"The hour of 12:00 having come and went, the House shall be in Session. Today’s May 12, 2009. We shall be led in prayer today by the Reverend Jeffrey Hammer, who is with First Baptist Church in Marengo in Marengo, Illinois, and he’s also the chaplain of the Marengo Fire Department. Reverend Hammer is the guest of Representative Franks. Members and guests are asked to refrain from starting their laptops, turn off all cell phones, and pagers, and rise for the invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Reverend Hammer."
"Thank you. Let us bow for a word of prayer. Almighty God, we thank You this day that we do live in such a great state and a great nation… a nation of freedoms and we just thank You for that, but we remember that those freedoms come at a cost. So today, we lift up our men and women in uniform who are fighting for our freedoms. And Lord, we also remember those in our community who are serving, our policemen, our firemen, our ambulance drivers. And Lord, I also ask today that You be with each man and woman here. You have called them to serve. They have been elected and given a great responsibility, and so we ask as they execute their responsibilities that You give them wisdom beyond their years. You give them strength of character and passion for what they do. We also ask that You give them strength to bear the great responsibilities that they have. Watch over their families as they’re away from home so much and Lord, we also pray today for our President and his wife and children, that You would keep them safe and allow them time together and give our 09600052.doc 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 President wisdom as he leads this country and just watch over him. Watch over our Governor and all the rest that serve in this House and in the Senate. It’s in Your Son’s name we pray, Amen."
Speaker Turner: "We’ll be led in the Pledge today by the Gentleman from Jackson, Representative Bost." Bost – et al: "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
"Roll Call for Attendance. The Lady from Cook, Representative Currie, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record reflect the excused absences of Representatives Bradley, Hamos, and Phelps."
"Gentleman from Jackson, Representative Bost, for what reason do you rise?"
"Tha… Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect that Representative Mulligan is excused on the Republican side of the aisle today."
"The record will so reflect. There are 114 Members present. A quorum is in fact present. We shall proceed with business. The Gentleman from Bond, Representative Stephens, for what reason do you rise?"
"Just as a personal appoligi… apology to you, Mr. Speaker. I forgot to turn my pager off."
Speaker Turner: "Your apology is accepted. You want to apologize for later, too? The Gentleman from Winnebago, Representative Sacia, for what reason do you rise?" 09600052.doc 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Point of personal privilege."
"State your point."
"Ladies and Gentleman of the Body, in the gallery today from Eastland, Illinois, which encompasses Shannon and Lanark area, we have the a… Lady Cougars from Eastland who are the 1-A volleyball champions for the state. They are coached by Kristy Pierce, who is with them in the gallery. Would you make them feel welcome, please."
"Welcom… welcome to Springfield. The Gentleman from Bond, Representative Stephens, for what reason do you rise?"
"Response to your question."
"I asked a question?"
"The answer’s no."
Speaker Turner: "The Gentleman from Morgan, Representative Watson, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. A per… point of personal privilege."
"Point."
"Several weeks ago I had a very important Bill about Asian bighead carp. And several Members of the Body tended not to take it seriously, but I want Representative Osterman to… to just listen to this headline. Detective Mike Sanders of the Pe… Pekin Police Department says that a twenty-two-year-old was riding his new jet ski, on the Illinois River, when he collided with a large leaping Asian carp. He was thrown from his jet ski and started to suffer in the water and they had to rescue him. So, I appreciate 09600052.doc 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 everybody’s vote on this matter of… of extreme importance in water safety."
Speaker Turner: "The Gentleman from Cook, Representative Osterman, for what reason do you rise?"
"I appreciate Representative Watson bringing that to our attention and it’s timely because I introduced a Bill early today that teenagers riding jet skis have to wear helmets. So… you can hope… hopefully, cosponsor that with me, Representative Watson. We could talk to A.B.A.T.E. about that."
"On page 27 of the Calendar, under Resolutions, we have House Resolution 240. Representative Davis." Davis, W.: "Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Simple put, House Resolution 240 is an effort that was brought to me by members of an organization called the Illinois Council (Committee) on Concerns of Blacks in Higher Education. And what they’re simply trying to do is try and bring some focus and some attention to the plight, as well as some of the successes, of African American men in higher education. So, simply House Resolution 240 designates the month of April, even though we’re no longer in that month, but it would have designated the month of April as African- American Males in Higher Education Month. I’ll be more than happy to answer any questions."
