PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The regular Session of the 100th General Assembly will please come to order. Will the Members please be at their desk? Will our guests in the galleries please rise? The invocation today will be given by Pastor Shea Hughes, Bethalto Church of God.
(Prayer by Pastor Shea Hughes)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Please remain standing for the Pledge Allegiance. Senator Cunningham.
(Pledge of Allegiance, led by Senator Cunningham)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Blueroomstream.com seeks permission to videotape. Permission -- leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Wednesday, May 30th, 2018.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter.
Mr. President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal just read by the Secretary, pending arrival of the printed transcript.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter moves to postpone the reading and the approval of the Journal, pending the arrival of the printed transcript. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senate Resolution 1822, offered by Senator Hunter and all Members. It is a death resolution, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Resolution Consent Calendar. Will all Members at the sound of my voice please come to the Senate Floor immediately? Will all Members at the sound of my voice please come to the Senate Floor immediately? With leave of the Body, we'll turn to page 11 of the printed Calendar, Resolutions. Senate Resolution 1592. Senator Tom Cullerton. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1592, offered by Senator Tom Cullerton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Cullerton, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Illinois General Assembly. Senate Resolution 1592 declares April 2018 as Animal Cruelty Awareness {sic} (Prevention) Month in order to raise awareness about this silent crisis and give voice to our furry friends.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) All those -- any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1780. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1780, offered by Senator Morrison.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Morrison, on your resolution. 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This resolution designates June 13th, 2018 as Suicide Awareness Day in Illinois and encourages the sharing of suicide awareness and prevention strategies among individuals, communities, and organizations so that all Illinoisans have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide awareness and prevention.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. State Journal-Register seeks permission to photograph. Leave is granted. Senate Resolution 1472. Senator Morrison. Out of the record. Senate Resolution 1767. Senator Anderson. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1767, offered by Senator Anderson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Anderson, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This Senate resolution, what this does is we're asking the -- the federal Postal Service to do a commemorative stamp for Hero Street U.S.A. {sic} (Hero Street). Between 1939 and 1945, twenty-two Mexican-American families sent eighty-seven men into conflict, more than any U.S. area of any comparable size. Only eight did not come home. These families reside in about a two-block area in Silvis, Illinois. I would ask for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1600. Senator Bush. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1600, offered by Senator Bush.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush, on your resolution.
Thank you very much, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. We're urging the State of Wisconsin to consider the serious environmental and public health concerns that may affect or threaten the people of Illinois with the Foxconn development. It urges Illinois agencies to take whatever action possible -- protect against the loss of water resources, potential flooding, and other ecological impacts from this development; and furthermore, states that the 100th General Assembly of Illinois believe that Illinois should not waive similar environmental requirements for any developments seeking to locate in Illinois. And I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any -- is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1394. Senator Tracy. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1394, offered by Senator Tracy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Tracy, on your resolution.
4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Thank you so much, Mr. President. I've been waiting for this moment all Session. This declares April 21st, 2018 as "Magic Day in Monmouth". It commemorates the life of The Great Nicola, a world renowned magician, showman, and inventor who kept his shop -- his workshop in Monmouth, Illinois. And let me tell you why this is so important. Monmouth was the lifelong home of the internationally renowned illusionist William Mozart Nicol, aka "The Great Nicola". The Great Nicola devised innovative apparatuses in his Monmouth workshop that inspired grand stage illusions practiced by celebrated illusionists today -- even today. The Great Nicola's world travels delivered goodwill in the form of American entertainment to the far reaches of civilization. The Great Nicola collected exotic animals for zoos and film production and helped educate the Western world, the Western world, about the natural wonders of Asia and Africa. The Great Nicola's -- and his brother learned their craft from their father, a Scottish immigrant, demonstrating that immigration contributes to the enrichment of the cultural fabric of the United States. The Great Nicola was internationally known as a celebrity and yet chose to reside in Monmouth, Illinois. And also, he's buried there. Monmouth is developing a professionally curated museum to celebrate Western Illinois' rich history and innovators, such as The Great Nicola. The Warren County History Museum maintains its collection of artifacts associated with The Great Nicola and provides educational programming celebrating the history and art of magic. The Great Nicola Music {sic} (Magic) Festival will enhance tourism opportunities in Illinois and contribute to the economic development of Western Illinois. Now, those who know about Monmouth know that Monmouth College is also there and they 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 are known as the Fighting Scots. I'm so happy we did this today because my intern attends Monmouth College and she informed me last week that the archaeology students at Monmouth College recently unearthed The Great Nicola's elephant. They dug up the bones and they're going to probably put them in this museum. So it's a great history of Monmouth. Mattie Hunter has a doctorate from Monmouth College. And so, you know, I -- I'm just glad that we can help Monmouth celebrate this Great Nicola, who really is a fascinating individual and an Illinoisan from Monmouth, Illinois. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Joint Resolution 75. Senator Manar. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 75, offered by Senator Manar.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Manar, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This resolution simply designates Illinois Route 159 from Detour Road to Illinois Route 16, north of Bunker Hill in Macoupin County, as the "Lance Corporal Charles Heinemeier Memorial Highway". This came to me from a group of constituents in my hometown who wanted to honor Lance Corporal Heinemeier and his service to our country during the Vietnam War. I would ask for favorable passage of the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, as this resolution 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote is -- will be required. All those in favor -- the question is, is -- Senate Joint Resolution 75 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 75, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Joint Resolution 23. Senator Rezin. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 23, offered by Senator Rezin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rezin, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Joint Resolution 23 honors an extraordinary man from Coal City. Senate Joint Resolution 23 designates Route 113 from Carbon Hill Road to Virginia Street in Coal City as the "Dennis M. Neary Memorial Highway". Dennis Neary was born on July 11th, 1950. He attended Morris High School and Joliet Junior College. Dennis' career began in law enforcement with the Grundy County Sheriff's Department. In 1972, he was hired as a police officer in Coal City and went on to serve as Chief of Police for thirty years. During that time, he also served thirty- five years with the Coal City Volunteer Fire Department, with many of those years as Captain. He also served as EMT for six years. In 2002, he received the Coal City Community Service Award. Dennis Neary passed away in 2016, leaving his wife of forty-three years, two sons, and three grandchildren. I ask for an Aye vote. 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, as the -- as this resolution requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote is required. The question is, shall Senate -- Senate Joint Resolution 23 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 23, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Joint Resolution 76. Senator Rooney. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 76, offered by Senator Rooney.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rooney, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. It's a privilege to sponsor this resolution on behalf of the entire Higher Education Working Group. It's just one of the moving pieces that we're pushing through to help encourage everybody to get a solid Illinois education right here in Illinois. In particular, what this one is going to do is help all of us who have had complaints from folks who have gone to community colleges, tried to transfer to four-year universities, and somehow or another found out that some of their credits haven't transferred. The Illinois Articulation Initiative has done a lot of good work in getting a lot of those problems solved, but we're just finding some nooks and crannies that still are creating problems for our students. This is going to have all the four- years look at all the transfer credits to try to find those 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 patterns. It's going to make sure that the internal course numbering is always matching up with the external course numbering, and we really think this will help a lot of people who are trying to transfer.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) There any discussion? Senator Schimpf, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. I would like to commend both Senator Rooney and the Higher Education Working Group for their work on this resolution. I do enthusiastically support it. Why I rise to speak today, though, is this message is not so much to the Members of the Senate, but to the members of the Higher Education community in terms of this is a resolution, but it also should be considered either a warning order or a shot across the bow. The -- the situation that we have in Illinois is not satisfactory right now. There is no -- it is -- it is not acceptable that students in Illinois would be taking -- signing up for courses and not knowing whether those courses are going to transfer. So this resolution asks the Higher Education community to solve this problem and I hope they will. If they are unable to do so, however, you know, I'm sure I and the other members of the -- of the Higher Education Working Group and all of us here in the Senate will solve this problem for them via binding -- you know, binding bills that are going to require them 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 to take action. So, I urge an Aye vote and I also urge the Higher Education community to solve this problem on their own. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) As this resolution requires State -- expenditures of State funds, a roll call vote will be required. The question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 76 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 76, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Joint Resolution 74. Senator Clayborne. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 74, offered by Senator Clayborne.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Clayborne, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. SJR 74 advocates that -- for State analysis and federal investment in the preliminary development of statewide high speed rail. The resolution urges that Governor Rauner and IDOT to prepare an investment-grade ridership analysis for distribution to interested parties, as well seek federal funding to help pay for the study. Calls upon State agencies to provide any and all assistance to the City of Chicago in implementing this project. Commends the Mayor for his commitment to build a high-speed train between O'Hare Airport -- downtown Chicago, and urges all State agencies to 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 provide any assistance to move this project forward. I would ask for your favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will vote Aye -- will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. With leave of the Body, we'll turn to page 7 of the printed Calendar, House Bills 3rd Reading. House Bill 4702. Senator Mulroe. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 4702. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Mulroe, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. House Bill 4702 creates the Uniform Powers of Appointment Act. It codifies common law rules in case law regarding the use of powers of appointment in estate planning. It's an initiative by the State Bar. I know of no opponents. I'd appreciate your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 4702 pass. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 4702, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. House Bill 4765. Senator Aquino. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
House Bill 4765. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Aquino, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 4765 creates a predictable fee schedule for Cook County. Under this bill, the Cook County Board would establish a set fee for recording of standard documents consistent with how the rest of the Illinois - - counties in Illinois operate. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 4765 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 4765, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Executive Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 34, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 35, Motion to Concur with House 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Amendments 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 486, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 682, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 1707, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 1851, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2362, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2421, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2481, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2651, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 and 2 and 4 to Senate Bill 2913, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3115, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3256, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3452, Floor Amendment 2 and 3 to House Bill 4331; refer to Licensed Activities and Pensions Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2617, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2864, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2904, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3109; refer to State Government Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 585, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 904, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1758, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1979, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2350, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2354, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2447, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2540, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2579, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2667, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2838, Motion to Concur with House 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2844, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2927, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2999, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3085, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3139, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3141, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3536, and Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 212, and Senate Resolution 1778; refer to Transportation Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2804; Be Approved for Consideration - Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3103, Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 5166, Floor Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 275, and House Amendment 2 to House Bill 5721. Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-8 (b-1), the following amendments will remain in the Committee on Assignments: Floor Amendment 2 to House Bill 3806. Signed, Senator James Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) I have committee announcements. Exec will meet at 2 -- or 10:35 in Room 212. Licensed Activity {sic} (Activities) and Pensions will meet at 11:15 in Room 400. State Government will meet at 11:15 in Room 409. Transportation will meet at 11:45 in Room 212. With leave of the Body, we'll turn to page 3 of the printed Calendar, Senate Bill -- Senate Bill 275. Senator Van Pelt. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Van Pelt seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 275 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 275. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Van Pelt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt, on your amendment.
I would like to adopt it and -- and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those -- Senator Van Pelt.
Like to -- withdraw Floor Amendment 2 and -- Floor Amendment 1 and move forward.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Floor Amendment No. 1 is withdrawn. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Van Pelt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt, on your amendment.
Like to adopt Floor Amendment 2 and explain it on -- on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor, vote -- say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 3, offered by Senator Van Pelt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Van Pelt, on your amendment.
I would like to adopt Floor Amendment 3 and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 275. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 275. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt, on your bill.
Yes, thank you, Mr. -- Mr. President. As amended, Senate Bill 275, it -- it defines what a gang database is and what a shared gang database is. It also is amended to say that the law enforcement agencies cannot distribute information contained on a database if that information is for employment, education, -- licensing, or housing purposes, except for employment by law enforcement agencies or issues around homeland security. And the reason why this is so important is because we have people that 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 have been added to the database in Chicago, where there are over four hundred thousand people listed on the strategic subjects list, two hundred and fifty thousand have never been arrested, but yet when they apply for jobs, many of 'em are finding that their background checks are showing that they're gang affiliated. So we want to stop the sharing of that data for purposes of employment, housing, and licensing, and we also want to be sure that they start putting people on a database who belong on there and not people who don't belong on there. There is absolutely no opposition to this bill and I'm very happy to say that, that -- I worked with the Illinois State Police. They did a great job working with me on this. The -- FOP, the -- the Sheriffs, the -- the Chiefs, everybody, State's Attorney - we worked with everybody to get this bill to a place that it really makes sense and gets to the root causes of the problems that we're facing. So I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Will the sponsor yield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) She indicates she will.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. Senator Van Pelt, I -- I appreciate and -- and -- and hold -- absolutely believe that there's no institutional opposition to this. At this time of year, it's the last day, the amendments were just adopted, sometimes -- sometimes that's more important than other's and -- and -- and -- and -- and so I'm not familiar in detail with the changes that you 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 have made. What I do know is that these changes are going to affect my law enforcement authorities back in my district and everyone else's as well. So, I'd like you to walk through for me, with regards to the disclosure provisions, exactly what is permitted and what is allowed. I've noticed in just glancing through in the couple minutes I've had here to read this over that there's language in there saying, "but not limited to". I always -- my eyebrows always pop up when I read that because that often means that whatever came before that is completely irrelevant. So if you'd walk us through -- take whatever time you need and walk us through in detail those disclosure provisions, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt.
Thank you for the question. It's an excellent question. First of all, I want to say that the reason why we want this information not to be shared with employment -- for employment purposes, housing, licensing, and such like is because this information is not corroborated. A person can be added to the gang database for -- for coming in late to school. A young man was -- came in late to high school, his classes; instead of them giving him a detention, he ended up on the gang database and he is not involved with a gang. He ended up being arrested for a crime he didn't commit, was in detention for five days before his teachers and his principal and his parents and the community all came together to -- to show that this young man has never been involved with gangs. So -- and we also have people that have been added to the database because they got shot. Now, if you got shot, that's no reason for you to be added to the gang database. No 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 other -- nothing else that -- but that he got shot. They added him to the gang database. It was -- it was reported to ICE. ICE came in and knocked the door down, put him in detention for ten months, and we're paying for that right now. So, we worked with the -- to answer your question, we worked with the State's -- State's Attorney, the Illinois State Police, the Chiefs, the Federation of Police -- Fraternity of Police - well, FOP - and we took out that "but not limited to". We removed that in the third -- and that's why we have no opposition to the bill. That has been removed. But I really wanted to -- reason why I went through that long explanation, 'cause I want -- I'm going to come back later next year with another bill that really addresses the criteria for getting people on a database, and what -- we're going to do is study before that happens and that's the reason why I wanted to just express those extra words that I shared today in this -- in this Chamber. So your…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
The -- the information I have also indicates there's -- there's a -- you're mandating a purging process. Tell me about that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt.
What -- what we're actually doing is having them -- we're asking all of our law enforcement around the State to identify who needs to come off of that list. They got people on that list that shouldn't be on there. In fact, in my district, in Garfield Park 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 alone, seventy-three percent of all the Black males, age ten years old - ten years old - to twenty-nine years old, seventy-three percent of them are on the gang database. That's ridiculous. No way in the world seventy-three percent of ten-year-olds, eleven- year-olds are in a gang, but they are being added somehow and there's no criteria and so we want them to go back and look at the -- what they used to add 'em and then start purging the list, taking people out who don't belong there. And as I said earlier, two hundred and fifty-two thousand people on that list have never been arrested. So it just tells you they're just adding names randomly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
Okay, I -- I understand you're talking about the need for the purging process. I want -- I'm asking you is, what do my law enforcement authorities back home have to do to comply with this if it becomes law? What is the process they have to go through to take names off of the list that they've accumulated?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt.
Excellent question. We're asking them to set up their own criteria to figure out how to purge, because, right now, in order to get off a gang database, even if you've done nothing wrong, you have to sue in court. You have to go to court and file -- file a suit, a lawsuit. So we want them to purge people who don't belong on there. We also want them to figure out how people can petition -- petition to get off if they know they're on. So we're asking 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 them to create their own criteria at this point.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
Are there any limits on the criteria? I mean, can -- can a law enforcement agency say, we -- "Over the last six months, we've received two phone calls from informants that individual X is affiliated with gang activity"? Is that enough to put him on the list?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt.
As I said earlier, we don't know how people get on the list, because we've been trying to find out. How we know that the young man that was arrested and put in detention for five days got on the list, how we learned that is through a FOIA request, when we learned how he was added -- actually added to the -- but most people don't even know they're on it, and a large majority of, especially, African Americans and Latinos are on that list in Chicago. Ninety-six percent of the people on the list are Black or Latino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
To the bill, if I might, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I -- obviously, I -- I understand where 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Van Pelt is coming from and respect the -- the motive behind this. I think we should be very wary of attempts to manage internally for law enforcement what their criteria should be or that they have to go through a purge process. I understand that most of the people who are on the -- this -- this gang list don't know they are. I don't want 'em to know. I don't want 'em to know. I mean, I -- I'm a former prosecutor. I -- I don't want the people who -- who the law enforcement officials believe are engaging in illegal activity or gang activity or dealing drugs, I don't want 'em to know that, 'cause we want to catch 'em. That's the point. I just think that -- that -- that this issue reaches a little bit too far into telling law enforcement what they should and should not do with the intelligence that they gather, which oftentimes leads to arrest and prosecution of people who are committing serious crimes. With that, respectfully, I urge a No vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill, Mr. -- Mr. -- Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
You know, I -- I -- I want to commend Senator Van Pelt for taking up this -- this issue. She happened to invite me to attend a hearing one Friday morning and I showed up over at Malcom X College and after I heard the testimony from the parents and the community leaders, as well as all of the -- the -- the legal people who were in the room, I was shocked to find out that the police 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 department was capturing and -- and was holding a list with over four hundred thousand names on it. And it's -- it's -- it's like, how did these people's name get on the list when they were never -- when they weren't arrested? How did their names get on the list? For all I know, my name could be on the list. You-all's name could be on the list. I don't -- I don't understand what's going on out here. And so I would hope that you-all will have an open mind to this situation. She's been meeting with -- with -- with the police and other law enforcement and I believe they've reached an agreement on how to handle this situation. And I would like for an Aye vote, please. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) I'm -- I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Senator Nybo, for what purpose do you rise?
…Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Nybo.
Senator, can you -- can you talk about what this bill originally was and how you've amended it to try to deal with some of the concerns that have been raised?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt.
