"The House shall come to order. The Members shall be in their chairs. We ask the Members… we ask the Members and our guests in gallery to turn off laptop computers, cell phones and pagers and to rise for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. We shall be led in prayer today by Lee Crawford, the Pastor of the Cathedral of Praise Christian Center in Springfield."
"Let us pray. Most gracious and most kind God, the author and finisher of our faith, we pray this day that You would bestow Your precious blessings upon this august Body. We pray for its Leaders and all of its Members. We ask that You would bless those who You have chose to serve here. Grant them this day wisdom to make wise decisions, grant them knowledge to know You and to know all of Your ways. This we pray in Your precious name, amen."
"We shall be led in the Pledge of Allegiance by Representative Washington."
"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."
"Roll Call for Attendance. Representative Currie. Currie. Representative Currie."
"Thank… thank you, Speaker. Please let the record show that there are no excused absences among House Democrats today."
"Mr. Bost." 09500008.doc 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect that all Republicans are ready to serve and present and loving the chamber by the way."
"Thank you."
"But I…"
"Mr. Clerk, take the record. There being 117 Members responding to the Attendance Roll Call, there is a quorum present. Mr. Clerk. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"On the Order of Agreed Resolutions. House Resolution 4, offered by Representative Watson. House Resolution 5, offered by Representative Hassert. House Resolution 6, offered by Representative Black. House Resolution 7, offered by Representative Mautino. House Resolution 8, offered by Representative Granberg. House Resolution 9, offered by Representative Munson. House Resolution 10, offered by Representative Dunkin. House Resolution 12, offered by Representative Franks. House Resolution 13, offered by Representative Black. House Resolution 16, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 17, offered by Representative Mathias. House Resolution 18, offered by Representative Howard. House Resolution 19, offered by Representative Watson. House Resolution 20, offered by Representative Lou Lang. House Resolution 21, offered by Representative Poe. House Resolution 23, offered by Representative Black. House Resolution 24, offered by Representative Reis. House Resolution 26, offered by Representative McGuire. House Resolution 27, offered by Representative Granberg. House Resolution 29, offered by Representative Kosel. House 09500008.doc 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Resolution 30, offered by Representative Colvin. House Resolution 31, offered by Representative Colvin. House Resolution 32, offered by Representative Tracy. House Resolution 33, offered by Representative Tracy. House Resolution 34, offered by Representative Ryg. House Resolution 35, offered by Representative Reis. House Resolution 36, offered by Representative Howard. House Resolution 37, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 38, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 39, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 40, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 41, offered by Representative McGuire. House Resolution 42, offered by Representative McGuire. House Resolution 44, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia. House Resolution 48, offered by Representative Howard. House Resolution 49, offered by Representative Wait. House Resolution 52, offered by Representative Ramey. House Resolution 53, offered by Representative Rose. House Resolution 57, offered by Representative Flowers. House Resolution 58, offered by Representative Pritchard. House Resolution 59, offered by Representative Pritchard. House Resolution 61, offered by Representative Cross. House Resolution 62, offered by Representative Brady. House Resolution 63, offered by Representative Madigan."
"The Clerk has read the Agreed Resolutions. Representative Currie moves for the adoption of the Agreed Resolutions. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The Agreed Resolutions are 09500008.doc 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 adopted. On page 2 of the Calendar, on the Order of Agreed Resolutions, there appears HR43. Mr. Clerk."
"House Resolution 43, offered by Representative Madigan. WHEREAS, Six different structures, located in Kaskaskia, Vandalia, and Springfield, have served as the Illinois Capitol since the State's founding in 1818; and WHEREAS, Traditionally, the Capitol included space for the executive, judicial, and legislative branches of State government, and by custom and practice each General Assembly's inaugural ceremonies took place in that structure; and WHEREAS, Only twice in the history of the Illinois House of Representatives has chamber construction or reconstruction work necessitated that inaugural proceedings take place at an alternative location; first, in 1840, when the construction of the building now known as the Old State Capitol was not completed, and again in 2007, as craftsmen diligently worked to finish renovations that would restore the House chambers to the grandeur and majesty of its first days in 1877; construction of the present Capitol was finally completed in 1888; and WHEREAS, A number of venues for hosting the Illinois House of Representatives portion of the 95th General Assembly's inaugural ceremonies were considered; the Sangamon Auditorium at the University of Illinois at Springfield was judged to provide the best alternative to the actual House chambers; and 09500008.doc 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 WHEREAS, While the House of Representatives staff devoted extensive time and energy towards ensuring that the 2007 ceremonies were conducted in a manner consistent with the dignity and high standards of all previous House inaugurals, it is recognized that the event would not have been possible without the assistance and many hours of hard work provided by University of Illinois at Springfield personnel and the Sangamon Auditorium staff; Gerald Burkhart, Cheryl Peck, Joan Sestak, and Ed Wojcicki were especially helpful in coordinating the logistics of this important event; and WHEREAS, The inaugural was judged by House members, their families, and guests to be a complete success worthy of the Body's traditions and history; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we extend our sincere appreciation for the unprecedented hospitality extended by the University to our members, families, guests, and other dignitaries on the occasion of the January 10, 2007 inaugural ceremony; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be presented to Chancellor Richard Ringeisen on behalf of the grateful members of the Illinois House of Representatives."