Speaker Turner: "Seeing no questions. The question… The Gentleman asks leave for the adoption of House Resolution 240. All those in favor say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Resolution is adopted. On page 19 of the Calendar, 09600052.doc 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 on the Order of Senate Bills-Second Reading, Representative McCarthy… McCarthy, we have Senate Bill 2012. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2012, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. On page 9 of the Calendar, Senate Bills-Second Reading, we have Rep… Senate Bill 27. Representative Pihos. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 27, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Froehlich, we have Senate Bill 39. Out of the record. Representative Davis, we have Senate Bill 47. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 47, a Bill for an Act concerning finance. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. We have Senate Bill 48. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 48, a Bill for an Act concerning torture. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Miller, Senate Bill 69. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 69, a Bill for an Act concerning regulations. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. 09600052.doc 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Verschoore, we have Senate Bill 77. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 77, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative… Graham, we have Senate Bill 133. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 133, a Bill for Act concerning local government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Graham, has been approved for consideration."
"The Lady from Cook, Representative Graham, on Amendment..."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentleman of the House. This is now an agreed piece of legislation regarding if a person is leaving a nursing home setting that the name of a ADA person would be made available on the governmental Web site or a newsletter. And all of the concerned parties who had concerns have all been ironed out. It’s an agreed Amendment."
"Lady… Seeing no questions, the Lady move for the adoption of Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 133. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Amendment’s adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Third Reading. Representative May, we have Senate Bill 125. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 125 has been read a second time, previously. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative May, has been approved for consideration."
"The Lady from Lake, Representative May."
"Yes, I move the adoption of Floor Amendment #1. This language just makes it extra clear that we’re not grandfathering in any existing activity."
Speaker Turner: "The Lady moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 125. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Amendment’s adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Graham, we have Senate Bill 134. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 134, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Hernandez, we have Senate Bill 141. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 141, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Mathias, we have Senate Bill 146. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 146 has been read a second time, previously. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee." 09600052.doc 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Mr… Mr. Clerk, take it out of the record. I’m sorry. Representative Bellock, we have Senate Bill 209. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 209, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Thapedi, we have Senate Bill 211. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 211, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Pritchard, we have Senate Bill 214. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 214, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Sullivan, for what reason do you rise?"
"Tha… Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On a previous Bill… Senate Bill 125 sponsored by May, we’re just trying to get clarification on the intent of the Sponsor’s Amendment. I think she described it wrong as wanting to not grandfather peop… If Representative May could explain that, ‘cause I think she had that wrong."
"The Gentleman… I mean the Lady from Lake, Representative May, in response."
"Making sure that it does not grandfather in." 09600052.doc 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Does not grandfather in…"
"Yes. Yes."
"…or does grandfather in?"
"It does not grandfather in any illegal activity. For a concern… It… it took care of a concern that was raised."
"Yes. So you… we want to make sure that the… the people that potentially are doing this illegally are not grandfathered in. Okay. We…"
"Yes."
"…we heard that wrong on this side. I apologise."
"Okay, thank you."
"Thank you."
"And Senate Bill 260. Representative Black. Out of the record. Representative Jakobsson, you have Senate Bill 263. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 263, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Rep… Senate Bill 264. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 264, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Miller, we have Senate Bill 275. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 275, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Third Reading. Representative Miller, we have Senate Bill 276. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 276, a Bill for an Act concerning public health. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Beiser, we have Senate Bill 314. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 314, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Saviano, we have Senate Bill 318. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 318, a Bill for an Act concerning regulations. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Fortner, we have Senate Bill 340. Out of the record. Representative Nekritz, House Bill 369. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. Senate Bill 369."
"Senate Bill 369, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Turner: "Out of the record. Out of the record. Representative Currie, we have Senate Bill 414. Out of the record. Representative Senger, we have Senate Bill 574. Out of the record. Representative Nekritz, we have Senate Bill 577. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk." 09600052.doc 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 577, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Nekritz, we have Senate Bill 591. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 591, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Flowers, we have Senate Bill 807. Out of the record. Mr. Clerk, read Senate Bill 2… 1030. 1030, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1030, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, what’s the status of Senate Bill 577?"
"Senate Bill 577 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading."
"The Sponsor wants to bring it back to Second Reading. She asks leave to bring the Bill back to Second Reading. So the Bill will be placed on Second Reading. Mr. Clerk, what’s the status of Senate Bill 591?"
"Senate Bill 591 is on the Order of Third Reading."