23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Thank you. Thank you. You know, this bill has gone through so many iterations that it's really hard for me to go back to what it originally -- what we originally had, but we were trying to stop law enforcement from sharing information for employment practices -- for employment and for housing and for licensing. We was trying to stop them from sharing information about a person being on a gang database because it's not corroborated. There's no corroborated information on that database. It's really hearsay. It's -- and we were trying to stop them from using it in court. The State's Attorney -- the Illinois State's Attorneys Association agreed that this information shouldn't be in court because it's not corroborated. It's -- people haven't -- person hasn't gone through due process. And I'm really sorry to hear that my -- my partner over here from Mattoon wants everybody to stay on the database. Because why would we want people to stay on a database when they are not gang affiliated? That makes no sense at all. And this -- what my bill is doing is not mandating anything other than that -- that they stop sharing information outside the law enforcement circle, and they haven't -- and -- and law enforcement has agreed to that, because that's what they had planned anyway. Somehow it's trickling out. So we're asking them to secure the data. We're asking 'em to stop sharing the information for employment -- purposes and -- and -- and housing and licensing, and we're asking them to review their own criteria to see how they remove people from that list. That's it. We're not mandating that they take people off the list. They can say, "Well, we're - - we're going to remove 'em in a hundred years." That's -- that's -- they have criteria. That's their criteria. We're not mandating that. So I -- I really -- I think this is a good bill. We worked 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 hard on it and we worked on it for quite a long time. A lot of people have been working on this issue. So…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Nybo.
Senator, I agree. I think you've done a lot of work on this bill and -- and I think it's substantially changed from where it originally was. And a lot of people in this Chamber may not have any recollection of the exchange that you and I had yesterday, but I believe I said that if you were going to adopt the amendment that we were anticipating in the House, that I'd support this bill. But it sounds like you've just adopted that amendment here on the Senate side. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt.
That is correct. After you spoke with me, I went back and talked to the Illinois State Police and -- and FOP and the Sheriffs and we agreed. They had an amendment already prepared, so we just took that amendment and we adopted it to remove all opposition off this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Nybo.
To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Senator, I appreciate that. That's my recollection too. I 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 told you that if you adopted this amendment that I'd be supportive. I think what you're doing is commendable and I -- and not only what you're attempting to do is commendable, but the process in which you've attempted to work with people with concerns about how we use this gang database. I will support this measure. To my friends over here, if they're still listening to me at this point, I -- I'd encourage them to try to keep as -- as open of a mind as possible on this, as -- as to what you're trying to accomplish. I don't think this poses any risk to law enforcement efforts in their use of this database. But -- but imposing some reasonable expectations as to how they use this information and who gets access to this information, I think is important. So I'm going to support your bill and I would ask anybody over here who can actually read the analysis and -- and take a look at this to -- to consider supporting it as well. Thank you for all your efforts in working with people who have some concerns about this. I appreciate it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Now, Senator Van Pelt, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. Let me just say that the shared gang database that exists are -- are -- were -- exist to be tools for -- for the local law enforcement agencies to use to assist a police officer in targeting and tracking gang members. What we don't want to see is people added to the list who shouldn't be on there and then their -- their lives are -- they lose access to housing and jobs as a result and not even know why or how it happened. So we -- what we're saying is that this information shouldn't be shared and we need to figure out how people get on 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 the list and how to get off the list. That's all this -- this legislation does. I -- I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall Senate Bill 275 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 30 Ayes, 19 Nays, 1 voting Present. Senate Bill 275, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Illinois Times seeks permission to photograph. Leave is granted. Senator Morrison, for what purpose do you rise?
Mr. President, for the purpose of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your introduction.
Members of the Senate, I'd like to introduce you to Tracy Sefcik, who is a Navy veteran from New Lenox, Illinois, but currently lives in my district, in Wheeling. Tracy, here, is behind the -- in the President's Gallery. She raised money for the Gary Sinise Foundation by riding her bike from San Diego to St. Augustine, Florida. It took her sixty-one days. She was trying to raise awareness for military veterans and first responder issues. Thirty-one hundred forty-two miles and she raised twenty- eight thousand dollars for the foundation. Please join me, along with Representative Carroll from my district, in welcoming Tracy Sefcik to Springfield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield. Senator McConnaughay, for what 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: Thank you, Mr. President. I move to waive all notice and posting requirements that -- so that Senate Resolution 1778 can be heard today in Senate State Government Committee.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McConnaughay moves to waive all notices and posting requirements so that Senate Resolution 1778 can be heard today in Senate Government -- State Government Committee. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and all notices and posting requirements are waived. Senator Jones, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
I would like to introduce a intern, Josh McCray. Josh has been interning in our office this Session through the -- Alexander Lane Internship Program at the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute in Southern Illinois. Josh is from St. Charles, Illinois. He will be a senior next year and a double major in political science and history. After finishing undergrad, he plans on going to law school. So today is Josh's last day, so will you please give him a -- a good Senate welcoming and good wishes from this Chamber?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Morrison, for what purpose do you rise?
For the purpose of an introduction of a very special guest. 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Members of the Senate, I am joined today by Hunter Martin, who is my Page. Hunter is ten years old. He's from Illiopolis. He's going to be a fifth grader at Sangamon Valley Intermediate School in the fall. He plays soccer. He likes to cook and plays outside. He plans to go to the Army when he graduates high school and then possibly become a legislator, since he's very interested in the lawmaking process. For the last three years, Hunter has been working in the Legislature to pass a bill - and this year we got it done. House Bill 4516 mandates insurance companies to cover hearing aids for children. Hunter and his brother both wear hearing aids and were amazing witnesses in committee. Hunter is here today with his dad, Andrew. I think you're going to see Hunter sitting in one of these chairs in the near future. Please help me in welcoming a very special guest, Hunter Martin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome back. Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you rise?
Personal privilege…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
…Mr. President. My communications person is leaving us for better horizons and I am going to miss her tremendously. Her name is Sherrie Phipps and she was writing all of my press releases and handling all of my videos and web page and Facebook and all that good stuff. But she's going on to -- to better horizons. She's 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 taking a position -- accepted a position with the Chief {sic} (Chiefs) of Police and she'll be the communications director over there -- communications person over there. And so I just wanted to say thank you so very much for all the hard work and the loyalty and the dedication that you've given me, Sherrie, and we will greatly miss you, but at least I know you're not moving too far away. You're not leaving the city, so that's a good thing, so I'll have an opportunity to see you from time to time. So I'd just like to say thank you and just thank you so much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Jones, for what purpose do you rise?
I just want to echo what Senator Hunter said about Sherrie. She was also my communications person. It's not too often when you can have a communications person where you don't have to really edit what they write for you. When they get to know you, they can think for you and they also can write for you. So I want to thank you for that, Sherrie, and I wish you the best on your endeavors.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Good luck with your future. Senator Rose, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of personal privilege, if I may.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Mr. President and Members of the Senate, I want to recognize -- something touched me: A couple weeks ago, May 19th, our good 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 friend here, Gary Knight, who's one of our doormen, he was the speaker -- if we could have a little bit of attention here? Ladies and Gentlemen, Gary Knight, our -- one of our doormen got to be the -- was asked to be the speaker at our local law enforcement memorial in Champaign, and -- and his best friend was Douglas County Sheriff's Deputy Tommy Martin, who was shot in 2007 in the line of duty. Tommy and Gary had worked together with the Illinois State Police. And anyway, I -- I thought it was interesting that Gary had taken time to come all the way over to Champaign and be our speaker at the law enforcement memorial and I -- I -- I just thought it'd be appropriate for all of us to take a moment to thank our -- our doormen, who do such a great job for us, the security in this building, who do such a great job for us, and really, on the heels of Memorial Day here, to say a big thank you and a prayer for all in -- all who serve in law enforcement, fire service, our paramedics, EMS, and just thank them and also to remember them, because I can't imagine how hard it must have been for Gary to give a -- a speech, even ten years later, memorializing his best friend, Tommy Martin, who happened to be a constituent of mine when it happened. So let's give everybody -- let's give these gentlemen and ladies a round of applause.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Thank you for everything you do. Senator Hutchinson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 So, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we've spent more than a couple of years celebrating all kinds of summer birthdays, 'cause we never seem to be able to go home. But since we are going to be able to go home this year, I wanted to make sure that we point out that there is a birthday that is going to be happening tomorrow, and that is for our very own dear Senator Mattie Hunter, who is turning twenty-five tomorrow. Doesn't she look great? Happy -- happy birthday, Senator Soror.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Senator McCarter, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCARTER: Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point. SENATOR McCARTER: Ladies and Gentlemen, I want to take just a moment to express my gratefulness to this Body during my time here. One Senator, when he left, quoted…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Wait a second. SENATOR McCARTER: …Taylor Swift.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McCarter, wait. Can we keep the noise down, please, on the Senate Floor? SENATOR McCARTER: 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 One Senator…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McCarter. SENATOR McCARTER: One Senator, when he left, quoted Taylor Swift, interesting enough, "haters gonna hate", but you know that doesn't mean that we don't go to extremes to bring peace. That Senator made my life interesting here, as you know. Our convictions and beliefs may be very different, but that does not mean we cease to argue for them with the utmost respect for the person whose views we oppose. And ours have been different; I know that. Government is a necessary institution, but much less capable of delivering functional families, neighborhoods without killing, and a peaceful and prosperous country than we think. Its effectiveness, I believe, will be equal to the compassion and servant leadership of the politicians in power and their willingness to have tough crucial conversations. Speaking of crucial conversations, there's a place called purgatory, perhaps where most of my bills reside. That's that intermediate state after physical death which some of those ultimately destined for heaven must first go under -- undergo purification so as to achieve the holiness necessary to get into the joy of heaven. Perhaps they're destined for hell and -- and one of those seven levels in Dante's Inferno. I suppose it's a matter of where they're headed. Seeing that the majority of my bills have ended up in a world like this, without any hearing, I might add, except for the first subcommittee hearing in the last ten years in Labor Committee this morning, let me mention just a few so that you don't forget when I'm gone. Senate Bill 3609 - never got a hearing. Talks about how we arm dependable, qualified 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 people in our schools to protect our children. Talks about how we give the -- our children the same protection as we as legislators are afforded. They should enjoy the same protection. Senate Bill 77 - justice for the poor that we have enslaved in the entitlement welfare system. Yes, drug testing, work requirements, gradual reductions in benefits as their earnings increase, not just taking them off the system and leaving them alone. And that's for those able-bodied adults on assistance. Penalties for cashing assistance benefits, so they don't continue their addictions. Banning -- their participation in -- in gambling, so they don't use the money we gave them to destroy their life. And photo IDs on benefit cards. Senate Bill 1358 and 1349. Remember the one that you dared me to call at the softball game and it was finally called, workers' compensation. The result of that was 25 Yes votes, 6 Nay votes, and perhaps a record, 28 Present. The one reason I came here was that, because business needs a break in this State. They don't need opposition. They don't need to be told that they're evil. They need a break and they only need to pay when they're the source of the problem. By the way, even the Senator from Moline voted for my bill. Senate Bill 657 - mixed martial arts, sanctioning bodies in this State. Why that bill doesn't move - I can only assume that someone is being protected. For years, it hasn't moved. I can only assume there might be corruption. Numerous budgets -- and I want to say thank you to President Cullerton, because in this last budget, he had an open door and listened, didn't always agree. We had some of the same -- same ideas, but I want to say I appreciate him for having an open door. But, folks, spending plans will not instill the discipline required to protect the next generation from 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 bankruptcy. We must be honest with people we represent and begin to make promises we can keep. And last, the subcommittee hearing this morning, Senate Bill 1658, independent contractors. I know it's not real sexy, but here's the truth. As a businessman, I've been penalized, I've been fined for doing my best to adhere to the law, while politicians break it day after day after day and are not held accountable. Politicians should not be treated as a special class and be allowed to operate above the law that our businesses must abide by. It's not right. I hope this is something we take up in the future. Our tolerance of the status quo in Illinois and the United States is -- which is sadly characterized many times by corruption, self-service and power seeking, this is unacceptable. As leaders, we can all start over by repenting to God and -- and the people for not doing more, more of the things that deliver good to the people and not just ourselves. We must be good stewards of the -- the gifts God's endowed us with to help our neighbors, the poor, and our fellow citizens. May we all gather from within us the courage to stand for what is right for the people of Illinois, not just for our party or anyone's rise to power, including our own. It's been my honor and privilege to serve with you, to spar with you, and be entertained by you. If not for the training and experience and wisdom I've gained from my time here in the Senate, if not for God's provision, I would not be prepared for my next assignment to serve our country. Lincoln said, "I bid you an affectionate farewell". I -- I -- I feel the same love for you. May God bless you and give you favors. You honor him. Serve with courage the people of Illinois. (Remarks in Swahili) See you later. You're always welcome. I would be honored to introduce you as my friends. Thank you. 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to State Government Committee - Senate Joint Resolution 77; refer to Transportation Committee - House Bill 1620; and Be Approved for Consideration - House Bill 138. Signed, Senator James Clayborne, Chairman. Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Executive Committee - Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 138. Signed, Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Castro, for what purpose do you rise?
I move to waive all notice and posting requirements so that Senate (Joint) Resolution 77 can be heard today in the Senate State Government Committee.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Castro moves to waive all notices and posting requirements so that Senate (Joint) Resolution 77 can be heard today in the Senate State Government Committee. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and all notices and posting requirements have been waived. Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. I rise to move to waive all notices 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 and posting requirements so that House Bill 1620 can be heard today in the Senate Transportation Committee.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Murphy moves to waive all notices and posting requirements so that House Bill 1620 can be heard today in the Senate Transportation Committee. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and all notices and posting requirements have been waived. The -- the Senate will stand in recess to the call of the Chair. After committee meetings, the Senate will convene for further Floor action. The Senate stands in recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The Senate will please come to order. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 1823, offered by Senator Rose and all Members. It is a death resolution, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Resolution -- Resolution Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Jones, Chairperson of the Committee on Licensed Activities and Pensions, reports Motions to Concur - House Amendment 1 to Senate -- House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2617, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2864, House Amendment 1 to 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senate Bill 2904, and House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3109 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Landek, Chairperson of the Committee on State Government, reports Motions to Concur - House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 585, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1758, House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1979, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2350, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2354, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2447, House Amendment 1 to Senate -- House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2540, House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2579, House Amendment 1 to Senate -- excuse me, House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2667, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2838, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2844, House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2927, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2999, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3085, House Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3139, House -- House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3141, and House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3536 Recommend Do Adopt; Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 212 Recommend Do Adopt; Senate Joint Resolution 1778 and Senate Joint Resolution 77 Be Adopted. Senator Harmon, Chairperson of the Committee on Executive, reports Motions to Concur - House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 34, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 35, House Amendment 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 486, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 682, House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 1707, House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill -- House Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 1851, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2362, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2421, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2481, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2651, House Amendment 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2913 -- excuse me, House Amendments 1, 2, and 4 to Senate Bill 2913, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3115, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 3256, and House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3452, Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 138, and Senate Amendment 3 to House Bill 3806 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Sandoval, Chairperson of the Committee on Transportation, reports Senate Amendment 2 to House -- Senate Bill 514, Motions to Concur - House Amendment 2 and 3 to Senate -- and 4 -- House Amendments 2, 3, and 4 to Senate Bill 2641, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2804 Recommend Do Adopt; House Bill 1620 Do Pass.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, Introduction of Senate Bills.
Senate Bill 3618, offered by Senator Steans. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Will all Senators at the sound of my voice please come to the Senate Floor immediately? All Senators at the sound of my voice, please come to the Senate Floor immediately. With leave of the Body, we'll turn to page 6 of the printed Calendar, House Bills 3rd Reading. House Bill 2477. Senator Harmon. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2477. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon, on your bill.
39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Just a parliamentary inquiry, was there an amendment and the Senate adopted?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Out of the record. No amendments adopted to the bill. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2477. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I appreciate the inquiry. I thought that we had been considering an amendment at some point. This bill is an election law bill. It merely clarifies that a patient at a long-term hospital, a patient for more than a hundred and eighty days, can, if he or she wants to, register to vote at that hospital. Not aware of any opposition. I ask for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 2477 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 47 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 2477, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. House Bill 3806. Senator Harmon. Senator Harmon seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 3806 to the 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 3806. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. The amendment becomes the bill. I move for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 3806. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3806. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 3806 reflects an agreement between the associations 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 representing banks, community banks, and credit unions and the Illinois Treasurer's Office. It is a -- a series of small technical changes to the unclaimed property statute. It reflects only those noncontroversial items to which all parties could agree. I ask you for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 3806 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 3806, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we'll turn to Supplemental Calendar No. 1, Senate Bill 35. Senator Harmon. Mr. Secretary, please read the -- amendment {sic}.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 35. Signed by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. The underlying bill is the Safe Zones bill, relating to safe places in the State for immigrants. The amendment in the House is a noncontroversial amendment. It brings the police groups to neutrality on the bill. I'm happy to discuss it, but I ask for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Is there any discussion? Senator Nybo, for what purpose do you rise?
Will sponsor yield for a question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Indicates he will.
Senator, can you remind us of what the underlying bill does in this instance?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. The underlying bill would require the Attorney General to promulgate a model policy on limiting assistance with immigration enforcement at certain designated safe zones, like State-funded medical treatment facilities, schools, public libraries, and the like.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Nybo.
Thank you, Mr. President. I was just asking 'cause I saw that there were sixteen No votes on this bill and so I just wanted to remind some of the Members about what this bill was dealing with. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 35 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Or will -- Senate Bill 35 -- 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 will concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 35. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 Ayes, 16 Nays, none voting Present. Having -- Senate Bill 35, Amendment 1 -- House Amendment 1, having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 35. The bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 486. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 486. Signed by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 486, as it passed the Senate, provided a standard method of valuation for large-scale solar farms. It left the Chamber an almost-agreed bill. As promised, it is back. We have reached agreement with all the stakeholders as to the value. The House offered a slight increase in the -- the -- the value standard for solar farms. The second amendment is a technical amendment, offered by the Department of Revenue. I'm not aware of any opposition. I ask for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor of the motion will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendments 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 486, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2362. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2362. Signed by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Harmon, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. The underlying bill, Senate Bill 2362, is a -- a procurement change for the University of Illinois health system in Chicago. It is to facilitate a long-term lease between the University of Illinois and the hospital system. The bill left the Senate unanimously. The House made some small technical changes to clarify the intent and lend some comfort. I'm not aware of any opposition or concerns. I ask for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2362. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, 1 voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2362, and the bill is declared passed. 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. -- Mr. -- Mr. President. I -- I had intended, but I guess I hit my button too late, to be an Aye vote on SB 35. So I would appreciate if I could be recorded as such.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The record will reflect your intention. With leave of the Body, we'll turn to page 17 of the printed Calendar. Senate Bill 3547. Senator Tom Cullerton. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3547. Signed by Senator Tom Cullerton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Cullerton, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur on Senate Bill 3547. I know of no opposition. And I was trying to get through real quick. All right. So the amendment in -- that was brought over, it retains most of the bill, the original bill that passed out of here unanimously, but it also addresses some concerns that we had from -- CMS. The new service member benefits under this Act are in -- in force on and after the effective date of this Act. In the -- addition, House Amendment No. 1 is just a recommendation from the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus. It clarifies that probationary periods are not included when determining a three-year performance rating average. This bill passed out with bipartisan support, a hundred percent out of the Senate. And with 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 the amendment, we just clarified a few things in the House. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3547. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate concurs with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3547, and the bill is declared passed. Senator Haine in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) On the Order of Concurrence, we now turn to Senate Bill 2544. Senator Link. Mr. Secretary, read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2544. Signed by Senator Link.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Senator Link, would you explain your motion?
