 09300074.doc 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 the rec… On this question, there are 71 voting ‘yes’, 44 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. This Motion, having received the required Three-fifths Majority, the Motion to override prevails and Senate Bill 212 is hereby declared passed, notwithstanding the Governor’s Veto. Mr. Holbrook on a Veto Override Motion on Senate Bill 216. Mr. Holbrook.”
“Yeah. This is… concerns the Bi-State quick-take portion. Bi-State is the light rail portion of our transit system in the Metro East. The Governor decided to amendatorilly Veto a portion of that out that, again, we felt that he went beyond his constitutional ability. The only portion of this that he lined out was the development around the Metro Link, the light rail system. Right now, we put in things like coffee shops, convenience marts, that sort of thing, right in with these and we think that this might exclude it. We’d like to see this overridden. We don’t see doing anything different than we’re currently doing on this issue. And we have one last piece of our Metro Link to go out to the Mid America Airport which currently does have planes flying in and out of it. And on that I’d ask for an ‘aye’ vote on this.”
“Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 216 pass, the Veto of the Governor notwithstanding?’ This Motion requires 71 votes. This is final action. All those in favor signify by voting ‘aye’; all those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have 09300074.doc 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 51 voting ‘yes’, 65 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. And having failed to reach the required Three-fifths Majority, House Bill (sic-Senate Bill) 216 is hereby declared failed. On page 2 of the Calendar’s House Bill 3835, the Gentleman from Macon, Mr. Flider. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill please.”
“House Bill 3835, a Bill for an Act in relation to vehicles. Third Reading of this Senate (sic-House) Bill.”
“Mr. Flider.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This legislation, House Bill 3835, would require that all license plates, all commemorative, armed services license plates that would be purchased in the State of Illinois should be made in the United States. And if such a suitable facility exists to manufacture those plates in Illinois, then they should be manufactured in Illinois. We… I… Representative Grunloh and I initially cosponsored this legislation because of the importance of this matter to veterans who had learned that these plates in recent years had been manufactured in Canada. And so, therefore, certainly because of the replating issue and so on there could be reasons that these plates had been manufactured out of state, but we thought it important enough to make a point that this legislation should require that plates be manufactured in the United States where our veterans protected the borders of our country, protected our freedom, and we think the least that they can do is… the 09300074.doc 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 state can do, is manufacture these plates in the State of Illinois. And I would encourage your support.”
“Thank you. Is there any discussion? The Gentleman from Macon, Mr. Mitchell.” Mitchell, B.: “Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Would the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor will yield.” Mitchell, B.: “Representative Flider, I appreciate your efforts and I, as a colleague from Macon County, it used to be, before the map, it was… they were made at Macon Resources in Whitmore Township which I used to represent. So, I was in the Illinois House when the replating scheme went on. Now, the Secretary of State’s Office, at that time, said that they were only gonna export our Illinois license plates or at least a portion of them to Nova Scotia, Canada, for period of one year. And of course, now, subsequently I’ve discovered that they’re doing it. Continuing, there’s now nearly… I think the Members of the House need to know this because this House voted on legislation saying ‘Buy Illinois’. The Members need to know that about 43 percent of the Illinois license plates are being made in Nova Scotia and that’s just not right. We vote on legislation saying, okay, we need jobs in Illinois. We vote on legislation saying ‘Buy Illinois’, but this is something that the State of Illinois has direct responsibility of, our license plates. Now, and you and I represent Macon County, we have a high unemployment and I appreciate the effort you do here Bob on this issue. 09300074.doc 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 You’re the one who brought this to our attention. I think you’re doing a great job. I have a question for the Sponsor, is under your Amendment and I think there was a… a second Amendment or excuse me, an Amendment added, how many total license plates are covered under this legislation?”
“In this legislation, it’s estimated that approximately 8 thousand to 8500 license plates would be manufactured during the next fiscal year.” Mitchell, B.: “Okay. According to my notes under your… your first Bill, it had a total veterans’ plates were about 45 thousand license plates last year were manufactured in Nova Scotia, Canada.”
