“The hour of 2:00 having arrived, the House will be in order. Members will be in their seats. Members and guests are asked to refrain from starting their laptops, turn off their cell phones and pagers, and rise for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. We shall be led in prayer today by Fred Robinson who is a member of the St. Katharine Drexel Parish Church here in Springfield.”
“Almighty God, we ask that You bless our governmental officials assembled here today with wisdom and mercy, prudence and compassion, insight and kindness. Let Your Holy Spirit guide them with integrity and excellence so that our children and our citizens can be proud of their nation and proud to be called Illinois citizens. We pray for our military personnel around the world and for those who gave their lives, that they may assist in bringing peace with liberty and justice for all. God of Heaven and Earth, watch over displaced Katrina victims and those victimized by the vicious storm that hit Central Illinois Sunday. Empower us as United States citizens to do our part financially, physically, emotionally, and spiritually to support all who have been affected by this tragedy. We pray that You encourage and strengthen our nation, surround us with Your love and mercy, bring peace and comfort to all those who are suffering as a result of this crisis. We ask this through our Lord. Amen.”
“Representative McAuliffe, will you lead us in the Pledge?”
“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it 09400106.doc 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
Speaker Hannig: “Roll Call for Attendance. Representative Currie.”
"Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record show that Representatives Giles, Jones, Feigenholtz, and Patterson are excused today.”
“Representative Bost.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect that Representatives Tenhouse, Lindner, Jenisch, Pihos, and Bellock are excused today.”
“So Mr. Clerk, take the record. Excuse me, Representative Bost.”
“I inadvertently said Bellock. She is here today.”
“Okay. So Mr. Clerk, take the record. There are 107 Members answering the Roll Call, a quorum is present. Representative Phelps, for what reason do you rise?”
“Point of personal privilege.”
“State your point."
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I would like for all of you to help me in wishing my seatmate Representative Dan Reitz, a young, happy 56… 52nd birthday. The big 5-2. We have cupcakes down front, so please help yourself. Thank you.”
“Representative Brauer, for what reason do you rise?”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on a point of personal privilege.” 09400106.doc 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“State your point."
“Representative Poe and myself will be going around the chambers. We’ll be collecting donations for the American Red Cross. If somebody wants to wait ‘til they get home and use a personal check, we’ll have envelopes where they can mail that in. We appreciate everybody’s efforts to help Springfield get back to normal. Thank you.”
Speaker Hannig: “Thank you, Representative Brauer. Representative Stephens, for what reason do you rise?”
“I guess it’s an inquiry of the Chair. Mr. Speaker, I… I wonder with the NCAA tournament now officially begun if we know which legislative district has the most Illini fans. Would it be Representative Jakobsson, Representative Rose, Representative Cultra, perhaps? Representative May believes that she has the most. I wonder if the Chair has that information or if any of the Representatives could provide it to me.”
“Representative Rose.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I… the Gentleman just asked a question about which district has the most Illini fans, and no doubt… no doubt, Ladies and Gentlemen, it’s Representative Cultra’s district has thousands upon thousands of loyal Illini. But there’s only one problem, Ladies and Gentlemen, Representative Cultra himself is a traitor to Illini nation. His daughter… his daughter is at the Air Force Academy. Strike one. Number two, Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr. Cultra himself is a Michigan State University graduate. And all of you know that there’s been a grand conspiracy after the Michigan State game to send Illinois to 09400106.doc 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 play Air Force. Ladies and Gentlemen, I have a couple of things here for Mr. Cultra to prove his loyalty to Illini nation. We wanna put the Falcons on ice tonight, Representative Cultra. We need the team to work like clockwork and we need Representative Cultra to wear his clockwork orange tee shirt today.”
“Representative Cultra.”
“Off we go, into the wild blue wonder, flying high into the sun.”
“Representative Will Davis.” Davis, W.: “Mr. Speaker, I would just like to let the Members of the House know that the University of Illinois is not the only Illinois school in the NCAA tournament. So are the SIU Salukis.”
“Mr. Clerk, read the Committee Reports, please.”