"Representative Currie on HR43."
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. I think everybody agrees that the festivities surrounding the House Inaugural were superlative. Families, friends, all of us enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. The whole event was conducted with great efficiency and a large measure of dignity. A lot more dignified, I'd have to say, than your traditional high 09500008.doc 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 school graduation. We owe a great debt of gratitude to the Chancellor of the University of Illinois at Springfield, Dr. Richard Ringeisen and the staffers who were most in charge of making sure everything went smoothly, Gerald Burkhart, Cheryl Peck, Joan Sestak and Ed Wojcicki but of course all of the workers, all of the volunteers who were there made it work for us. So, I join in appreciating this Resolution that thanks them for their attentiveness and their ability to pull off an excellent event. And I urge passage of House Resolution 43."
Speaker Madigan: "The Lady moves for the adoption of the Resolution. Those in favor signify by saying 'yes'; those opposed by saying 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The Resolution is adopted. Mr. Clerk, House Resolution 51. Read the Resolution."
"House Resolution 51, offered by Speaker Madigan and Representative Cross. WHEREAS, In the Spring of 2006 the Illinois House of Representatives embarked on the construction phase of an ambitious effort to restore its regular State Capitol chambers to the former grandeur and majesty of their first days in 1877; and WHEREAS, The extent of the work required to reconstruct the House chambers was such that it necessitated that the Body select an alternative site at which to convene the 94th General Assembly's 2006 Fall Veto Session, held the 14th, 15th, 16th, 28th, 29th, and 30th days of November, and the concluding three days of the regular session, held the 7th, 8th, and 9th days of January 2007; and 09500008.doc 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 WHEREAS, After a thorough review it was determined that the most logical and fitting location for temporary quarters would be the Old State Capitol State Historic Site in downtown Springfield; it is one of the five former State Capitols and the last home of the General Assembly before taking up residence in the current Capitol in 1877; and WHEREAS, The Old State Capitol had not been used as a legislative meeting place since the years 1875 to 1877, when it housed the 29th General Assembly, nor had it been used as a place for official State business since delegates to the 1970 Constitutional Convention assembled there to do their work; and WHEREAS, A brief period of adjustment to the amenities and particularities of a 19th Century legislative setting quickly gave way to the House members' deep sense of awe at their historic surroundings; legislators recognized the rare honor and privilege afforded them to speak and debate in the same place as had many of their distinguished predecessors, including Abraham Lincoln, our nation's greatest president and a former member of the Illinois House, who delivered his famous "House-Divided" speech in that same setting after his selection as the 1858 Republican U.S. Senate candidate; and WHEREAS, The nine session days of the House of Representatives held at the Old State Capitol demonstrate that a facility designated a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places may still play an essential role in the operations of modern government when the need arises; and 09500008.doc 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 WHEREAS, While the House of Representatives staff devoted extensive time and energy towards ensuring that House members would be able to conduct the important business of the people without undue burden or hardship, it is recognized that this would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency staff; Director Robert Coomer, Pat Baska, Jennie Battles, Dave Blanchette, Ed Killen, Dennis Mastroddi, Dan Ortgesson, Lee Reed, Chet Rhodes, Bill Sherer, Sandy Temple, and Gary Whitly all played essential roles in ensuring the smooth functioning of the proceedings; Site Manager Justin Blandford and his assistant Bill Hortberg are worthy of special commendation for their dedication, hard work, and long hours; and WHEREAS, House members, staff, and all those who had the good fortune to observe the proceedings of the 94th General Assembly at the Old State Capitol judged them to be a complete success, worthy of the Body's traditions and history; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we extend a hearty thank you to those who offered their hospitality and made it possible for the House to meet in such magnificent temporary quarters and fulfill its constitutional responsibilities; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be presented to Director Robert Coomer, Pat Baska, Jennie Battles, Dave Blanchette, Ed Killen, Dennis Mastroddi, Dan Ortgesson, Lee Reed, Chet Rhodes, Bill Sherer, Sandy Temple, Gary Whitly, 09500008.doc 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Justin Blandford, and Bill Hortberg as an expression of our sincere appreciation and gratitude."
"Representative Currie."