"Representative Beaubien, we have Senate Bill 1089. Out of the record. 591, leave it where it is, Mr. Clerk. 1089, he wants it out of the record. 09600052.doc 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Representative Currie, we have Senate Bill 1133. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1133, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. He’s by Currie. Mr. Beaubien, we have Senate Bill 1255. Out of the record. Representative Kosel, we have Senate Bill 1272. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
Clerk Mahoney: "Senate Bill 1272, a Bill for an Act in relation to public employee benefits. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Burns, we have Senate Bill 1289. Out of the record. Representative Jackson, we have Senate Bill 1293. Eddie Jackson, 1293. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1293, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Osterman, Senate Bill 1335. Out of the record. Fritchey, Senate Bill 1390. Out of the record. Representative Lang, we have… Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. 1391. I apologize."
"Senate Bill 1391, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Third Reading. Representative Brosnahan, we have House Bill… Senate Bill 1401. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1401, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Brosnahan, we have Senate Bill 1422. Out of the record. Representative Howard, we have Senate Bill 1479. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1479, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Reitz we have Senate Bill 1483. Dan Reitz. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1483, a Bill for an Act concerning professional regulations. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Golar, we have Senate Bill 1499. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1499, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Jehan Gordon, we have Senate Bill 1511. Out of the record. Representative Phelps. Out of the record. Representative 09600052.doc 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Jakobsson, we have Senate Bill 1544. Out of the record. Representative Mathias, Senate Bill 1549. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1549, a Bill for an Act to revise a law by combining multiple enactments and making technical corrections. No Amendments."
"Third Reading."
"No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Sommer, we have 15… Senate Bill 1553. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1553 has been read a second time, previously. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Sommer, has been approved for consideration."
"Third Reading. Representative Lang, we have… I’m sorry. Representative Sommer, Floor Amendment #1."
"Thank you, Mr… Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor Amen… I move the adoption of Floor Amendment #1. It simply corrects the extension of this time frame of this TIF district to reflect the original legislation."
Speaker Turner: "Representative Fr… Sommer moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1553. All those in favor should say ‘aye’. All those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Amendment’s adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Lang, we have Senate Bill 1576. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. 1576, Representative Lang." 09600052.doc 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 1576, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Hernandez, we have Senate Bill 1557. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1557, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Hernandez, we have Senate Bill 1559. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1559, a Bill for an Act concerning vehicle identification. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Nekritz, we have Senate Bill… Representative Osmond, we have Senate Bill 1583. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1583, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Lang, we have Senate Bill 1631. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1631, a Bill for an Act concerning property has been read a second time, previously. Floor Amendments 1 and 2, offered by Representative Lang, have both been approved for consideration." 09600052.doc 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Gentleman from Cook, Representative Lang, on Amendment #1."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and Gentleman, both of these Amendments are technical, so I move the adoption of Amendment #1."
Speaker Turner: "Gentleman asks leave for the Amendment… adoption of Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1631. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. Further Amendments?"
"Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative Lang."
"Representative Lang moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #2 to House Bill 16… Senate Bill 1631. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Amendment is adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Mathias, we have Senate Bill 1655. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1655, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Mathias, we have 1662. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1662, a Bill for an Act concerning elections. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Third Reading. Representative Bassi, we have Senate Bill 1668. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1668, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Coulson, we have Senate Bill 1667… 1677. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1677, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Ford, we have Senate Bill 1704. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1704, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed. "
"Third Reading. Representative Lyons, we have Senate Bill 1705. Joe… 1705? Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1705, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Feigenholtz, we have Senate Bill 1738. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1738, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Reis, we have Senate Bill 1743. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk." 09600052.doc 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 1743, a Bill for an Act concerning employment. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Tryon, we have Senate Bill 1750. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1750, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative Tryon, has been approved for consideration."
"Representative Tryon on Floor Amendment #2."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor Amendment #2 just makes a… a language change in the provision that allows mental health boards the ability to run referendums for tax rate increases."
"Seeing no questions, the question is, ‘Shall the House adopt Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 1750?’ All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Amendment’s adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative McAsey, we have Senate Bill 1753. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1753, a Bill for an Act concerning flags. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Harris, we have Senate Bill 1770. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1770 has been read a second time, previously. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. Floor 09600052.doc 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Amendment #2, offered by Representative Harris, has been approved for consideration."
Speaker Turner: "The Gentleman from Cook, Representative Harris, on Amendment #2."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor… I would like to move the adoption of Floor Amendment 2 which is a technical correction to the committee Amendment."