Clerk Mahoney: "Committee Reports. Representative Saviano, Chairperson from the Committee on Registration and Regulation, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 15, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2238, Senate Bill 2286, Senate Bill 2297, Senate Bill 2345, Senate Bill 2372, Senate Bill 2469, Senate Bill 2556, and Senate Bill 2909. Representative Franks, Chairperson from the Committee on State Government Administration, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 15, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' Senate Bill 2230, Senate Bill 2252, Senate Bill 2283, Senate Bill 2454, Senate Bill 2456, and Senate Bill 09400106.doc 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 2739, Senate Bill 2827, Senate Bill 2868, Senate Bill 2870, Senate Bill 2899, Senate Bill 2951, and Senate Bill 2952; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2360. Representative McKeon, Chairperson from the Committee on Labor, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 15, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2339, Senate Bill 827, and Senate Bill 2449. Representative Osterman, Chairperson from the Committee on Local Government, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 15, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate Bill 843, Senate Bill 2587, Senate Bill 2713; 'do pass Standard Debate' is Senate Bill 841 and Senate Bill 2664; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2986. Representative Mendoza, Chairperson from the Committee on International Trade & Commerce, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 15, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2885; 'recommends be adopted' is House Resolution 849. Representative Holbrook, Chairperson from the Committee on Environment & Energy, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 15, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' Senate Bill 2716. Representative Joyce, Chairperson from the Committee on Aging, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 16, 2006, reported the same back with the following 09400106.doc 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2381, Senate Bill 2448, and Senate Bill 2695. Representative Molaro, Chairperson from the Committee on Judiciary II - Criminal Law, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 16, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2156, Senate Bill 2162, Senate Bill 2320, Senate Bill 2505, Senate Bill 2562, Senate Bill 2617, Senate Bill 2873, Senate Bill 2915, Senate Bill 2971, and Senate Bill 3018; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2554. Representative Daniels, Chairperson from the Committee on Developmental Disabilities and Mental Illness, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 16, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2491 and Senate Bill 2763; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' is Senate Bill 2254. Representative Reitz, Chairperson from the Committee on Revenue, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 16, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' Senate Bill 819, Senate Bill 2241, Senate Bill 2579, and Senate Bill 2582; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' Senate Bill 2931; 'recommends be adopted' are Floor Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to House Bill 2706. Representative Howard, Chairperson from the Committee on Computer Technology, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on March 16, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' is Senate 09400106.doc 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 Bill 3036. Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, Chairperson from the Committee on Rules, to which the following legislative measures and/or Joint Action Motions were referred, action taken on March 16, 2006, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'approved for floor consideration' referred to the Order of Consideration Postponed is House Bill 1917; referred to the Order of Second Reading is House Bill 4604. The following measures were referred to the House Committee on Rules: House Resolution 1026, offered by Representative Berrios. And House Resolution 1029, offered by Representative Jakobsson.”
“Representative Brady, I understand you… you wish to have some Resolutions adopted. Is that correct? So Mr. Clerk, we’re gonna have… Mr. Clerk, would you read House Resolution 1007. Okay, House Resolution 1008, I’m advised.”
"House Resolution 1008, offered by Representative Brady. WHEREAS, The Epiphany School Lady Knights eighth grade girls basketball team of Normal recently placed third in the IESA 8A State Tournament; and WHEREAS, The Lady Knights finished the season with an excellent record of 24 wins and 3 losses and a home record of 12 wins and no losses; they were the Epiphany Columbus Day Tournament Champions; and WHEREAS, They were the Sangamon Valley Conference regular season champions and placed second at the Sangamon Valley Conference tournament; they went on to win at the regional and sectional level; and 09400106.doc 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 WHEREAS, The team is led by head coach Dave Schmitt and assistant coach Greg Reinhart; the statistician is Zoe Myers, and the manager is Jordan Weth; and WHEREAS, The members of the Lady Knights are Chelsea Collins, Haley Cook, Kristina Mlincsek, Jamie Baldwin, Carly Norton, Cristin Neill, Jennifer Baldwin, Maggie Blaney, and Julie Schmitt; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate the Lady Knights on an excellent season and on placing third in the IESA 8A State Tournament; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to each of the members and coaches of the Lady Knights and to Epiphany School as an expression of our esteem.”