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. I know all of us were awestruck to find ourselves meeting in the Old State Capitol in the historic House chambers. I wasn't lucky enough to sit in the seat where Abraham Lincoln sat, but to know that history that preceded us when we took over that chamber for those nine days in December was really magnificent. I think we owe a deep debt of gratitude to the site director Robert Coomer who no… not only saw to it that everything worked smoothly but also gave us a lot of good history lessons. So, it was an exciting and awesome time to find ourselves there. It's true that the wood burning stoves didn't quite do what they might and the lack of an electronic scoreboard made the Roll Calls a bit lengthy but for the privilege of serving in a chamber where so many Illinoisans have sat before us, I think that we are indeed grateful to the Historic Preservation Agency and to site director Robert Coomer for making the experience a memorable one. So, I urge adoption of House Resolution 51."
Speaker Madigan: "The Lady moves for the adoption of the Resolution. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The Resolution is adopted. Mr. Clerk, House Resolution 65. Read the Resolution."
"House Resolution 65, offered by Representative Madigan. WHEREAS, In 1867 the Legislature authorized the construction of the sixth Illinois State Capitol and the second to be 09500008.doc 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 located in Springfield; the groundbreaking was held the following year and in 1877 the General Assembly met in its present chambers for the first time; work on the building was finally completed in 1888; and WHEREAS, The original design for the building was created by Chicago architect John C. Cochrane, who formed a partnership with Alfred H. Piquenard; architect W. W. Boyington, who also designed Chicago's Water Tower building, played an important role in the final years of the Capitol's construction; and WHEREAS, The last significant chamber renovations were finished in 1974; nearly three decades of additional wear, combined with critical electrical, plumbing, climate control, structural and public safety concerns, prompted the realization that to ensure the chamber would continue to serve its essential function for generations to come, it would be necessary to undertake a significant new reconstruction effort; and WHEREAS, Those involved in the initial renovation planning recognized that the situation presented a rare opportunity to restore the chamber to the grandeur and majesty it had not known since its first days; to understand the chamber's original décor and arrangement, guarantee historical accuracy and maintain modern functionality, House and Senate staff, in conjunction with architects and historians, undertook a multi-year research effort involving the examination of period documents, photographs, newspaper articles and architectural drawings in the Sangamon Valley 09500008.doc 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Collection of Springfield's Lincoln Library and at the State Archives; and WHEREAS, By joint agreement of the House and Senate leadership, and the governor, the construction phase of the restoration was slated to begin in 2006; only moments after the 94th General Assembly adjourned its Spring session in May that year did workers begin the task of preparing the chamber, moving quickly to remove old fixtures and furnishings in preparation for the renovation ahead; so began the labors of hundreds of craftsmen and women working continuously for eight months to rebuild the chambers, literally from the ground up; and WHEREAS, The firm of Vinci-Hamp Architects of Chicago, known for its expertise in historical architecture, researched, designed, and oversaw the renovation contract; CORE Construction of Morton, Illinois served as the project's general contractor under the leadership of Brian Rumpf, meeting deadlines and working to insure the historical accuracy of the work; and WHEREAS, Numerous subcontractors worked diligently on various aspects of the project; Colfax Corporation did the initial asbestos abatement; Henneman Raufeisen & Associates did HVAC Phase I which upgraded the dependability and performance of the chambers mechanical systems; B & B Electric and Cochran and Wilken worked together to design and upgrade the electrical capabilities and dependability of the chamber's mechanical systems; Henson Robinson installed modern plumbing; Evergreene Studios provided historical analysis and restoration of decorative paintwork throughout the 09500008.doc 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 chamber; Imperial Woodworking was responsible for the extensive millwork; Brooks Art Glass replicated art glass for the laylight; Bennett Electronic Service Company installed and programmed the new audio system; Morton Automatic Electric installed the new voting consoles; Signature Craft installed the upholstered chamber panels; H. F. Fritsch & Sons did painting and woodwork refinishing; Murphy Marble did the intricate marble reconstruction; Bob Gfroerer hand-stitched over one mile of carpet on the House floor and Allied Carpet hand stitched the gallery and corridors; St. Louis Lighting Company provided period lighting fixtures throughout; and WHEREAS, All of the work was done under the supervision of the Capitol Development Board in collaboration with Secretary of State Jesse White and Capitol Architect Donald McLarty; numerous state agencies and offices, from the Legislative Information System, Central Management Services, and the staff of the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate helped to make the project a success; and