"The Gentleman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 1770. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Amendment’s adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Sacia, we have Senate Bill 1784. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1784, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Myers, we have Senate Bill 1799. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1799, a Bill for an Act concerning elections. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Walker, we have Senate Bill 1814. Representative Wait… Walker. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk." 09600052.doc 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 1814, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Mendoza, Senate Bill 1818. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1818, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions Filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Pritchard, we have Senate Bill 1841. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1841, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Durkin, we have Senate Bill 1843. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1843, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Representative… Third Reading. Representative Mathias, we have Senate Bill 1877. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1877, a Bill for an Act concerning insurance. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Mathias, has been approved for consideration."
"Gentleman from Lake, Representative Mathias"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor Amendment #1 makes some technical changes to the Bill agreed by the Department of Professional Regulation." 09600052.doc 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Gentleman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1877. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. The Amendments adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Fortner, we have Senate Bill 1882. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1882, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative… Representative Flider, we have Senate Bill 1920. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. Out of the record. Out of the record. McAsey, Senate Bill 1926. Representative McAsey. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1926, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative McAsey, we have Senate Bill 1934. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1934, a Bill for an Act concerning real property. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Mautino, we have Senate Bill 1936. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk." 09600052.doc 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 1936, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Biggins, we have Senate Bill 1948. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1948, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Flider, we have Senate Bill 1958. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1958, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Myers, we have Senate Bill 1972. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1972, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative McCarthy, we have Senate Bill 1974. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1974, a Bill for an Act concerning public employee benefits. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Pritchard, we have Senate Bill 1977. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1977, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Third Reading. Representative Chapa LaVia, we have Senate Bill 1995. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1995, a Bill for an Act concerning finance. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Rose, we have Senate Bill 2009. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2009, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third… Third Reading. Mr. Durkin, we have Senate Bill 2010. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2010, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments…. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Turner: "Third Reading. Representative McAuliffe, Senate Bill 2045. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2045, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Walker, we have Senate Bill 2046. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2046, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Third Reading. Representative Mathias, we have Senate Bill 2057. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2057, a Bill for an Act concerning public safety. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Mathias, has been approved for consideration."
"Gentleman from Lake, Representative Mathias, on Amendment #1."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Floor Amendment #1 adds to the Bill. It just provides that individuals… that… I’m sorry, that willful or wanton misconduct is not excepted from the Bill, so that when people… would still be liable for that. I ask for your ‘aye’ vote."
"Gentleman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 2057. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. The Amendment’s adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Mautino, we have Senate Bill 2091. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2091, a Bill for an Act concerning insurance. Second Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Out of the record. Out of the record. Sorry. The Lady from Cook, Representative Currie, we have Senate Bill 2119. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. Out of the record, Mr. Clerk. Out of the record. Representative Mautino… Representative Currie, we have Senate Bill 2125. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk." 09600052.doc 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 2125, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Clerk, we have Senate Bill 2121. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2121, a Bill for an Act concerning safety. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Black, we have Senate Bill 2129. Brother Black. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2129, a Bill for an Act concerning fish. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Wait… Out of the record. Representative Pritchard, Senate Bill 2214. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2214, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Kosel, we have Senate Bill 2217. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2217, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Second Reading. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Senger, we have Senate Bill 2224. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2224, a Bill for an Act concerning aging. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Third Reading. Representative Ryg, we have Senate Bill 2258. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2258, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Pihos. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2270, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Jehan Gordon on Senate Bill 2271. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2271, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. No… Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Turner: "Third Reading. Representative Biggins on Senate Bill 2277. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2277, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Smith on House Bill… Senate Bill 74. Representative Smith. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 74, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Read the Bill… Senate Bill 84, Mr. Clerk, read the Bill." 09600052.doc 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 84, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Hoffman, we have Senate Bill 156. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 156, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Black, we have Senate Bill 260. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 260, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Black, we have Senate Bill 587. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 587, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Representative Hoffman… Third Reading on 58…. Representative Hoffman, we have Senate Bill 583. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 583, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Howard, we have Senate Bill 613. Representative Howard? Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk, 613." 09600052.doc 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 613, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Burke, we have Senate Bill 1254. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1254, a Bill for an Act concerning regulations. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Tryon, we have Senate Bill 1296. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1296, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Burke, we have Senate Bill 1408… 1408. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1408, a Bill for an Act concerning safety. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Burke, we have Senate Bill 1444. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1444, a Bill for an Act concerning regulations. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Jehan Gordon, we have Senate Bill 1511. Jehan Gordon, 1511. Read the Bill, M… Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk." 09600052.doc 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Senate Bill 1511, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Gordon, we have Senate Bill 1560, Jehan Gordon, 1560. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1560, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Second Reading. No… no Amendments. No Motions filed."
