The first regular Session of the 103rd General Assembly will please come to order. Will the Members please be at their desks? The invocation today will be given by Pastor Stephen Lawrence, from the Exodus Church of Springfield, here in Springfield, Illinois. Pastor.
PASTOR STEPHEN LAWRENCE: (Invocation)
Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Johnson, would you please lead us?
SENATOR JOHNSON: (Pledge of Allegiance)
Gray TV and Blueroomstream both request permission to videotape the proceedings. Seeing no objection, permission is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Wednesday, January 11th, 2023.
Senator Glowiak Hilton, for what purpose do you rise?
For a motion. Mr. President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal just read by the Secretary, pending arrival of the printed transcripts.
Senator Glowiak Hilton moves to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Senate Resolution 4, offered by Senator Koehler and all Members. And Senate Resolution 6, offered by Senator Morrison and all Members. They are both celebration of life resolutions, Mr. President.
Resolutions Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 5, offered by Senator Lightford. Senate Resolution 7, offered by Senator Fine. And Senate Joint Resolution 1, offered by Senator Tracy. They are all substantive.
Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 8, offered by President Harmon. It is substantive.
The Senate will stand at ease for a few moments to allow the Committee on Assignments to meet. If the Committee on Assignments would please assemble immediately in the front conference room. The Senate will stand at ease for a few moments. Senator Rose, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Purpose of a couple introductions, if I may, Mr. President.
Please make your introductions.
Thank you, Ladies and Gentlemen, we have some new Members here. Two of the new Members, I've known for over twenty years each. I'd like to personally welcome Tom Bennett, our new State 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Senator on our side of the aisle. I've known Tommy since 1996. And Tom is a great human being, as you can imagine as the uncle of Senator Scott Bennett. The Bennett family comes from great country stock. And I couldn't be more pleased that you're here today, Tom. The other side, on behalf of the Republicans, we would like to recognize and welcome our new Senator, Paul Faraci. Paul, who I've known for twenty years, over twenty years, since I was in college. Over here, buddy, yeah. My wife and I's favorite place to go to eat before we got married was his parents' restaurant, there in Champaign on Church Street. We've known him and Stephanie for years. Just wonderful people since before they had kids. I've even known him since this -- what was that place there at the at the - - the bar used to have there? And George, George the manager, which we will not say anything else about George the manager at the bar you used to own. But yeah, anyway, welcome on behalf of the Republicans. Paul, we're glad you're here. Thank you.
Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Lightford, Chair of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved for Consideration - Senate Resolution 8. Signed, Senator Kimberly A. Lightford, Chair.
Senator Lightford, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senate Joint -- Senate Resolution 8. Senator Harmon, do you wish to proceed? The gentleman indicates that he does. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution. 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023
Senate Resolution 8, offered by President Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon, on your resolution. Can we please lower our voices in the Chamber? Please lower your voice in the Chamber. We are going to establish our Senate Rules. President Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. It would be perfectly appropriate if no one were paying attention while we adopted our Rules. But here we are with Senate Resolution 8, adopting the Senate Rules for the 103rd General Assembly. They are largely the same as the Rules that governed the 102nd General Assembly, with a few changes designed primarily to improve efficiency. I would count -- I would note a few things. One, by popular demand, after a thirty-year hiatus, we are restoring a process for adopting congratulatory resolutions. We are also, for efficiency reasons, allowing the Parliamentarian to approve an amendment for consideration without going through the Committee on Assignments. We had an incident yesterday or the day before, rather, where we filed a late amendment that needed to change a cross reference from Section B to Section C. That was the only change, but it required a referral through the Committee on Assignments, and delayed our process. We're reducing the number of amendment copies needing to be filed from six to one. Again, reducing our carbon footprint. And, the final point I will note, is that, while we are doing business here in our temporary quarters in the Howlett, we would ask that Members request a verification before the debate begins rather than after. Otherwise, we would have a protracted period when Members came from the Stratton Building or the Capitol 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 to be verified. So, happy to try to answer any questions. But again, these are good Rules that improve our efficiency and allow us to do our business in the 103rd General Assembly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, President Harmon. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Senator Bryant, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Just a point of clarification. So, I'm familiar on the House side, when you ask for verification, it's during debate. So, just -- if you could, sir?