Thank you, Mr. President. This amendment -- it would require a referendum submitted to the voters of Lake County, and Lake County only, on the question of whether there should be a Chief Assessment Officer be -- of Lake County be converted from a appointed position to an elected official. And this would take effect this November's election.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Is there any discussion? Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment -- Senator Nybo.
Will -- will the sponsor yield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Yes, he will yield.
Senator, you've had a lot of Lake County election-related bills. Can you give me a little bit of background on -- on what -- what we're doing here and how it came to your attention?
Thank you, Senator. Basically, what this was -- and I can tell you who's in favor of it right now, is one, two, three -- about seven township assessors are in favor of it and the Illinois Retailer -- Realtors. And out of those seven townships, six of 'em are Republican, one's Democrat. So we're doing a bipartisan bill. This is just to allow the county to decide if they want an elected or appointed assessor, period.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you. Will the sponsor yield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) He will yield.
Thank you. Kind of building on Senator Nybo's question, Senator Link, is not Lake County the only county that does not elect their county chairman at large? 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Senator Link.
Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Senator Althoff.
And so it's my understanding that because Lake County is the only collar county that does not take this measure, that it was felt by many individuals that they needed an option to have someone at that higher assessment level to be accountable to the taxpayer for some of those decisions that are made, which is why this is limited to Lake County and doesn't have applicability to any of those other counties; that the residents wanted to be able to have an elected official that they could go to that would understand their position with regard to higher property taxes. If it's not the county chairman, then potentially it could default to the county assessor. Am I understanding that correctly?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Senator Link.
I -- I don't think it's quite that way, because there are two separate jobs, but I think that the voters will make that decision if they -- and it's all up to the voters to make the decision if they want a countywide elected assessor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Senator Althoff.
As -- as one of the elected officials that just has a very 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 small strip of Lake County and does represent those residents, I -- I wanted to note that I've not heard anyone who is in opposition of this legislation. No one's called. No one's commented. I am of the understanding that people did want this option so that they did have direct access to an elected person that would represent the entire county. So if anyone has any questions, I just -- as a Republican on this side, I just wanted to add the verbiage that I have not heard anyone who's opposed to this legislation. So I intend to support it. Thank you, Senator Link.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) Senator Link, to close.
I would just ask for an affirmative vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HAINE) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2544. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all those voted who wish? Have all those who -- voted who wish? Have all those who -- voted who wish? Take the record, Mr. Secretary. On that question, there are 45 Yeas, 5 Nays, and 1 Present. The question having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2544, and the bill is declared passed. Senator Link in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) We will return to -- Senator Martinez, for what purpose do you rise?
For point of personal privilege, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 State your point.
Today here we have a young intern, who I think she's going to be leaving us, but I want to talk a little bit about Oneida. Oneida has been interning in our office this Session through the Latino Heritage Legislative Program at the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University. Oneida is from Chicago, will be a senior next year and is a political science major. After she finishes her undergrad at SIUC, Oneida plans to go to law school and focus on immigration law. We want to make sure we thank her for her service here with us this last six months and I just want everyone to give her a thanks.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Thank you and good luck in your future. House Bill 4165. Senator Koehler. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 4165. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. House Bill 4165 prohibits the State from applying for any federal waiver that would reduce or eliminate any protection or coverage required under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act that was in effect on January 1st, 2017, including, but not limited to, any protection for persons with pre-existing conditions and coverage -- and coverage for services identified as essential health benefits 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 under ACA. The State or an agency of the Executive Branch may apply for such a waiver only if granted authorization by the General Assembly by joint resolution. This provision of House Bill 4165 applies to the State Employee Health Insurance Plan -- Group Health Insurance Plan and individual or group insurance subject to regulation under the Insurance Code. With regard to Medicaid, HB 4165 also prohibits the State or an Executive Branch agency from applying any waiver that would result in more restrictive standards, methodologies, and -- procedures, other than requirements governing the Medicaid program on January 1st, 2017, unless approved by a joint resolution of the General Assembly. This would prevent the Executive Branch from seeking a waiver to impose work requirements on Medicaid if the federal government implements such a policy allowing for such waivers. The provision applies to the Medicaid -- Medical Assistance Program, the Children's Health Insurance Program, and any other medical assistance programs in Illinois operating in -- under any existing federal waiver authorization by special provisions of the Social Security Act. I know that's a lot, but what that means is that any future waivers that would diminish any health care programs would really require a conversation between the Executive Branch and the Legislature, and the Legislature would have to, by joint resolution, approve those. So, I'll be happy to take any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. A couple questions of sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Indicates he will yield.
Senator, let's -- if we can, I guess, walk through this to make sure I understand it. If Congress decides to -- to pass a - - a change to the ACA which would grant more flexibility in health plans, if they were to pass that option without this law being in place, if they -- if they pass that, what steps have to be changed, if any, for a -- a carrier to make that change here in Illinois?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
Thank you for your question, Senator. It would depend if there was a waiver possibility that the federal government gave states, then this would kick in. So it's -- it's -- this is limited to the Executive Branch wanting to do a waiver, therefore it would kick in. It doesn't mean that the waiver couldn't be gone after. It just says that you have to have a conversation with the General Assembly and you have to both be in agreement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson.
So this would be if -- if the federal government granted the ability for -- I guess, first, I just want to make sure we have this clear. This -- this affects not just Medicaid and ACA or Obamacare plans, but this also affects individual health policies and -- and - thank you, Mr. President - and affects small employer plans in Illinois. Right? Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler. 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
Again, the issue is, if -- if there is a possibility of seeking a waiver. Okay? So it doesn't mean just carte blanche across the board for all health care programs. It means that if there's a possibility for the State to seek a waiver that the General Assembly, by joint resolution, would have to have that conversation and approve it in conjunction with the Executive Branch.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson.
So I guess the -- then the question would be, if the federal government changes the rule and let's say they allow for individuals to purchase high deductible policies - so federal government does that, say we're going to change the rules to allow a -- individuals to have a high deductible policy - at that point, would the State have to issue a -- a waiver for that if it's so - - if it's a proclamation the federal government says we can change plans, then a waiver isn't necessary. Would this legislation have any effect then?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson.
So this would only be in cases where the federal government would allow states the opportunity to seek a -- a waiver to make 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 changes in those -- in current plans. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
That's the gist of this bill, yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson.
And would your -- what your proposal would do is, instead of the Executive Branch seeking a waiver, like we do for Medicaid, where the Executive Branch has the authority to do that, what you're doing here is saying that you want the Legislature to approve any requested change, basically taking authority away from the Executive Branch on -- on doing that. So this would be the - - so the decision would be made then by the Legislature to seek that waiver?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
No, the -- the -- the decision to seek a waiver would not be made by the Legislature. That decision would be made by the Executive Branch, but they would have to have a conversation and approval from the Legislature in order to do that. The reason for this is, is that, you know, there are hundreds of thousands of people in Illinois who depend upon health care and so rather than put those families into risk because of some changes that, you know, might be sought after, we want to be able to represent the people in -- who are our constituents, to say is this a good idea or not. Now this doesn't prevent us from going ahead and seeking 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 a waiver if we agree that a waiver is a -- in the best interests of our citizens. Then, we would want to join forces with the Governor in saying, yes, let's seek this waiver. And -- and this is not just with this Governor, this is for all future Governors. We're talking about a shared role of responsibility here, the Legislature and the Executive Branch, in making sure that the health care needs of our citizens are taken care of.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson.
Thank you. I guess -- here's the one concern with this -- with doing it the way you're talking about doing. Under your plan, the -- the -- the Executive Branch, instead of seeking that waiver and if the Legislature didn't agree with that waiver, they could always come back and pass legislation rescinding that. But under this, it's a timing issue that -- the Executive Branch could act at any time and seek that waiver, where under your proposal, we would have to wait. For example, now, if they wanted it -- if an opportunity came down next month, we'd have to wait till, you know, next January for the Legislature to act on responding to that, where the department -- the Executive Branch could seek that waiver immediately. So it takes that timing away, which, again, could - - could hurt companies and could hurt individuals with their opportunities to get health insurance because of that limitation. Would you agree with that, from a timing standpoint that could create a problem?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 I -- I suppose, in a very theoretical way, it could, but I think that the reality is that we know and there's plenty of lead time when rule changes happen at the federal level, which would allow for, you know, certain waivers to be sought after. Plus, again, this just says let's have a conversation about it. And I would think both sides of the aisle, whether you be Republican or Democrat, that we would want to have some voice in -- in -- in matters that really affect our constituents regarding health care. Health care is a very personal, very family-oriented issue and I -- I think we want to have that conversation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson. I hope to wrap up.
Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you for indulgence and, yes, to wrap it up. Again, my -- my concern with this is that we're -- we're -- in all other areas of health care, we give the administration the ability to -- to grant that and the safeguard is that if the Legislature doesn't like the waiver that the administration is making, the Legislature could always respond and change that. This becomes a -- a timing issue and take -- and takes that away from the Executive Branch. And with the cost of health care right now skyrocketing for small employers and for individuals that don't qualify for Obamacare, any opportunity to -- to get flexibility in policies would be a savior for -- for these families that are struggling so hard to afford these policies that have no flexibility. So, thank you for you your indulgence and -- and work on this.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise? 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
Will the sponsor yield, please, Mr. President?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) He indicates he will.
Thank you. Senator Koehler, what -- how is diminishment defined?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
Well, how I would define it is it's a lessening of the benefits that are available to people who receive health care.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
Senator Koehler, if my employer changes the health plan I'm on so that I pay a larger front-end deductible, but my coverage on the back end for catastrophic health care is increased, were my benefits diminished?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
This is not pertinent to this discussion, because a -- a waiver is not involved. This only applies to a waiver, absolutely, only a waiver.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
Okay. Let -- let me ask it this way. If a Medicaid recipient 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 was offered the choice in a waiver to choose a different kind of health plan that may increase some small costs on the front end, but provided greater protection on the back end, would that be a diminishment of those benefits?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler.
Individual recipients are not offered waivers. I mean, the State asks for a waiver. And if there is -- and, you know, it may be a fine line, but if -- if we're in doubt, we would say, let's join together, as both the administration and the Legislature, and let's seek this waiver. It may be a good idea. This does not prevent us from going after waivers. This just says -- says let's -- let's join together if we're going to do this. And I would maintain that it's probably a better -- a better position for us to be in with the federal government, to say that -- that the administrative branch and the Legislative Branch are seeking this waiver, rather than to go back to the previous questioner's scenario, where they would seek the waiver, they'd get the waiver granted and then the Legislature would overturn that. Now that's -- if -- if we do that too many times, the federal government is going to get very suspicious of granting Illinois any waivers. This is just to promote the fact that we are on the same page. We think that this would be a good move to seek this waiver on behalf of the constituents that we represent.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
To the bill, if I might, Mr. President. 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen, if you believe in the status quo and protecting the status quo, this bill is for you. If you believe that we should not be flexible and work for health care innovation, this bill is for you. The reason I'm asking the questions about diminishment is because it's not a simple question of, are your benefits higher or lower? Because some people want a higher cost on the front end for greater protection on the back end. And it's not beyond a possibility that we could ask for a waiver that says, "Let's give Medicaid recipients a choice." What kind of plan would they want? But then we're going to have to decide the question of whether or not they're being diminished or not. This was not necessary when the Quinn administration was working on the 1115 waiver. It's not necessary when the Rauner administration is working on these issues either. All this does is slow down the process of Illinois thinking for itself when it comes to these important public policy issues. I urge a No vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler, to close.
Yes, I -- I would disagree with that assessment. What this does is it -- it puts the Legislature into a discussion that's important about the health care of the people of Illinois. If -- if a -- if a waiver improves the -- the health care coverage, this -- this does not apply. This is only when it obviously diminishes, you know, coverage for recipients of health care. This is, I -- 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 I -- I think, a good bill that -- that puts us into that discussion and forges that partnership. I'd ask for your Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall House Bill 4165 pass. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 Ayes, 20 Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 4165, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. House Bill 4208. Senator Lightford. Out of the record. House Bill 4331. Senator Hastings. Out of the record. House Bill 4208. Senator Lightford. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 4208. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 4208 amends the School Code. With respect to school discipline as it relates to the improvement plans, it makes changes to how the State Board of Ed determines the top twenty percent of school districts with notification -- when notification is given that a plan must be submitted. It does a number of things as it relates to establishing the Safe Schools and Healthy Learning Environments (Grant) Program. It went through a series of meetings and negotiations with the lead organization, VOYCE. VOYCE is really a serious young group, who really recognizes that -- the 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 prison pipeline effort and doing all they can to make sure that students are protected as it relates to school disciplines and other measures. We had a sticking point as it relates to arrests in schools, so that's not included in this bill. But I do want the Body to know that we'll be taking a look at that effort and hopefully coming to you once we get data from the State Board of Ed this summer. That's due June 30th and maybe during Veto Session we could take a deeper dive there. But, Mr. President, I'd be happy to answer questions with the measure that we have before us.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Bivins, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Indicates she will yield.
Senator, I noticed this is subject to appropriation. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford.
Yes, it is.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins.
Senator, was there an appropriation for this in the budget that was passed last night?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Lightford.
I don't recall seeing one specific to this in the bill, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins.
Okay, so if there's not an appropriation, we're passing a bill and it's not going to be funded, so where -- where would the money come from for this program?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford.
Well, I do intend on seeking support, financially, once the bill becomes law. And there's federal support for this program, so we need to have a program in place in order to receive federal dollars. What the State portion would be would just be additional to federal dollars.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins.
Okay. Thank you, Senator. On -- in the bill, there's a Section here, it says, "Grant funds shall not be used to increase the use of school-based law enforcement or security personnel." I guess my concern is, as I read through the -- the amended portion of the bill, that we talk about keeping safe schools. And why -- why would there be no funding for resource officers?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford. 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
Because that's a separate piece of legislation that we had already passed and the funds are very different. So this bill is saying that we're not trying to take away from SROs. This is a targeted piece of legislation just to identify the top twenty percent of school districts across the State who has challenges in this particular area; that they can apply first for grant dollars to assist them. So it wouldn't be open to everyone. It would be based on the data that ISBE provides that shows where the greatest need is across the State. So this is separate and apart from SROs. We don't want to have -- you know, move that around in any way. That will work the way the SRO legislation would. This one is in specific to just grants for our school safety. Now, if that school district deems that they want to use some of those dollars because they need additional SROs, it wouldn't prevent them from doing so.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins.
So -- so if I understand you right, this legislation does not prevent a school district from using those funds, those grant funds, for more SROs?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford.
I don't believe it do and -- and so we ended up with five amendments, so let me just make sure. Right. So -- so in order to receive grant funding, school districts must develop a plan for implementing evidence-based alternatives to law enforcement involvement for school-based offenses. So some of these practice 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 {sic} would include restorative justice practitioners, school psychologists, social workers, mental health specialists, drug and alcohol treatment services, wraparound services, training for school-based offenses that include restorative justice approaches, conflict resolution techniques, and expands use of school support personnel and community-based services, trauma-informed approaches, and addressing the effects of toxic stress. So grant funds may not be used to increase the use of school-based law enforcement or security personnel. So you're absolutely right. You cannot use this for law enforcement personnel. It's a grant fund just to work on restorative justice practices that are alternatives to law enforcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins.
Okay. Thank you -- thank you for your answer. As far as developing the program, is that totally up to the school district? They can develop the program however they want. They can use whatever materials they want, what books, curriculum they want. Is that totally up to the school district?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford.
And it's up to the State Board of Ed. So the State Board of Ed would have a criteria for the grant to determine if the school districts meet those criterias {sic}, if they're eligible for the grant, based on evidence-based practices that they would recommend they would use. And so that list of areas that I just read off would be applicable to being a part of receiving a grant, if 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 they're going to focus on social workers or mental health practices or trauma-informed cases, conflict resolution techniques, all those things that I previously mentioned.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins.
Okay. Thank you, Senator, for your -- for your answers. To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I know -- I know your bill and -- and your heart and your passion is for schools, for education for children, and I think we all want the same thing. We all want to keep our children safe. And it was interesting yesterday, as we had the discussion, I think on the gun licensing bill, how everybody talked about, you know, violence in our schools and -- and how it's getting worse and not better and that we need to do something, and I think we do need to do something, but I think we look in the wrong direction a lot of times. We look in the wrong places and we're stuck in a revolving door. To give you an analogy, over forty years' time, we've probably spent over a trillion dollars fighting the war on drugs and we've had every conceivable program that we can imagine, and I don't think anybody disagrees today that their -- problems are worse today than it ever was. As far as keeping children safe, we're in a different society and a different world today, and I don't know that the solutions we're looking at here will fix anything. I know it's an effort and it's a well-intended effort on your part, so I'm not trying to be 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 critical of that, but I think as a society we -- we just -- we're looking for something to fix the problems that we have and, you know, it's just -- to keep children safe, I -- I think we have to look at -- at securing the schools. I think we have to have more resource officers, because this is the world we live in. And I'll give you another story and analogy, back in the late '80s, I was put on a committee with the -- by the Illinois Supreme Court with two gentlemen, one from, I believe, Lake County, Chief Justice Geiger and Bill Waldron, who was a security specialist, Chief Deputy of the Cook County Sheriff's Department, and our mission was to make the courts secure, to come up with court security standards of the State of Illinois, and we did that. And so my question would be, in the last thirty or so years, how many courtroom shootings have we had? Few to none. So I think the -- what we need to do immediately is -- to secure our schools and make our kids safe is secure the buildings. I think that includes resource officers. I think to restrict schools from hiring more through this legislation -- or applying for this grant and using that money would be a mistake. So for that reason, I'll be voting No. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, Senator Lightford, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Senator Bivins, for inquiring about the effort and I appreciate all your comments. I just want to bring to your attention, however, about law enforcement. The Chiefs of Police and the Illinois Sheriffs' Association were a part of all of the negotiations and they're -- 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 they're not opposed to this bill. In fact, we've come to a place with law enforcement, with them understanding that we need to invest more in commonsense strategies that address the root cause of the problem. Law enforcement feels like they're constantly being called to schools to be the babysitter. These were the exact words that were said to me by the Chiefs of Police. Some of the issues that are taking place are -- there's a root cause for why these behaviors are actually happening. So just to have SROs or additional SROs, but not address restorative justice practices -- because what can we do to keep this from happening? School psychologists, social workers, mental health specialists, drug and alcohol treatment services. These are the root causes of a lot of the problems that students are having. So, Ladies and Gentlemen, I agree with SROs being in the school. That was a different bill that we've already passed. This measure is to make sure we get to the root of what the causes are and begin to help with student personnel. They're not fit to take on these behavioral challenges, these trauma-informed challenges. When kids are being killed, they have a visual {sic} (vigil), they hold a candle and then they're back in the classroom the next day. There is no counseling for these kids who just lost their classmate that was sitting next to them in their math class. There's no wraparound services for the kid who was playing on the basketball team or running track with their classmates. So there has to be other measures that we put in place to get to the root of what's happening here. There is no opposition on this legislation. Everyone who needed to meet with everyone under this Dome, met with me for the last two years, Mr. President. I hope that you guys would vote Aye. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 The question is, shall House Bill 4208 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 Ayes, 16 Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 4208, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Jones, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Purpose of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your announcement.