WHEREAS, It is a great honor and privilege to be the first legislators to lay eyes upon and work in surroundings that, but for the addition of certain modern conveniences and appliances, would be completely familiar to the lawmakers who first did the people's business here one-hundred-thirty years ago; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that that we extend our sincere thanks to all those who endeavored to restore this House to its former glory, and create a place 09500008.doc 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 which is among the very finest legislative chambers in the United States and one which the people of Illinois can be justly proud; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be presented to the attached list of construction participants as an expression of our gratitude and appreciation. CORE Construction Steve Roeschley Brian Rumpf Curt Tanner Rich Sandridge Wes Clanton Mike Reynolds Randy Jacob HF Fritsche Wen Fritsche Mark Conaway Tim Durbin Steve Sagle Dennis Gillette Keith Thrasher Herb Craig Robert Smith Doug Hernandez Mike Pryor J. D. Harris Tom Muir plasterers Steve Rothe Gerry Whalen Mike Jones Caine Weber 09500008.doc 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Chris Howard Cochran & Wilken Inc Rick Schmudde Jerry Dillon Link Cochran Imperial Woodworking Frank Huschitt Marcus Belli Lloyd Busse Ralph Heppner Resource One Cindy Davis Kathy Costa Vinci|Hamp Phil Hamp David Hrabal Alex Krikharr Lisa Korpan David Reyff Larry DuPont CDB Tony Licata Mark Gerardot Jan Grimes Ron Wright Mark Flowers Ed James Todd DeJaynes Jim Riemer Bennett Electronic Service John Lauth Lance Bounds Brian Hopper Aaron Rock Morton Automatic Electric Alan Rumbold 09500008.doc 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Evergreene Ed Magee Terry Vanderwell Glenn Brown Dave Giese Terry Brackenbury Egizii Jim Tomasko Dorse Taylor Mike McSperritt Architect Don McLarty Dean McGeath B & B Electric Warren Atherton Steve Trutter Scott Skillett Henson Robinson Scott Williams Doug Parker SOS Rusty Kunz Terri Coombes Donna Fitts Eric Whitlock Daryl Vermilion Harl Ray Joe Lowder Brooks Art Glass Steve Brooks and wife Monica Henneman Raufeisen & Associates Dave Mauch Paul Boland Lee Turley Chuck Belanger Joe Kolodzinski Murphy Marble Mike Van Etten 09500008.doc 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Greg Satterfield Derrik Satterfield Dustin Satterfield Allied Carpet (Iowa) Nick Cox Ohio Carpet Bob Gfroerer Brian Gfroerer Signature Craft fabric guys Matthew Bice Dan Rausch sound Mark Bennett AT&T Ron Skelton Matt Dutz."
Speaker Madigan: "The Clerk has read the Resolution. Representative Currie."
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. This is the first renovation of the House chambers in more than 30 years. And I know you will all agree with me when I say that this is spectacular. Our thanks go to Tim Mapes, our Chief of Staff, as well as the restoration architecture firm Vinci-Hamp, CORE Construction, subcontractors and their workers in the fields of electricity, plumbing, HVAC, detailed painting, plastering, all of those kinds of things. This is an amazing, amazing restoration. I think this has got to be the most wonderful House of Representatives of any state in the nation and the loving work that restored the chamber to the way it was… looked when it was brand new, of all those years ago, is just, just wonderful. So, this Resolution thanks the people who made it happen, the people who gave of their time and expertise to do us this spectacular job. And I would like the workers, the people who did it who are sitting in the Speaker's gallery, to 09500008.doc 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 stand so that we can all give them a hearty round of applause. So, thank you, thank you for a job very well done indeed. And I move for the adoption of House Resolution 65."
Speaker Madigan: "The Lady moves for the adoption of the Resolution. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The Resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Mr. Stephens."
"Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. And while they're in the… in your gallery, I wonder if we could have one of those workers come down. I seem to have broken my lock on my desk and I'd sure appreciate it. Somebody had to be first."
"On the Order of Resolutions, page 2 of the Calendar, there appears House Resolution 60. The Chair recognizes Representative Currie."
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. House Resolution 60 contains the rules for the operation of this chamber during the 95th General Assembly. The rules are identical to the rules that we adopted at the very end of the last Session as there were a few nonsubstantive technical changes, you will recall, at the end. The only difference is that some committees had been dropped, some had been added. I will go through those changes very quickly. We have among new committees: the Committee on Biotechnology, Department of Children & Family Services Oversight, Disability Services, Drivers Ed & Safety, Ethanol Production Oversight, Health & Health Care Disparities, Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, Least Cost Power Procurement, Prison Reform, Renewable Energy, Rural Economic 09500008.doc 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Development, Smart Growth & Regional Planning and Tollway Oversight. In addition, there are several new special committees: Adoption Reform, Juvenile Justice Reform, Pensions Fund Management and Railroad Safety. I'd be happy to answer your questions. And I'd appreciate your support for adopting these rules as a framework for our operations in this 95th General Assembly."