Thank you, thank you, Madam President. I, fortunately, am not familiar with House procedures, but no, it would be the same model the House uses where you request the verification during the debate, rather than after the vote has been taken.
I -- I -- I think you said, before the debate started, but it is during. Right? That's awesome. Thank you, so much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator McClure, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCLURE: Will the sponsor yield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Sponsor indicates he will yield, Senator McClure. SENATOR McCLURE: Thank you, Madam President. So, President Harmon, I see that the Ethics Committee has been eliminated. Where are bills going to go that involve ethics during this General Assembly? 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. President.
Thank you, Madam President. We would anticipate that bills relating to ethics go to the Senate Executive Committee, where they traditionally had gone before we created the Ethics Committee. It seems like an appropriate restoration of jurisdiction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure. SENATOR McCLURE: And -- and President Harmon, you touched on these congratulatory resolutions. I think in the Rules it says that the bill sponsor has to pay a reasonable fee to cover the costs. First of all, what is a reasonable fee?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. The House has established a practice of charging fifteen dollars for a congratulatory resolution. It is clearly a burden on the Secretary's Office. We would work with the Secretary's Office to determine an appropriate fee. I -- I would say that, if perhaps, there should be some acknowledgment that if someone were to file a thousand congratulatory resolutions, that -- that might be a bigger burden on the Secretary. And we'd want to make sure we -- we revisit those. I see someone laughing over there. I -- I can understand the plans are afoot.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure. 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 SENATOR McCLURE: Thank you. And why the change? Because, obviously right now, we -- or in the previous General Assembly, we had resolutions and no Member had to pay a reasonable fee. So, why the change with these new congratulatory resolutions?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator, I want to be clear. We did not allow congratulatory resolutions in the Senate. We hadn't for thirty years. I believe it was Senate President Pate Philip who dispatched them from Senate practice. Having heard from Members, and having seen Members find creative ways to congratulate people with resolutions, we decided to just be honest about it, to -- to restore the practice, but with some safeguards against overburdening the Secretary's Office.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure. SENATOR McCLURE: Then how is a Member allowed to pay for the reasonable fees? With what fund?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. The district office allowance is an appropriate source of those funds. We can certainly talk about other sources if -- if that's something that Members want to discuss.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Senator McClure. SENATOR McCLURE: And, thank you. And then, President Harmon, the Parliamentarian is to rule on whether or not an amendment is technical in nature. So, I guess we do have some concern over that because we feel that it might make the process a little bit less transparent. And, I guess my first question is, what is the definition of technical in nature?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. I am not trying to be flip. The definition really is that it is technical in nature. I'm afraid it's just something we're going to have to evaluate in real time. We'll know it when we see it. If -- if the majority abuses it, I'm sure you will call that to our attention or if you feel like the majority party is abusing it, I'm sure we'll hear about that. Our intent is not to abuse it. Our intent is to be efficient in our process and not leave people lingering on the Floor for fifteen or twenty minutes while we go to the Assignments Committee to get what is a very simple amendment to the Floor. We've established a pretty good rapport on talking through these things, as evidenced by the Assignments Committee handling them quickly. We just would like to be a little more efficient.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure. SENATOR McCLURE: And -- and I understand that, President Harmon. But sometimes there is disagreement among staff as to what is technical or not. 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Some things have been described as technical in nature when they, in fact, change quite a few things. So, what happens if there is a disagreement as to what is technical, from our side of the aisle, based upon the decision that the Parliamentarian has made?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Like all disputes on the Floor over rulings of the Parliamentarian, we would handle it pursuant to our Rules. And again, if we would - I would certainly pledge to you we would do our best to communicate these things to you ahead of time to seek concurrence that this is technical in the view of both caucuses. And, if we still have a dispute, we'll resolve it as we do when you disagree with the ruling of a Parliamentarian.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure. SENATOR McCLURE: And, with the Rule about one copy of an amendment that is required to be filed instead of six, I think we do have concerns about, sometimes when we're here and ILGA is backed up, it takes a long time for things to appear online. And I think it's been an issue with us trying to get copies of amendments. And sometimes we vote very quickly. So, I guess, you know, what's going to happen if ILGA does not file these and put these online in a timely manner? And -- and that's my first question, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. President.