“Representative Brady, did you wish to say something on the Resolution? You wanna wait? Okay. Representative Brady.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, if I could have your attention for just a moment. That nice House Resolution just read in honor of the eighth grade girls third place IESA State Tournament Epiphany Lady Knights. If the eighth grade girls team could stand up, we have two teams. Could you stand up, ladies? Ladies and Gentlemen, how ‘bout a nice round of applause for the third place eighth grade girls IESA from Epiphany Grade School in Normal. Congratulations, ladies. Thank you very much for coming to Springfield. Great job.”
“And on the Resolution, Representative Bost.” 09400106.doc 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to congratulate the girls, as well. It just seems that there’s one member of the team, her name seems to be Ellen Walters. Now, her grandfather actually served in this chamber and is a lobbyist quite often that you see around the cha… around the chamber, around the Capitol. And I just have a question. Does she also wear a bright orange hat and chew on a cigar? Well, congratulations.”
“All in favor of the Resolution say ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The ‘ayes’ have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Mr. Clerk. Mr. Clerk, now read House Resolution 1007.”
"House Resolution 1007, offered by Representative Brady. WHEREAS, The Epiphany School Lady Knights seventh grade girls basketball team of Normal recently won the IESA 7A State Championship; and WHEREAS, The Lady Knights finished a stellar season with a record of 27 wins and no losses; they were the Epiphany Columbus Day Tournament Champions; and WHEREAS, They were the Sangamon Valley Conference regular season and tournament champions; they went on to win at the regional and sectional level as well; and WHEREAS, The team is led by head coach Greg Reinhart and assistant coach Dave Schmitt; the statistician is Catie Whalen; and WHEREAS, The members of the Lady Knights are Allie Norton, Lindsay Stopa, Rachel Nolan, Emily Beoletto, Mia Hartung, 09400106.doc 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 Ellen Walters, Jess Reinhart, Amanda Hess, and Chelsea Turner; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate the Lady Knights on an outstanding season and on winning the IESA 7A State Championship; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to each of the members and coaches of the Lady Knights and to Epiphany School as an expression of our esteem.”
“Representative Brady on the Resolution.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. It’s not very often that one has the distinct pleasure to congratulate two teams, the seventh and eighth graders from Epiphany Grade School. And the seventh grade Lady Knights just happen to be with the record of 27 wins and 0 losses, the IESA 7A State Champions in the State of Illinois. Would you Lady Knights from the seventh grade state champion team please stand for a nice round of applause and congratulations for your efforts. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and to the House. And to you ladies, outstanding job. And to your coaches and to the school, thank you for an outstanding job and making us all proud of the Epiphany Lady Knights basketball teams. Thank you.”
“And Representative Beiser.”
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, also would like to congratulate the seventh and eighth grade team and also Representative Brady for having the good fortune to be their Representative. But I also would like to take some claim in this in that Ellen was born in District 111 and I know her 09400106.doc 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 mom and dad, Jim and Angela, very well. And I wanna have a special congratulations to Ellen and please tell your mom and dad ‘hello’. Thank you very much.”
“Is there any further discussion? Then all in favor of the Resolution say ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The ‘ayes’ have it. And the Resolution is adopted. Okay, so we’re gonna start on page 2 of the Calendar and do House… or do Senate Bills-Third Reading. We’re gonna start with Senate Bill 2233. Representative Washington. Representative Washington, do you want us to read your Senate Bill? Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2233, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“Representative Washington.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this Bill, Senate Bill 2233, the Bill excepts certain municipalities from the notice requirement a property owner/leaser must give an unauthorized vehicle parked on their property before they can legally have the vehicle towed. It makes an exception to such signage for all municipalities outside of Chicago. This Bill favorably passed out of the Senate. There are no opponents to the Bill and I seek favorable approval from this Body. Open for any questions.”
“The Gentleman has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2233. Is there any discussion? Then the question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative… okay. Representative Sacia. Okay. 09400106.doc 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 108 voting ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Hoffman on Senate Bill 2243. Representative Jay Hoffman, you’re up on 2243. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2243, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
Speaker Hannig: “The Gentleman from Madison, Representative Hoffman.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 2243 would allow police force appointed by a rail carrier to have the same powers of other peace officers throughout the state. This is in response to a recent appellate court decision that indicated that they essentially only had powers… police powers on the… the rail property. This is what we believed was the current law and fixes the inaccuracies in our mind of the appellate court decision.”