Speaker Turner: "Third Reading. Representative Nekritz… Representative Jefferson, 1586. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1586, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Wait, we have Senate Bill 1817. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1817, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 was adopted in committee. No Floor Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Black, we have Senate Bill 1830. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1830, a Bill for an Act concerning professional regulations. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Floor Amendment #1, offered by Representative Black, has been approved for consideration."
"The Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black, on Amendment #1." 09600052.doc 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentleman of the House. Floor Amendment #1 becomes the Bill. Puts it in the same form as a House Bill we’ve already passed. The Amendment simple reinstates the provisions of the original Bill about temporary permits for a graduate of an Illinois veterinary medicine college. It simply says that pending the results of their exam, which sometimes can take three, four, five months, that graduate can practice under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Be glad to answer any question you have."
"The Gentleman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment #1 to Senate Bill 1830. All those in favor say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And the Amendment’s adopted. Further Amendments?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. On the Order of Senate Bills- Second Reading we have Senate Bill 1832, Representative Black. Representative Black, 1832. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1832, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Black, we have Senate Bill 1906. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1906, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed." 09600052.doc 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Representative May, we have Senate Bill 1919. Third Reading on Senate Bill 1906. Representative May, Senate Bill 1919. Out of the record. Representative Sacia, we have Senate Bill 2095. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2095, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Reitz, Senate Bill 2012… 2112. Out of the record. Representative Black, we have Senate Bill 2129. Out of the record. Representative Mendoza, we have Senate Bill 2172. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2172, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Wait, we have Senate Bill 2178. Ron Wait. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2178, a Bill for an Act concerning plain language. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Mr. Clerk, what’s the status of Senate Bill 290?"
"Senate Bill 290 is on the Order of Senate Bills-Third Reading."
"The Sponsor requests we bring the Bill back to Second. Mr. Clerk, what’s the status of Senate Bill 369?"
"Senate Bill 369 is on the Order of… is on the Order of Senate Bills-Second Reading." 09600052.doc 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Move Senate Bill 369 to Third Reading, or read the Bill. Third Reading. On page 2 of the Calendar, on the Order of House Bills-Second Reading, we have House Bill 4145. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. 4445."
"House Bill 4445, a Bill for an Act concerning compensation. Second Reading of this House Bill. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. The Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black, for what reason do you rise?"
"Yes, thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. On a point of House Rule. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Rule 18(g) I have filed the requisite written Motion to Discharge House Bill 4442 from the House Rules committee, and that House Bill 4442 be placed on the Order of Second Reading. I’m joined by four other Members on my side of the aisle in requesting a record vote on this Motion, which is a right that is provided by House Rule 49, Article IV, Section 8 of the Illinois Constitution, as well. Mr. Speaker, if I could let me tell you why I filed this Motion to Discharge. Many people in my district just got their property tax bill and I’m sure many people in your districts as well have gotten their property tax bill. And so far this spring, we’ve heard a lot of ideas in this chamber for taking more of our taxpayers’ dollars. There’s an income tax increase that have been floated, a gasoline tax increase, a tax increase on toothpaste, shampoo, tax increase on coffee drinks, ice tea, tax increase on cigarettes, tax increase on alcohol, and soda pop. Fee increases to fish, to hunt, to go into state parks, or higher admission to the state 09600052.doc 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 fair, the list could go on and on. I think it’s important now that we perhaps recognize that the State of Illinois economy is in disarray. Families are out of work. They’re losing their homes. And I think we should be very careful before we attempt to take more from the taxpayers’ pocket. Mr. Speaker, thank you very much. We have a Bill in Rules that I have filed to discharge House Bill 4442 that increases the General Homestead Exemption from the current $6,000 to $7,500. In other words, it will provide some basic property tax relief. I worked on this Bill three or four years ago. Many of you don’t… didn’t realize then, Cook County’s personal homestead exemption was higher than all the other 101 counties and I was able to work with Majority Leader Currie that made that the same… made the same amount for the property tax personal homestead exemption. I thought that was fair. I think House Bill 4442 is fair as ru… as well. It isn’t going to solve all of the financial problems that homeowners face today, but I think it would help a little bit. So ,Mr. Speaker, pursuant to the applicable House Rules that I have already mentioned, I would ask that House Bill 4442 be discharged from the Rules Committee."
