Speaker Lyons: "Good afternoon, Illinois. Your House of Representatives will come to order. Members are asked to please be at your desks. We shall be led in prayer today by Wayne Padget, our Assistant Doorkeeper. Members and guests are asked to please refrain from starting their laptops, turn off all cell phones and pagers and rise for the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. Wayne Padget."
"Let us pray. Dear Heavenly Father, we ask today that you be good to Your servants, while we live. Oh, Lord, that we may obey Your word, open Your eyes, that we may see wonderful things in Your law. These things we ask in Your Son's name, Amen."
"Representative Kelly Cassidy, would you please lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance."
"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
Speaker Lyons: "Roll Call for Attendance. Leader Currie, Democrats."
"Thank you, Speaker. Please let the record show that there is not a single excused absence among House Democrats today."
"Leader Bost on GOP."
"Thank… thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect that Representatives Beaubien and Mulligan are excused on the Republican side of the aisle." 09700057.doc 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
Speaker Lyons: "Mr. Clerk, take the record. 115 Members responding to the quorum call, we're prepared to do the work of the people of the State of Illinois. Mr. Clerk."
"Referred to the House Committee on Rules is House Resolution 373, offered by Representative Bill Mitchell."
"Representative Barbara Flynn Currie, I believe you have an announcement."
"Thank you, Speaker and Members of the House. It's my great pleasure to introduce the newest Member of the Illinois House of Representatives. She's my district mate, her name is Kim du Buclet. We graduated different years from the same high school, as did our State Senator. So we had a district represented by three University of Chicago High School Alums. Kim du Buclet."
"Kim, welcome to the club. The microphone is yours, if you'd like to say hello." du Buclet: "I'd like to say thank you. I'm happy to get to work. Don't worry about trying to pronounce my last name, Kim in fine. Thank you."
"Robin and Al, I'd get a little nervous. There's a new member coming your way almost every day here, so. Representative Chapin Rose, what… Representative Chapin Rose."
"Point of personal privilege, Mr. Speaker."
"Please proceed Chapin."
"Ladies and Gentlemen, in the Speaker's Gallery, I've several veterans of our state. They're all from Douglas County. And if I may have the attention of the Body, I 09700057.doc 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 would like to recognize each one of them individually, and talk a little bit about their service to our state and country. Ladies and Gentlemen, could we have some order. Master Sergeant Bobby E. Lee, United States Air Force, served in Korea, Alaska, Vietnam, France, Spain, Thailand, he is the most decorated veteran in Arcola, Illinois. Joseph William Ernst. Joseph William Ernst, United States Navy, served in World War II, received the French Legion of Honor, from the French Government, and he is Arcola's highest decorated veteran. Thank you, Mr. Ernst. Robert Clarence Coombe, United States Army Air Corp. Mr. Coombe is the oldest veteran with us today; he's 95 years old, also served in World War II. Thank you very much, Mr. Coombe. Dr. Robert Norman Arrol, Captain, United States Air Force, awarded two medals. And thank you for… awarded two medals. Thank you, Dr. Arrol. Specialist 3rd Class Curtis Leland Atteberry, United States Army, National Defense Service Medal. Thank you, Mr. Atteberry. Jessie M. Adams, United States Navy, received three combat stars and three medals of service. Thank you, Mr. Adams. Officer Larry Dale Biggs, United States Navy, Vietnam veteran. Thank you, Mr. Biggs. Sergeant Rusty Maurice Brown, United States Army, served in Vietnam, receiving many, many medals. Thank you, Mr. Brown. Specialist William 'Butch' Guennewig, United States Army, received two medals. Thank you, Mr. Guennewig. Sergeant John Guyot, United States Army National Guard, served during the Cold War and Vietnam. Thank you, Sergeant Guyot. Corporal Robert William Holaday, United States Air Corp. World War II Veteran. 09700057.doc 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 Thank you, Mr. Holaday. Specialist Ralph Hughes, United States Army, served during the Cold War. Thank you, Mr. Hughes. Sergeant Joseph S. Hunter, United States Army, Korean War, received two metals and a Bronze Star. Thank you, Mr. Hunter. Specialist Denny L. Johnson, United States Army, served as part of Vietnam, receiving three medals. Thank you, Mr. Johnson. Thomas Marlow, United States Navy, served during World War II. Thank you, Mr. Marlow. Sergeant William 'Casey' Reece, United States Marine Corp. and Air Force, served in Desert Shield and Desert Storm and received five medals. Thank you, Sergeant Reece. Lieutenant Donald Rhodes, United States Army Air Corp., served in World War II. Thank you, Lieutenant Rhodes. Officer Eugene 'Rocky' D. Rothrock, United States Army, excuse me, United States Navy, served in World War II, receiving 4 mad… medals. Thank you, Officer Rothrock. Hal Gregory Sand… Saunders, United States Navy, served in Vietnam. Thank you, Mr. Saunders. Gerald L. Steproe, United States Navy, received good conduct medal. Thank you, Mr. Steproe. Specialist Jer… Jerry L. Stewart, United States Army, serving in Vietnam receiving 5 medals. Thank you, Mr. Stewart. And Sergeant James Walter Thorne, United States Marine Corp. serving in the Gulf War. Thank you very much. Ladies and Gentlemen, unfortunately our delay today, we lost several others from Douglas County. Servicemen from Douglas County, who'd come over and could not stay as long as we had delayed Session, but I want… I think each of these gentlemen and those who left, to know how much the State of Illinois appreciates their service to 09700057.doc 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 our state and to our… our country. Let's give them all a big round of applause."
"Thank you, Douglas County Veterans. Thank you, Representative Rose for sharing this wonderful tribute to these wonderful Americans, these wonderful men from Illinois. Mr. Clerk, Representative Mautino, has House Resolution 246. Read the Resolution, Sir."
"House Resolution 246, offered by Representative Mautino. WHEREAS, Etta Mae Credi began her career with the Illinois Department of Insurance on February 23, 1954, as a Clerk Steno I in the Property and Liability Division, making $225 a month; and WHEREAS, In 1981, Mrs. Credi was made a Department of Insurance Unit Supervisor and was eventually promoted to Assistant Deputy Director in 1990; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Credi has worked with ten Governors and twenty-three Insurance Directors; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Credi has been an integral participant in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and is nationally regarded for her skill and keen insight; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Credi works tirelessly on behalf of insurance consumers in Illinois and around the United States; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Credi has a remarkable knowledge and understanding of the Department of Insurance and its history, operations, and regulations; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Credi's dedication and loyalty to the Department of Insurance have made her a role mode for her co-workers, friends, and family; and 09700057.doc 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 WHEREAS, Mrs. Credi is not only a dedicated Department of Insurance employee, but also a friend, a leader, and an inspiration to those who work with her; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we thank Etta Mae Credi for her 57 years of service to the people of the State of Illinois and wish her continued success and happiness in the future; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Etta Mae Credi as a symbol of our respect and esteem."