Speaker Madigan: "The Lady moves for the adoption of the Resolution. Is there any discussion? There being no discussion, the question is, 'Shall the House… Mr. Black."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I had filed a… an Amendment to House Resolution 60. I'm sure the Amendment will be ruled not timely. Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, if I could have your attention. I don't mean to belabor this point; I have made it every year for some years. Embodied in the House Rules is a particular rule and I know the genesis of the rule, I didn't like it then and I don't like it now. When I came down here 21 years ago Members had much more empowerment than we do now. We could file Amendments that had to be voted on. We had the ability to move our Bills, not in an easy fashion, but I think easier than we do now. The rule that I particularly do not like and I would urge… and this is not a partisan issue… I would urge Members on… on the Democrat side of the aisle to think about very carefully the rule that requires you to have unanimous consent, unanimous consent, to discharge a Bill from the Rules Committee. Now, ask yourself, under what circumstances would you ever get unanimous consent to remove 09500008.doc 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 a Bill from the Rules Committee. The Rules Committee I affectionately call God's waiting room; it's where Bills go to die. And the way that this Body has changed over the years, the Conference of Women Legislators may have an excellent idea but if it doesn't get out of the Rules Committee it can't be heard. The Latino Caucus may have an idea or a concept and yet the chances of you getting a Bill out of the Rules Committee, so it could be debated and discussed, by unanimous consent, literally is impossible. Any number of groups here: the newly formed Education Caucus, the newly formed Manufacturing Caucus, the newly formed Downstate Caucus, the, as it was called when I came here, the Black Caucus. All of us at… on occasion have a Bill that's very important to either our area of the state or our area of concern and if the Rules Committee will not advance your Bill you cannot even have a legitimate discussion or debate on a concept that may be very important to you. I simply stand in opposition to the Rules as presented because I think that one provision is wrong. It removes all power from the individual Member and gives all power to whoever is in control of the chamber, be they Democrat, be they Republican, be they the Green Party or whatever may come to pass in the years ahead. I think this is wrong. I think it's unfair to my constituents, to your constituents whose grievances we are not even allowed the courtesy of debate and discussion. I've tried to amend this and make it a Three-fifths Majority. It protects the interest of the Majority Party. I think it protects the interest of everyone but would let a Bill be discharged from 09500008.doc 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 the Rules Committee for debate and discussion. Currently, there simply is no way to do that. In closing let me say, Mr. Speaker, I wasn't approached by anyone to bring this up. The Governor has not asked me to bring this up; I haven't talked to the Governor in some time. This is an idea that I opposed when my Party did it; I oppose it now. I think it's wrong. I think if you want to be empowered as Members or Members of a caucus or to truly be able to represent your constituency, you should be able to advance a Bill from the Rules Committee without unanimous consent because I can tell you unanimous consent will never be given and so that all power then rests in the hands of one or two or perhaps three people. I think that's wrong. I have no illusion that I'm going to change any of your mind, but as long as that provision remains in the House Rules none of us will be empowered to move a concept, an idea or even debate that idea or concept that our constituents may want or that a significant number of people statewide may want because unanimous consent simply is an impossible standard to meet. I intend to vote 'no' for the House Rules because of the rule that appears in the old Rules on page 29911. I don't think unanimous consent for discharge is realistic; I don't think it's in the best interest of a representative democracy. And I would urge Members on both sides of the aisle perhaps it's time to vote against the House Rules until some of those rules can be changed to reflect the needs of our district, the needs of a significant segment of the State of Illinois and more importantly, the needs of indep… of all Legislators who should have a right to have 09500008.doc 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 their ideas addressed by the Body. With that, Mr. Speaker, in all due respect to those who have worked so hard on the House Rules, I have no major concerns with the Resolution as presented, but I cannot in good conscience and will not in good conscience vote for House Rules that require a Bill brought to me by a constituency and I cannot move that Bill without the unanimous consent of the House, something that I have already told you and you should know will never happen. I think that denies due process to my constituents but more importantly it denies the individual rights of Legislators who should be able to advance their ideas and concepts and not easily. Three-fourths vote is not easily obtained but unanimous vote to discharge will never, ever be granted under any condition that I can imagine. It is with that concern that I intend to vote 'no' on House Resolution 60 until we can change that one rule that I consider to be onerous and flies in the face of any representative democracy. I intend to vote 'no'."
"Mr. Durkin."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield for a brief question?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative Currie, I think Representative Black shares the sentiment of many of us over here, but I have a specific question regarding… it's Rule 22(f). What… I'll read it to you. 'Allows a Minority Spokesperson to present the Bill on behalf of the principal Sponsor if the principal Sponsor is not there and approves.' Now, for purposes… I just need some clarification. When we say is not there, 09500008.doc 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 does it mean that they have not checked in, they're not in Springfield or just not able to be in committee that day 'cause they may be presenting a Bill in another committee? I just wanna know exactly what we mean by 'not there'."