As we all know here in the Senate, I'm a huge fan of our lovely staff that we have. Today is the last day for Mike Muthleb. He's on our legal staff. Just wanted to send a big thank you for all your hard work that you did on Licensed Activities. You really made that committee a better committee. So please join me in giving him a warm wishing -- welcome as he leaves the Senate and off to bigger and better -- better endeavors.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) House Bill 5136 {sic}. Senator Lightford. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Lightford seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 5166 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 5166. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Lightford, on your amendment.
Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, move to adopt the amendment, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 5166. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 5166. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, this is the exact same language to Senate Bill 203 that we passed yesterday. It's just being put on a House bill now so that it could be in a better position when it goes over to the House. It's a measure from the Department of Labor. I'd be happy to answer questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 House Bill 5166 pass. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 5166, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. House Bill 5721. Senator Hunter. Senator Hunter seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 5721 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 5721. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Hunter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I wish to adopt the amendment and I'll explain it on 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 5721. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 5721. 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amendment {sic}, requires additional reporting and community outreach regarding CPS' master education facilities plan, capital improvement plans, and school transition plans. The current law requires CPS to have additional facilities plan, a capital improvement plan, and plans for school transitions. This bill includes additional reporting requirements for each of these plans and is an effort to require CPS to engage more with the community before implementing any school actions or closures. This is an agreed bill list {sic} and I know of no opposition and I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. -- thank you, Mr. President. Just to the bill. To Members on our side, this is -- legislation and I applaud the Senator for her leadership and her -- her patience in working with CPS on this. And this is, as she mentioned, an agreed bill and would urge support for the work she's done on this. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall House Bill 5721 pass. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 46 Ayes, no Nays, 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 none voting Present. House Bill 5721, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Hutchinson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. I was sitting right by my button and didn't realize that I didn't hit it, so I would like the record to record that I intended to vote Yes on the previous bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Record will reflect your intention. We will turn to page -- 13 of the printed Calendar, Concurrences. Senate Bill 1628. Senator Martinez. Out of the record. Senate Bill 2344. Senator Mulroe. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2344. Signed by Senator Mulroe.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Mulroe, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This passed out of the Education Committee with -- unanimously. It went over to -- we passed it out of the Senate with thirty-nine votes, went over to the House. This was designed to help five to nine very specially -- special need kids. They were part of a co-op. District 80 withdrew from the co-op. These special needs kids went to -- were in a school outside their home district. Since it's left the Senate, we've narrowed the bill considerably -- or narrowed it to only apply to this situation and with -- regarding costs of the children that are now going to be at a -- a school 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 district outside of their home district, rather than us decide the cost, because the district and the co-op are still not able to do that through an intergovernmental agreement, we are pushing it on them as part of the legislation, to say 80 and the co-op -- District 80 and the co-op will decide what the appropriate costs are, and if they cannot figure it out, ISBE will decide that for them, because they are -- have more expertise in that than we do. Senator Rezin brought up a -- a concern in committee that we don't want this to happen in the -- in the future. I don't want it to happen in the future. I wish we didn't have to be dealing with it now. I talked to the Chair of Education, Senator Bertino-Tarrant, and I will do a bill next year to address this situation, so if a -- a district is withdrawing from a co-op, they have to take care of the special needs kids. I'm happy to answer any questions. I'd ask for your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
It is unfortunate that we have to pass legislation in Springfield because of the actions of one superintendent pulling out of an agreement with the special ed co-op, but I do commend the sponsor for trying to -- trying to help his constituents who were adversely affected by the decision by the superintendent, and as a result, we have this bill. This is a unique bill and I 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 appreciate that we will not hopefully see another bill like this here. But I do commend the sponsor for working very hard to, first of all, make sure that the students are in a place that they're - - they feel safe and, you know, where -- their place of home, where they -- where they've been educated for many years. So I appreciate that and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall Senate Bill -- shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2344. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, 1 voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2344, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2407. Senator Clayborne. Senator Clayborne. Senate Bill 2858. Senator Steans. Senator Steans. Senate Bill 2952. Senator Bush. Senator Bush. Senate Bill 2407. Senator Clayborne. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2407. Signed by Senator Clayborne.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Clayborne, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. -- Mr. President. House Amendment 2 keeps the underlying intent to transfer the power to appoint members of the child death review team from the Director of Department of Children 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 and Family Services to the Department of -- Inspector General. I would ask for your favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2407. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2407, the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2858. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, will you please read the motion?
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2858. Signed by Senator Steans.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans, on your motion.
Thank you. Yes, I do move to concur. The -- this is a bill that is -- you know, the -- the House amendment deleted all and becomes the bill. It's an initiative of the Comptroller. And whereas the underlying bill allowed the Treasurer to invest or provide the total amount of vouchers presented to the Comptroller to exceed -- to -- to invest General Revenue funds to help become a member of the Vendor Payment Program, this instead is allowing the -- the Treasurer's Office to directly buy vouchers from the Comptroller and to use non-GRF funds. Now this -- the -- the purpose behind this bill is to help do two things, and -- and both 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 ways it actually saves the State money and I think makes a -- a ton of good fiscal sense as a result. It allows the Treasurer to get a higher return on his investments than it otherwise would from -- a lot of times it would be about two percent. This will get them a return on 3.5 percent when they're investing the funds. At the same time, they're reducing the interest payment the State has to pay to vendors for past -- for late payments, for late bills that they're paying. So for the prompt payment penalty, they were paying one percent a month, up to twelve percent in a year, or for the timely pay interest program, it's nine percent per year. So this would reduce the amount down to the 3.5 percent that taxpayers are having to pay out for when we're doing late payments. I think the controls on this are nice. There's also a cap now at two billion dollars in which the Treasurer's Office can do this. And the plan would be, if this is approved, that the Treasurer would work with the Comptroller's Office on -- to design exactly how this would work and to make sure that we are really reducing the cost to the State to the maximum possible.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Curran, for what purpose do you rise?
Question of the speaker -- or a question of the sponsor, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Sponsor indicates she will yield.
Thank you, Senator. What -- we heard testimony in committee on this with -- from the Comptroller's Office and the Treasurer's 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Office. Could you -- for purpose of legislative intent, could you indicate how the prioritization of which bills will be targeted for payment by the Comptroller will take place?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans.
Yes, to clarify, the Office of the Treasurer and the Comptroller's Office will enter into an intergovernmental agreement to the use of the proceeds authorized under this legislation. As indicated in committee, the legislation allows for the flexibility of the Comptroller's Office to use their discretion in utilizing these funds in a manner that will maximize and prioritize savings to the taxpayers. That's -- that is the intent and that is the way they will go about it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Curran.
Thank you for that answer, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
I have the greatest respect for the -- the sponsor and her hard work and the Treasurer for trying to come up with a solution to our large prompt payment debt interest. We've -- we've failed to honor the Prompt Payment Act and so subsequently we have huge 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 amounts of interest due according to that. And so, as I say, we've debated this before when it was here first time in the Senate and it -- it just seems so circuitous to me. And now it -- it does not involve the Vendor Payment Program, but allows actually the Treasurer to use the money that they would do investments in, which are special -- special funds within the Treasurer's Office that are actually -- say, things like the Road Fund or the LUST Fund, and invest in those and -- and send that over to the -- the Comptroller's Office. And -- and, yes, I'm glad to hear the legislative intent that the Comptroller wants to prioritize those and pay the oldest bills and make the best use of and maximize the interest savings there as best we can. A lot of that interest will go into GRF, but in the end, the best solution is if we go back and unravel the Prompt Payment Act. This circuitous thing, it just -- it makes no sense to me, and I -- I can tell you the taxpayers I've talked to, it makes no sense to them. One, they want us to pay our bills on time and, two, and use less prompt payment -- problems, but we need to redo that Prompt Payment Act. And I -- I know Senator Murphy worked on that a great deal and that's really the root of it. This just -- like I say, it's like a dog chasing its tail. And I applaud the work that's being done, but it makes no sense and I can tell you it makes no sense to the taxpayer of why the State is not paying its bills on time and then paying this large amount of interest because it doesn't pay its bills on time and now the State is going to invest in its bad debt or now it's going -- it's crazy. I'm telling you. So, I'm going to continue to be a No vote. I -- I know we have to think out of the box, but at some point, we have to get back to the basics and that's to undo the Prompt Payment Act and start paying our bills 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 on time. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Oberweis, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is another one of those cases where it takes a little common sense and a little understanding of what's going on. Here's the deal. We have -- if we look at -- collectively as a State, we have hundreds of millions of dollars sitting out in a variety of accounts that are probably earning for those individual accounts maybe one percent interest right now. On the other hand, we got all these bills over here then which we're paying the equivalent of approximately twelve percent or, in some cases, nine percent right now. The idea behind this bill is simple. It says, let's look at us as a State of Illinois, let's borrow some of these special isolated funds, give them an IOU on which we'll pay them more interest than they're earning right now, and we'll use those funds to pay down the money that we're -- we're being charged twelve percent interest. I mean, this is a no- brainer. Now, a previous speaker said the reason to vote against this would be because the Prompt Payment Act should be changed - and I agree. I'm going to guess, I'm not sure, but I'm going to guess that the sponsor of this bill would agree that the Prompt Payment Act should be looked at. Probably most of us in this room agree with that, but that's irrelevant to this question. The question is, should we save hundreds of millions of dollars in 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 interest by this simple act? To me, this is an obvious no-brainer, whether you're a Republican, a Democrat, or even an independent conservative. Please vote Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans, to close.
Yes, thank you and I really appreciate the previous speaker. I think it is a no-brainer. We have estimates. Depending on how much is invested and whether it's using it to -- which kind of interest payment it's buying off, we can save thirty-five to a hundred million dollars. Interest does not just go into the GRF. If it's from the Road Fund that the dollars are getting used, the interest will accrue back to the Road Fund. So we're not in any way hurting the funds that the dollars are getting invested from. This stays on their books as an asset. I think it really makes an enormous amount of fiscal sense. I think, rather than the dog chasing the tail, it's really the tail wagging the dog, as a good friend of mine would say, and I urge your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2858. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 49 Ayes, 1 Nay, none voting Present. The Senate does concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2858, and the bill is declared passed. Senator Lightford, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of an announcement or maybe personal privilege, a little 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 bit of both.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
I would like to call an emergency women caucus in the third floor conference room. If all the ladies could please step into the third floor conference room for a quick meeting, I would appreciate it. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hutchinson, for what purpose do you rise?
Could the record please reflect I didn't get back to my switch in time on the last bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Excuse me.
I would like the record to reflect my intention to vote Yes on the previous bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The record will reflect your intention. For the sake of us getting out of this building at an appropriate time, we will be setting the timer from now on. We will go to Supplemental Calendar No. 1, Senate Bill 34. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 34. Signed by President Cullerton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) President Cullerton, on your motion. 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
Yes, thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This bill as it passed out of the Senate was called the VOICES Act. It would try to deal with the issue of law enforcement agencies completing a visa certification request when someone would be a crime victim and that was the purpose of the bill. We had -- tried to work out as many responses to the objectors and the House did a good job in amending the bill and adding an amendment in response to concerns from the State agencies, including the Department of Human Services and the Department of Children and Family Services. They are now exempted from being a -- certified agencies. They're obviously not opposed to the bill. And it also clarifies that when filling out these certification forms, the certifying agencies may include information the agency believes relevant to the federal government's visa determination. So, this removes the opposition of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. I would be happy to answer any questions and ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Nybo, for what purpose do you rise?
Well, thank you. A -- a question, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) He indicates he will yield.
Thank you. I just -- as I'm looking at the analysis and I see that there were nine votes here on the Senate side and thirty- eight -- No votes on the House side. Mr. President, can you just give us -- what's your understanding of -- of concerns as -- as 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 articulated by opponents on this bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) President Cullerton.
Well, I would say that the only one that might still be an opponent would be the Sheriffs' Association, but the Chiefs of Police, the Federation of Police, the -- had signed off and the - - the Chiefs of Police were the ones that were supportive of the amendment that was put on in the House. I -- I -- I don't think I can accurately -- adequately explain their concerns other than the fact that maybe they're against the concept. We are -- we have these forms that if somebody decides not to fill 'em out, they don't have to. The whole purpose of the bill was to kind of give some kind of a timeline and some kind of a emphasis for folks just to fill out the form. That's all we want 'em to do. And I -- I don't know if -- if -- how else to say it. It seemed like a -- pretty reasonable. We spent hours and hours with the House and a number of these groups to try to get their neutrality and I think we've got it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Nybo.
Thank you. I -- I appreciate that. I'm -- I'm supporting the bill. I just wanted to make sure that everybody understood that there was some concern with the bill. Appreciate that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 34. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 37 Ayes, 12 Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 34 -- is declared passed. Mr. Secretary, a Message from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of a bill of the following title, to wit: Senate Bill 452. Together with the following amendment which is attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 452. We have received like Messages on Senate Bill 2589, with House Amendments 1 and 2; Senate Bill 2921, with House Amendment 1; Senate Bill 3128, with House Amendments 1, 2, and 3; Senate Bill 3527, with House Amendments 1 and 3. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2018. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senate Bill 3220. Senator Aquino. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 4 to Senate Bill 3220. Signed by Senator Aquino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Aquino, on your motion. 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur on House Amendment No. 4. The -- the amendment deletes all and becomes the bill. The amendment allows for a non-for-profit institution that is denied recommendation for approval by the State Educator Preparation and Licensure Board to appeal the denial to ISBE, as provided by rules adopted by ISBE pursuant to the bill. Simply stated, this -- this provision here, this amendment was added to take the only opponent of the -- the bill off, which was -- which was ISBE. It got them to neutral. And so I know of no opponents and ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with Amendment -- House Amendment No. 4 to Senate Bill 3220. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 Ayes, 1 Nay, none voting -- 54 Ayes, 1 Nay, none voting Present. The Senate concurring with House Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 3220 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3404. Senator Raoul. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3404. Signed by Senator Raoul.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Raoul, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 The House amendment combined the contents of Senate Bill 2342 as well as the original provisions of Senate Bill 3404, which created the survivor bill of rights by providing victims of sexual assault and abuse certain rights. I'd urge your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3404. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3404 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3411. Senator Raoul. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3411. Signed by Senator Raoul.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Raoul, on your motion.
Thank you. The original bill, as we passed it out, allowed an authorized agent of a workplace, place of worship, or a school to petition for -- for a stalking no contact order in an effort to prohibit individuals from committing stalking at these locations. The House amendment removed language that would allow for a -- a court to order respondents to submit to mental health evaluations or wear electronic monitoring.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3411. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3411 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3491. Senator Holmes. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3491. Signed by Senator Holmes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Holmes, on your motion.
Thank you so much, Mr. President. Very simply, House Amendment 1 and 2 just clarifies the Network Adequacy and Transparency Act. Does not apply to dental-only, vision-only, or limited health service organization plans. The provisions were inserted at the recommendation of the Department of Insurance and the Illinois Life Insurance Council. I would ask for its adoption -- or for it to pass.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3491. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3491, the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 3532. Senator Rose. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3532. Signed by Senator Rose.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rose, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is the Sepsis (Review) Task Force. The House added a couple representatives to it and really just changed it from "the Sepsis Alliance" to the more generic phrase a representative from "a nationwide sepsis advocacy organization". And with that, I think we should just go ahead and concur with their amendment. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with… The question is, shall the Senate concur with Amendment 1 to Senate Bill -- House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3532. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3532, the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 3560. Senator Aquino. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3560. Signed by Senator Aquino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Aquino, on your motion.
I -- I look to concur on House Amendment 1, which is the result of negotiations with CMS. Basically -- I'm sorry, No. 2. I look to concur with House Amendment No. 2, which is the result of negotiations with CMS. I -- when I brought this originally - it's about -- about the Vendor Payment Program - I had said that we were wait -- working -- waiting on language from CMS. It puts them to neutral. I know of no opponents and -- and ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3560. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3560, the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2952. Senator Bush. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2952. Signed by Senator Bush.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Bush, on your motion.
Sorry. Sometimes it's just worth waiting for. I'd -- let's see. Yeah, it's ready. Excuse me. So House -- Senate Bill 2952 with the amendment, actually we're just -- we're increasing the size of the Prescription Monitoring Program Advisory Committee to sixteen members instead of twelve. And I would ask that we concur with the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2952. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2952 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3023. Senator Bush. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3023. Signed by Senator Bush.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush, on your motion.
…Mr. -- thank you, Mr. President. I ask that we concur with the House. It was requested by the House sponsor that we provide clarification that the funding shall be made available to both new and existing deflection programs. No opposition. I would ask for 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 concurrence.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3023. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3023 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3134. Senator McConnaughay. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3134. Signed by Senator McConnaughay.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McConnaughay, on your motion. SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: Thank you, Mr. President. This -- the change on this bill makes minor language tweaks recommended by the Department of Natural Resources. Adds members from E -- IEMA and specifies the appointments from local municipalities. I know of no opposition.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question -- question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3134. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The 92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senate concurring with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3134 -- is declared passed. Mr. Secretary, a Message from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of a bill of the following title, to wit: Senate Bill 482. Together with the following amendments which are attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 482. We have received a like Message on Senate Bill 2655, with House Amendment 1. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2018. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Supplemental Calendar No. 1. Senate Bill 585. Senator Barickman. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 585. Signed by Senator Barickman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Barickman, on your motion.