"Representative Mautino."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. I'd like to direct your attention to the Speaker's Gallery, and ask Etta Mae Credi to stand and join us today. We thank her for her dedication, for her 57 years of service to the people of the State of Illinois, to the Department of Insurance, and to thank her from the citizens and the House for being able to work with them, put up with 10 Governors, 23 Directors of Insurance, starting back in 1954. So, we say thank you, and we honor you for your continued surface… service. The directors and the legal counsels may… you may argue with them, but if Etta Mae says it is so, it is so. God bless you."
"Congratulations Etta Mae. God bless you. Mr. Clerk, we also have… Representative Mautino has House Resolution 316. Read the Resolution, Mr. Clerk."
"House Resolution 316, offered by Representative Mautino and Representative Harris. 09700057.doc 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 WHEREAS, Michael T. McRaith began his service as Director of the Illinois Department of Insurance on March 21, 2005; and WHEREAS, Since 2005, Director McRaith has served as President of the Illinois Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan and has supervised the Senior Health Insurance Program; and WHEREAS, During his tenure, Director McRaith has been a tireless advocate for insurance consumers in Illinois and across the United States; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith successfully advocated for the reestablishment of the Illinois Department of Insurance as an independent agency of State government, a position it held for more than a century prior to its consolidation with several other State agencies in 2004; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith has been a leader in developing, drafting, and advocating for State and national health insurance reforms that benefit patients, families, and small employers in Illinois; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith led the Department's investigation into the practice of contingent commission payments by insurers and negotiated national settlement agreements on behalf of the Department and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC); and WHEREAS, Director McRaith supervised the solvent run-off of Kemper Insurance Group, the largest insurer run-off in U.S. history; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith was elected Secretary-Treasurer of the NAIC in 2010, and has previously served as Chairman of the NAIC's Midwest Zone and Chair or Vice Chair of numerous substantive committees, including the Property and Casualty 09700057.doc 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 (C) Committee, the Rating Agency Working Group, Industry Liaison Committee, the Health Insurance Exchange Working Group, and the Broker Activities Task Force; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith represented the NAIC at the international Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development and on the International Association of Insurance Supervisors Corporate Governance Subcommittee; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith's work with the NAIC has ensured that Illinois consumers and domestic insurers are nationally and internationally represented; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith has testified on behalf of the State of Illinois and the NAIC before the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary, the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, twice before the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, twice before the U.S. House Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Insurance and Government Sponsored Enterprises, the U.S. House Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit, and the President's Antitrust Modernization Commission; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith helped convene the first National Catastrophe Insurance Summit and was appointed to serve as Chair of the Illinois Seismic Safety Task Force; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith is not only a dedicated public servant, but also a friend, a leader, and an inspiration to those who work with him; and 09700057.doc 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 WHEREAS, Director McRaith demonstrates the same level of passion and commitment in his personal life, serving on the Executive Committee of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Chicago Chapter; and WHEREAS, Director McRaith has been appointed by the Secretary of the U.S. Treasury to serve as the first Director of the Federal Insurance Office and will be leaving his post as Director of the Department of Insurance on May 31, 2011; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we thank Michael T. McRaith for his service to the people of the State of Illinois and wish him continued success and happiness in the future; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Michael T. McRaith as a symbol of our respect and esteem."
"Representative Greg Harris." Harris, G.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And… Etta Mae you're going to have to train another director now. I hope you have that in you. But on behalf of all the residents of Illinois we want to thank Director McRaith. You've presided over the Department of Insurance at a time of really seismic change in the health insurance and health care industries. So much has been going on that affects each and every family in all of our districts. You've always operated your office to look out for the consumer and look out for the families of Illinois. You've always 09700057.doc 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 had time in addition to your professional duties to look out for causes that are important to you as a board member of the chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Preventions and your many leadership roles in the LGBT community. Director, it's an honor for us in Illinois that you go to Washington to become the first ever Director of the Federal Insurance Office under the Secretary of the Treasely… Treasury. I join all my colleagues in wishing you farewell and good luck. Please come back and visit us soon."
"Representative Osmond."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Director McRaith, you have always had your door open for myself and Members of our side of the aisle. I just want to wish you well on your new endeavor. I remember the first week when you came down here and you met… walked around and met a lot of us and you said that your knowledge was limited, but you were willing to learn. Well, my gosh, you've really… really stepped up to the plate and learned a lot. And I'm so happy to say that I can call you a friend. I know that you've always, always responded to any of my requests. So, I thank you, and I wish you well on your new endeavor."
"Representative Feigenholtz."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I… I too, share the sentiments of my colleagues at the departure of Director McRaith, who has been for many years, a great resource to all of us on insurance issues and will be sorely, sorely missed. On a personal note, I see him in the neighborhood very late at night after a long day at work, coming home 09700057.doc 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 from the gym, and I'm going to miss him running into him in… at the Whole Food's parking lot at 11 at night. But I hope you stay close and in touch. And thank you for your service and I’m sure big things await you. We're very proud of you Michael."
"Representative Monique Davis." Davis, M.: "Thank you, Mr. Chairman… Mr. Speaker. First of all Michael McRaith, I congratulate you because as the Director of the Illinois Department of Insurance you have certainly made my role as chairman of that committee much easier. I appreciate your effort. I appreciate your information. I appreciate the respect that you have for this Body. I want you to tell Barack Obama that the State of Illinois General Assembly we send our love and our regards. Tell him he could not have made a better choice. Thank you very much."
"Representative Jack Franks."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Michael, congratulations. Illinois's loss is Washington's gain. And I know that the President's lucky to have you. You really have been a very unique director. I think you've been able to balance both the thoughts of business and the interest of business as well as consumers. You're one of the most thoughtful directors that we've had. And I tell you, the previous administration didn't do a lot of right things, but by making you director they did. You stood out. You stood out, you were always very straight shooter. You did not bow to pressure by the previous administration. You are really a shining light. You’re the best of the best. And we wish you much continued success." 09700057.doc 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Representative Al Riley."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Michael, good luck in Washington, and I just want to say, you just brought so much to a lot of the debates about public policy in general. Certainly, insurance, health care service delivery, whatever it was, you added a lot to the debate. You educated us in terms of what your perspective was on some of these issues that are extremely complex. And I know I'll always remember you as just a tremendously erudite person. You just really knew those issues so well. And I know that you're going to bring that same kind of a… a spirit and knowledge to Washington, so in a… a lot of ways we still have you. So, good luck to you and just… good luck in Washington. Thank you."