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator, when I started in the 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Senate forty years ago, we -- we had to file twelve copies. We now file only six. I'm not sure we even know where the sixth copy is deposited at all times. We are in an electronic age. The bar code on the first page of an amendment triggers that population of the -- the -- the amendments online. We need to move forward to adapting to the technology. It's the same sort of backup where we're trying to print six copies of a budget amendment, and it makes no sense to parade across the Capitol complex with -- with six copies of a large bill, when we can do that all electronically.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure. SENATOR McCLURE: And my final question, President Harmon. I understand the need for the change in the verification roll call vote, but is that change meant to just last during the time period in which we're in this building? That's my last question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Thank you for the question, Senator. It is in the plain language of the Rules that it applies while we are in Session outside of the Capitol. And, I would expect we'd go back to our standard practice when we return to our home Chamber.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure, to close. SENATOR McCLURE: Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution. You know, the Rules aren't perfect, but I appreciate and our caucus appreciates 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 the -- the concessions that President Harmon made. There were changes made at our request, and we appreciate those. So, I will be voting Yes, and I encourage everyone to vote Yes on the Rules. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon, to close.
Thank you, Madam President. And, thank you for the conversation. The intent is to make our proceedings more efficient, and I urge all of you to vote Aye on the adoption of the Rules.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall Senate Resolution 8 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 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Resolution 8, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Communications.
I have a letter dated January 12th, 2023. Dear Secretary Anderson - Pursuant to Rule 3-5(c) of the 103rd General Assembly, I hereby - hereby appoint Senator Kimberly A. Lightford, as Chairperson, of the Senate Committee on Assignments. In addition, I hereby appoint Senator Bill Cunningham, Vice Chair; Senator Laura Murphy and Senator Omar Aquino as Members of the Senate Committee on Assignments. If you have any questions regarding these appointments, please contact my Chief of Staff, Jake Butcher, at your convenience. Sincerely, Don Harmon, Senate President. I have 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 another letter dated January 12th, 2023. Dear Secretary Anderson - Pursuant to Rule 2-521 of the 103rd General Assembly, I hereby appoint Giovanni R. Randazzo, Parliamentarian of the Senate. If you have any questions regarding these appointments, please contact my Chief of Staff, Jake Butcher, at your convenience. Sincerely, Don Harmon, Senate President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Preston, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, I intended to vote Yes on the last measure but my computer, I think I'm having some technical issues.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The record will reflect your intentions. Thank you, Senator. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 9, offered by President Harmon. It is substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon moves to suspend the rules for the immediate consideration and adoption of Senate Resolution 9. Those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the rules are suspended. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 9, offered by President Harmon. WHEREAS, the Members of the Illinois Senate, wish to thank Senator Antonio "Tony" Muñoz, for his twenty-three years of service to the 1st Senate District as a Member of the Illinois General Assembly; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz grew up in the Pilsen and Little Village communities of Chicago, where, at an early age, he developed a 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 passion for bettering the lives of his family members and others; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz trained at the US Army Airborne School, where he learned the importance of motivation and dedication, and served in the US Army with the 82nd Airborne Division; and WHEREAS, During his tenure in the General Assembly, Senator Muñoz prioritized -- prioritized practical legislation rather than political agendas, making him well known as a Senator who could work with Members on both sides of the aisle; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz, sponsored nearly two-thousand bills, with more than eight- hundred being signed into law; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz passed laws to ensure military service members have rights, protections, opportunities when returning to civilian life, and sufficient resources for their mental and physical health; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz, while working as a Chicago police officer and seen firsthand that crime and gang activity were tearing apart his community, focused on keeping children in schools and off the streets by working to procure funding for after-school programs, making it a crime for street gangs to recruit on school grounds, and making it illegal for a sex offender to live within five- hundred feet of a school, park, daycare, or child facility; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz concentrated on aiding law enforcement officials, creating the Law Enforcement Officer Bulletproof Vest Act that set standards for bulletproof vests worn by officers to ensure protection and safety; he also fought to protect first responders by