Thank -- thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur on -- on Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 585. This is agreed language with the Illinois County Treasurers' Association and various tax purchaser 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 entities. I move for adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 585. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 585 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 682. Senator Mulroe. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 682. Signed by Senator Mulroe.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Mulroe, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 682 becomes the bill and creates the Emergency Opioid and Addiction Treatment Access Act. It's aimed at addressing the emerging need to place individuals experiencing a substance use-related crisis in inpatient treatment facilities as quickly as possible by eliminating the existing prior authorization requirements, but still requiring the provider to give an insurer advance notice on the planned discharge of a patient. I know of no opposition. I'd ask for your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 682. All 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 682 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 1707. Senator Raoul. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the -- in the adoption of their Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 1707. Signed by Senator Raoul.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Raoul, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1707 is a comprehensive mental health and substance abuse parity omnibus bill that is the result of the work of a task force convened by The Kennedy Forum. Expands access to lifesaving addiction treatment; increases transparency by requiring health plans to submit parity compliance analyses to the Department of Insurance and Department of Healthcare and Family Services; improves parity enforcement by requiring Departments to conduct market conduct examinations, parity compliance audits; and it applies existing State law parity requirements to school district health plans. I urge your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 1707. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 1707 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 1758. Senator Hutchinson. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1758. Signed by Senator Hutchinson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hutchinson, on your motion.
Thank you, Members of the Senate. This motion to concur with House Amendment No. 2 deletes all, becomes the bill. The amendment makes a few changes to the laws relating to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. Specifically, allows the Board to own and lease property; places the Board on a list of State agencies exempt from reorganization under the Executive Reorganization Implementation Act; adds a clause stating that the status and rights of the employees in the State of Illinois under the Personnel Code, the Illinois Public Relations Act, and applicable collective bargaining agreements or under any pension, retirement, or annuity plan shall not be affected by this Act. This is an initiative of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, the Athens Police Department, Village of Manteno, and a number of other ones. Know of no opposition. Happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise? 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
To the lady's motion, if I might, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
Thank you. Very briefly, Ladies and Gentlemen. Those of you who are looking at your analysis on your laptops, notice there were a number of No votes over in the House. I do believe there -- there was some misinformation over there with regards to appointments to the Board or whatnot. I rise in support of the motion. Would urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1758. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1758 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 1851. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 1851. Signed by Senator Steans.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans, on your motion.
Yes, thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 is a Medicaid omnibus bill. There was a Medicaid working group of Members from all four caucuses who have agreed to this. I want to thank -- I know it was Senators Aquino and Jones on our side and Senators Righter and Syverson, who have been very instrumental in pulling this together. It does a number of things. First, it creates a new requirement for a single ambulance form. Second, it changes the rate methodology for MC/DD facilities. They take care of medically complex developmental disability individuals and moves it from Department of Human Services to HFS. The cost associated with that is included in the budget that we passed yesterday. It also, very critically, includes language that if the hospital -- new hospital assessment program does not get approved at the federal level before the current program ends, it is -- enables us to have gap payments made for our safety-net hospitals. There's also language in there for MCO rate transparency, the managed care organizations. It also ensures that DCFS, before the kids in that program get moved into managed care, that there'll be a chance for providers to provide input and to see the transition plan before the move happens. And it sets up a child -- a new lockout -- a -- rate for psychiatric hospitals when kids are locked out, for them to get a payment for them. And finally, it provides SMHRFs with a rate for therapeutic bed holds. Would urge your Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Will the sponsor yield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Indicates she will.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Steans, I have a brief question for purposes of legislative intent. Subsection (e) of Section 5-30.8 states that "Records and information introduced {sic} (produced) by the group established to discuss Medicaid capitation rates under this Section shall be confidential and not subject to the Freedom of Information Act." Does that mean that capitation rates approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services are subject to disclosure under FOIA? And I did not write that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans.
Yes, as a lawyer, you might have, though. Capitation rates -- the answer is yes. Capitation rates approved by CMS are subject to disclosure under FOIA. Subsection (e) is only intended to cover the records and information about draft capitation rates.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
That's true, but I would have billed you five hundred dollars for it. I urge an Aye vote on the motion. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 1851. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1, 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 1851 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 1979. Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1979. Signed by Senator Cunningham.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Cunningham, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that we concur with the House amendment to Senate Bill 1979. The bill amends the Property Tax Code by increasing the yearly limit of money that people can have refunded when they've been overcharged property taxes in Cook County. Right now, that limit is at 2.5 million. This bill would move it to five million dollars in total payouts to everyone who has overpaid during the course of the year. Know of no opposition. I would appreciate the Chamber's support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1979. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1979 -- is declared passed. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
100 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 A Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of a bill of the following title, to wit: Senate Bill 336. Together with the following amendment which is attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 336. We have received a like Message on Senate Bill 426, with House Amendments 2 and 3. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2018. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senate Bill 2350. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2350. Signed by Senator Morrison.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Morrison, on your motion.
Mr. President, this bill sets up a requirement that schools have at least one law enforcement drill, an active shooter drill, in their schools. The amendment that I propose that we concur with allows school administration or school support personnel to exempt students that they think should be removed from the drill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall 101 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2350. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2350 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2354. Senator McGuire. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2354. Signed by Senator McGuire.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McGuire, on your motion. SENATOR McGUIRE: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I move to concur with the House in the adoption of its Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2354. The amendment deletes all and become the bill -- becomes the bill. This bill is an initiative of the Higher Education Working Group and it seeks to do three things: first, to require the Illinois Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Community College Board to develop a program to effect reverse transfers for students who have matriculated from community colleges to four-year universities without gaining an associate's degree; secondly, to require each public institution to make a reasonable attempt to provide transfer advising to students upon his or -- to a student upon his or her attainment of thirty academic hours - that currently is not required; and finally, to remove the lid, the cap, on the amount of tuition 102 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 revenue that a public university may waive. I know of no opposition and ask for your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2354. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2354 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2421. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2421. Signed by Senator Steans.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans, on your motion.
Yes, this bill, as amended, allows the City of Chicago to be able to issue five liquor licenses, provided that -- provided certain requirements are met. And, you know, there was one when we sent it over, four more were added, so it's sort of the omnibus for the liquor licenses.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2421. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 49 Ayes, 103 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2421 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2447. Senator Murphy. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2447. Signed by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Murphy, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. I just -- this amendment just simply makes a technical clarification and allows HFS to begin requesting electronic data from the MCOs. So I ask…(microphone cutoff)…the House motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2447. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2447 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2481. Senator Hutchinson. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. Or Senator Hastings. I'm sorry. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2481. Signed by Senator Hastings. 104 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hastings, on your motion.
Thank -- thank you, Mr. President. This bill was approved by the Senate on April 24th, 2018, with a 50 to 0 to 1 vote. The only change from the bill that's passed back from the House is a page-and-line amendment that removes two provisions originally proposed by the Court of Claims. This bill also addresses issues that were -- that have taken place at the Quincy Veterans' Home and it would increase the tort awards. I'll answer any questions and there's no opponents.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
To the gentleman's motion, if I might, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
Thank you. Briefly, I rise in opposition. This bill raises the ceiling on the Court of Claims awards from a hundred thousand dollars, I think, to two million dollars and puts in an automatic cost inflator on top of that. I appreciate the argument that -- that we say, well, in the abstract, this is the right thing to do. This will have -- or potentially have a fiscal impact. That's the basis of my opposition. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Connelly, for what purpose do you rise?
105 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 To the motion, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
I stand in strong support of the gentleman's motion. It does indeed bring the cap to two million. I actually sought busting the cap and get ridding -- getting rid of the cap. And many other states around the country have done that, red states, blue states, Ohio, I believe Pennsylvania. We have not even addressed the limit for, I believe, three decades. This is a long time coming and I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Mulroe, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you -- thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. I rise in support of the motion and ask for everyone's Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2481 -- Senator Hastings, to close.
This bill's important and here's why. Thirteen people died at Quincy Veterans' Home. This bill hasn't been changed since the early 1970s. Thirteen people died over a period of three years. I grieve for these families, because they lost their people. This is the right thing to do. You give 'em a chance at some sort of recovery because what happened there is unconscionable. Yesterday, we took a -- a very proactive step towards fixing a horrific issue at Quincy Veterans' Home. This bill will give those people justice. I ask for an Aye vote. 106 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with Amendment No. 2 -- House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2481. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 42 Ayes, 7 Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2481 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2540. Senator Barickman. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption -- adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2540. Signed by Senator Barickman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Barickman, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Amendment 1 and House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2540. This -- the underlying bill makes numerous changes to the State grant process, including a prohibition on Governors transferring money from appropriated to non-appropriated funds. It comes as a result of a State audit that the Legislative Audit Commission has reviewed. The amendments do some important things, both technical changes that were requested by the Illinois Community College Board. It also removes a blackout period on constitutional officers that we originally passed out of the Senate. I think that remains an important provision. Given the late hour in this legislative cycle, I still think we've got a good bill, but would 107 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 ask for the Senate's support on that measure, which we don't yet have an agree {sic} on, in future legislation. That said, I move to concur and would ask for the adoption of the amendments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2540. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2540 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2579. Senator Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2579. Signed by Senator Sims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Sims, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I move to concur with House Amendment No. -- House Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2579. The bill is a -- as I mentioned in previous iterations of this legislation, it is a cleanup to the Bail Reform Act of -- of 2017. The bill seeks to clarify a number of technical concerns that came up after the bill was passed. Among the provisions, it clarifies that the thirty- day -- thirty-dollar-per-day credit applies to the cash amount. It moves non-probationable gun offenses from Category B to Category 108 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 A and it also provides to courts the -- the judge's discretion to deny a rehearing if an individual has failed to appear. I know of no opposition and will answer any questions and ask for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2579. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2579 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2617. Senator Althoff. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2617. Signed by Senator Althoff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Althoff, on your motion.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. It's very simple. The two amendments that I am asking for a motion to concur just better define the multi-state licensing system, the licensing requirements and procedures, to really better match the federal requirements. I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 109 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 2617. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2617 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2641. Senator Muñoz. Senator Muñoz. Senate Bill 2667. Senator Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2667. Signed by Senator Sims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Sims, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill -- I move to concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2667. This is an -- an initiative I picked up from Senator Weaver and the bill essentially allows for DCFS -- DC -- DCEO, Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunities {sic} (Opportunity), to award points for enterprise zone scoring if the plan is to use or hire businesses owned by minorities -- minorities, women, or businesses -- or people with disabilities. I know of no opposition and ask for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2667. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 110 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 51 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2667 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2641. Senator Muñoz. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 2, 3, and 4 to Senate Bill 2641. Signed by Senator Muñoz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, on your motion. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. This bill is intended to subject car facilitation companies or peer-to-peer car-sharing companies to the same regulatory obligations as motor vehicle rental companies. The bill would place these car facilitation companies in a similar framework as a rental car company, rental car agency, rental owner, or any other similar entity that engages in the rental of motor vehicle to the public. I want to also state to the Body, in committee we did have an opposition. It was the first time they came to committee to object and state what they wanted to put into it or why they were objecting to the bill. Since the bill arrived here in the Senate, we've had three amendments in the House. Leader Turner put an amendment. He had some objections from the Trial Lawyers and that was taken care of. The City of Chicago, Secretary of State, the Attorney General's Office, and the Insurance Industry, all of these that I have stated were addressed. So for anyone to say that no one was given any opportunity to speak on the bill or to offer any other amendments to try to make the bill work to make 111 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 everyone happy… I did get a -- another amendment twenty minutes before committee from the opposition, but by then it was too late for it to move. This is a concurrence. I am doing a trailer bill. That's what I have here in 514. We've addressed all the concerns from the different entities that I mentioned, so I just want everyone in the Chamber to know what everyone was doing in the House and they tried to work with everyone. I will attempt to answer any questions, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator McConnaughay, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill. SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion. SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: Thank you. Oh, thank you. Leader Muñoz, thank you for having many conversations we've had about some of the confusion about this bill. And I think one of the things that we've talked about is that the dynamic on this is a little bit similar to what went on as Uber emerged into -- that industry emerged. Platform-based businesses are -- are kind of the -- the wave of the future. We're seeing them. This is another example of it and these are things that are not adequately addressed in our statutes and need to be. And so, as we pass these bills, not everybody is happy, because we 112 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 don't maybe get it all at the first bite. I appreciate you acknowledging that there needs to be an opportunity to do some of the additional issues on the cleanup and I agree with you. In terms of reiterating for everybody who's had some concern, the -- the bill's first amendment was filed on May 16th and Amendments 3 and 4 were adopted at the request of the insurance industry to -- to accommodate their concerns. Same thing was done for the Trial Lawyers. So there's been a lot of -- you have engaged in a lot of activity to try to resolve the many -- some of the conflicts. And as you had indicated, late language being introduced just didn't make it in time for us to do this today. So the alternative to postponing this legislation is to have yet another year of no consumer protection or tax collection by companies who operate in a somewhat similar fashion to car rental companies but are not required to play by the same rules that have -- over the last thirty years prior legislators -- Legislatures have created to regulate car rental companies in order to protect the citizens of Illinois. So with all of that being said, it's not perfect, but as -- as we deal with more and more platform-based businesses, there -- these are issues that we will have to come back to a number of times in order to address all the issues. So I support this bill and encourage a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Nybo, for what purpose do you rise?
Mr. President, to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
113 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 To the motion. Sorry. Thank you. I just wanted to echo what my good friend, Senator McConnaughay, remarked upon. I'm going to support this bill as well, too, because conceptually I think, one, we do need to do something in this space to impose some reasonable regulations in a emerging industry and, two, I think we need to show that we're serious about doing something and I fear that if this bill is defeated that -- that the industry will not have strong enough motivation to be sincere in efforts to come to some compromise proposal. I do think that some compromise is needed here. I'm not sure that this bill -- in fact, I know this bill is not the right bill that should become law and -- and I would -- even though I support it, I would not encourage the Governor to sign this bill. Instead, I would -- I would prefer that this bill, if passed, sit for at least two months, Leader Muñoz, because I do think that the industries that are involved here - we're not just talking about an industry - the industries that are involved here need to seriously sit down and -- and negotiate and discuss some issues that they can come to agreement here. So I will be a Yes vote today, but if there's an effort to override a veto on this bill, I've made it very clear - and there have not been sincere negotiations - I will be very reluctant to lend my support on an override attempt. So I hope the parties can work it out.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Will the sponsor yield, please, Mr. President?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) He indicates he will. 114 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Muñoz, I -- I listened carefully to your opening about the activity that's taken place in the House and so I'm not really -- I mean, I'm -- I hear you saying what happened in the House. I'm not much familiar with that here, and as I understand, the -- the first substantive amendment on this was filed fifteen days ago, so -- but I hear you saying you're going to file a trail bill -- trailer bill. What do you anticipate will be in the trailer bill? Because I think that's an important conversation to have now, considering that this -- we're going to move this on final passage.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Senator, the trailer bill is 514. I have language in there obtained from the City of Chicago, Department of Revenue. Also, we send a trailer bill to the House that will sit. We can do negotiations on the trailer bill. I don't have a problem with that. I will work with everyone on that as well. So if -- the language that was given to me twenty minutes prior to me doing the bill in committee, I'd be willing to look at that. We can sit and talk to that and maybe we can get something back from the House in Veto Session.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
Senator Muñoz, the effective date of the bill, the provisions of the bill, is it January 1 - is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 115 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: That's correct, January 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter.
We will be in legislative Session between now and January 1. The consumer protections that were referred to earlier, I mean, I think that we all should have at least some appreciation for those, but those won't go into effect until January 1 anyway. So isn't the prudent thing to do here is keep the bill here in the Senate, have the conversations that you're talking about, rather than release things and count on the House to come through for us? Why don't we keep it here, knowing this isn't going to go into effect until January 1, and try to address the issues all in one package?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: As I stated, we have a trailer bill, Senator, and I will be willing to work with everyone on the trailer bill. I've given my word to the City of Chicago. And any other language that is given and if anyone wants to talk between now and we go to Veto Session, I'll be more than happy to do that. But because of time, in all fairness to everybody that worked hard on this bill - we've addressed a lot of the concerns - I wanted to vote for it today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter. And your time's wrapping up.
To the gentleman's motion, if I might. 116 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
Thank you. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is a big, big issue. There is an emerging industry out there and the -- the -- the people who brought this bill to the General Assembly and filed their first substantive language fifteen days ago are trying to squash that competition. That's what this is. The effective date of the provisions in this bill, whether we characterize them as consumer protection or not, regardless if this becomes law, don't come effect until January 1. There is no reason, there is no reason not to hold this and let this Chamber stay in control of it, rather than hope that the House will do what we want the House to do. With that, reluctantly I urge a No vote on the motion. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Cunningham, for what purpose do you rise?
To the motion, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I rise in reluctant opposition to this bill as well. I think there are plenty of reasons for this legislation to be offered. This is a new industry. It does need regulation. We do need to make sure that we have a level playing field when it comes to things like insurance and taxation, but I don't think this bill is really designed to get at that. It's not designed to get at a level playing field. It's designed, as the 117 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 previous speaker mentioned, to squash competition. I think it's important. We need to strike a balance between existing industries, like the rental car businesses, and emerging technologies. If we work to squash every emerging -- emerging technology that comes to our State, we're going to do damage to our economy. I think we want to -- we want to encourage ingenuity, encourage new business models, and I just don't think this bill will allow that to happen. So, as mentioned before, there -- we're not -- we're not going to have an effective date until January 1st. I think there's plenty of time to continue to work on this and come back with a true compromise in Veto Session. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Oberweis, for what purpose do you rise?
To the motion, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
I couldn't agree more strongly with Senator Cunningham and Senator Righter. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is a bad bill. Even a prior speaker in favor of the bill said it's a bad bill, but he hopes the Governor will veto it. Why -- why do we do that? Why don't we just vote No and stop it right here? You know, in Silicon Valley, they support young, emerging companies. They give them a chance to grow and become a factor so they can pay taxes in the future. What do we do in Illinois? The opposite. We try to kill 'em while they're young so we protect vested interests. We protect the major car companies, 'cause they don't want competition. We 118 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 protect hotel chains so that Airbnb and other companies like that can't compete. That is so Illinois and so wrong that I hope with the bipartisanship we showed yesterday on the budget that we can show bipartisanship on this and, whether you're Republican or Democrat, vote against a bad bill, please. Oh, yeah…(microphone cutoff)…and independent conservatives as well.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Haine, for what purpose do you rise?