"Karen May."
"Yes. Michael, we are going to miss you. I have loved working with you. Your knowledge of the industry, your caring and compassion for the consumers of this state for their access to health care, are just above reproach. You've always been accessible and willing to work with us. Usually when we say goodbye to our colleagues, they're here on the floor. I think it's apropos that your up there, you're already in Washington, looking down like God on us lowly, lowly State Legislators, you know. But don't… don't be Godlike in Washington, come visit us and stay in touch, because we will really miss your knowledge and compassion."
"Leader Lou Lang."
"Thank you. To Mike, thank you for what you've done for all of us and for what you have done for the people of the 09700057.doc 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 State of Illinois. You have been the epitome of what a director ought to be. You know, in my 24 years here, I haven't gotten along with every director. In fact, there are some I'm not getting along with right now, but I have always gotten along with you, because you have taken the time to educate, you have taken the time to explain, you've been hands on, as I know you will be in Washington running this federal office. We know you're going to do an outstanding job, what you've done here you're going to take to Washington and make the lives of people better all over the United States. We thank you for your service. God bless you."
"Leader Skip Saviano."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, Director, it's been great working with you. And… and the one… one thing besides your knowledge and your intelligence regarding the insurance issues is you also brought up a very human side to which is sometimes a very dr… dry subject. And I appreciated your leadership showing compassion when we're dealing with insurance issues. It's always been a pleasure to work with you on issues and obviously your leadership transcended down to your staff, who have always been very responsive 'cause I knew… I know that's what you demanded. And you're truly going to be missed. Good luck to you, and Godspeed."
"Representative Lisa Dugan."
"Thank you, thank you. Director, of course everyone has said everything already, but, but certainly working with you on Health Care and Access Availability, along with 09700057.doc 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 other things, you always were open to sit down and talk and… and give your knowledge and also your advice on issues that sometimes were very controversial but very important to the people of this state. I certainly thank you for all of the help you've given; not only myself and I think colleagues in the House but the people of the State of Illinois. And I look forward to watching you as you go to Washington to take care things even on a bigger level. They certainly have a great man coming to Washington. We're going to miss you, but we're going to remember what you taught us. Thank you very much."
"Kelly Cassidy."
"Mike, I'm not going to take it personally that you're leaving as soon as I get here. I want to join my colleagues in thanking you for your work as an amazing and outstanding public servant, a dedicated and thoughtful leader of our LGBT community and a dear, dear friend and I will miss you dearly."
"Mary Flowers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I, too, would like to take this opportunity to thank you, Mr. Director, despite the fact that we didn't always agree and we agree to disagree. We all agree on what was in the best interest for the people of the State of Illinois. And I would like to also thank you for your patience, your kindness and your tenacity. You educated us all and I know that you are going to take this same spirit with you to Washington, D.C., to make sure that this industry is doing everything 09700057.doc 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 it should do for the people of this country. Thank you, again."
"La Shawn Ford."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And to Michael, I want to second everything that everyone said and what's amazing is, when I came here as a freshman, you and I talked all the time and your humbling spirit, I want to thank you. I was talking to a director all the time and never knew it. So, I want to tell you, I really appreciate that and I think that Illinois always sends great people to the world to serve, and I think you are a fine example of that. And good luck to you."
"Ken Dunkin."
"I, too, certainly, certainly, Mike, you know, share the exact same sentiments as many of my colleagues do. You are certainly a great educator had great energy, great outlook on sort of life in general. What I really enjoyed is sort of your… your tidbits on exercising and us sort of having at least some communication as if relates to taking care of yourself. I think that… that's attributable to some of your success down here. And if you take care of yourself, you will have a very positive outlook. And it… it really sort of exudes and exemplifies who you are. We're very proud of you, obviously. We want to see you succeed. Your success is certainly ours. Keep up the great work, and I'm sure I'll see you somewhere in the big City of Chicago and maybe D.C. at some point. But we love you is all I'm saying my friend. Take care. Thank you, Mike." 09700057.doc 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Dan Brady."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Director, I, too, just want to offer my congratulations. We go back to, I think the first workers' comp meeting in my district, before workers' comp reform was even… even popular at all and remember you made a wrong turn going to a particular hotel, trying to get where the event was, but you persevered, you came through, and you were there and we greatly appreciated it. I appreciate working with you from the Insurance Committee aspect and from a legislative district that may be the insurance mega in the State of Illinois. We all say thank you for your great leadership and wish you the best in Washington. Thank you."
"Lisa Hernandez."
"Director, I just want to say thank you. You know, I… I, too, when I came in as a freshman, I really, really appreciate your time. I learned a lot from you. And sorry to see you go but in the same time I'm… I'm very happy for you. Congratulations and best wishes."
"Leader Mautino."
"Thank you, Speaker. Director, it's been an honor and a privilege to work with you these past years. And although I haven't seen as many directors as Etta Mae has, I think out of the seven or eight, you have been most impressive with your intellect, your ability, and your drive. Washington has recognized that, and they've called you to service. I know that you'll do all of us very proud. And it's been an honor to serve with you."
"Representative Harris to close." 09700057.doc 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 Harris, G.: "Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Just finely, Mike, God bless, Godspeed, and thank you for being my friend and all of our friends. And I would ask for an 'aye' vote."
"Michael, good luck, God Bless and thanks for all your hard work for Illinois. Representative Hays, for what purpose do you seek recognition, Sir?"
"Point of personal privilege."
"Please precede, Representative."
"Please join me in welcoming, at the back of the gallery, Vermilion County Board Chair Jim McMahon and Vermilion County State's Attorney Randy Brinegar. They're visiting Springfield today. Please help me welcome these two leaders from Vermilion County."
"Representative Will Davis, for what purpose do you seek recognition, Sir?" Davis, W.: "For the purposes of an announcement, Mr. Speaker."
"Please give us your announcement, Sir." Davis, W.: "The Appropriations Committee for Elementary & Secondary Education will be canceled today. Appropriations-Elementary & Secondary Education will be canceled today. Thank you."
"Thank you, Sir. On page 4 of the candle lit… the Calendar, Ladies and Gentlemen, I have House Bill 2934. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"House Bill 2934, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. Third Reading of this House Bill."