“My understanding is that that number reflects the actual replating effort. So therefore, what’s expected in the future based on previous years relates to the expected new license plates that would be ordered. Therefore, when you take into account the replating that’s already occurred, what we’d be looking at is approximately 8 thousand to 8500 license plates.” Mitchell, B.: “So, roughly 9 thousand license plates and I certainly support the idea. We shouldn’t have veterans’ plates being made in Canada, but also and it doesn’t take much of a leap as we shouldn’t have any license plates being made in Canada if we can have them done here in Illinois. This is something that we can control. We know, we know and we listened to the political commercials. Everyone talks about jobs for Illinois. This is something that we can vote on today to bring jobs back, 2 million 09300074.doc 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 Illinois license plates are being manufactured in Nova Scotia, Canada. That wasn’t supposed to happen. That wasn’t the… what the Secretary of State told us at the time of the replating. I would ask that the Sponsor, would you agree to put this on Second and let’s work on and to make… bring back all 2 million license plates to Illinois.”
“Representative, I… when I filed this legislation, I had considered whether I should file legislation that would require all these license plates to be brought back to Macon County where they previously were manufactured. I quickly found out that there were some contractual issues and some contractual obligations and certainly some, at least in the case of the Secretary of State’s Office, some costs whereby they would actually oppose such efforts. So, my initial thought when I filed this legislation was to do what I could to pass this Bill, put it on the radar screen, work toward bringing them all back, but as an initial piece of legislation to not only gain attention, I also felt this had a much better chance of passing this chamber. I certainly… and I understand that you have introduced legislation that would bring all of these license plates back to Illinois and I certainly endorse that concept. However, I think that in the current language that you’ve introduced, I might introduce something that would be just a little bit different and would reflect some of the replating initiatives, but I don’t think that that’s any… necessarily any reason why we shouldn’t go forward and pass this very important legislation to our veterans today.” 09300074.doc 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 Mitchell, B.: “I appreciate your comments, but I think my legislation, I would hope, you would have it released from Rules Committee. I don’t have much of a say on that, but there’s nearly 2 million license plates being manufactured in Nova Scotia, Canada. So, we can run all the commercials about we’re for jobs here in Illinois, but this is something that this General Assembly can address. If we are really serious about jobs in Illinois, let’s bring ‘em back. Let’s bring back the license plates where they’re supposed to be. Where in… to 43 percent of our Illinois plates are being made in Nova Scotia, Canada. That’s not right. I appreciate the thoughts behind this Bill, but let’s bring all the license plates back to Illinois. Thank you.”
Speaker Novak: “Further discussion? The Gentleman from McHenry, Mr. Franks.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor’ll yield.”
“Representative, I understand what you’re trying to do here and I have a couple of questions. Ya know, I always heard as a kid that the license plates were made at the prisons here in Illinois. Does that still happen?”
“No, they’re no longer made in prisons.”
“When did that end?”
“I believe it ended under the… when Secretary of State, Jim Edgar was in office.”
“Okay. Are there any manufacturers presently in the State of Illinois that make license plates?” 09300074.doc 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“To my knowledge, the only manufacturer that manufactures license plates in the State of Illinois is Macon Resources which is located in my district in Decatur. And this facility is a facility in which people with disabilities also…”
“Okay.”
“…work, so as a result we thought it would be good policy not only from the standpoint of bringing jobs back to Illinois but certainly as it relates to my district, bringing jobs back to my district, but also creating a situation where people who ordinarily might not be at work with disabilities would no longer be tax users but would now be taxpayers. So, we think it’s great policy and I certainly do agree with the idea of bringing a hundred percent of those plates back. That’s something I intend to work on as hard as I can during the next Session.”
“Well, I think that’s a great idea and I’m glad to see that people with disabilities are able to make… to become productive members of society by giving ‘em real work. How many license plates do the people in your district, who are presently manufacturing those, how many are they able to make in a year? Because I know this Bill would require about 9 thousand license plates to made here in Illinois. How… Is there enough capacity in your district with those folks working on ‘em to be able to create those 9 thousand plates?”
“I think that’s a very good question, Representative. And the answer is that the reason that the Secretary of 09300074.doc 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 State, it’s my belief, he went out of state and out of the country to a facility that manufactures these plates was because of the replating issue.”
“Right.”
“So, as a result because of a variety of factors and certainly one was the… the ability to manufacture the vast quantity of plates that were necessary at that time, he actually had to find a second alternative and so therefore that’s how they ended up in Nova Scotia. Now, what we’re trying to do is bring those… the business back since we’re done with the replating.”
“And we would have enough capacity, you’re saying, then to at least cover this Bill for all the veterans’ plates, we would have that capacity here in this state?”