“The Gentleman has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2243. Is there any discussion? Then the question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Nekritz, do you wish to be recorded? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 108 voting ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Winters, you’re next with Senate 09400106.doc 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 Bill 2271. Representative Winters. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2271, a Bill for an Act concerning wildlife. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“Representative Winters.”
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 2271 basically adds limited liability partnerships… limited liability corporations and partnerships to being allowed a free wild turkey permit for each 40 acres owned by those partnerships or limited liability corporations. Be happy to answer any questions. It does model and copy what we do with deer permits.”
“The Gentleman has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2271. Is there any discussion? Then… then the question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Smith, do you wish to be recorded? Representative Stephens, do you wish to be recorded? Representative Yarbrough, do you wish to be recorded? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting ‘yes’ and 1 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Burke has Senate Bill 2302. Out of the record. Representative Ryg has Senate Bill 2308. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2308, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“The Lady from Lake, Representative Ryg.” 09400106.doc 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This legislation assists persons who have been found eligible for Medicaid benefits but who have assets or monthly income that must be spent down before their benefits apply. Their spend-down is the difference between their income and the Medicaid eligibility income level. This Bill is based on a recommendation from a feasibility study conducted by the Departments of Human Services and Health Care & Family Services and provides for an alternative payment option which simplifies the spend-down process for both the recipient and local caseworker. It has increased significance for seniors who are dually eligible for Medicare Part D and Medicaid. Both the departments are neutral on the Bill and willing to implement this payment plan, so I look for your support. Thank you.”
“The Lady has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2308. And on that question, the Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
“She indicates she’ll yield.”
“Representative, I’m intrigued by this concept but I’d like a little more information. We currently are not paying our Medicaid bills in a timely fashion, so how… how does the prepayment system work?”
“This program just provides an alternative payment method. Currently, an individual has to pay medical bills based on their income level until they reach the limit of their Medicaid eligibility. So right now, on a monthly basis, a 09400106.doc 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 person has to collect their receipts, submit them to a local caseworker who has to determine that the spend-down has been met, and then their Medicaid card is processed. It doesn’t make any changes to their eligibility or to the benefits. So, it is simply a matter of who is paying those bills. Under this plan, the person would prepay their spend-down to the department and the department would pay their bills, pay their spend-down with that amount, and then their Medicaid would kick in as normal.”
“I… I appreciate that, but I thought it was possible even now to prepay on an estimated basis. If you had a doctor’s appointment next month, you could prepay that. You could prepay some prescription bills so that you would meet your spend-down let’s say in… in March, and then in April you would not have the spend-down. Is… is… maybe I missed something in constituent work, but I thought it was already possible to do that.”
“No, it currently is not. That’s the intent of this legislation.”
“All right. So, this only impacts those that are on a spend-down, correct?”
“Yes.”
“Now, is there any danger in… in this prepayment that a computer program or a… an input person is going to see, well, wait a minute, this person has evidently paid all of the spend-down for this month so they must be making too much income, and so they cut them off for the next month? That… that is a legitimate fear that I have.” 09400106.doc 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“In… in my conversations with the department, they are going to implement this on a manual basis initially and all the bills are reconciled.”
“All right. So, but if we do get a constituent caught up in that, I have your permission to refer them to you for an explanation?”
“I’d be happy to help your constituent, Representative.”
“Thank you very much.”
Speaker Hannig: “Representative Mulligan. Representative Mulligan, you’re up.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
“She indicates she’ll yield.”
“Representative, when you presented this in committee I thought it was a good idea, I just had a few questions. You said we do not have to have a waiver to do this?”
“I’m sorry?”
“We do not need a federal waiver to do this? They can do it under the current plan, they just need some approval?”
“That’s correct.”
“And was the department planning on doing this but they’ve kind of set it aside several times now, and is that why you’re going forward with the legislation?”
“That’s correct. We passed this legislation in previous General Assembly. It was vetoed by the Governor based on implementation cost that he believed were excessive, but that was a misunderstanding based on the computer cost. The department offered to do this via Rule and they did… were unable to follow through on that, so we’re reintroducing the legislation.” 09400106.doc 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Okay, so the Governor vetoed a similar Bill once already?”