"Recognize the Lady from Cook, Representative Feigenholtz." 09700057.doc 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. We've seen House Bill 2934 before. This is a Bill that the Human Services Appropriations Committee has been anxiously awaiting to send to the Senate. It will bring the State of Illinois somewhere between 90 and 100 million dollars that will help us pay our bills. I'd be glad to answer any questions."
Speaker Lyons: "The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Crawford, Representative Roger Eddy."
"Thank you, Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor yields."
"Representative, basically, this… this Bill now, allows for kind of the same outcome but with a little different process, in that, we are allowing all funds… the balances in all funds to be used except for two. Is that correct?"
"That's correct."
"So, the two funds that will not be used as part of the borrowing would be the Road Fund and the General Obligation Bond Fund?"
"Road and state construction, I believe."
"Okay State Construction Fund. So, those two are protected, all other funds are available, and the money will be paid back to these funds within 30 days?"
"That is correct."
"And if there is any interest that is due to those funds that will also be paid to those funds."
"That is correct."
"Okay, thank you very much for the clarifications. I… I think that this makes a lot of sense. It's going to allow 09700057.doc 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 us to access funds that are very important to us at this time. And I would urge everyone to vote 'yes'."
"Thank you."
"Representative Feigenholtz to close."
"Please vote 'aye'."
"The question is, 'Should House Bill 2934 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 115 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, on the Order of Third Reading House Bills, on the middle of page 4, we have House Bill 3199. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"House Bill 3199, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Third Reading of this House Bill."
Speaker Lyons: "Take that Bill out of the record. Representative Ed Sullivan, on the middle of page 4, on House Bill-Third Readings, you have House Bill 587. Ed. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"House Bill 587, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading."
Speaker Lyons: "Gentleman from Lake, Representative Ed Sullivan."
"Thank you, Ladies and Gentlemen. House Bill 587 clarifies existing law that allows park districts to enter… to transfer funds from one levy to another. The Amendment though, that we have put on this Bill requires that if 09700057.doc 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 you're going to increase one levy you have to statutorily lower another levy. The meat of what this does then is say that we cannot… this Bill cannot possibly be any type of back around the levy process or the tax cap process. This does not increase taxes. I want to thank Representative Mautino, and all of our staffs to make sure that we got this done correctly so that we can allow, in essence, park districts to better manage their cash flow and where they want to put their money depending on what the local resources need at the time. I'm happy to answer any questions."
"You heard the Gentleman's explanation of House Bill 587. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, 'Should House Bill 587 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Colvin, Jerry Mitchell, Sosnowski, Dave Winters. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there are 71 Members voting 'yes', 44 Members voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Keith Farnham, on… on House Bill-Third Readings, it's on page 4 of the Calendar, you have House Bill 1261. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"House Bill 1261, a Bill for an Act concerning public health. Third Reading."
"The Gentleman from Cook, Representative Keith Farnham." 09700057.doc 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. House Bill 1261 is… the Freedom of Information Act. Is amended by changing seven… Section 7 as followed: when a request is made to inspect a copy of a public record that contains information that's exempt from disclosure. Just one moment, Mr. Speaker. House Amendment #6, which has been adopted, is a gut and replace Amendment that becomes the Bill. It requires the State Register of Vital Records to assist mass transit agencies and county tax assessors in updating the roster of senior discount programs, by comparing these rosters with the electronic death reporting system. Currently the Vital Records Act requires the State Registrars of Vital Records to maintain an electronic reporting system of reporting verified instances of death to local registers. Under this Bill, the rosters of any senior discount programs operated by transit agencies and county tax assessors will be compared against these updated death records. Identified matches will be removed from the rosters reducing the opportunity for fraud. I entertain any questions."
Speaker Lyons: "The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Crawford. Representative Roger Eddy."
"Thank you, Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative Farnham, has the Department of Public Health taken a position on the Bill, with the addition of Floor Amendment 6?"
"I show them still as an opponent on it, but what this does, this Amendment, is takes out the fees. So, it… it 09700057.doc 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 negates the… the fact is we have worked with them all along on this."
"So, does this treat the RTA differently than the CTA, Metra and Pace? Because doesn't this allow it… this to be permissible for RTA but is required for CTA, Metra and Pace…"
"Yes, that is true."
"…to enter into that agreement?"
"That is true."
"Why… why are we permissive on the RTA and we are mandating the CTA, Metra and Pace?"
"Because they're separate boards and they need to do it separately."
"Well, if the upside of this is to require them, on this form, to share rosters for the department so they can compare those rosters with persons who have had recorded deaths then why wouldn't it be good for RTA to do this as well?"
"They're… they're considering in the Senate of changing that to make it mandatory for all of them and which would be all right with me."
"Okay. So, are you saying that you're anticipating the Bill to return to include the RTA? Are you telling it at… at will? Are you going to work? I mean, I… I don't know why they're left out?"
"They're not left out. It's an option for them."
"Well, but I think they believe that the Department of Health should have to enter into this agreement, and… and the way the Bill is written, you are allowing it to be 09700057.doc 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 permissive for the RTA but requiring it from the others. So, they would like to see this also as a mandate, but we're not mandating them, as the way I read this."
"And I am willing to work with them on that, but I think this moves in the right direction."
"Okay. Representative, I appreciate that. I… I just am not certainly on… on the RTA, don't know what the issue is there, but I… I think Members should note that the RTA is… is wanting something more in this Bill than there is. Thank you."
"Thank you."
"The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from McLean. Representative Brady."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Representative, similar to the question that I had, I think it might have been before Easter break, when you brought this forth, being that I was the chief architect of the… the electronic filing of the death certificates legislation over nine years ago, one of the things we… we weren't actually able to envision, is how many other areas this might be helpful to. But if I… I understand correctly, the authorities, whether that be the CTA or the RTA, and in this case, the CTA's mandating them. Is that correct?"
"Yes. I… our question was, the CTA is mandated? "
"Yes."
"Yes." 09700057.doc 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"So, they're going to be mandated. They're going to receive from Public Health, a user code key, what have you, to be able to enter into the system. Is that correct?"
"They have to have the agreement, but whenever they ask for it is up to them."
"Okay. But that agreement is approved then by Public Health and the Department of Vital Records?"
"Yes, that is correct."
"So, there… whether it's the RTA or CTA, mandated or not, they're not actually going in on the system themselves. They are going to use information provided them by the Department of Vital Records under the Department of Public Health. Is that correct?"
"That is correct."
"And is there any fee associated with that for the use of either… the CTA or the RTA, if it changes down the road?"