“Not only for this Bill, but also we think for all the new license plates that will be manufactured or needed in the coming years, so long as it’s not a replating type of a year.”
“Is there much difference in price for those plates that are manufactured here as opposed to those that are being manufactured in Nova Scotia?”
“The… the range in pricing… the maximum difference in pricing is $3 per plate. So, for example, in the instance that we’re talking about the veterans’ plates, the cost of this legislation should cost no more than $25 thousand which I believe is money well spent.”
“Okay. That’s what I was trying to find out, the fiscal impact, because I was reading the Bill and it… and 09300074.doc 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 I’ve oftentimes seen when we’re having a… a Bill such as this to ‘Buy Illinois’ or to ‘Buy American’ that we’d have a ceiling that it couldn’t be ‘x’ percent more than what we could buy overseas. And I noticed that this didn’t have that provision in the Bill, but if there’s a very small amount and if were able to employ Illinoisans here and to create the tax base as we should, I think it’s a very good idea.”
“Thank you, Representative. And the thing I point out and I certainly am not trying to be critical in any way, shape or form because I think that government employees were doing their best to try and find the lowest cost product possible. They were driven to do so, as I understand it, a few years back to look for alternative bids, I think that’s good business. However, what I would say in this instance and in future instances, that as long as we can assure that we are producing the plates for the most economical price we can. We’re not providing any government subsidies whatsoever as we think they are in Canada. We don’t have subsidized health care like they have in Canada. We think that the money is well spent here in Illinois and certainly in my district putting people to work for jobs and we think that it’s a… will ripple through the economy and as we all know, one job results in 3.2 manufa… new jobs according to the Chamber of Commerce.”
“I appreciate your efforts here and I think if we’re gonna be importing from Canada, we should be impor… 09300074.doc 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 importing our prescription drugs and not our license plates. So, thank you. I support the Bill.”
“Thank you, Representative.”
Speaker Novak: “Further discussion? The Lady from Cook, Representative Mulligan.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Yes.”
“Sponsor yields.”
“Representative, I can understand why you would wanna bring jobs back to Illinois, particularly in a facility in your district. The only problem I have with this is that our analysis says that this is the only manufacturer of license plates in Illinois and if we pass a law that says the Secretary of State has to buy from them, they can charge whatever they want and in the analysis it says now that their cost is anywhere from 2 to 4 dollars more a plate. Now, that doesn’t impact me personally unless I get a veterans’ plate. Have you had any veterans make any comment to you about the increase in the charge of plates and don’t you think that if it’s the only plant in the state that they will then be able to charge whatever they want because we’ve passed a law that gives them that ability?”
“If I understand your question, the overwhelming comments that I have received are support for this provision because quite frankly we think spending the dollars here in the state and in… the policy of the General Assembly is to look at the economic impact of the state and 09300074.doc 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 certainly when you’re looking at the operations of a particular agency, what you’re looking at are they’re trying to drive costs down for their particular agency. We, however, are in the business of looking at the entire economic policy of the state. So therefore, while it may not be the best approach from an agency standpoint, from an expense standpoint, we think from the overall economic policy of the State of Illinois that this is good. It is good to keep people working. It is good to spend our dollars here in Illinois. And I’ve heard virtually no criticisms whatsoever from any veterans about this approach.”
“They probably don’t have an idea, Representative and I’m… What this Bill does is it creates a monopoly for one company. Now, I have no problem with that to some extent, but and this is a small amount from what it says it’s a matter of a difference of $36 thousand for all the plates that are sold. But what then stops another Representative from bringing forth a Bill that is special legislation that creates a monopoly for their individual business if we say the State of Illinois must purchase in Illinois and they’re the only company that manufactures license plates in Illinois. So, then, we pass legislation that says they can charge whatever they want because we have to buy from them. There should at least be something in there that says they have to meet the ongoing price of what the Secretary of State can get it for or within the certain percentage of what the Secretary of State can go to bid for? Maybe they 09300074.doc 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 can have the last bid, but I think there’s a problem in creating a monopoly when there’s only one company and we pass legislation that says you must buy from this… in Illinois you must purchase from only the one manufacturer. You know, if I were smart, I would go and set my own business and be a competitive bidder, but it appears to me that this is a little difficult to do from the process. So, you know, there’s a small problem with this Bill that I see. I think it needs a little more work and at least it should have something that says in it they have to be close to a competitive bid because you’re passing legislation that says, Katy, bar the door, they can do whatever they want and I find that not to be exactly what we should be doing here.”