"The Lady from Cook, Representative Currie, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Speaker. I rise to say that I object to the Motion."
"The Lady from Cook… I mean the Lady from Will, Representative Kosel, for what reason do you rise?" 09600052.doc 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and Gentleman of the House, three years ago the housing market was still not… was still doing very well. Not now. No one can sell their homes. To make matters worse, property tax bill is… do not reflect the change in current prices. Home values have been declining, but property taxes aren’t. With the current economic crisis residents are forfeiting are… fortunate to have jobs, and most people are not going to see a salary increase this year. With residents paying more for food and gas, the Governor looking at further tax increases; it is imperative that we give residents some sort of property tax relief. House Bill 442 (sic-4442) is one step in the right direction. This Bill would increase the General Homestead Exemption from $6,000 to $7,500. The General Homestead Exemption is a tax relief measure for all, I repeat, all homeowners in Illinois on their primary residence. This legislation is one way to ensure that all homeowners whether they live in Chicago or Springfield or downsou… in the very tip of southern Illinois would receive property tax relief. The residents of this stet… state need relief and they need it now. I am asking that we immediately release this Bill from Rules to the floor for debate. Thank you."
"The Gentleman from Vermilion, Representative Black, for what reason do you rise?"
"Yes thank you very much. I did hear the Majority Leader’s objection. I can’t say that that was unexpected, but pursuant to rule 57(a), I move to appeal the ruling of the Chair. And that Motion is debatable and I would wish 09600052.doc 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 to debate that Motion, and have the recorded vote on the Motion to override the Chair as per the applicable rule in the House Rules. Mr. Speaker and Ladies and Gentleman of the House, I don’t know how you feel about some property tax relief. Some of you may think we are adequately… we’ve done our job and that $6 thousand on the homestead exemption is adequate. Many of you have had assessment increases or valuation increases that have wiped out the last personal property… or excuse me, the last real-estate property tax exemption that we did. I… I guess I’m at a loss why time and time and time again Bills that we propose are objected to and not allowed generally out of Rules Committee. I shouldn’t say generally, I’m not aware that any have ever been successfully discharged from the Rules Committee. But just like last week I had a Bill that would of rejected the COLA, which I think all of you will probably end up voting for, that Bill was kept in Rules and then a Democrat Bill was filed the next day. So I… I guess the end result is the same, but I don’t know why we have to go through this exercise that a Democrat filed Bill on the very same subject is okay to debate, but a Republican sponsored Bill is not okay to debate. I don’t understand why any of you would not think that a… a increase in the real estate property tax exemption should not at least be subject to debate and vote on this House Floor. And that… that’s all… that’s the only reason I made the Motion. I know people in my district have certainly called me because of assessment increases, and remember that three-year- average even though property values may have fallen in your 09600052.doc 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 district, as they have in mine in the last 18 months, that three-year-average, of property value, they’re not seeing any great reduction in the assessed value of their homes. Even though some of them have been trying to sell their house for the last 18 months and can’t do it. They need this property tax relief. If it makes any difference the Sponsor of the Bill would… the Republican Sponsor I’m sure at the proper point would… would let a Democrat become the Sponsor, because I have hunch that in the next 24 hours we’ll see this very same Bill only with a Democrat Sponsor, and then many of you on that side of the aisle act like, well, I didn’t know we… I didn’t know you had a Bill to do that. Nobody told me. I didn’t read the Calendar. I didn’t listen to the debate. That’s what I’m telling you now. I think for once on such a subject that cuts across Party lines, cuts across district lines is… is pretty much a problem statewide. You need to vote to overturn the Chair and let’s debate a net… a very necessary, in my opinion, and needed increase in the Homestead Exemption for those people who are now getting and trying to figure out how they’re going to pay their personal property… excuse me, their real-estate property taxes. I would ask that you accept my Motion on a recorded vote, Mr. Speaker, to overturn the ruling of the Chair."
Speaker Turner: "Thank you, Mr. Black. You’re absolutely right, and for the record that Motion has… you requested in writing earlier was objected to by the chairman of the committee and therefore that Motion fails. You’re in your right to now ask, shall the Chair be sustained? On that 09600052.doc 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 question… The question is, ‘Shall the House… shall the Chair… Representative Mathias, the Gentleman from Lake, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you. For personal privilege. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in calling for the discharge of House Bill 4442 from the Rules Committee. I filed this Bill last month. In order to provide legislation that would provide much needed property tax relief to all of our constituents by increasing the General Homestead Exemption from $6,000 to $7,500. Of all of the pressures…"
Speaker Turner: "Representative there is a Motion on the floor."