"No."
"Okay. And are you aware, are there other clerks or other… any that are charged a fee from the Department of Public Health for use of the electronic filing death certificate records?"
"Not that I know of, no."
"Okay. Thank you very much."
"Representative Farnham to close."
"So, I believe that this is very much needed and that it will save the… the agencies money in getting updated reporting." 09700057.doc 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"The question is, 'Should House Bill 1261 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Berrios, Brauer, Durkin, Roger Eddy, Jil Tracy. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received that Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Mike Bost."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Let the record reflect, for the rest of the day, that Representative Durkin is excused."
"So noted, Representative. Thank you. Now, I'm going to… we're going to pick up a few of the Bills that are still on Senate Bills-Second Reading. Representative Senger, you have Senate Bill 106. Representative Darlene Senger, on the Order of Second Reading, you have House Bill… Senate Bill 106. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 106, a Bill for an Act concerning children. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Chapa LaVia, on the Order of Second Reading-Senate Bills, you have Senate Bill 621. Representative Chapa LaVia, would you like to considering moving this Bill to Third Reading? Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 621, a Bill for an Act concerning education. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed." 09700057.doc 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Third Reading. Representative Mussman, the bottom of page 7, Senate Bills-Second Reading, you have Senate Bill 1040. There are still notes pending on that Representative. We'll leave that Bill on the Order of Second Reading. Representative Lisa Hernandez, on the top of page 8, under Senate Bills-Second Reading, you have Senate Bill 1236. Do you wish to move that Bill? Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1236, a Bill for an Act concerning public aid. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Skip Saviano, you have House Bill… Senate Bill 1539, on the middle of page 8. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1539, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Second Reading. Committee Amendments 1, 2 and 3 have been tabled. Floor Amendment #4 has been referred to committee. No other Motions filed."
"Mr. Clerk, hold that Bill on the Order of Second Reading. Representative Morthland, on the Order of Second Readings you have Senate Bill 1607. Out of the record. Representative Kelly Burke, on the Order of Second Readings you have Senate Bill 1653. Out of the record. Representative Chapin Rose, on the middle of page 9, under Senate Bills-Second Reading, you have House… Senate Bill 1702, Chapin. Out of the record. Representative JoAnn Osmond, you have Senate Bill 1761, on the Order of Second Reading. Out of the record. Representative Connie Howard, 09700057.doc 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 on the middle of page 9, under Senate Bills-Second Reading, you have Senate Bill 1807. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1807, a Bill for an Act concerning corrections. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Bob Rita, you have Senate Bill 1830, on the Order of Second Reading. Representative, you wish to move that Bill? Out of the record. Representative Lisa Hernandez, you have Senate Bill 1945 on the Order of Second Reading. 1945. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1945, a Bill for an Act concerning health. Second Reading. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Keith Farnham, on the bottom of page 9, under are Senate Bills-Second Reading, you have Senate Bill 1996. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1996, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Floor Amendment #1 has been approved for consideration."
Speaker Lyons: "Take that Bill out of the record. Representative Mike Connelly, on the bottom of page 9, you have Senate Bill 2007. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 2007, a Bill for an Act concerning State Government. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. Amendment #1 on the Bill was tabled. Floor Amendment #2, offered by Representative Connelly has been approved for consideration." 09700057.doc 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
Speaker Lyons: "Representative Connelly, on Floor Amendment #2."
"Thank you… thank you, Mr. Speaker, and Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Floor Amendment #2 to Senate Bill 2007 becomes the Bill. It requires the Treasurer to publish, by notification in Chicago and Springfield newspapers, any changes to 529 college programs. This is an agreement between the Treasurer's Office and the Illinois Press Association. I move for the adoption of the Amendment."
"You've heard the Gentleman's explanation. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor of the adoption of Floor Amendment #2 signify by saying 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. The Amendment is adopted. Anything further, Mr. Clerk?"
"No further Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Representative Elaine Nekritz, in the middle of page 10, under Senate Bills-Second Reading, you have Senate Bill 2288, Elaine. Out of the record. Representative Sacia, you have Senate Bill 151, on the Order of Second Reading. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 151, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Second Reading of this Senate Bill. No Amendments. No Motions filed."
"Third Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen of the House, we will be running through the Senate Bills-Third Reading, starting on page 4. So, if you have a Bill, and you're prepared to move it, please pay attention to the 09700057.doc 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 Calendar. Representative Keith Farnham, Senate Bill-Third Reading, sen… you have Senate Bill 43? Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 43, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Keith Farnham."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 43 creates a Taxation Disclosure Act, which would require the Department of Revenue to post tax rate information on its website. The new Act would require IDOR to make income property use and occupation excise tax rate information available on its Internet website. At minimum IDOR must make available for download the tax rate information and taxes imposed locally administrated by the state and the tax information imposed locally and administrated statewide."
"You heard the Gentleman's explanation on Senate Bill 43. Is there any discussion? Seeing that none… Those in favor of it's adopt… of its passage signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Flowers. Jerry Mitchell. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Karen Yarbrough, you have, on the Order of Third Reading-Senate Bills, Senate Bill 79. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk." 09700057.doc 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Senate Bill 79, a Bill for an Act concerning education, which may be referred to as the Charter School Quality Law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"The Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Leader Karen Yarbrough."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 79 is a result of a statewide task force that was created in 2009 to design, study and examine high quality alternative authorizers for charter schools. This task force created the Charter School Quality Act. The Act will do three things. It creates a single purpose statewide authorizer that can model best authorizing practices. It will create a fund within the State Treasury for deposit, for all fees, grants and donations and it will improve the quality of charter schools authorizers across Illinois by setting standards focused on accountability and student outcomes. It also creates a nine-member board appointed by the State Board of Education. Passed out of the Senate 52-0-1, and out of committee unanimously. I'd be happy to answer any questions."
"Heard the Lady's explanation. Is there any questions? Seeing none, the question is, 'Should Senate Bill 79 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative DeLuca, Greg Harris, Raymond Poe. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 107 Members voting 'yes', 6 voting 'no', 1 Member voting 'present'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional 09700057.doc 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Jim Watson, on the Order of Third Reading-Senate Bills, you have Senate Bill 170. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk. Take that Bill out of the record. Representative Sandy Cole, for what purpose do you seek recognition."
"Personal inquiry, Mr. Chair. On that last vote for Senate Bill… I'm missing it on my computer. I intended to vote 'no'. Could you please reflect that in the record?"