“Thank you, Representative, for those comments. And I guess what I would say is that’s the very reason that I did not believe it would be appropriate to file the legislation bringing them all back to Illinois at this time because of those kinds of arguments and those kinds of issues. I thought that this approach would be the best approach and what better approach than to ensure that the license plates that the veterans who fought for our country would be sure that the plates that they buy to commemorate their service would be manufactured in the United States and preferably in the State of Illinois. And that we also chose to craft the Bill such that this legislation doesn’t require any place to be built in any specific facility. It does not stop anyone from… from developing a facility where plates 09300074.doc 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 could be manufactured, however, it does state that where these… where there is such a facility, we believe the plates should be manufactured here and so that’s… that’s how we got to this piece of legislation. But I would hope that we would be able to get all the plates back to the United States. I would hope that we would be able to all the plates back to Illinois. I would hope that we don’t need legislation to do that, but I certainly recognize your concerns as well. I think those are the things that will be debated as we go forward.”
Speaker Novak: “Further discussion? The Gentleman from Vermilion, Mr. Black.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor’ll yield.”
“Representative, see if you can clear something up for me in the analysis that I find confusing. Are there currently two contracts issued by the Secretary of State, one to… what is this tadpole… oh, Waldale plant in Nova Scotia and one to Macon Industries? Does he have two contracts to make license plates?”
“That’s my understanding, yes.”
“And the contract that we give to Waldale in Nova Scotia is $36 thousand cheaper than the one to Macon Resources. Correct?”
“I’m sorry. What was the figure you used?” 09300074.doc 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Thirty-six thousand dollars cheaper to have the plates made in Nova Scotia than to have them made in Macon County, Illinois. Am I reading that correctly?”
“Well, my understanding is that…”
“If I’m reading it correctly, there are two $7 million contracts and the contract in Nova Scotia is $36 thousand cheaper than the $7 million contract to Macon Resources or is our analysis flawed?”
“With regard to the veterans’ license plates only, actually the analysis that… that I’ve developed based on information I’ve received from the Secretary of State’s Office, then confirmed based on the information from Macon Resources as to what they anticipate the license… the number of license plates that they anticipate man… being manufactured is less than $25 thousand a year. But even if it were $36 thousand for this contract based on replating or based on future purchases of veterans’ license plates, I still think that would be… we’d be moving in the right direction to pass this legislation.”
“Do you know whether or not the figures that you are quoting from the Secretary’s Office is that adjusted for the difference in Canadian and U.S. currency? The dollar goes a little further right now in Canada.”
“I… I don’t believe that their figures have been adjusted.”
“Well, you know, the thing that concerns me is that if you… if the veterans’ plates are the issue and I… and I don’t think that’s the issue. The issue to me is where you 09300074.doc 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 make Illinois license plates. Now, the veterans’ plates are… are fewer in number, so I would assume that the cost per plate is greater. If you’re… if you’re replating and making 15 million license plates, then the cost per plate should go down simply based on what Henry Ford discovered a long, long time ago, that mass production can lower your costs. Now, as it’s been said earlier, our Procurement Code expert unfortunately migrated to the Senate. You might ask your staffer, is it not possible under the Illinois Procurement Code to secure a sole source document that being from a sole source vendor in Illinois and justify that, within reason, obviously, you can’t… you can’t take a bid that’s millions and millions of dollars higher. But it doesn’t appear to me that we’re talking about a great amount of money. And it would seem that the Secretary would file a sole source provider, if that’s still allowed under the Procurement Code and I don’t know that it is, and try to do business in Illinois.”
“Any further questions? Seeing none…”
“I’m waiting for an answer.”
“Oh, I’m sorry, Sir. Mr. Flider.”
“My understanding is that… that it would still get back to facilities in Illinois. So, therefore, you know, what we’re doing with this legislation is ensuring that at least at this existing time where a facility exists, that the plates would be manufactured…”
“Well, I…”
“…in Illinois.” 09300074.doc 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“…I’m in complete agreement with you. I… In fact, I’m… I’m trying to say I don’t know why, if the Procurement Code permits it then I think there should be a sole source document on file and I don’t know of any Illinois taxpayer who would file any objection to saying the sole source provider of Illinois license plates will be an Illinois company. Assuming of course that… that the prices are competitive. I’m not… I… I would not stand here and say, you give an Illinois company a blank check. But I believe the Procurement Code does allow for a sole source provider document saying you would rather do business with the sole source in Illinois than a foreign competitor. I… It just seems like that would be something that the Secretary of State would be willing to look into.”