I'm sorry. That was pretty good actually. To -- to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
I'm -- I'm concerned, my dear friend, that this impacts, in a -- in a very harsh way, average citizens. These are average folks who are getting into this. How we regulate them, impose these regulatory schemes on them, this is different than -- in fact, the word "emerging industry" gives the idea it's kind of an organized group, like Enterprise, and Enterprise in my area is a huge multi-billion-dollar business and it's a good business. I've used them. In fact, I think I use Enterprise every time I go on a trip. They're a great industry. But these are average citizens and I'm very much concerned about the optics of us coming in at this stage with something that they see as a -- as an effort to really burden them to the point where they can't share their car with a willing consent -- consenting consumer. That's the problem I have with the bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, to close. 119 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I appreciate all the comments, even from the -- my colleagues that feel that this is a bad bill. You know, you say that we should be holding the bill when the bill has actually been out there for a little bit. The only thing I can tell you is, on the trailer bill, you're welcome to come and work with me on it and give me some suggestions. Everyone knows me. I've been around a little while. I've worked well with both sides of the aisle. If you have to be a No for a friend that's a lobbyist, hey, that's -- that's fine. But to -- everybody has their own opinion and I get that, but when you can say it's a bad bill and we shouldn't be doing that, I don't agree with you on that part. I ask for an Aye vote. And I know they worked real hard in the House and if you want to work with me, I look forward to working with all of you on the trailer bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 2, 3, and 4 to Senate Bill 2641. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 34 Ayes, 7 Nays, 7 voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 2, 3, and 4 to Senate Bill 2641 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2804. Senator Righter. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2804. Signed by Senator Righter. 120 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter, on your motion.
Thank you very much, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. My motion to concur on Senate Bill 2804 is to concur with a House amendment. As the Members may recall, this bill, which passed the Senate unanimously, creates the New Harmony Bridge Commission in my district, which is in very southern White County. It separates itself from the Department of Transportation and any funding from the State. The desire of the constituency down there is to raise money and rehabilitate the bridge, which has been closed for a number of years. The only change made by the House is to actually reverse the order of the provisions. The bill says that we will have the New Harmony Bridge Commission if the State of Indiana is not a partner with us. If the State of Indiana chooses to sign an agreement with us, it will be a bi-state bridge commission. The House reversed the order of their provisions. We can't find any other substantive changes they may have made, so I would ask for an Aye vote on the motion. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2804. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, 2 Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2804 -- is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we'll turn to page 3 of the printed Calendar, Senate Bill 514. Senator -- Senator Muñoz seeks leave of the Body to 121 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 return Senate Bill 514 to the Order of 3rd -- 2nd Reading. All those -- leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 514. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Muñoz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, on your amendment. SENATOR MUÑOZ: I would just ask for its adoption, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 514. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 514. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, on your bill. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. 514 is the trailer bill to 2641. This contains the language for 122 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 the City of Chicago, as well as the Department of Revenue. And as it goes to the House, we can also add other amendments onto it. And look forward to working with everyone.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 514 pass. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 49 Ayes, no Nays, 1 voting Present. Senate Bill 514, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Going back to Supplemental Calendar No. 1. Senate Bill 2838. Senator Bertino-Tarrant. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2838. Signed by Senator Bertino-Tarrant.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bertino-Tarrant, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I do move to concur with the -- the amendment. What it does is -- this is a -- a piece of legislation we've been working on the entire Session here. It is an agreement between ICCB, IBHE, the community colleges, ISBE, teachers, and management group. What it does is require community college districts, upon request of a school district, to enter into a partnership agreement with the school to offer dual credit coursework. The amendment sets out requirements, what must be included in the partnership, and establishes a dual credit 123 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 committee to create a model partnership. The amendment also provides for the standards for coursework and instructors under this agreement. Our hope with this piece of legislation is to keep our students -- keep our students here in Illinois, as well as most -- and most importantly, to keep their college costs down. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2838. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2838 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2844. Senator Aquino. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2844. Signed by Senator Aquino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Aquino, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I look to concur with this amendment. What the amendment does is makes a slight change to the program that we had been suggesting to try to combat the teacher shortage issue. This basically broadens the program. It's not specific to bilingual teachers. It's now for -- for just getting people into the teaching pipeline. And it also adds the language of identifying low-income students, 124 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 which is identified for students who are eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, TANF, or SNAP, to also be a part of the program. It's a -- it's a bipartisan bill and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2844. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2844 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2864. Senator Althoff. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2864. Signed by Senator Althoff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Althoff, on your motion.
Thank you very much. I would move to concur with House Amendment No. 1, which just changes the sunset from 2023 to 2029 for the (Structural) Pest Control Act. This is our standard ten- year length of sunset provision. I'd ask for an Aye vote. And, yes, for every single one of you who have asked me, this is my last bill!
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Anderson, for what purpose do you rise? 125 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
To the motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
Isn't it fitting that your last bill has to do with pest control? I don't know what to say, but, my short time here, I cannot be thankful enough to have you as a seatmate and you have taught me a lot. So, thank you for everything you've done for -- for me and the -- the State of Illinois, Pam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2864. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2864 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2904. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2904. Signed by Senator Steans.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans, on your motion.
Well, that's a tough act to follow, but it was fitting that Senator Althoff is my chief co on this and helped negotiate and get this to a deal. This was agreed to. It's -- I don't know of 126 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 any opposition now at this point between the physician assistants and the Medical Society, as well as the Department. It allows collaborating physicians to collaborate with a maximum of seven, rather than five, full-time equivalent physician assistants and it also, in areas where there's a real shortage of health care professionals, increases the number of physician assistants that can work in those areas. I would urge your -- your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2904. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2904 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2913. Senator Mulroe. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1, 2, and 4 to Senate Bill 2913. Signed by Senator Mulroe.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Mulroe, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. Before I begin, I just want -- part of this bill and two other bills, I just want to thank a number of the Members here and on the other side: Senator Syverson; Senator Tracy; Representatives Hoffman and Hammond; the Departments, HFS, HS, and Department of {sic} (on) Aging; the long-term care organizations; our staffs. We've 127 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 had numerous meetings to try to address long-term Medicaid applications and redeterminations to make the process better. This is another example of good things that can happen when we work together. This bill requires HFS to implement passive renewals for Medicaid eligibility with long-term care residents, codifies the new practice of expediting eligibility for applicants with community Medicaid, and requires HFS to adopt policies and procedures to improve communication between Medicaid applications {sic}, long-term care facility personnel, and agency staff. I know of no opposition. I'd ask for your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
To the motion. I want to thank the Senator. This is, as he -- as he discussed, this is really sweeping legislation, months of work, long meetings. I want to thank the staff for the work, the amount of research, the number of issues that this addresses. This and when you take the two other bills that were already passed in regard to this, this -- this three-bill process will completely eliminate the -- the problems that we've had for the last ten years of this building backlog of -- in long-term care facilities of getting residents approved for coverage and maintaining them for coverage. So, I -- I want to thank the Senator for this and for, like I say, all three bills that with these in place by the end of 128 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 the year, there'll be sweeping changes in long-term care facilities and this is a -- an exciting day for Illinois, 'cause we've all heard from our facilities over and over again about those cases where people have not been approved and the struggles that we've had. So, thanks for your leadership on this and look forward to having this actually implemented.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) There any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House -- House Amendment 1, 2, and 4 to Senate Bill 2913. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1, 2, and 4 to Senate Bill 2913 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2927. Senator McGuire. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2927. Signed by Senator Mulroe -- McGuire.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McGuire, on your motion. SENATOR McGUIRE: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I move to concur with the House in the adoption of its Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2927. That amendment deletes all and becomes the bill, thus Senate Bill 2927 creates the AIM HIGH Grant Pilot Program of five years' duration, a program which is to provide matching grants at Illinois four-year public universities for 129 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 financial aid to Illinois undergraduate students who meet criteria set by each school and whose household income is no greater than six times the federal poverty guidelines. This is the final bill to be brought forth this Session as a result of the work of the Higher Education Working Group, a group so collegial that this morning we had a team picture taken. And I would like to acknowledge the members of the group and their contributions: Senator Lightford, Senator Bennett, Senator Rooney, Senator Rose, Senator Schimpf, and two staff iron men, Tanner Gillis and Brendan Conner. I know of no opposition and ask for a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Rose, for what purpose do you rise?
I -- I just want to, first of all, again, thank the good Senator for his -- his yeoman's work, but I'm mainly just rising to thank our staff folks. These guys did an incredible job, and our side -- our side and also the House staff was involved, but they went through some pretty grueling stuff through the fall and through the spring and all this other -- everything else going on and, you know, we said this last night, but you just can't say it enough, whether it's this issue or any other issues here, all of our caucus staffs just do a phenomenal job. And really I just wanted to come up -- stand up and rise up and thank them again. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2927. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The 130 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate concurring with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2927 -- is declared passed. Senator Anderson, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Thank you, Mr. President. I know the hour is late and everybody wants to get out of here, but I would be remiss and probably in trouble if I didn't say something. Today is me and my wife's sixteenth wedding anniversary. And, obviously, this day is a -- is a -- a bad day to have an anniversary, 'cause it's always the last day of Session, but I just want to -- to say - I know she's watching at home - I just want to say, thanks for the past sixteen years. I love you very much and thanks for holding down the fort while I'm down here. I love you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Anderson, you can see that I'm a little bit smarter than you. My anniversary is Saturday. So I knew June 2nd would come and we'd be done. Senate Bill 2999. Senator Van Pelt. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2999. Signed by Senator Van Pelt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 131 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senator Van Pelt, on your motion.
I have a motion to concur to House Amendment No. 1, which is just a line -- page-and-line amendment to address residual concerns about lost or stolen items in relation to employment -- employee reimbursements. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate -- Senate -- convert - hold on a second - can the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2999. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2999 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3085. Senator Rose. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3085. Signed by Senator Chapin Rose.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rose, on your motion.
Thank you. The -- this amendment simply corrects a -- a mistake; that we want to ensure that the property taxpayers actually get a notice sent to them. So this would leave in the requirement that the -- that the notice is mailed to them. That's all. I move for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 132 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3085. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, 1 Nay, none voting Present. The Senate concurring with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3085 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3103. Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3103. Signed by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Castro, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. The concurrence is to correct two typos in the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3103. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 32 Ayes, 14 Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3103 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3109. Senator Martinez. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 133 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3109. Signed by Senator Martinez.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Martinez, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. I concur with the House on the amendment. Provides that all qualified applicants, regardless of immigrant status, are eligible for Illinois professional license issued by the Department of Finance {sic} (Financial) and Professional Regulation. In addition, the bill provides that citizenship status should not be a bar for licensure under the Pharmacy Practice Act or School Code. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the -- that the Department allows a license applicant to use a taxpayer's identification number as an alternative to a social security number. And I'll be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3109. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 36 Ayes, 10 Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3109 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3115. Senator Hunter. Out of the record. Senate Bill 3139. Senator Collins. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3139. 134 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Signed by Senator Collins.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Collins, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I move to accept -- or I move to concur with House Amendment No. 1 and House Amendment No. 3. House Amendment No. 1 amends the underlying language as passed out of the Senate by specifying that the Illinois Plain Language Task Force report shall be submitted to the General Assembly electronically. As far as House Amendment No. 3, it's an initiative of Senator Bennett and I think it directly affects his community and he would like to speak to explain it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall… Senator Bennett, for what purpose do you rise?
To the amendment. Just to explain, I don't -- this amendment would deal with a topic that we just don't spend enough time talking about, the Mahomet Aquifer. What this would do is give a new deadline, give six more months for a task force to do its work. I'd ask for an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you rise?
Well, thank you, Mr. President. I am totally confused now. I don't think there's any plain language that has to do with the Mahomet Aquifer anymore. But anyway, no, I -- I do have a question for the original sponsor. Senator Collins, am I correct in 135 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 understanding that we -- you're asking for an -- a task force to be appointed to study the issue of -- of how we'd make plain language in the -- the statutes?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Collins.
What we're asking for -- it's a technical amendment to indicate that the report has to be filed electronically.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Tracy.
Okay, let's go back to the underlying bill then. What I'm understanding is you're asking for a task force, plus you're asking that we go ahead and start redoing the statutes to be -- so that they're in plain language. It just seemed like you're doing both a -- a task force and mandate that we change to plain language. And that's -- I'm just trying to clarify if that -- if I'm understanding correctly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Collins.
The task force is being formed in order to implement the statute.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Tracy.
Okay, then -- then I did understand that. We've got a task force, plus the mandate to do this -- the plain language part. To the bill. I -- I would just say I -- I agree. I, as an attorney, 136 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 I've tried to write as much in plain language as possible; however, I do think it's going to be very difficult, because in our criminal statutes, much of what is in our statutes is sometimes defined in case law and we have Latin terms that have certain meanings and - - and the like. So I -- I just don't know if we're going to be able to accomplish this. I -- I think LRB does a very good job of helping us, but in statutory language, you have to be very concise, you have to be very explainable, and I just think it's the nature of the beast with statutes that you're going to sometimes not fall within what could be the federal definition of plain language. So I appreciate the intent, but I just don't think it is possible and so, for that reason, I can't support the mandate to do this. I think maybe if you have a task force first to do it, that -- and -- and see where the task force leads, sees where -- where it's possible you could do this. But, unfortunately, statutory language is often very hard to fit that federal definition of what is plain language. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Collins, to close.
We've had this bill before. I just ask for your Yes vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3139. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate 137 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Bill 3139 -- is declared passed. Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Senator Martinez, for what purpose do you rise?
For point of clarification.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
I was so excited about my bill, Senate Bill 3109, that I forgot to even vote on my own bill, so I want to be recorded as a Yes vote on my own bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Record will reflect your intention. WCIA-TV seeks permission to video and record. Leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Re-refer from State Government Committee to Committee on Assignments - Motion to Concur with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 904; Be Approved for Consideration - House Joint Resolution 58, Floor Amendment 2 to House Bill 138; Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 336, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 452, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2589, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2655, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2921, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 3128, Motion to Concur with 138 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 House Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3527. Signed, Senator James Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) We will now turn to Supplemental Calendar No. 1, House Bill 138. Senator Bush. Senator Bush seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 138 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 138. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Bush.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush, on your amendment.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. I would ask for -- I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Bush.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a page-and-line amendment. I would ask for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor 139 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 138. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 138. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush, on your bill.
Thank you very much, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. This is an important piece of work that is a -- a -- a really big step in dealing with sexual harassment here, certainly in the Capitol and obviously out in -- out in the world. But there's been a lot of work on -- on this bill and -- and before I go on, I -- I'd really like to thank some of the Members that were incredibly, incredibly helpful in -- in getting everything put together over the last couple of days, so we had really, really good policy going forward. I'd like to thank Leader Kimberly Lightford. Truly, without her leadership on this, I would not be standing here with a bill that is ready to move. I'd like to also thank Karen McConnaughay, Senator Karen McConnaughay. I'm a bit of a Pollyanna at times and she pushes and, you know, reminds me that maybe I'm a bit more of a Pollyanna than I should be, but I 140 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 so, so appreciate your work here. And, Senator Steans, without your leadership, again, and I -- and I really do want to thank the President of the Senate, because we all know that -- look, we -- we've had some pretty amazing moments here the last twenty-four hours or forty-eight and it's really because we've worked across the aisle and leadership flows down. Those things don't occur unless you have leaders in place that support that, foster that, and understand how important it is that you work across the aisle, and President Cullerton said something to me once and I think about it often. "Are you trying to pass a bill or are you trying to create a law." We're trying to create a law. And I have one more person I'd really like to thank and that's Senator Jil Tracy. Jil is my Co-Chair on the Sexual Harassment Task Force and I have come to so respect her, like her, and just honored to work with someone who just is diligent and really just a pleasure to work with. But anyway, having said that, what this bill does is a number of things, but most importantly: It clarifies that the Legislative Inspector General position can be full-time; it requires public posting of the LIG position; creates a four-person search committee for the LIG. Each Leader appoints one former judge or a prosecutor to the search committee. The committee -- the requirements, how that occurs, it requires the LEC to appoint an acting LIG within forty-five days of vacancy. If an extended vacancy occurs in the office, it provides for the Inspector General -- Auditor General, excuse me, to have jurisdiction over the complaints. Requires the LIG staff to {sic} (or) the Executive Director of the LEC to report to the LEC all complaints received during the vacancy. There's just a number of things, and one of the other pieces that took us a while to get to was a piece that was really important to all of 141 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 us and that's that the Legislative Inspector General may proceed on a -- on an -- on an inquiry -- where there's been a complaint filed, excuse me, when it has to do with sexual harassment. So the LIG will not have to go to the commission members to get their permission. There's just a tremendous amount of work that's been done here. I'm truly honored and humbled to be carrying it, because it's such a compilation of efforts by so many people. We all know that sexual harassment, bullying, treating people in a "less than" way has to stop. It's something that the Me Too movement has certainly raised recognition of. It certainly doesn't belong here in the Capitol and we just really want to deliver a message going forward that we're going to keep working until we see a culture change, until people feel that it's a place that honors men and women in a way that helps us all work better together, move forward together, and respect everyone's abilities. So I'm happy to answer any questions. Oh, and I -- I'm really remiss. I wanted to thank Mike Connelly. I don't know if Senator Connelly is on the Floor, but I know that he really fought to make sure that some of these pieces are in this bill. And I guess that's it, but thank you so much. What we saw, what we've seen going on, you know, with people coming forward complaining, filing -- excuse me -- alleging sexual harassment, we just want the message to be out there that Illinois intends to have the best laws in the country, we take it seriously, and that we will continue to do the work. There's a lot more work to be done. This is the -- the first -- there have been about thirteen bills that have actually gone through the Chamber. Some have made it through both sides that deal with sexual harassment, but this is really the first bill from the workforce -- excuse me, the task force, 142 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 feels like a workforce. There's a lot more work to be done. This is a -- a step in the process. And, again, I just can't thank everyone enough for the work, the support, and let's stand together, all of us, and say, no more, not in my State Capitol. I'm happy to answer any questions and I'd urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McConnaughay, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill. SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: Well, I first want to thank the sponsor, Senator Bush, and Senator Tracy for all of their hard work. And certainly don't want this to sound like an awards ceremony, handing out thanks all across the Chamber, but -- but I got -- I got to tell you that six months ago when the first allegations of sexual harassment emerged, not just here in Illinois, but all across our country, and the Me Too movement came together and then we -- then we found out that there had been some allegations made that had gone unanswered, it kind of threw this building into a tailspin. And I -- very honestly, I've been passionate about this from that day forward, with a resolve that there is no way we could leave this building without correcting that. And along the way, it's been very challenging and difficult. We've had some very strong opinions and there's been some very difficult moments amongst us in this - - in this Chamber and yet we are here today with a -- a bill that I can personally be very proud of. I want to -- I want to first acknowledge Terry Link. And, Senator Link, I know I've been a 143 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 huge pain in your you-know-what on the commission, because I have challenged just about everything the commission has done along the way, but you have been honorable, you have been professional, and you have -- you have managed the commission very efficiently and very effectively and I thank you for that. And to my colleagues on the commission, Cristina Castro and Mike Connelly: We have had -- this has not been easy. We have -- we have -- get pressured every day. Every single day, somebody from the press wants to know the details of what's going on, and we -- we want to be transparent. We want people to understand that we are proactively dealing with any -- any -- anything unethical in this building, but by the same token, not everything -- not every allegation that's made is real, and trying to strike that balance and protect the privacy of an accuser and the accused until justice is served is a -- is complicated and it's a difficult balance. And so that process has been an eye-opener I think for those of us who serve on the commission and I have appreciated to have been able to work on this from that perspective. Kim -- Kim Lightford, Heather Steans, and all the women of this Chamber, we have had more conversations on this topic than I think we've probably talked about anything, and if -- if it weren't for the fact that -- that the women in this Chamber have been resolute in their determination to be able for all of us, not just for us as women, but for all of us here who represent a constituency back in our districts, that we take the allegations of ethics seriously and that we hold a very high standard for ourselves and how we behave and how we deal with these issues. So I thank you for that. I want to also mention that in collaboration with my Co-Chair Kim Lightford, we did receive a bipartisan, unanimous support of the -- of the 144 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 bipartisan women's caucus today, and so I am grateful for that. This is not a perfect bill and there were -- this -- as long as this week has gone on, there have been a number of times where we drew a line in the sand, a number of us did, and I would be remiss if I did not thank Senator -- my Leader, Bill Brady, and President Cullerton. I would say that we -- there were moments this week where we were probably less than ladylike in terms of expressing our opinion about what needed to happen here and I give a lot of credit to both of them, because they -- they landed the plane, they drove it home, to give us a bill that we're going to -- I -- hopefully this Chamber passes unanimously and that we send it over to the House and today, as the last day of this Session, we can go home and tell the people that we did something of substance that allows women, men, anyone who has felt that they have been wronged by this Body or anybody who works here -- that there is a process in place where you don't have to be fearful of retribution. And so I would -- this would be the best day -- way to end this day if we all voted Yes. Thank you for your cooperation and listening to my rant.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you. I would like to address the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Yeah, I would very much like to commend the sponsor, Senator Bush. I do not think this piece of legislation would be being heard today without her determination and ardent efforts. The 145 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Sexual Harassment Task Force has been working quite diligently since the first of the year and we have female members, we have male members, we have people from the private sector, and our work will go on. Our report will be made in December, but we wanted to take the first step to file this legislation, which address -- addresses the Legislative Ethics Commission. And certainly ethics does not all-encompass sexual harassment. You can have ethics -- ethical issues without sexual harassment, but in looking at the - - the structure of the -- the commission, it became apparent that if we could restructure it, we could assure the public and we could assure anybody that wanted to make a complaint to the commission that there would be better transparency, there would be better independence from the legislative Body, and that they could -- be assured that they would be dealt with -- any complaint would be dealt with in a very above-board manner and without any fear of retribution, but, most importantly, that it would be a fair process within the legislative Body. So I do think -- so we've -- I think this restructures it appropriately. We may have to go along and tweak it along the way, but I -- I have to say that we -- we took pieces of legislation that Senator Connelly had filed, Senator Castro had filed, Senator McConnaughay had filed, and cobbled them together and I think it -- it -- it's a very good drafted bill at this point, because it does contain the different pieces that we think were most important. The legal staff on the Democratic side, Liza Roberson-Young, Ashley Snead {sic} (Stead), have helped us work with this, and of course our Republican legislative person, Jo Johnson, has tirelessly worked, and I can't say enough to our Senate Leaders, President Cullerton and Leader Brady. I was cynical. I didn't think this was ever going to happen. Senator 146 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Bush thought no doubt we would make it happen. And as I've mentioned the people before and -- and the males of this Body have helped support us to get to this point. This is a good start and I -- I just would ask you all to support it, because I think we put a pretty good -- good piece of legislation together. If you see pieces that you think we would like to change later on or we've missed, we'll welcome those, but right now, I think, as we leave, putting this bill over to the House will be a major first step of -- of correcting things and -- and addressing things that we've learned. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) She indicates she will yield.