Speaker Lyons: "The Journal will reflect your request. Representative Jim Watson, you have that Senate Bill 170. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 170, a Bill for an Act concerning government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
Speaker Lyons: "The Gentleman from Morgan, Representative Watson."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. 170… Senate Bill 170 simply makes the Superintendent of the School for the Deaf, and the School for the Visually Impaired an appointed position with consent by the Senate, appointed by the Governor. I'd be happy to take any questions."
"You've heard the Gentleman's explanation. Is there any discussion? The Gentleman from McHenry, Representative Jack Franks."
"Thank… thank you, Mr. Speaker. A parliamentary question. Has the House Floor Amendment #2 been adopted?"
"Mr. Clerk."
"Amendments 1 and 2 have been adopted."
"Mr. Franks." 09700057.doc 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Thank… thank you. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"Sponsor yields."
"Amendment #2, our analysis indicates it was pending, but apparently that’s been adopted. So, I'd like to know why the experience requirement was reduced from 20 years to 15?"
"It was at the request of the agency because they weren't sure if… if it would be too limiting to find some… a superintendent. If you said you could only do it at 20, and you have somebody that's, you know, a rock star at 16, they would be ineligible. And that's… that's really the only reason."
"Okay. It wasn't for a specific individual, we weren't tailoring?"
"Oh, absol… Jack, absolutely not."
"Thank you. That's what I wanted to find out."
"Okay."
"Because sometimes…"
"No, I understand."
"…you know, you've seen that."
"No, I get you."
"Well, appreciate that. Thank you. No further questions."
"Thank you."
Speaker Lyons: "No further discussion? The question is, 'Should Senate Bill 170 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On 09700057.doc 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 this Bill, there's 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Saviano, on page 4 of the Calendar, you have Senate Bill 153. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 153, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Skip Saviano."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 153 is an agreed Bill with the department and the Massage Therapist Association. It will allow the massage schools to up the amount of hours required to get licensed for a massage therapist to 600 hours if they choose. This is been worked out between the two associations and the department. I would ask for an 'aye' vote."
"You heard the Gentleman's explanation. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, 'All those in favor of the passage of Senate Bill 153 signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'.' The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Jones, like to be recorded? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Mary Flowers, on the bottom of page 4, you have Senate Bill 1038. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1038, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." 09700057.doc 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Representative Mary Flowers."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Ladies and Gentlemen of the House. Senate Bill 1038 replaces an unconstitutional mandatory presumption with a valid permissive inference under the child abduction offense. It defines luring as it relate to child abduction. House Bill 1038… Senate Bill 1038 also enhances the penalty for convicted sex offender who is subsequently convicted of child abduction. And I know of no opposition. And I urge an 'aye' vote."
Speaker Lyons: "The Chair recognizes the Lady from Cook, Representative Karen Yarbrough. The Lady does not seek recognition. Seeing no further discussion, the question is, 'Should Senate Bill 1038 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Jones, Representative Kay, Mike Unes. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Sid Mathias, on the top of page 5, you have Senate Bill 1074. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1074, a Bill for an Act concerning civil law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Sid Mathias."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Give me one second to get my folder. Okay. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Basically what this does is, it's… it repeals the Illinois version of the Uniform Foreign Money Judgments Recognition Act and 09700057.doc 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 replaces it with an updated Uniform Foreign Country Money Judgments Recognition Act, which was promulgated by the Uniform Law Commission. These revisions were drafted by them in response to developments that happened since this Act was originally passed. I could go into all the details if you'd like, on any specific area, but it… basically what it does is it just updates the Uniform Act to make it more current. And I ask for your 'aye' vote. I know of no opposition to this. It passed unanimously, I believe, in the Senate."
"You've heard the Gentleman's explanation on Senate Bill 1074. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, 'Should Senate Bill 1074 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Dan Brady. Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Leader Barbara Flynn Currie, on the top of page 5 of the Calendar, under Senate Bills-Third Reading, you have Senate Bill 1352. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1352, a Bill for an Act concerning finance. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Leader Barbara Flynn Currie."
"Thank you very much, Speaker and Members of the House. This is an initiative of the Capital Development Board to extend, by four years, the pilot program under which the… the Development Board can use for some construction 09700057.doc 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 projects a single time and with… with subs who are already precertified by the state. Experience shows that you save a lot of money on change orders when you go with a… a single prime, and this is still quite a limited program. Most of the work that the CDB does will still continue to be bid in five separate subsections, but this would enable them to do a little bit more of their work with the single prime model which is now at use in our universities, Chicago Park District, Federal Government. And as I say, the value is in saving money for state construction projects. Again, a pilot program, with a limited extension. And I'd appreciate your support."
"You've heard the Lady's explanation on Senate Bill 1352. No one seeking discussion, the question is, 'Should Senate Bill 1352 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative DeLuca, Kay Hatcher, Randy Ramey, like to be recorded? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there are 78 Members voting 'yes', 36 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Senate Bills-Third Reading, Representative Holbrook, you have Senate Bill 1603. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1603, a Bill for an Act concerning regulation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"Representative Tom Holbrook."
"Thank you, Speaker. Senate Bill 1603 involves for another exemption under the Residential Mortgage Lender 09700057.doc 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 (sic-License) Act that we have. This is in response to the Safe Act. These individuals would be still covered under the Federal Safe Act and I know of no opposition to the Bill. It passed out of the Senament… Senate unanimously, and out of committee unanimously. And again, I know of no opposition."
"You've heard the Gentleman's explanation. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, 'should Senate Bill 1603 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 114 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Frank Mautino, on Senate Bills-Third Reading, you have Senate Bill 1631. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1631, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"The Gentleman from Bureau…"
"Out, sorry."
"…wishes to take the Bill out of the record. Representative David Reis, on the Order of Third Reading- Senate Bill, you have Senate Bill 1637. Out of the record. Representative Sente, you have Senate Bill 1741. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1741, a Bill for an Act concerning revenue. Third Reading of this Senate Bill." 09700057.doc 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Mr. Clerk, error by the Chair. This is Senate Bill 1641. 1641. My mistake."
"Senate Bill 1641, a Bill for an Act concerning transportation. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"My apologies, Representative Sente."
"Okay."