"Tell me which line that is on, please?"
"I'm looking at the… page 36…"
"Thirty-seven?"
"I'm reading that the… that 22(f)…"
"Okay."
"…that we've changed 22(f) to allow for the Minority Spokesperson to present Bills on behalf of the Sponsors… if the principal Sponsors are not there. I just want to know exactly what we… what do we… what's our threshold and what do we mean by when someone's not there? Had they not checked in, have they've not met…"
"No, I think it's just…"
"…the Roll Call? Or I just…"
"It just means they're not there. So, they may be not there because they're not in Springfield, it may be that they're not there because they are doing something in another committee."
"Okay. I just want to make sure…"
"But the idea is just to make sure that we have a clear rule about when somebody else may present a Bill for the real principal Sponsor."
"Okay. So, there's no hard and fast rule about what not there is. They can be off doing other things…"
"Exactly."
"…just as long as they… Okay." 09500008.doc 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007
"And then the important point is that the principal Sponsor has control over the Bill and only if the principal Sponsor is not available physically…"
"Right."
"…and is willing to have somebody else make the presentation, only in that circumstance can the Bill move forward."
"Which is my next question and they must approve that. Are we gonna take the word of the Minority Spokesperson or the chairman that they've spoke with that individual or should they memorialize that in writing that they are asking the other individuals, that Minority Spokesperson or the chairman, to present the Bill on their behalf?"
"Yeah. And… and I notice also that the committee has to consent and I think that means that if somebody has reason to believe that the principal Sponsor did not want the Bill presented in his or her absence the committee can act as a check upon the chair or the Minority Spokesman."
"Okay. But I guess… just getting back, do they have to memorialize the fact that they've approved another person…"
"Because the rule does not require that…"
"No. Okay."
"…but I would think that anybody would be wise to have some written documentation that the principal Sponsor really did want…"
"Okay."
"…someone to stand in with that Bill for them."
"Okay. Thank you very much."
"Representative Currie to close." 09500008.doc 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. I think much too much has been made of the unanimous consent rule. I would remind the Members that every Bill, every Bill introduced in the first year of the Session, this Session as most previous Sessions, must be assigned to a substantive committee in three days. There is no reason to need unanimous or a 71-vote consent to discharge the Rules Committee because the rules… under the rules, has to report that measure, every measure, every measure introduced in the House of Representatives. During the second year of the term, the issues we consider are limited, limited to budget issues and emergency measures. At that point, yes, the Rules Committee does have some control, but it had no control in the first year of the term. The unanimous consent rule is not new with this General Assembly. It is not new with the previous one. It isn't even new in the… when the Republicans controlled the chamber in 1995 and 1996. I went back and saw the unanimous consent rule in 1993 and if I'd been able to find the rules for 1991, 1989, 1987, I am sure I would have found that same language in those rules as well. There's nothing new in the requirement for unanimous consent. Only recently have people decided to play it as a red herring. I think that is all that this is about. I urge your support for House Resolution 60."
"The Lady moves… Mr. Black. Are you seeking recognition?"
"I'm sorry. What, Mr. Speaker?"
"Are you seeking recognition?"
"If granted the opportunity, yes, I am." 09500008.doc 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007
"Mr. Black."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I appreciate your indulgence. Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, let me take umbrage with the remarks of the distinguished Majority Leader. I resent what she said and the way in what she… and the way in which she said it. You're going to tell me on this House Floor that because we've had a unanimous consent rule for as far back as she can find that it's a good idea and therefore, why should I bother about it. I bother about it because it's wrong. It's absolutely wrong. And I'm looking at some of you Members over there who will come to me in the second year of this Session and say, how do we get a Bill out of Rules. You won't get it out of Rules. It's not a red herring. It's wrong. I don't care if it goes back a hundred years. And to stand here and hear somebody say that, that's the most lame excuse I have ever heard on this floor. It's okay because we've always done it that way. Why don't we ever do something the right way. Why don't we realize we're in the 21st century, not the 20th century, not the 19th century. I have a right to advance Bills in this Session of the 95th General Assembly and in the second Session. Is the Majority Leader going to tell me that she is the only person who can determine what is emergency legislation? My definition and my district's definition of what is an emergency may be completely different than hers, but she's in the Majority and her definition of what is emergency legislation will prevail. I'll give you one example. And you're lucky if you haven't heard about this, maybe those of you in the Commonwealth Edison ar… arena 09500008.doc 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 haven't heard as many complaints as we have downstairs. I had a Bill filed in the Veto Session to ameliorate the rate increases caused by the end of the 10-year rate freeze. That Bill was not allowed a hearing. I moved to discharge that Bill. It was denied on the unanimous consent rule. Do some of you wish you had a chance to vote on that Bill now? We did nothing and as a result, many of my constituents and some of your constituents are suffering. I will not stand here and be insulted by someone who says this rule is a red herring because we've always had it. This rule is wrong. It flies in the face of everything I ever read, learned and taught about a representative democracy. Unanimous consent is an insult and affront to every Member who's elected. I don't care whether it takes effect in the first year of the Session or the second year of the Session or only in the Veto Session. Unanimous consent is wrong and it's time to change it and it's time to say, I won't vote for rules that deprive me, an elected Member of this Body, the opportunity to debate and discuss legislation that my constituents feel is important. I feel very strongly about this and I resent the Majority Leader's implication that it's simply a red herring. Just wait until your group is caught up by this. Wait until COWL can't move legislation, wait until the Latino-Hispanic Caucus can't move legislation, wait until the Black Caucus can't move legislation because you will never in the second year get unanimous consent. And what your definition of an emergency legislation or an emergency Bill is may be completely different than those people who control the process. You wanna empower yourselves, then 09500008.doc 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 stand up and be counted. If you wanna sit here like so many sheep and be led by the good shepherds who control this process, be my guest."