First, Senator, thank you for your work, and everybody that worked on this. I know you are passionate about this and have a lot of tenacity and -- and you really go after things, so congratulations. I know you -- you -- there's a lot of good things in -- in this bill. My question to you is this, does this -- anything in the legislation change the membership of the Legislative Ethics Commission?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush.
I know that you had some legislation that you would have liked to have seen included and moved forward, but, no, it does not 147 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 change the actual makeup of the commission.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bivins.
Thank you for your answer, and to the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Members, I -- I served on the Legislative Ethics Commission and was a Chairman and completed my term in 2015, and everybody on that commission, the -- the members are professional and -- and I'm not taking issue with -- with the members themselves, but the structure of the commission is -- is faulty. We have four Democrats, four Republicans; there's no tiebreaker. The Inspector General had to come to the commission to ask to investigate and come back to proceed from there with that -- that investigation to the members, so either side could -- could potentially stop any investigation from going forward. Now, since I've been down here, little over ten years, I've heard it said many times about law enforcement, that, you know, police really shouldn't police themselves. Why do we have legislators policing themselves, sitting in judgment of other legislators? You know, we had a Sheriffs' Merit Commission independently. They weren't -- they weren't deputies that sat in judgment over the deputies if there was a discipline issue. So if we really want to get serious about this, take that bill that I introduced that changes that, that says legislators and lobbyists cannot sit on this commission. Appoint independent people on this commission. I know there's some fear in this building and I know why. I was pretty naïve 148 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 about this whole thing until I asked the question then when this all started, that I didn't know a lot of this stuff was going on, but I found out pretty quick. And -- and I understand the -- the victim mentality of why people won't come forward, because once they are abused, mistreated because someone holds power over them, they don't know who to go to, because if they go to another person, maybe another male, maybe that person also in their mind is an abuser. So I understand why people don't come forward, but if we have a fair system, a fair commission, not to say the members aren't all the time, but the structure, again, if we have an independent commission, I think people would come forward and you can actually stop some of this abuse in its tracks. So I would encourage you -- you're right, this is -- there's a lot of good stuff in here, but it doesn't go far enough. Change the commission. That bill went into Executive Committee, went to subcommittee, then went back to Assignments - never got so much as a hearing. So that tells me we're not really all that serious. Get serious and change that commission. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
So it's clear from the testimony, you know, I -- that some legislation really takes a village to get accomplished. This is one of those pieces of legislation and was happy to be one of the members of the village to help bring this to fruition, and Melinda 149 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 -- Senator Bush's tenacity in getting this done is truly remarkable and why we're here. So she spent a lot of time thanking a lot of other people; we would not be in this position voting on this bill today without her fearless leadership on it. There were a couple of critical pieces that I think needed to be included in reform on the Legislative Ethics Commission: making sure there was a new process in place to select the Legislative Inspector General and ensuring that the Legislative Inspector General has the ability to independently start and initiate investigations. We have that in this bill around sexual harassment claims. I don't think that goes as far as we want it, but it is a huge step forward. I think this is a very helpful piece of legislation in that regard. And what we're trying to do here is really change a culture of what's happening under the Dome. And changing culture is very challenging, very difficult. No one piece of legislation's going to do that. Everyone sitting in this Chamber has a real role and responsibility in that. I would just encourage folks to take ownership of their own behaviors and actions and really to stand up and be a part of that ongoing village to help call things out when you see it, use those skills of diplomacy we all have here to help stop anything and really help people get on the right track. That really is what's going to help address a lot of the problems we have here and I thank you very much for this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush, to close.
Just want to thank everyone for their comments and -- and all of their work. We just want to put this message out there, that the State of Illinois is going to make sure that we deal with 150 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 sexual harassment accusations seriously - not that -- that we didn't in the past, but that we must going forward. And I thank Senator Bivins for his comments. I know you're passionate. I do want to let you know, we did have a hearing and your bill was discussed there, and your ideas did not fall on deaf ears. There's a lot more work to be done. I can tell you with great confidence that there will be more work and not just because of us, but because of these ladies that are standing behind me. Ashley Stead and Liza Roberson-Young, these women are incredibly brilliant young women. I think I tell them all the time. They're probably sick of hearing it. But we just couldn't do what we do if we didn't have people like them working so hard, late at night, to write these laws and changes to laws. And I want to make sure to - before we vote - to also thank Giovanni Randazzo. He did so much work over these last couple of days. I think he's lost ten pounds running back and forth, trying to get all the language right, not that you needed to. And to all of the men that worked on this task force and continue to work, it's just an honor to see you there, to see the work that you're doing, and -- and to have you at the table with us on a really important issue. Yeah. And -- and no lobbyists, by the way, can serve on the commission. But, anyway… And also to Senator Link, you have done a -- a fabulous job, as I understand, running this commission and have always been professional, and I thank you very, very much for that. So, having said all of that, apparently it's time for me to sit down, but, anyway, I just urge an Aye vote. Thank you so much for all the work.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall House Bill 138 pass. All those in 151 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 138, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 3141. Senator McConnaughay. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3141. Signed by Senator McConnaughay.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McConnaughay, on your bill. The motion, I'm sorry. SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: Thank you, Mr. President. Essentially, what this motion does, deals with a question -- a clarification with the Department of Revenue as it relates to the retailer distribution subject matter and the idea of not holding the subject to a newly imposed recordkeeping penalty as if there was a reason -- unless there was a reasonable cause or a lack of willful neglect in maintaining or furnishing such records. This was a minor adjustment and all parties involved were satisfied. I know of no opposition. I would certainly appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3141. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House 152 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3141 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3256. Senator Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3256. Signed by Senator Sims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Sims, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I move to concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3256. The -- the motion is to allow for the seventy-two-hour waiting period for firearms here in the State of Illinois. This -- this language comports with the Governor's amendatory veto of the bill previously, but it also adds in the language that the Governor made in his veto, but -- and to make sure it applies to all handguns. I'd answer any questions, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3256. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 40 Ayes, 10 Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House bill -- House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 3256 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3536. Senator Collins. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 153 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 3536. Signed by Senator Collins.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Collins, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 3536 deletes all and becomes the bill. The amendment clarifies a principal would still administer appropriate recommendations and evaluations if the early childhood program is associated with a school district, and if the program is not associated with a public school district, the equivalent of a principal would administer recommendations and evaluations. This is a initiative of the Ounce of Prevention. I would ask for your Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3536. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3536 -- is declared passed. Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, if I might, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Thank you, Mr. President. On Senate Bill 3256, I 154 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 inadvertently hit my Yes switch. I would like the record to reflect my intention was to vote No. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The record will reflect your intention. Senator Muñoz in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR MUÑOZ) Continuing on Supplemental Calendar 1, Senate Bill 2651. Senator Link. Mr. Secretary, read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2651. Signed by Senator Link.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR MUÑOZ) Senator Link.
Thank you, Mr. President. This just -- amendment changed some of the pieces of legislation on the election omnibus bill. Be more than happy to discuss it, but I see there's no opposition to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR MUÑOZ) Any discussion? The question is, shall Senate concur in House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2651. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments {sic} 1 to Senate Bill 2651, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 3452. Mr. Secretary, read the motion. 155 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3452. Signed by Senator Link.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR MUÑOZ) Senator Link.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is just basically extending the advance deposit wagering from December 31st, 2022 {sic} (2018) to December 31st, 2020. I know of no opposition to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR MUÑOZ) There any discussion? The question is, shall Senate concur -- House Amendment 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3452. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 47 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 32 -- 3452, and the bill is declared passed. Senator Link in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of the bill of the following title, to wit: Senate Bill 454. Together with the following amendment which is attached, in 156 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 454. We have received a like Message on Senate Bill 1737, with House Amendments 1 and 2. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2018. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) We will go to Supplemental Calendar No. 2. Senate Bill 336. We have a letter on file that Senator Althoff -- that Senator Silverstein -- Senator Steans will carry the bill. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 336. Signed by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans, on the motion.
Yes, I urge that we go ahead and concur with the House amendment. This is the bill that creates the Opioid Alternative Pilot Program to provide medical cannabis as an alternative for - - for persons eligible for an opioid prescription. As we all know, it's very easy, unfortunately, to get addicted to opioids in a very quick time frame. This will provide a real alternative to much -- and hopefully really help attack the problem we've been having with opioid addiction in the State. This authorizes applicants for the Medical Cannabis Pilot Program to gain access to medical cannabis, while their applications are pending. Really appreciate -- I know there's been a lot of support and help by 157 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Members across the aisle on this and really urge an Aye vote and appreciate the help that -- and I'm sorry that Senator Harmon, who's been such a leader on it, cannot be here to carry this bill today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Nybo, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Will the sponsor yield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) She indicates she will.
Senator, my understanding is that DFPR and DPH were opposed to this bill when it left our Chamber and that there were going to be continued discussions and negotiations with them to address their concerns. It's my understanding that their concerns have now been addressed and they -- they are no longer opposed to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Steans.
That is correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Nybo.
To the bill, briefly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill -- to the motion.
158 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 To the motion. I just wanted to thank the -- the -- the sponsor for working with the Departments to address their concerns. I thought this was a good bill before. I think it's an even better bill now. I encourage a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 3 -- 336. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 44 Ayes, 3 Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 336 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 452. President Cullerton. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 452. Signed by President Cullerton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) President Cullerton, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. The bill, as it left the Senate, dealt with the Lyons Township High School District, allowing it to withdraw from the jurisdiction of Lyon {sic} Township trustees of schools and school treasurer's office, but not before judgement of a lawsuit filed by the school treasurers against the district was resolved. The House added some clarification that the final judgement and the pending lawsuit includes the exhaustion of all appeals or a settlement between the 159 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 parties; provides that the election or appointment of the school board's own treasurer cannot be made until the first day of the succeeding fiscal year; and provides that the transfer of funds and properly -- and property from the trustees of the schools to the school board must allow for a reasonable period of time so as to liquidate any pooled investments. I'd ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) There any discussion? Senator Curran, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
President Cullerton, I just want to thank you for your involvement in this local dispute in my and Senator Landek's area. You got involved in it and brought it to a resolution between the -- the parties that were at odds. So greatly appreciate your help and leadership in this issue and I would encourage everyone on my side of the aisle to vote Yes. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 452. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 452 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2589. Senator Jones. Mr. Secretary, please read the 160 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2589. Signed by Senator Jones.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Jones, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 2589 exempts a thirteen-million-dollar bond issued by the Midlothian Park District from the cap percentage and indebtedness of -- the park district may incur. Back on March 20th, the voters of Midlothian passed a referendum sixty-one percent to thirty-nine percent authorizing the district to issue a thirteen-million-dollar bond. Know of no opposition. Look for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2589. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 41 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate -- the Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2589 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 2655. Senator Hunter. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2655. 161 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Signed by Senator Hunter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter, on your motion.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. This bill keeps the underlining {sic} intent to allow DCFS to provide services to enable unification {sic} (reunification) and to strengthen the minor's connections with family, fictive kin, and other responsible adults when the court determines that the minor's permanency goal is to be in substitute care pending independence. And it also codifies Specialized Family Support Program under HFS, which provides transitional services and living arrangements for ninety days for minors with mental health conditions who are at risk of being locked out of their homes and being left at a hospital past medical necessity. DCFS and HFS are neutral. And I'll take any questions and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
To the lady's motion, if I might, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
Thank you very much. I rise in support of the motion. I want to thank Senator Hunter. I want to thank the folks over in the House, including Representative Feigenholtz. We have a real problem in this State with young people who have very bad, oftentimes violent episodes and their families cannot let them 162 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 back in their homes. They languish in these psychiatric hospitals. And this system, the system we have, does not have the capacity to place these children somewhere. The language that the Senator is carrying in her motion is a step toward creating that capacity, but it does it in a affordable way that allows us to spend money as we have it in order to build back capacity. So, Senator, thank you again for what you're doing here. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter.
I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2655. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2655 -- is declared passed. Terrence James of the Chicago Tribune seeks permission to -- still photography. Leave is granted. Senate Bill 2921. Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2921. Signed by Senator Cunningham.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Cunningham, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move that we concur with the 163 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 House on their amendment to Senate Bill 2921. In doing so, we will be authorizing the State Treasurer to purchase a building here in Springfield for office space. After some upfront costs, this change will allow the State to save about four hundred thousand dollars a year that they are -- that we're spending right now on two different leasing agreements that the Treasurer has for their office space. I know of no opposition. Would appreciate the Chamber's support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2921. All those in favor, signify by saying Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it -- or -- I'm sorry. All -- getting ahead of myself. All those -- the question is, shall the House -- Senate concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2921. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The -- the vote is open. All voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 49 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2921 -- is declared passed. Senator Barickman, for what purpose do you rise?