"Senate Bill 1641."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Senate Bill 1641 is an environmentally friendly Bill to increase the use of low- speed vehicles. There are several definitions of vehicles, including low-speed, non-highway and neighborhood vehicles. And I want to emphasize that this Bill primarily focuses on low-speed vehicles. We are not talking about golf carts, and we are not talking about 4-wheelers. A low-speed vehicle is a vehicle with four wheels. It can reach speeds of 25 miles per hour. And it follows a federal motor vehicle standards including items like headlights, taillights, turn signals, windshield, mirrors, seatbelts and registration plates. Under current law, low-speed vehicles can be operated on any street with a speed limit of 30 miles per hour or less. This Bill simply extends and allows a local municipality to determine if they feel low- speed vehicles should be allowed on streets between 30 and 35 miles per hour. The decision is made after the municipality reviews the volume, speed and character of traffic on the road. This Bill slightly expands the use of low-speed vehicles, which are generally smaller than vehicles that get better gas mileage and electric low-speed vehicles. It will be a benefit to college campuses where 09700057.doc 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 these vehicles are a great benefit to students getting around on campus. I ask for your 'aye' vote."
"You heard the Lady's explanation. The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Crawford, Representative Roger Eddy."
"Thank you. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor yields."
"Representative, this is completely up to the municipality?"
"Yes, it is."
"So, if they're in favor of allowing an ATV or similar or does that not allow for ATVs?"
"That is not defined as a low-speed vehicle. An ATV would be in a different category. Over at Representative Schmitz's off… desk there are some visual copies, if you'd like to see any, yes. So, an ATV is not included in this Bill. It's not referred to in this legislation."
"How about a golf cart?"
"No, that's what I said. Golf carts are not part of this."
"So, what… I guess… what classifies as a low-speed vehicle, then? Is… is it those little bitty, kitty clown car looking things that we see around?"
"No. I will reexplain the definition. It is four wheels. It has a windshield. It has a headlight, a taillight, has turn signals. It has registration plates. It has seatbelts and a mirror."
"Well, if it's registered, and it has all of the safety requirements and a windshield and four wheels, why would 09700057.doc 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 the city need to allow for it by ordinance? Wouldn't it be licensed and registered as a… as a vehicle in the state, and…"
"So, there…"
"…therefore, already be able to… why can cities say no?"
"Because it falls under the classification of low-speed vehicles. Low-speed vehicles currently are only allowed on streets 30 miles per hour or less. We want to increase that classification only by five miles per hour. The municipality has the discretion. If actually the street is controlled by two municipalities they would have to agree, and they would discuss that, if that were the case."
"Well, I guess my question is, if I own a titled, registered vehicle, in the State of Illinois, wouldn't I have the expectation that I could drive that in any city in the… in the state just based on the fact that I… I was… I had a title and registration already?"
"No, that would ex… be explained when you purchase that car, at least it should. In fact today, for the vehicles 30 and under, they actually have a posting on the rear of the vehicle, says it's not allowed on streets above 30 miles per hour. We're actually also removing that from the back of the car today. So, someone who had purchased one of these vehicles would be very aware that they are not allowed to be used everywhere."
"How… how fast can these vehicles go?"
"Twenty-five miles per hour."
"That… that's the speed, that's it. These… these vehicles can't go over 25 miles an hour, and what you're 09700057.doc 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 trying do is allow cities the authority to permit these vehicles to be used. Why can't they be used now, if they're going under the speed limit?"
"That's the law."
"And they're registered and titled in the state?"
"I can only speak to what this Bill addresses, what… what not… what isn't currently in statutes."
"But… but they have to have seatbelts. They have to have a windshield, a parking break, mirrors. They have to… for all intents and purposes meet all the safety requirements of a vehicle. They just go slower. And we need to pass legislation to allow them to go slow?"
"It is a fault under the classification of low-speed vehicle…"
"Okay."
"…which is different than what a normal car would be. There's also non-highway vehicles."
"Okay."
"There are also neighborhood vehicles. There are several currently defined terms in the statute."
"Okay. I'm… I'm just a little confused by the fact that if I buy one of these, I would expect that I could drive it on a street. But I appreciate… one other question. Are these used in other states? Other… are there safety facts available? Do these cause any type of safety issue by going so much slower?"
"Well, that's part of the reason why we want to evaluate… have the municipality evaluate these based on the speed to see if they're safe? But as any car that would be 09700057.doc 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 smaller, there is potentially some concern that a smaller car would be less safe than a bigger car. There's just less room for, if there was a crash. Which is why it only happens on a slower street, where the character is appropriate to low-speed vehicles."
"Okay, Representative. Are you required to wear a hat with a fez on it to drive one of these? Or is that in your Bill?"
"You could wear one of your bows… driving a low-speed vehicle. I probably won't."
"Thank you."
"Representative Mike Bost."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor yields."
"I… and I'm in support of your… your Bill, Representative and, I understand that. I'm just a little concerned because what we're asking for is… is those people who are in the… the larger city the opportunity to do this with a vehicle that they're familiar with. Would you, and your colleagues then join me, because in many of my rural areas we are very familiar with the ATVs. And there are in areas where we feel that they should be able to travel along county roads, back roads, be used in and be… be licensed legally in the State of Illinois. This is one of those cases where you're asking from your community for something that seems right in your area. I'm asking that when we move forward and we actually, I'm not joking about this, when we move forward that as we ask for rural Illinois to have vehicles that are appropriate for our area, that you 09700057.doc 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 would join us in getting those licensed as well. And… and that's what I'm asking, so?"
"Thank you. And I would review each of those Bills individually as I do, but that sounds reasonable."
"Okay. There… and if you would also consider the possibility of making sure that we have rifle racks on all gators. It would be great."
"Now, you're getting a little bit out of control, Representative."
"The Chair recognizes the Gentleman from Jasper, Representative David Reis. David."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Will the Sponsor yield?"
"The Sponsor yields."
"Representative, will there be a license plate involved with this at all, or a local municipal sticker?"
"There is a registration plate, yes."
"And that'll be paid for by the local municipality, or is it something the Secretary of State's Office is going to administer?"
"You know, I’m not a hundred percent sure. I assume a registration plate would be similar to it would go through Secretary of State. I don't know if a vehicle sticker from the municipality, but seeing as that they need to approve the low-speed vehicle, there could perhaps be a munici… municipal sticker as well."
"So, they would…"
"I'm not a hundred percent sure of that."
"…if that's the case, they would have to take that into consideration before they would allow such a rule." 09700057.doc 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Who would have…"
"From the cost standpoint. If the municipality had to pay for it, they would take that under consideration, whether or not they approve this… this new law."
"Isn't the individual who applies for the sticker the one who pays for it?"
"Well, in some cases we sure give a lot of things free away around here. Next question, you said the golf carts are not included in this. There are some very fancy golf carts that have turn signals, they have a windshield, many times they have a heater. You're saying that they would not qualify for this?"
"Correct."
"Are you sure that your Bill denies that, and I'm…"
"I am sure."