"The question is, 'Shall the Resolution be adopted?' Those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed by voting 'no'. Have all voted who wish? Mr. Turner. Record Mr. Turner as 'yes'. I don't think… The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there are 65 people voting 'yes' and 52 people voting 'no'. The Resolution is adopted. Representative… The Chair recognizes the Clerk for the purpose of an announcement. Please give your attention of the Clerk."
"Each Member should have had a folder underneath their laptop that would have contained forms to sign off on the laptop distribution and on the cell phone. So, staff will continue throughout the chamber to try to collect those from you and to answer any questions you might have."
"Mr. Stephens."
"Mr. Speaker, some of our Members are having some difficulty with the audio. I… I wonder if there are… particularly the Clerk's voice and secondly, there was a question about whether the… a bell is being rung. Mr. Speaker, I'm just passing on the information to you. A question of…"
"Would… Did you say that you're hearing bells ringing?"
"Mr. Speaker, I have an excuse if I'm hearing bells. I wonder… well… No, our Members… our Members aren't hearing 09500008.doc 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 the bell and the ser… the more serious question is the audio for the voice of the Clerk."
Speaker Madigan: "Mr. Stephens, I'm advised that they are looking into the question of the audio. And let me look into the question of the bell. The Chair recognizes Mr. Jefferson for the purpose of an announcement. Mr. Jefferson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Democrats will caucus in Room 118 immediately after Session. Not loud enough?"
"Mr. Mautino."
"Thank you, Speaker. The Insurance Committee will not meet today."
"The Democrats will meet in caucus immediately in Room 114. And the prepared… the Chair is prepared to adjourn. Representative Currie moves that the House stand adjourned until 12 noon tomorrow. Those in favor say 'aye'; those opposed say 'no'. The 'ayes' have it. The House does stand adjourned until 12 noon tomorrow. And Democrats please go to Room 114 immediately. Thank you."
"House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Committee Reports. Representative Boland, Chairperson from the Committee on Financial Institutions, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 06, 2007, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 352. Representative Reitz, Chairperson from the Committee on Agriculture & Conservation, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on February 06, 2007, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 09500008.doc 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 'do pass Short Debate' House Bill 228 and House Bill 201. Introduction and reading of House Bills-First Reading. House Bill 625, offered by Representative Lang, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 626, offered by Representative Harris, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 627, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning appropriations. House Bill 628, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning appropriations. House Bill 629, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 630, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning vehicles. House Bill 631, offered by Representative Beiser, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 632, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning elections. House Bill 633, offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 634, offered by Representative Winters, a Bill for an Act concerning procurement. House Bill 635, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 636, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning State historic sites. House Bill 637, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning taxes. House Bill 638, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning appropriations. House Bill 639, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 640, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 641, offered by 09500008.doc 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 642, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 643, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 644, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 645, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning agriculture. House Bill 646, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 647, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 648, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 649, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 650, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning wildlife. House Bill 651, offered by Representative Brauer, a Bill for an Act concerning agriculture. House Bill 652, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 653, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act concerning children. House Bill 654, offered by Representative Rose, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 655, offered by Representative Washington, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 656, offered by Representative Washington, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 657, offered by Representative Washington, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 658, offered by Representative Brady, a Bill for 09500008.doc 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 an Act concerning education. House Bill 659, offered by Representative Brady, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 660, offered by Representative Crespo, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 661, offered by Representative Verschoore, a Bill for an Act concerning gaming. House Bill 662, offered by Representative Verschoore, a Bill for an Act concerning gaming. House Bill 663, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 664, offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 655 (sic-665), offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 666, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 667, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 668, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia, a Bill for an Act concerning veterans. House Bill 669, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia, a Bill for an Act concerning law enforcement. House Bill 670, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Bill 671, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 672, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 673, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 674, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning liquor. House Bill 675, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 676, offered 09500008.doc 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning insurance. House Bill 677, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 678, offered by Representative