"And that’s debatable." Speaker Turner: "It’s debatable?"
"I thought it was debatable."
"I don’t think that Motion’s debatable. Let me verify."
"I think it is under the rule, your honor… Mr. Speaker."
"Representative Mathias, you can continue."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"You’re… you’re talking about the Motion…"
"Yes."
"…to sustain the Chair."
"That is correct."
"And not… not introducing a new Motion."
"This is the same speaking on the Motion."
"You’ve got another minute." 09600052.doc 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Thank you. As you know that state provides a General Homestead Exemption to all homeowners for their primary place of residence to help offset the heavy financial burden placed on families by high property taxes. While the General Assembly has approved gradual increases in the General Homestead Exemption over the past several years, our efforts have not kept pace with the rising level of property taxes. Despite our best efforts here in this chamber, property taxes remain at an all time high and continue to increase at an alarming rate even as our property values fall in many areas across Illinois in order to meet local demands. In addition home… as I stated, home values have decreased substantially as the result of the crippling nat… nationwide mortgage crisis over the past two years. All of these factors call for action on our part to help working families and those on fixed incomes so that they’ll be able to stay in their homes. I urge my colleagues…"
"Please bring your remarks to a close."
"Thank you. I urge all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join with me in supporting an increase in the General Homestead Exemption for all taxpayers in Illinois by calling for the discharge of House Bill 4442, and I thank you, Mr. Speaker."
"The Lady from Kane, Representative Hatcher, for what reason do you rise?"
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Motion."
"To the Motion." 09600052.doc 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009
"Indeed our state is facing a massive budget deficit, and in order to cut our debt the Leaders on your side of the aisle are proposing tax increases after tax increases in Illinois. You want to tax their income, you want to tax the gas they need to get to work, you want to tax the products that they drive at their grocery store, and this is all during the worst financial times in our state. When people across this state are getting laid off, their incomes are dwindling and the economy is hitting them hard from every angle, this gives them the opportunity to have some real relief. Increasing the Homestead Extension could offer real tax relief to these real families. All of them at home who are hurting financially. And it will show the people of Illinois that we’re listening, and working to protect their interest and save their future. I repeat and implore; please release House Bill 4442 from Rules and let’s have a fair debate on the floor. Thank you."
Speaker Turner: "There are five other Members making recognition to speak on this Bill. According to the Rules there’s… the principal Sponsor makes a recommendation, there’s a response from one, and then there’s a one-minute closing. I’m going to take leave and allow Representative Pihos to be the last person to respond and then we will go to the answer of this question. Representative Pihos, the Lady from DuPage."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the Motion. Of all the pressures on middle class families struggling to make ends meet in today’s challenging economy, few demand such immediate action as the need for property tax relief. The 09600052.doc 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 bottom line is, working families and taxpayers are still being asked to foot the bill for out-of-control property taxes at a time when they are facing a relentless family budget squeeze on all fronts. From high energy prices, to the rising cost of daily essentials, such as food medicine and household items, along with the erosive effect of inflation, and a weakening dollar. A taxpayer’s purchasing power continues to go down while their government-mandated tax obligations continue to go up. Property tax relief is needed and it is needed now. This is not a partisan issue. It is an issue of doing the right thing. We have the ability to deliver property tax relief to struggling home- owners. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in calling for the discharge of House Bill 4442 from Rules. Thank you."
"So, the question is… yes… The question is, ‘Shall the Chair be sustained?’ All those in favor should vote ‘aye’; all those opposed vote ‘no’. The voting is now open. Have all voted who wish? The Clerk shall take the record. On this question, there 67 voting ‘aye’, 47 voting ‘no’. And the Chair is sustained. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions."
"On the Order of Agreed Resolutions is House Resolution 370, offered by Representative Feigenholtz. House Resolution 371, offered by Representative Ryg. House Resolution 372, offered by Representative Rita. House Resolution 373, offered by Representative Crespo. House Resolution 376, offered by Representative Mulligan. House Resolution 377, offered by Representative Arroyo. House 09600052.doc 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Resolution 378, offered by Representative Brauer. House Resolution 380, offered by Representative Joyce. House Resolution 381, offered by Representative Will Davis. House Resolution 382, offered by Representative Graham. House Resolution 384, offered by Representative Howard. And House Resolution 385, offered by Representative D’Amico."