“Yes.”
“Do you think that reading some things into the record, that they will understand better how much time and effort this will save, particularly for local district offices and elderly people who have a hard time bringing their the receipts and then the department sometimes loses everything and it really is a lot of work?”
“Yes. Immediately after the veto the department was… was helpful in getting to the Governor’s Office to explain the misunderstanding in the cost projection. Then they thought they could implement it by Rule and they didn’t, so we’re going to continue the process.”
“All right. And this would also help disabled clients or developmentally disabled who have to do this… or the people that do it for them do it routinely?”
“Yes. In fact, those are the populations that are probably going to be best served by this because their spend-down amount is likely to be more consistent and their medical costs are probably most consistent.”
“All right. So, this will not cost the state anymore money, they would be doing it anyway. It’s just a matter of streamlining, which really helps both our district offices, the client particularly, and then the state office.”
“Yes.”
“All right. Thank you very much.”
“Thank you.”
“Representative Ryg to close.” 09400106.doc 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Thank you. Again, I think it’s been pointed out that this has significant benefits not only to the clients but to the state caseworkers. So I ask for your support.”
“The question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. 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 108 voting ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Reitz, shall we read Senate Bill 2334? Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2334, a Bill for an Act concerning wildlife. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“The Gentleman from Randolph, Representative Reitz.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 2334 amends the Wildlife Code. It adds willfully… or ‘intentionally’ and wanting… ‘wantonly’ to… in regards to allowing dogs to hunt within 300 yards within someone’s home and also allowing the dogs to hunt on someone else’s property without pertaining to the owner’s permission. That’s simply what it does and… and I know of no opposition. I’d appreciate your help.”
“The Gentleman has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2334. And on that question, the Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black.”
“Yeah, thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
“He indicates he’ll yield.” 09400106.doc 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Representative, I certainly have no quarrel with the intent of your… of your Bill. I’m sure you’ve been hunting with dogs as… as I have been. Now, when I had a hunting dog and it was on the scent or the trail, even though it was supposed to come back when you whistled or… or called, it often didn’t. It would stay on that trail and it might inadvertently get within your guidelines. Now, what do you do then? You didn’t knowingly let the dog go onto somebody’s property or within this range, but the dog is there, nonetheless. So what happens in that case?”
“I think that’s what this legislation’s trying to correct, that we’ll… that you had to intentionally let your dog go if it’s following a scent and inadvertently gets on someone else’s property. We’re trying to cut down on landowner disputes…”
“Okay.”
“…and clarify this so that you… if you didn’t intentionally or wantonly send your dog over there, if it’s just following a scent, that’s what this is trying to clarify.”
“All right. So, it would be a matter then for the landowner to… to really file a complaint with the conservation police, he or she would have to have some indication that you did this knowingly and willfully…”
“Correct.”
“…letting your dog on their property.”
“Correct.”
“Okay, fine. Thank you.”
“Representative Reitz to close.” 09400106.doc 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Thank you.”
“Okay. The question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Flider, do you wish to be recorded? Representative Ryg, do you wish to be recorded? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 108 voting ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Yarbrough has Senate Bill 2400. Out of the record. Representative Fritchey has Senate Bill 2465. Out of the record. Representative Black, you have Senate Bill 2489. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2489, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“The Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. This Bill simply will authorize a railroad terminal. The definition of ‘railroad terminal’ is anything in excess of 25 acres. It will allow them to construct electric fencing, security cameras within the parameters of their terminal property for safety and security measures. This has a little bit to do with homeland security, but in all honesty has probably more to do with trying to protect: one, the safety of individuals who for some reason want to trespass on railroad property. And quite frankly, number two is that they often break into railroad cars and steal the contents. So, when you put the 09400106.doc 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 whole package together I think this makes a good common sense. It helps to prevent railroad trespassing, theft, and also gives a measure of security to railroad terminals where you would not want somebody to be able to put an explosive device or something of that sort on a railroad car. I’ll be glad to answer any questions that you have.”
“Is there any discussion? The Gentleman from Lee, Representative Mitchell.” Mitchell, J.: “Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
“Indicates he’ll yield.” Mitchell, J.: “Representative Black, have there been incidents in your district that… that sparked this legislation or is this looking forward and… and more preventative?”