Mautino, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. House Bill 679, offered by Representative McCarthy, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. House Bill 680, offered by Representative Nekritz, a Bill for an Act concerning public health. House Bill 681, offered by Representative Nekritz, a Bill for an Act concerning elections. House Bill 682, offered by Representative Jakobsson, a Bill for an Act concerning finance. House Bill 683, offered by Representative Sullivan, a Bill for an Act concerning finance. House Bill 684, offered by Representative May, a Bill for an Act concerning pricing. House Bill 685, offered by Representative Monique Davis, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 686, offered by Representative Monique Davis, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 687, offered by Representative Durkin, a Bill for an Act concerning elections. House Bill 688, offered by Representative William Davis, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 689, offered by Representative Bassi, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 690, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning vehicles. House Bill 691, offered by Representative May, a Bill for an Act concerning public health. House Bill 692, offered by Representative McAuliffe, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. House Bill 693, offered by Representative Sacia, 09500008.doc 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 694, offered by Representative Sacia, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 695, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act concerning healthcare. House Bill 696, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 697, offered by Representative Hamos, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 698, offered by Representative Hassert, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 699, offered by Representative Schock, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. House Bill 700, offered by Representative John Bradley, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 701, offered by Representative Froehlich, a Bill for an Act concerning liquor. House Bill 702, offered by Representative Franks, a Bill for an Act concerning public health. House Bill 703, offered by Representative Miller, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 704, offered by Representative Phelps, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 705, offered by Representative Phelps, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 706, offered by Representative Phelps, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. House Bill 707, offered by Representative Phelps, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. House Bill 708, offered by Representative Phelps, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. House Bill 709, offered by Representative Reis, a Bill for an Act concerning hunting. House Bill 710, offered by Representative Reis, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal 09500008.doc 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 law. House Bill 711, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 712, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 713, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 714, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 715, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning health facilities. House Bill 716, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 717, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 718, offered by Representative Tryon, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 719, offered by Representative Smith, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 720, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 721, offered by Representative Black, a Bill for an Act concerning education. House Bill 722, offered by Representative Dunn, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. And House Bill 723, offered by Representative Verschoore, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. House Resolution… Referred to the House Committee on Rules is House Resolution 11, offered by Representative Davis; House Resolution 22, offered by Representative Black; House Resolution 25, offered by Representative Fritchey; House Resolution 28, offered by Representative McGuire; House Resolution 45, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia; House Resolution 46, offered by 09500008.doc 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 Representative Chapa LaVia; House Resolution 47, offered by Representative Coulson; House Resolution 50, offered by Representative Chapa LaVia; House Resolution 54, offered by Representative Franks; House Resolution 55, offered by Representative Franks; House Resolution 56, offered by Representative Coulson; House Re… Joint Resolution 91 (sic- 1), offered by Representative Meyer; House Joint Resolution 2, offered by Representative Kurt Granberg; House Joint Resolution 3, offered by Representative Krause; House Joint Resolution 4, offered by Representative Reis; House Joint Resolution 5, offered by Representative Flowers; House Joint Resolution 7, offered by Representative Washington; House Joint Resolution 8, offered by Representative Howard; House Joint Resolution 9, offered by Representative Krause; House Joint Resolution 10, offered by Representative John Bradley; and House Joint Resolution 11, offered by Representative Connie Howard. Introduction and reading of House Joint Resolutions Constitutional Amendments-First Reading. House Joint Resolution and Constitutional Amendment #10. RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-FIFTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING HEREIN, that there shall be submitted to the electors of the State for adoption or rejection at the general election next occurring at least 6 months after the adoption of this resolution a proposition to amend Section 1 of Article X of the Illinois Constitution as follows: ARTICLE X EDUCATION SECTION 1. FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT - FREE SCHOOLS 09500008.doc 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 8th Legislative Day 2/6/2007 A fundamental right of the People of the State is the educational development of all persons to the limits of their capacities. It is the paramount duty of the State to provide for a thorough and efficient system of high quality public educational institutions and services and to guarantee equality of educational opportunity as a fundamental right of each citizen. Education in public schools through the secondary level shall be free. The State has the preponderant financial responsibility for financing the system of public education. There may be such other free education as the General Assembly provides by law. SCHEDULE This Constitutional Amendment takes effect upon being declared adopted in accordance with Section 7 of the Illinois Constitutional Amendment Act. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned." 09500008.doc 36