A -- point -- point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I just -- I know the hour is late, but I do want to make a quick announcement about one of our key members of our staff who will soon be departing her employment with the 164 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senate Republican Caucus. I got to know Jenna Mitchell -- I got to know Jenna Mitchell last year in a great way, because of her work on the school funding reform. The work that she and the others did in turning around an analysis on incredibly complicated stuff is one of the reasons why we all praise the staff who work tirelessly in support of us. So I would just ask the Body to join me in recognizing one of our -- one of our Senate Republican staffers, Jenna Mitchell.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rose, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you. I -- I want to rise as well on that point, because Jenna has -- in the time that I've been the Minority Spokesman on the Appropriations II Committee, she's been there. That's the committee that deals with all the K-12 and -- and higher education issues. She's been -- you know, 9 o'clock at night you call, she's got an answer. Six o'clock in the morning you call, she's got an answer. She works tirelessly. The other thing I'll tell you is, much to the chagrin of good Senator McGuire, the original Higher Ed Working Group draft was actually drafted about two and a half years ago by -- by Jenna, and then Senator Manar beat me to the punch on the K-12 funding reform. So, anyway, I -- I just absolutely wish her the best. She's one of the brightest, smartest, hardest-working people I've ever met. And -- and on that note, I want to also rise and offer my sincere congratulations and best wishes on your new job.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senate Bill 3128. Senator Haine. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. 165 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 3128. Signed by Senator Haine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Haine, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. This bill and these amendments from the House will expedite the Department of Veterans' Affairs and the Capital Development Board's efforts to rehabilitate the veterans' home in Quincy, which is certainly the goal of everyone in this room. It exempts from the Procurement Code services and products, but it requires certain other provisions that the bidders and contractors must comply with to avoid conflict of interest and every -- and the usual problems with construction. It allows them to use a design-build procurement method, and this will expedite the reconstruction and the improvements at the veterans' home, which is a priority of the Governor. It's the priority of the General Assembly and it certainly will bring a benefit to the veterans in that home. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with amendment -- House Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to Senate Bill 3128. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with -- House Amendments 1, 2, and 3 to 166 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Senate Bill 3128 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 3527. Senator Stadelman. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3527. Signed by Senator Stadelman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Stadelman, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 3527 deals with River Edge/historic tax credits. Just a little background, there are, again, five cities - Rockford, Aurora, Peoria, Elgin, and East St. Louis - that have been able to take advantage of this tax credit that has spurred economic development in areas that desperately need it. It has allowed these cities to take old, historic, abandoned buildings, many times which are eyesores, and turn them into marketable properties. The bill we sent over to the House improved this tax credit by making it more attractive to developers. What the motion does before you is extend that tax credit statewide so every community can take advantage of it. We often talk about what we can do to drive economic development in this State. This is a proven effective way to accomplish that goal. Couple provisions you should be aware of: There's a fifteen-million-dollar cap on all projects. This is a yearly cap and each project is capped at three million dollars. Buildings must also fit one of five categories in order to be eligible for this tax credit. An example is, an area -- the building must be in an area the median family income is below the State median. The rehab of historic buildings is incredibly 167 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 difficult. These projects would not take place with {sic} this tax incentive and it brings in far more money to local municipalities in the State than -- than the initial investment by the State. This legislation has truly been a bipartisan effort in both Chambers. I'd like to thank Senator Hutchinson - as Chairman of the Revenue Committee, she does not like to talk about tax credits, so I appreciate her okay on this - and Senator Althoff, for your invaluable guidance, as always, on this legislation, also Senators Koehler and Weaver for their input and -- and work involvement on this effort as well. Happy to answer any questions. I move that we concur with the House amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Any discussion? Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
I just rise in strong support of the legislation and would ask everyone to support it. And no one thanked you and you have carried this for a long time, Senator Stadelman. We thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Koehler, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Just want to speak to the motion. But thank you, Senator Stadelman, for -- for doing this work. What this means for Peoria is a hundred-million-dollar project by OSF on a historical building downtown. That work's going to start this summer. So thank you, thank you, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 168 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3527. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 3527 -- is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we'll turn to page 8 of the printed Calendar, House Bills 3rd Reading. House Bill 5750. Senator Manar. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 5750. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Manar, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is an appropriation bill that would appropriate 16.3 million dollars from the School Infrastructure Fund to the State Board of Education; that, in turn, would leverage about fifty million dollars in federal funds. Those two things combined would achieve for us what I think is a -- a very laudable and appropriate goal to bring high speed Internet to every school building in the State. Right now, there's about a hundred school districts that have some lack in that regard, that serve about a hundred and eight thousand students. This bill would put together federal funding that's devoted and earmarked for the State of Illinois with a State match and we could have this one- time cost and make sure that kids in every part of the State have opportunities that are associated with the Internet in their 169 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 classroom. I ask for a favorable vote, Mr. President. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill, briefly, if I might, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. As the sponsor referred, there has been some confusion on this. This comes from funds that we already have. This is -- does -- this is not new money that we will be taking. We are reallocating money from one fund into the purpose that the Senator described. I rise in support of it and urge an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 5750 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Bill 5750, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? Senator Oberweis, for what purpose do you rise?
Mr. President, would a motion to adjourn be in order?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 170 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 In due time. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved for Consideration - Motion to Concur with House Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 454, Motion to Concur with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 904, and Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1737. Signed, Senator James Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) With leave of the Body, we'll turn to Supplemental Calendar No. 3 that's been distributed to all desks. Senate Bill 454. Mr. -- Senator Koehler. Mr. Secretary, read the motion, please.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 4 to Senate Bill 454. Signed by Senator Koehler.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Can we keep the noise down, please, so we can finish here? Senator Koehler, on your motion.
Yes, thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. The amendment deletes all and becomes the bill. This amendment keeps the language in the underlying bill related to notifying parents that an -- IEP teams are required to consider the use of assistive technology as well as inform {sic} to -- to contact the State's assistive technology program. The provision applies statewide. What Amendment 4 does is it adds the CPS, Chicago Public Schools, and has special protection for special education students there. 171 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 I ask for its support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with Amendment -- House Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 454. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 48 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 454 -- is declared passed. Senate Bill 904. Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 904. Signed by Senator Hastings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hastings, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. These amendments delete all and become the bill. It replaces the engrossed version of the bill with new legislation that would amend the medical billing rules under the Workmen's Compensation Act to ensure that health care providers treating injured workers are paid more quickly and efficiently. It also deletes a provision -- or House Amendment No. 3 deletes a provision that dealt with an interest rate charge on late medical bills from one percent to two percent. And I'll answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Mulroe, for what purpose do 172 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 you rise?
Question of the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Indicates he will yield.
Senator Hastings, just for clarity, do the interest payments only apply to pre-approved claims?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hastings.
Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Mulroe.
That's it. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
To the gentleman's motion, if I might, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I rise in opposition to the gentleman's motion, having read the language, 'cause there is a dispute over the issue of whether or not the legislation will require the payment of interest on disputed claims. I don't know that there's much debate at all about whether or not interest should be paid on -- on something 173 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 that's not disputed and is owed. There is a conflict. There's a serious conflict in the language, having just read it, about whether or not interest will be paid on disputed claims. Based on that, that lack of clarity, I -- I would urge a No vote until we can get that cleared up. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) There any other discussion? Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you rise?
I think just to follow up on that last -- the last speaker regarding this issue. Senator…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the motion.
To the motion. Does -- does this cover for -- does -- does interest start if it's a disputed claim, or would -- or is it just for clean non-disputed claims that aren't paid?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The Senator will yield. Senator Hastings.
The latter half of the answer to your question was once the dispute is over then the interest would go ahead and accrue.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson.
…saying, once the -- once the dispute is over, is when the interest would start? So if it's -- if it's -- if it's still disputed, once it's cleared is when that time would start. I guess I -- I'm not -- I guess that was a concern that that was not the 174 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 case. But you're comfortable in the fact that that would start at the time the -- it becomes a clean -- it becomes a clean claim or it's no longer a dispute?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hastings.
Senator, it's only for agreed-to claims. Obviously, we're not trying to change the underlying law in regards to interest payments. We're trying to enforce the current law.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson.
Okay. The other parts of the bill I -- I think are -- are - - are good, and I know the goal was trying to get at a handful of companies that may be problematic. In the case -- so -- so there's not a concern that if a -- if -- if a claim has been -- if a claim has -- if there's a dispute over a claim, and the work comp carrier pays it, but later it turns out to be a -- a medical claim, or if interest is paid and it's later turned to -- turned out to be that it will be covered under a different -- it will be covered under medical versus workers' comp, is -- is there a clawback provision for the interest payments?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hastings.
Well, again, Senator, if it's a disputed claim, once the dispute is agreed on, that's when the interest accrues.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson. 175 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
I'm good. Thanks.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hastings, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the General Assembly. I know that a lot of people have been talked to about this bill. A lot of medical providers have had delayed payments up to three years because of the way that there wasn't really a lot of teeth to enforce this law. This will allow medical providers to get paid and for patients to get the treatment that they deserve if, for some reason, they have to go on workmen's compensation. This is a great bill and I ask for an Aye vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 904. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 38 Ayes, 7 Nays, 4 voting Present. Senate having concurred with House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 904 -- is declared passed. Senator Rose, for what purpose do you rise?
Mr. President, yesterday, on House Bill 3223, I had intended to vote Aye. I'd like the record to so reflect. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Record will reflect you intention. Senate Bill 1737. Senator Muñoz. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. 176 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1737. Signed by Senator Muñoz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, on your motion. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. This is an insurance omnibus bill that includes, one, regulation of short-term, limited-duration plans; two, it allows an insurer that -- a domestic stock company to divide or merge into two companies; three, rewrites the captive insurance law; and four, adopts the 2017 NAIC Model Reinsurance Law; and then, five, workers' compensation rate review. I know of no opposition.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) …motion.
Senator, I appreciate the work. I know this is a -- it's late and this is a culmination of a number of bills with some good things and some bad things in it, and that's part of the problem when you do these Christmas tree-type bills. And I -- just for our side, again, you got to take a look at each one of these individual cases. There are some concerns with the workers' compensation portion of this with regards to mandated rate reviews 177 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 by the Department of Insurance that are being added. That is a concern, but other parts of this are -- are agreed-to language. So it's -- I -- I appreciate the work that was trying to get done on this. I wish we could have dealt with each of these bills separately. So, just for our side, just so you're aware, good and bad. Review that. You can review the bill and make a decision. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Senator Muñoz, to close. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Proponents: Allstate, Lloyd's of London, Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, AFL-CIO. Again, there's nothing listed as opponents to the bill. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1737. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 42 Ayes, 5 Nays, none voting Present. The Senate having concurred with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1737 -- is declared passed. Could we please keep the noise down on the Senate Floor? We are not finished yet. Trust me, I want to get out of here as bad as anybody else does. Senate -- Senate Resolutions. Senate Resolution 1778. Senator McConnaughay. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1778, offered by Senator McConnaughay.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McConnaughay, on your resolution. 178 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 SENATOR McCONNAUGHAY: Thank you, Mr. President. This declares July 19th as Kane County Fair Day in the State of Illinois. What this does is it congratulates the Kane County Fair, organizers, participants, and the community at large in celebrating a hundred and fifty years of bringing summertime fun, education, and a sense of community to Kane County. I would appreciate support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those -- the question is, shall the Senate -- Senate {sic} Oberweis, for what purpose do you rise?
Mr. President, I would like -- I would like to move that we approve all the remaining resolutions right now, by unanimous vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) We'd love to do that, but that's not part of our rules. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 1778 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Joint Resolution 77. Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 77, offered by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Castro, on your resolution.
This resolution revolves around the VW settlement. Just vote Yes, so we can get out of here.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Any discussion? Seeing none, as this resolution requires 179 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote will be required. The question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 77 pass. All those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are -- 50 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 77, having received the constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Supplemental Calendar No. 2. House Joint Resolution 58. Senator Anderson. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
House Joint Resolution 58, offered by Senator Anderson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Anderson, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Joint Resolution 58…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Please, could we please just stay quiet for a little bit longer and we'll actually get done. Senator Anderson.
House Joint Resolution 58 designates the Savanna-Sabula Bridge as the "Dale Gardner Veterans Memorial Bridge". I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) As this resolution requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote will be required. The question is, shall Senate - - House Joint Resolution 58 pass. All those in favor will signify -- will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, no Nays, 180 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 none voting Present. House Joint Resolution 58, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Resolution 1308. Senator Connelly. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1308, offered by Senator Connelly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Connelly, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This resolution simply asks the Post Office to name the Warrenville Post Office after Corporal Jeffrey Williams, who died in action serving his country in 2005 in Iraq. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) There any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate -- Senate Resolution 1308 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1397. Senator Rose. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1397, offered by Senator Rose.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rose, on your resolution.
Resolution 1397 urges Congress to review existing laws for the disposal of unused antibiotics. Calls on Congress to pass new laws to regulate the disposal of unused antibiotics and to fund research on the treatment of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Ask for its adoption. 181 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Resolution 1397 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1516. Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1516, offered by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Castro, on your resolution.
Designates a week in April as Distracted Driving (Awareness) Week.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Resolution 1534. Senator Rose. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1534, offered by Senator Rose.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rose, on your resolution.
Senate Resolution 1534 relates to the Mahomet Aquifer and the regulation of gas storage spills over the aquifer. And -- and…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) As this resolution -- as this resolution requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote is required. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 1534 pass. All those in favor will vote 182 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 45 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Resolution 1534, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Resolution 1561. Senator Bush. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1561, offered by Senator Bush.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Bush, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 1561 condemns Ford Motor Company's persuasive {sic} and ongoing culture of sexual harassment within its production plants, especially in the Chicago Assembly Plant. It also calls out the AUW {sic} (UAW). I'm not going to read the rest and I'd really appreciate if you vote for it. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will -- will say -- for Senate Resolution 1561, will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1587. Senator Althoff. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1587, offered by Senator Althoff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Althoff, on your resolution.
It wasn't my last bill, just my last resolution. Senate 183 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Resolution 1587 declares May {sic} (August) "Free and Charitable Clinic Month".
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1598. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1598, offered by Senator Morrison.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Morrison, on your resolution.
This resolution calls for each local government to hold a scheduled meeting by July 1, 2019 with public notice to conduct a public forum to discuss the specific effects of property tax freezes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will vote -- will say -- vote Aye -- or say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1638. President Cullerton. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1638, offered by President Cullerton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) President Cullerton, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This declares October 2nd, 2018 as "MRSA Day" in the State of Illinois. Acknowledges the tenth 184 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 anniversary of the World MRSA Day, October 2nd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1647. Senator Lightford. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1647, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford, for -- on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 1647 urges the State's P20 Council to update the State's 60 by 25 goal to include equity-focused targets aimed at closing institutional racial and socioeconomic achievement gaps. I could go on, but I'd love to have an Aye vote and explain it if I need to further.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Resolution 1647 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 1766. Senator Syverson. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1766, offered by Senator Syverson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Syverson, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of Senator Stadelman and myself, this is naming the "Rockford Peaches Week". And for those 185 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 who aren't familiar with the Rockford Peaches, they were the women's baseball league that started back in 1943 - I think was the -- the first time they played, and if you remember the movie, A League of Their Own, that was based on the Rockford Peaches as well. Their seventy-fifth anniversary is this week and we would ask for your support of this great measure. And by the way, the Peaches - for Senator Haine's sake - the Peaches name is because they didn't want their shirts white and so they dyed their shirts back then with peaches. Not -- that's the reason for the name Peaches. Little history.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) We now know who's going to take over for Senator Haine. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 1766 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution's adopted. Senate Resolution 1786. Senator Stadelman. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1786, offered by Senator Stadelman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Stadelman, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 1786 creates the Illinois (Community) Revitalization Task Force to study and make recommendations for the reduction of blighted properties in Illinois, which -- is a big problem across the area. Ask for its support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) As this resolution requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote will be required. The question is, shall Senate 186 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Resolution 1786 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 46 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Resolution 1786, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senator -- Senator Stadelman, for what purpose do you rise? Senate Resolution 1797. Senator Van Pelt. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 1797, offered by Senator Van Pelt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Van Pelt, on your resolution.
Senate Resolution 1797 is a resolution requesting Illinois CJIA to conduct a report listing how many law enforcement agencies are using gang databases and what policies they have for using them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) As this resolution requires a expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote is required. The question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution -- Senate Resolution 1797 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 46 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Resolution 1797, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. House Joint Resolution 59. Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
187 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 House Joint Resolution 59, offered by Senator Cunningham.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Cunningham, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This establishes a cybersecurity task force to review a report by the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI regarding recent cyberattacks. I'd appreciate a -- your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, as -- as this resolution requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote will be required. The question is, shall House Joint Resolution 59 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 47 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Joint Resolution 59, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. House Joint Resolution 74. Senator Manar. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
House Joint Resolution 74, offered by Senator Manar.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Manar, on the resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This resolution would designate Illinois Route 4 through Chatham here in Sangamon County as the "U.S. Army Corporal James "Chad" Young Memorial Highway". Corporal Young was twenty-five years old when he died on November 3rd, 2010 in Afghanistan from wounds he'd suffered when insurgents attacked 188 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 his vehicle with a roadside bomb. This resolution came to me from Representative Jimenez and I would ask for the Chamber's approval so that the signs can be erected in Chatham and we can honor this American hero. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, as this resolution requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote will be required. The question is, shall House Joint Resolution 74 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. House Joint Resolution 74, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. House Joint Resolution 115. Senator Aquino. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
House Joint Resolution 115, offered by Senator Aquino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Aquino, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Joint Resolution 115 urges the U.S. Department of Education to actively sustain the school discipline guidance released by the Department {sic} (Departments) of Education and Justice in 2014, and the State of Illinois and the Illinois State Board of Education to uphold the original school discipline guidance released by the Department {sic} of Education and Justice in 2014, regardless of the decision made by the U.S. Department of Education. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 189 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Joint Resolution 115 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. President Cullerton, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. I'd like to take a few minutes just to reflect on what we've accomplished this year. First of all, I would like to single out our staffs, who did a phenomenal job this year, just absolutely phenomenal job. And I -- I know that -- I know that we -- we -- we singled out the Appropriations staffs the other day, under Becky Locker on our side, but now Brandy has got to get going on the communication for all the great things that we did. The lawyers and the analysts did a phenomenal job this year. And to the Members, I'd like to really thank the Republicans for their support and cooperation this year. I think a lot of that started last year in -- in -- when we started with our Grand Bargain and started working together, and I think we carried that spirit over to the House and resulted in actually making it a lot easier for us to be successful this year. It was really enjoyable watching you guys vote for a budget, which I -- I -- I think it's -- I -- I -- I don't want to be -- I don't want to be -- inaccurate, but I think it's -- it's been some time, maybe earlier this century, actually, and it was fun. Right? So I really appreciate the bipartisanship. And we, as Democrats, were happy to work with a Republican Governor, and if it happens, I would hope that next year, if it happens, you'd be willing to work with a Democrat Governor, if it happens. So we look forward to having this spirit of cooperation continue. And believe it or not, we're not going to come back here until 190 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 November. So it's -- it's -- it's -- I hope everybody enjoys their long summer. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Leader Brady, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the General Assembly. Let me also extend my thanks again to all the staff. As -- as Senator -- President Cullerton said earlier, yesterday we appreciated the Appropriations staff, but it takes a whole group of people to make us look good, or at least better. And they -- they are committed to doing that. We -- we, too, have enjoyed working with you and I got to tell you, John -- or, excuse me, Mr. President, it -- it's -- it's fun voting for a budget. It really is. You know, we -- as you have so aptly reminded me in my many years down here, that was only my third budget, but it -- it is fun, and we look forward to working with Governor Rauner to pass another one next year.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 1824, offered by Senator Sandoval and all Members. It is a death resolution, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Resolution Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Joint Resolution 79, offered by Senator Lightford. (Secretary reads SJR No. 79)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 191 STATE OF ILLINOIS 100th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 135th Legislative Day 5/31/2018 On the Order of Resolutions is Senate Joint Resolution 79. Mr. Secretary, read the resolution. Senator Lightford…
Senate Joint Resolution 79, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford moves to suspend the rules for the purposes of immediate consideration and adoption of Senate Joint Resolution 79. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the rules are suspended. Senator Lightford moves to -- for the adoption of Senate Joint Resolution 79. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. We will now proceed to the Order of Resolution Consent Calendar. With leave of the Body, all resolutions read today will be -- added onto the Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, have there been any objections filed by {sic} any resolutions on the Consent Calendar?
No objections -- no objections filed, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? If not, the question is, shall the -- the resolution {sic} (resolutions) on the Consent Calendar be adopted. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. And the resolutions are adopted. And music to my ears and everybody else's ears - there being no further business to come before the Senate, the -- pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 79, the Senate stands adjourned until the hour of 12 noon on the 13th day of November 2018, or until the call of the Senate President. The Senate stands adjourned. 192