"…just saying there's a lot of those that are out at there, they cost 3 or 4 thousand dollars. They're very nice. Why wouldn't…"
"I am…"
"…you want something like that to be included?"
"Are you saying, why would we not? I am sure they are not included in this legislation."
"But why?"
"I wouldn't want them personally included. That's not the Bill I would choose to run."
"Okay. My last question involves a town… we have a lot of small towns where a state highway might go through the center of town. Are they legal on the state highways and how will they get from one side to the other?" 09700057.doc 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"They are not. If there is… if it's a highway, this Bill specifically is… does not allow low-speed vehicles to go on to highways. That's currently what happens. This Bill does not change that. The only thing close to what your question is, is that this addresses it, there's two different municipalities, that would have jurisdiction over a road, they would have to agree, or this Bill or… or low- speed vehicles could not be used on that type of street."
"Okay. Thank you, Representative."
"You're welcome."
"Representative Jack Franks."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My seatmates wanted me to ask some questions of the Sponsor, if I may? Okay. First, are you familiar with Representative Rita's House Bill 1884?"
"No. Do you have questions about this Bill?"
"Well, I was wondering if… that was good. I do, I do, thanks for…"
"Please proceed."
"…thanks for asking. Yeah. I'm wondering if it’s the trailer Bill to Mr. Rita's Bill because he allowed buses to ride on shoulders, and I was wondering if these cars could do the same."
"No."
"Okay. Well, then, let's go back to your Bill then. And I… the previous speaker had asked about golf carts and you indicated this was not dealing with golf carts, correct?"
"Correct."
"What about clown cars?" 09700057.doc 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"Excuse me. Could you repeat that? Aren't we in May? Do we have something better to do?"
"You're right. But I was wondering, a clown car. Would you need seat belts for all of the clowns? I'm wondering, is there a limit?"
"That's not addressing this legislation. Do you have questions for my Bill?"
"Apparently not. I'm getting… I'm getting shut down pretty… pretty hard here. Okay. I'm just trying to figure out what the vehicle is. And we were looking at them, and he was saying it's not a… it's not a golf cart. But I really can't picture it. And that was the issue. Oh, that helps."
"Come get one."
"Okay. Thank you. It's like a Fiat. All right. Thank you, Mr. Maut… Mautino, thank you."
"Representative Sente to close."
"I'm looking for your 'aye' vote."
Speaker Lyons: "The question is, 'Should Senate Bill 1641 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Representative Nybo, like to be recorded? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 102 Members voting 'yes', 11 Members voting 'no', 1 Member voting 'present'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Mike Bost."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. If the record could reflect that Representative Watson is excused the rest of the day." 09700057.doc 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011
"So noted, Representative. Thank you. Mr. Clerk, what's the status on Senate Bill 1672?"
"Senate Bill 1672 is on the Order of Senate Bills- Third Reading."
"Mr. Clerk, move that Bill back to the Order of Second Reading on the request of the Sponsor. Representative Tom Holbrook, you have Senate Bill 1712. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1712, a Bill for an Act concerning local government. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
"The Gentleman from St. Clair, Representative Tom Holbrook."
"Thank you, Speaker. Senate Bill 1712 corrects a drafting error that occurred in the STAR bond legislation last year. It is an initiative of the Southwest Illinois Flood Prevention District where they were mentioned in it, and it doesn't apply to them. This passed out of the Senate unanimously, passed out of committee unanimously, and has no known opposition."
"You've heard the Gentleman's explanation. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, 'Should Senate Bill 1712 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Karen May, would you like to be recorded? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this issue, there's 108 Members voting 'yes', 5 Members voting 'no'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Representative Bill Cunningham, on 09700057.doc 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 the middle of page 5 of the Calendar, you have Senate Bill 1740. Read the Bill, Mr. Clerk."
"Senate Bill 1740, a Bill for an Act concerning criminal law. Third Reading of this Senate Bill."
Speaker Lyons: "The Gentleman from Cook, Representative Cunningham."
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members of the House. Senate Bill 1740 is… as amended, is an initiative of the Illinois Department of Corrections. Makes a couple of changes to the Corrections Code regarding mandatory supervised release or parole. First, the Bill would require the… require judges to enter the specific length of parole that each inmate needs to spend after their sentence's done. In the actual sentencing order that they issue in court. They're not required to do that right now, creates confusion sometimes at intake for the Illinois Department of Corrections, and they have to contact a sentencing judge as frequently to make sure they enter the right parole information into their record system. The second component is… Senate Bill 1740 would give the Prisoner Review Board discretion on whether or not they want to award a 90… a 90-day credit to parolees who obtain their GED while on parole. Currently parolees automatically get their terms of MSR reduced by 90 days if they obtained a GED. The IDOC and Prisoner Review Board would like this changed because they feel that, in some cases, it's in the best interest of society and the parolee himself that he serve the full term on supervised release. 09700057.doc 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 I ask for the chamber's support, and would be happy to answer any questions."
"You've heard the Gentleman's explanations. Is there any questions? Seeing none, the question is, 'Should Senate Bill 1740 pass?' All those in favor signify by voting 'yes'; those opposed vote 'no'. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Mr. Clerk, take the record. On this Bill, there's 113 Members voting 'yes', 0 voting 'no', 0 voting 'present'. This Bill, having received the Constitutional Majority, is hereby declared passed. Mr. Clerk, Agreed Resolutions. There are no Agreed Resolutions. Thank you, Mr. Clerk. Ladies and Gentlemen, the House is preparing to adjourn, but we have to redo the schedule for committee meetings. So the 2 p.m., committees will be held at 4:00. The scheduled 3 p.m. committees will be held at 4:30. So, the committees scheduled at 2 p.m., Agriculture & Conservation, Insurance, Transportation, Regulation, Road and Bridges will meet at 4:00. The 3 p.m. committees: Consumer Protection, Financial Institutions, Health Care Availability & Accessibility, Cities & Villages will meet at 4:30. And now, seeing no further business to come before the Illinois House of Representatives, Representative Barbara Flynn Currie moves that we stand adjourned 'til the hour of 1 p.m. on May 18, Wednesday, May 18. Allowing perfunctory time for the Clerk, all those in favor of the adjournment signify by saying 'yes'; those opposed say 'no'. In the opinion of the Chair, the 'ayes' have it. And the House stands adjourned 'til the hour of 1 09700057.doc 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 97th GENERAL ASSEMBLY HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRANSCRIPTION DEBATE 57th Legislative Day 5/17/2011 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18. Have a pleasant evening, everyone." 09700057.doc 50