“Well, it’s both, Representative. I did have an incident, but it wouldn’t meet the… it wouldn’t meet the definition of a ‘terminal’. It was just a siding. It didn’t meet the 25 acres. There were some people out hunting and discovered a railroad… about 20 cars on a railroad siding and they broke into the cars and found color television sets, and so they thought that was a lot more fun than pheasant hunting. And so, they… they got their trucks and took off with about a hundred and fifty television sets. But this Bill wouldn’t have helped that. But it would in all the areas where we have railroad terminals where they collect cars for switching and things like that.” Mitchell, J.: “Well, I’ve had a pretty good quail dog but I’ve never been able to teach one to point to television sets. That might be a whole new area of hunting.”
“No question.” 09400106.doc 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 Mitchell, J.: “Seems… seems like this is… is a preventative measure for the railroads. And of course, in this day and age, homeland security is very important. I think everything that we can do to make sure that our modes of transportation, be it… be it cargo or passengers, I think it’s vitally important that we do what we can and take those steps necessary. So…”
“Well, thank you very… thank you very much for those comments, Representative. We did find a money clip at the scene with the initials ‘J.M.’ on it. If you know anybody with those initials, would you contact the Danville Police.”
“The Gentle…” Mitchell, J.: “Was the money gone? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.”
“The Gentleman from Winnebago, Representative Winters.”
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
“Indicates he’ll yield.”
"Representative Black, I’m a little concerned about this allowing electrified fences out in the country, and I’m wondering is there any opportunity for former Representative Noland to possibly set up an electric couch next to the electric fence for viewing people that might get hung up on the wire?”
“Well, I… I can’t speak for Representative… former Representative Noland, but he certainly promoted that idea when we was here. And I did… I’m glad you brought that up. There will be a fence prior to the electric fence. The electric fence will be with all… within all of the guidelines. It cannot be lethal in any way, shape, or form. 09400106.doc 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 And there will be a fence before you get to the electric fence with adequate warning signs telling you of… of that barrier that lies a few feet ahead.”
"So you’re telling me that somebody would have to cut through an eight-foot fence first before they could come in contact with the electric fence? You know, are they…”
“I don’t know if the fence…”
"…access, climb over it, do something…”
“Yes.”
"…before they could get to the electric fence?”
“Yes. They would have to go through a berm or barrier prior to getting to the electric fence, and they would have to be clearly trespassing to do that.”
"Okay. Well, you… you’ve allayed some of my concerns on this Bill. Thank you.”
“Representative Black to close.”
“Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Appreciate the questions. Would appreciate an ‘aye’ vote.”
“The question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Hoffman and Schock, do you wish to be recorded? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 108 voting ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Brady, for what reason do you rise?”
“Point of personal privilege, Mr. Speaker.”
“State your point." 09400106.doc 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Thank you very much. Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, if you’d join me with a nice Springfield welcome, a group in the gallery from the Illinois Funeral Directors Association that are here on their political action and government day. Please help me in recognizing and welcoming the group to Springfield.”
“Mr. Clerk, read Senate Bill 2711.”
"Senate Bill 2711, a Bill for an Act concerning the transfer of real property. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
Speaker Hannig: “The Gentleman from McHenry, Representative Franks.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This Bill is in response to the IDNR cuts up in Spring Grove, Illinois, where we have a fish hatchery that was closed because it was costing about a million-one a year to run and IDNR decided they didn’t want to spend that anymore, so it’s almost been abandoned except for some storage areas. This Bill will allow… it will not require, it does not mandate… but it will allow IDNR to convey the property to the Village of Spring Grove to be used as a nature area, and the intent is to have walking areas and an observation area. The land must be reserved for passive use, otherwise there’s a reverter clause. There’ll also be a contract here as well. The… the transfer would be for $1. I’d be glad to answer any questions.”
“The Gentleman has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2711. Is there any discussion? Then the question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted 09400106.doc 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting ‘yes’ and 2 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Fritchey has Senate Bill 2718. Out of the record. Representative Wait, you have Senate Bill 2807. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2807, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“Representative Wait.”