“I certainly would like to bring that up. I think that’s a great point. I didn’t realize that.”
“Well, I… if we can’t do that, then would you… would you… I’m being facetious, I know I can’t. But if… maybe I… maybe we could amend the Bill on its face to say the plates should be stamped, ‘Land of Lincoln, Made in Canada’. Would that be okay with you?”
“Repre… Representative, I… I think this is a great Bill the way it is, but I think that we oughta approach this as one of the options going forward, the approach that you had suggested. But I… I think this Bill, a it stands, is a good Bill. I think it’s good policy. I think it’s heading us in the right direction and it will send a message that we should be manufacturing these plates in Illinois.” 09300074.doc 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Well, Representative, thank you. Mr. Speaker, to the Bill. I… I think as it’s been said earlier by one of my colleagues, this is a good first step. I… I would correct… something I heard that the prisons used to make plates. They may have, but that’s been a long, long time ago. It was not on Jim Edgar’s watch that that changed. It was on Jim Edgar’s watch when they went to Macon Resources. I don’t believe Illinois prisons have made license plates… I’ve been in every prison in the State of Illinois, as a guest, and I don’t remember ever seeing any equipment to make license plates. But the fact of the matter is that if the cost is fairly competitive, then we should try to do business in Illinois. And I stand in support of your… of your Bill for the simple reason that I’ve been here long enough that generally anybody who gets up in this chamber in the past 18 years and has had a ‘Buy American’ Bill and they pontificate, we need to buy American. If we just buy American, it would solve all of our problems. I’d go out in the parking lot and inevitably that Representative was driving a Mercedes Benz, a Volvo or some other foreign car. So, I’m always a little bit leery of some…, but in this case, in this case, it’s not… it’s not the issue. These plates were made in Illinois for years. They should be made in Illinois, if at all possible and I think it is competitive. Your Bill is a good first start. I think there’s some other things we need to do on the Procurement Code or a sole source document. If at all possible, we 09300074.doc 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 should encourage state contracts to be signed and executed by state employers. I intend to vote for your Bill.”
“Any further discussion? Mr. Dunkin.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?”
“Sponsor’ll yield.”
“Okay. Just a point of information. Is there a fiscal note associated with this, Representative?”
“None has been filed to my knowledge.”
“Okay. Because as I understand it and I knew this for a fact, in the Macon County Resource Center in Decatur, Illinois, license plates cost 2.96; in Canada it cost 1.43 for the exact same license plate. Were you aware of that, Representative?”
“I knew there was a small disparity, yes.”
“That’s almost three to one and in today’s economic times, that’s a huge difference. So, are we prepared to put a fiscal note with that, as well?”
“I actually have figures from the Secretary of State’s Office and basically, they’re a little bit different, but the range is very close to what… the range… what you referred to I think is a range in the cost of license plates, not the actual cost of the license plates.”
“So, we mandate to have the plates manufactured in Macon, at the Macon County Resource Center, or somewhere else. We’re not gonna have possibly have the extra dollars to pay for it?”
“Well, Representative, I recall that there was a Bill that came before this chamber last year that waived certain 09300074.doc 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 fees for veterans when they applied for renewal of their license plates and I believe the cost was far greater than this legislation. We didn’t bat an eye and we passed it out of here unanimously. Here, we’re talkin’ about jobs. We’re talkin’ about people with disabilities. We’re talkin’ about manufacturing license plates, first and foremost, in the United States for veterans who served in this country and secondly, because we have a facility in Illinois we’re talkin’ about manufacturing them in Illinois where they previously were manufactured. And because of the replating issue they went out… out of country and certainly your economic issues, your economic analysis makes sense from the standpoint of looking at per cost. However, I would bring up two points. Number one, we spend the money in Illinois. We’re putting people to work. We’re using the tax dollars or the fees that people pay in Illinois, not in a foreign country. Secondly, the more plates that we have manufactured here in Illinois, I think that difference between the plate cost will come down. That’s just good business.”