spearheading a number of measures that tightened Scott's Law to protect first responders on the side of the road; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz has been a strong supporter of law enforcement officials and their families, expanding the use of Police Memorial grant dollars to include scholarships for spouses 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 of fallen police officers; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz has long been an advocate for extending State procurement opportunities to minorities, women, veterans and people with disabilities by voting to increase the minimum wage numerous times and supporting the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz co-founded the Latino Caucus, which consists of Members of the Illinois Senate and the Illinois House of Representatives working to develop and pass legislation that has a positive impact on the lives of more than two-million Latinos living in Illinois; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz co-sponsored and supported historic legislation, overhauling the State's education funding formula to provide fair funding for all schools, and he was the lead sponsor for the initiative to give in-state tuition to all students residing in Illinois; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz worked to give job applicants greater opportunities, sponsoring a notable measure that requires an employer or employment agency to wait until an applicant has been selected for an interview or until after a conditional job offer has been extended before inquiring about, considering, or requiring disclosure of criminal history; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz served as the Senate Assistant Minority -- Majority Leader since 2009 and chaired the Licensed Activities, Transportation, Executive Appointments, and Veterans Affairs Committees; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz received numerous awards of appreciation and for leadership, including Legislator of the Year, for his dedication and hard work to the 1st Senate District and the State; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz decided to resign from the Illinois Senate after twenty-three years of service to the 1st Senate District and the people of Illinois, during which he established himself as a knowledgeable, pragmatic, and committed 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 public servant; and WHEREAS, Senator Muñoz's future plans include supporting causes about which he is passionate and spending more time with his family; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we thank Senator Antonio "Tony" Muñoz, for his dedicated service to the people of Illinois and for his significant contributions to the State, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors; and be it further RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution, be presented to Senator Muñoz as an expression of our esteem and respect.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Harmon, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Partner, you will be missed. Tony Muñoz is the consummate team player and always has been in the Senate. When Tony is with you, Tony is with you. When Tony is not with you, he is not with you, and he will tell you. I'm thinking back, now, fondly of an episode early on when I made the mistake of believing a representation Senator Marty Sandoval had made. And, Tony and I had a conversation, and -- and I apologized to Senator Muñoz afterwards because I was in the wrong. But it is clear to me that Tony is a straight shooter, a man of his word, and someone we always counted on in every assignment given to him in the Senate. You will be missed. We appreciate very much the way you have helped 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 shape the district that you used to represent and have been ensured its continued good representation. I know that there are many Members of the Senate that wish to speak to this resolution, so, I will just say thank you. Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for always being a team player. And thank you for always being direct and honest with me and everyone else. Godspeed, my friend. We will miss you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Leader Curran, for what purpose do you rise?
To the -- to the resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
Tony, when I got here in 2017, one of the first hands from across the aisle that was extended was yours. And, it was done in such a sincere manner of just introduction, wanting to get to know a little bit about me. But most importantly, you told me, and I know you've told everyone, that's been new, "Anything I can do to help, my door is open, I'm here to work with you." And, you meant that one-hundred percent. And you showed that every day. And you showed that every day to each and every Member on this side of the aisle. Didn't matter if you were Democrat or Republican. You had a policy issue, you had a problem, Senator Muñoz was there to help. And that -- that is such a refreshing approach. It's an approach that I know rubbed off on a lot of other Members. And hopefully that's an approach that continues to grow and grow. And you did well to teach us all that. I -- I can't thank you enough for your 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 friendship. I had the pleasure serving on JCAR with you. And the beauty of that committee is the time we spend together discussing -- discussing issues in pre-committee and just the dialog and the camaraderie. And it was a wonderful experience working with you. I know you're a friend. You're going to continue to be a friend. Continue looking forward to continued interactions and conversations, but just, you know, God bless and thank you for your service to the State of Illinois, but also thank you for all the help and friendship you provided me and everyone in this Chamber.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Castro, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution.