"Representative Currie moves for the adoption of Agreed Resolutions. All those in favor should say ‘aye’; all those opposed say ‘no’. In the opinion of the Chair, the ‘ayes’ have it. And Agreed Resolutions are adopted. Mr. Clerk, committee announ… announcements."
"The following committees will meet immediately following Session. Elections and Campaign Reform will meet in Room 122B, the Executive Committee will meet in Room 118, and Personnel and Pensions will meet in Room 114. Tomorrow at 9 a.m., tomorrow on Wednesday at 9 a.m. is the Joint Committee on Elementary and Secondary Education and Appropriations for Elementary and Secondary Education will meet in Room 118 and Appropriation-Public Safety will meet in Room 114. At 11 a.m. the Executive Committee meets in Room 118, tomorrow."
Speaker Turner: "Is Representative D’Amico around? John D’Amico. There will be softball practice tonight at 4:00 at Sacred Heart Griffin High School, right at Amos and Washington Boulevard for those interested in playing in the annual match on next Wednesday is the game. Practice tonight at 4:00, Sacred Hearth Griffin, Amos and Washington, please be there and be prepared. And now, 09600052.doc 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Representative Currie moves that the House stands adjourned until Wednesday, May 13, at the hour of 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, at the hour of 1 p.m. Allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, the House now stands adjourn."
"House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Introduction… Resolutions. House Resolution 374, offered by Representative Davis, M., House Resolution 375, offered by Representative Jakobsson, and House Resolution 379, offered by Representative Farnham are referred to the House Committee on Rules. Introduction and First Reading of House Bills. House Bill 4553, offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 4453, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4454, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4455, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4456, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4457, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4458, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4459, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4460, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4461, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4462, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4463, offered by 09600052.doc 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4464, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4465, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4466, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4467, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4468, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4469, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4470, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4471, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4472, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4473, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4474, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4475, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4476, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4477, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4478, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4479, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4480, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an 09600052.doc 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Act making appropriations. House Bill 4481, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4482, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4483, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4484, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4485, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4486, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4487, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4488, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4489, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4490, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4491, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4492, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4493, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4494, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4495, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4496, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4497, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House 09600052.doc 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Bill 4498, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4499, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4500, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4501, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4502, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4503, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4504, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4505, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4506, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriation."
"House Bill 4507, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4508, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4509, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4510, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4511, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4512, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4513, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4514, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4515, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House 09600052.doc 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Bill 4516, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4517, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4518, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4519, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4520, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4521, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4522, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4523, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4524, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4525, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4526, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4527, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4528, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4529, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4530, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4531, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4532, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4533, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4534, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4535, offered by Speaker 09600052.doc 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4536, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4537, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4538, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4539, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4540, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4541, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4542, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4543, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4544, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4545, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4546, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4547, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4548, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4549, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4550, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4551, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4552, offered by Speaker Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. House Bill 4553, offered by Representative Holbrook, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. First Reading of these House Bills. 09600052.doc 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 52nd Legislative Day 5/12/2009 Introduction of Resolutions. Senate Joint Resolution 51, offered by Representative Pihos. Senate Joint Resolution 54, offered by Representative Ryg. And Senate Joint Resolution 56, offered by Representative Fritchey. These Resolutions are automatically referred to the House Rules Committee."
"House Perfunctory Session will come to order. Introduction and reading of House Bills-First Reading. House Bill 4454, offered by Representative Madigan, a Bill for an Act making appropriations. Committee Reports. Representative Burke, Chairperson from the Committee on Executive, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on May 12, 2009, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass Short Debate' Senate Bill 104, Senate Bill 1837, and Senate Bill 1955; 'do pass as amended Short Debate' Senate Bill 246, Senate Bill 349, Senate Bill 1268, and Senate Bill 1682. Representative Nekritz, Chairperson from the Committee on Elections & Campaign Reform, to which the following measure/s was/were referred, action taken on May 12, 2009, reported the same back with the following recommendation/s: 'do pass as amended Short Debate' Senate Bill 80, and Senate Bill 1801. Corrections. Correction on the introduction of House Bills-First Reading. House Bill 4554, offered by Representative Feigenholtz, a Bill for an Act concerning appropriations. There being no further business, the House Perfunctory Session will stand adjourned." 09600052.doc 48