“Again, I’m trying to figure out in our current fiscal times where the dollars are gonna come from and no one’s against veterans, no one… definitely not against disabled persons. I want this… I’m a… I’m a social worker, that’s my background, quite frankly and I have an affinity towards people who are disabled, people who serve this country. I have family members who were killed in the war and so I’ll never do anything to have a negative impact towards them. 09300074.doc 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 But what I’m trying to figure out is fiscally where the additional dollars are gonna come from that we’re paying three… if we would… with this proposal we pay three to one.”
“May… if I might respond. The difference in the cost of license plates ranges from $1.42 per plate to $3.10 per plate and so what were talkin’ about with approximately 8 thousand license plates we expect to have manufactured next year, we’re talkin’ about $25 thousand. That could be a couple of jobs. That could be a couple of jobs where people are paying taxes, are no longer depending on taxes, but they are now paying taxes. We’re putting people with disabilities to work and I might add that are many veterans at Macon Resources employed there. So, it’s not just a place where, you know, there aren’t veterans employed there. There’s a cross section of citizens employed at Macon Resources, among them veterans. And again, I say to you and I say to the Members of this Assembly, that this is just good policy to have the plates which commemorate service of our armed forces where these people protected our borders to have them manufactured here not only in the United States, but in the State of Illinois because we have the suitable facility to do so.”
“Any further discussion? Mr. Stephens.”
“Mr. Speaker, some of the things I hear here today are incredible. The point I want to make is it’s important when we’re at war that we send the proper message to our troops overseas and those here in the United States. I was 09300074.doc 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 just… I’m reminded that just a week ago we found out that the… the troops in Iraq had asked for every state in the Union to send a flag of their state to Iraq so that they could display those flags. The Governor’s Office didn’t see fit to comply with that request and so we… Illinois was embarrassed once again around a veterans’ issue. This Bill isn’t so much about a veterans’ issue, but it does send a message to veterans that we recognize the commitment that you’ve made to your country and to your state and we’re not going to embarrass you by having your plates made in a foreign country, a country, by the way, that hasn’t completely supported us in Iraq the way that I think that they should. So, the message that current policy sends is to our veterans, you’re not really that important. To rise on this floor and say that this Bill is any… in any manner derogatory towards veterans, which is I think is what I heard from the… one of the previous speakers, is… there’s nothing further from the truth. The Sponsor is right in sponsoring the Bill and in committee he committed to rep… to supporting language that Representative Bill Mitchell has introduced. We will do that in the spring. I applaud the Gentleman for his Bill and his commitment to bringing all the plates back to Illinois and if there’s a question about whether some company can bid against a company in your district or Representative Mitchell’s area, that will work its way out. But let’s bring the business home, right now, the business that we can. Representative, I rise in strong support of your Bill.” 09300074.doc 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003
“Mr. Flider… Is there any further discussion? Mr. Flider to close, briefly.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I would like to thank those who made comments in support of this legislation. Certainly, we need to do everything we can to bring all the business back to Illinois. I think that we need to begin that process very soon. But I would also say that the… this legislation is a first step. I do not think that this was an intentional consequence of the Secretary of State’s Office. I think it was a situation that was created or that resulted because of replating. I believe that if they actually realized the issue that this would create that they would not have allowed this to occur and so, therefore, I… I… I think you’ll see that they have not opposed this legislation. Certainly, there’s no intention whatsoever to… to suggest otherwise. And I would encourage your support for this legislation.”
“Thank you. The question is, ‘Shall House Bill 3835 pass?’ All those in favor vote by signifying ‘aye’; all those opposed ‘no’. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk… Barbara Currie. Take the record. On this question, there are 115 voting ‘yes’, 0 voting ‘no’, 0 voting ‘present’. Having reached the required Constitutional Majority, House Bill 3835 is hereby declared passed. Ladies and Gentlemen, this will be the last Bill, then we will go to committees this afternoon. On page 5 of 09300074.doc 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 the Calendar, under Total Veto Motions there is Senate Bill 1881, the Lady from Cook, Representative Hamos.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen. This is a Bill that I believe many of you have heard about, have talked to people back home about. It passed in the spring with strong bipartisan support. This is to help multiunit districts called special recreation district with their services for the disabled. These are exclusively park district programs for disabled people. This would allow them to levy outside the cap up to their statutory mini… maximum. It’s a very small amount and we seek your support. I will be happy to answer any questions.”
“Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, ‘Shall Senate Bill 1881 pass, the Veto of the Governor notwithstanding?’ This Motion requires 71 votes. This is final action. All those in favor vote by signifying… voting ‘aye’; all those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 78 voting ‘yes’, 36 voting ‘no’, 2 voting ‘present’. This Motion, having received the required Three-fifths Majority, the Motion to override prevails and Senate Bill 1881 is hereby declared passed, notwithstanding the Governor’s Veto. Mr. Clerk, please read the committee announcements, please.”
“The following committees will meet immediately upon adjournment: the Executive Committee will meet in Room 115, the Judiciary I-Civil Law Committee will meet in Room 09300074.doc 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 C-1, Transportation & Motor Vehicles will meet in Room 114. The following committees will meet at 2:30: Agriculture & Conservation in Room D-1, Health Care Availability & Access in 118, Local Government in C-1, Revenue in 122-B, State Government Administration in Room 115. The Judiciary II-Criminal Law Committee will meet at 3:00 in Room 114.”
Speaker Novak: “Any further announcements? Ladies and Gentlemen, the committees will be delayed for one-half an hour, 30 minutes. There will be a 30-minute delay. The 1:30 committee meetings are meeting immediately. The 1:30 committee meetings, Ladies and Gentlemen, will be meeting immediately upon adjournment. Allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, Representative Granberg now moves that the House stand adjourned until the hour of 12 noon on Wednesday, November 19, 2003. All those in favor say ‘ay’… say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the House now stands adjourned.”
“House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Introduction and First Reading of House Bills. House Bill 3904, offered by Representative Miller, a Bill for an Act in relation to schools. House Bill 3905, offered by Representative Grunloh, a Bill for an Act in relation to firearms. House Bill 3906, offered by Representative Franks, a Bill for an Act concerning pharmacies. House Bill 3907, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act in relation to public employee benefits. House Bill 3908, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act 09300074.doc 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 concerning schools. House Bill 3909, offered by Representative Kurtz, a Bill for an Act concerning municipalities. House Bill 3910, offered by Representative Kurtz, a Bill for an Act concerning counties. House Bill 3911, offered by Representative Kurtz, a Bill for an Act concerning taxes. House Bill 3912, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act concerning taxes. House Bill 3913, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia, a Bill for an Act in relation to criminal law. House Bill 3914, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning utilities. House Bill 3915, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act in relation to mental health. House Bill 3916, offered by Representative Kosel, a Bill for an Act in relation to public employee benefits. House Bill 3917, offered by Representative Hannig, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 3918, offered by Representative Hannig, a Bill for an Act in relation to veterans. First Reading of these House Bills. House Bill 3919, offered by Representative Hoffman, a Bill for an Act in relation to the transfer of real property. The House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Introduction of Resolutions. House Resolution 541, offered by Representative Lang and House Resolution 550, offered by Representative Cross. These Resolutions are referred to the House Rules Committee. Committee Reports. Representative Bradley, Chairperson from the Committee on Personnel & Pensions, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 09300074.doc 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' Senate Bill 1510. Representative O’Brien, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary II-Criminal Law, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: recommends 'be adopted’ a Motion to Concur with Senate Amendments 1 and 2 to House Bill 576. Representative Franks, Chairperson from the Committee on State Government Administration, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: recommends 'be adopted' Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1736, Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1944, Senate Joint Resolution 40; a Motion to Concur with Senate Amendment #1 to House Bill 940; a Motion to Nonconcur with Senate Amendment #2 to House Bill 940. Representative Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Revenue, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 3851. Representative Reitz, Chairperson from the Committee on Agriculture & Conservation, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: recommends 'be adopted' Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1559. Representative Hoffman, Chairperson from the 09300074.doc 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 93rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 74th Legislative Day 11/18/2003 Committee on Transportation & Motor Vehicles, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: recommends 'be adopted' House Resolution 530 and Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 978. Representative Fritchey, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary I-Civil Law, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: recommends 'be adopted' Motion to accept Amendatory Veto to Senate Bill 180; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' Senate Bill 1412. Representative Burke, Chairperson from the Committee on Executive, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on Tuesday, November 18, 2003, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass as amended Short Debate' Senate Bill 932; 'do pass Short Debate' Senate Bill 875; and recommends 'be adopted' Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 865 and Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1921. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned.” 09300074.doc 66