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 2807 clarifies the modestly expands existing law regarding to gas co-ops for commercial, industrial, and residential commercials. This just affects small co-ops in my area. Came out of the committee unanimously. I’d be happy to answer any questions.”
“The Gentleman has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2807. Is there any discussion? Then the question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Joe Dunn, do you wish to be recorded? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 107 voting ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Tryon, you have Senate Bill 2878. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 2878, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill.” 09400106.doc 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Representative Tryon.”
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 2878 is essentially the same Bill that we passed out of the House of Representatives last week, which was Senate… House Bill 4314, which was changing the… amends the Vehicle Code to provide vehicle emissions testing in areas where counties that are air quality nonattainment areas from a system where if you don’t get it done or you don’t get your paperwork done, we currently revoke your driver’s license. That system’s gonna be changed to a denial of the vehicle registration. It’ll become effective January 1, 2008. This will allow the Secretary of State and the IEPA to have time to develop the software and necessary program changes that they need to make at their testing outlets. This will bring us in compliance with all of the other states and it’s an agreed Bill between the Secretary of State’s Office and IEPA. With that, I would be happy to answer any questions.”
“The Gentleman has moved for the passage of Senate Bill 2878. Is there any discussion? Then the question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Younge, do you wish to be recorded? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Brauer, for what reason do you rise?” 09400106.doc 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006
“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise on a point of personal privilege.”
“State your point."
“I wanna thank all the Members in the chamber today, the staff, the guards. Just going around and with this initial donation we’ve raised over $12 hundred for the American Red Cross in release… release effort here in Springfield. Give yourself a round of applause. Thank you.”
Speaker Hannig: “Thank you, Representative Brauer and Representative Poe, for your work in that effort. Representative Currie, you have Senate Bill 3062. Mr. Clerk, read the Bill.”
"Senate Bill 3062, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Se… Third Reading of this Senate Bill.”
“Representative Currie.”
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. This would just renew the Structural Pest Control Act, which means the commercial applications of… of poisonous, toxic pest preventives would be continued to be regulated by the Department of Public Health. I know of no opposition and I’d appreciate your support.”
“The Lady moves for the passage of Senate Bill 3062. Is there any discussion? Then the question is, ‘Shall this Bill pass?’ All in favor vote ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Bost, do you wish to be recorded? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this question, there are 106 voting 09400106.doc 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 ‘yes’ and 0 voting ‘no’. And this Bill, having received a Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, on Supplemental Calendar #1, under the Order of Consideration Postponed, is House Bill 1917. Return that to the Order of Second Reading at the request of the Sponsor. Mr. Clerk, read the Agreed Resolutions.”
Clerk Bolin: "Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 1020, offered by Representative John Bradley. House Resolution 1021, offered by Representative Joe Lyons. House Resolution 1022, offered by Representative Poe. House Resolution 1023, offered by Representative Acevedo. House Resolution 1024, offered by Speaker Madigan. House Resolution 1025, offered by Representative Molaro. House Resolution 1027, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 1028, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 1030, offered by Representative Collins. House Resolution 1033, offered by Representative Cross. House Resolution 1034, offered by Representative Cross.”
“Representative Currie moves for the adoption of the Agreed Resolutions. All in favor say ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The ‘ayes’ have it. And the Agreed Resolutions are adopted. Mr. Clerk, read the Adjournment Resolution.”
Clerk Bolin: "Senate Joint Resolution #85, offered by Representative Currie. RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING HEREIN, that when the two Houses adjourn on Thursday, March 16, 2006, the Senate stands adjourned until Wednesday, March 22, 2006, at 12:00 noon; and the House of 09400106.doc 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 106th Legislative Day 3/16/2006 Representatives stands adjourned until Wednesday, March 22, 2006, at 2:00 p.m.”
“Representative Currie moves for the adoption of the Adjournment Resolution. All in favor say ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The ‘ayes’ have it. And the Adjournment Resolution is adopted. Are there any announcements? Well, the Chair is preparing to adjourn. Are there any announcements? Then Representative Currie would move, that allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, that the House stands adjourned until Wednesday, March 22, at the hour of 2 p.m. All in favor say ‘aye’; opposed ‘nay’. The ‘ayes’ have it. The Resolu… the Motion is adopted and the House stands adjourned.” 09400106.doc 29