Well, the first time I met Senator Tony Muñoz was after a very contentious primary where he was at an event that was held for me, welcoming as the newest Democratic nominee. And I overheard him telling, for those of you who remember Senator DeLeo, "Well, I hope she's not mad at me, because I didn't support anybody!" I was standing right behind him. But one thing about Tony is he welcomed me with open arms and he said, "If you need anything, I'm here." After I got sworn in, he made sure I was okay. I had my offices, said, "Hey! If you have any questions, let me know." You know, Tony has a great history. Obviously, one of the founding Members of Latino Caucus, one of the founding Members of Latino Caucus Foundation, and he worked to help you understand the process 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 of legislating here in this Chamber. But he also had many passions for one of, as many as you know, one is for veterans, as he himself is a veteran. His son, Tony Jr. is a veteran. He cares a lot about what happens to our veterans. So, we obviously bonded because my husband is an Army veteran. And so, when you talk about his passion for different things, he shows that on his sleeve, knowing, giving that time of service and what it means to families too, for those who are soldiers. And, you know, obviously his lovely wife, his daughter, his son, they spent many a times down here. But I also want to thank them for allowing Tony to be here because he is a - - a book of knowledge for many of us. We will miss him. I know he won't be far. Javier has big shoes to fill, but I know Tony will always be here for us, and we can always call him and pick his brain and ask for that historical knowledge on different pieces of legislation that have passed during his tenure. Tony, we love you. We miss you -- we will miss you. But we know you won't be far.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Anderson, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
Thank you. Tony is one of those special legislators that are hard to come by. And one thing I've noticed from previous speakers before me, is we've -- we've kind of heard the same sentiment. And that is that Tony is always there to help. He was always there with an open door, always there to listen. And in my time here, Tony and I became fast friends. Tony was one of those guys that I 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 learned from very, very quickly, from a disagreement Tony and I had and I can't remember off the top of my head what the bill was, but man, it was an intense debate. And I remember, Tony, after the debate came over to me and he said, "Good job, firefighter." He said, "Let's go get a beer tonight." And I think that has been the biggest takeaway and what I try to emulate. Senator, you and I, the other night on the bill, came right over to you and I talked to you afterwards. We may have disagreements in this building, but the friendships are so much more important. Because although we disagree, we still have to work together and go forward after that. There is nobody better at that than Tony Muñoz. As much as I appreciate his service in this Chamber, his friendship is what I appreciate more than anything. I can honestly say there's nobody, that in my eight years here, that I've been closer with in this Chamber on either side of the aisle than Tony Muñoz. My side of the aisle, I have a lot of relationships, obviously based on friendship and based on similar policy beliefs. But that friendship that you can build on the other side of the aisle, when you don't always agree, man, that has a -- that has a special meaning. And Tony Muñoz is that guy. Senator Cervantes, I tell you what, you have some huge shoes to fill but there is no -- you have no better teacher than Tony Muñoz. Tony, I'm going to miss you, brother. And I know I'm going to see you around a lot, but I cannot thank you enough, again, for your service, but more importantly for your friendship. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Aquino, for what purpose do you rise?
19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution.
Tony Muñoz, as has been stated, is - I would say is a great statesman that this Senate is unfortunately going to be missing out. I certainly, it hasn't been a long since you've been gone, Tony, but I definitely missed the "hey partners". He is someone that, from day one, is willing to -- to help give -- give you a sense of what the lay of the land is. Share his institutional knowledge of this place, of the relationships that -- that should be made. And he does that as -- as was noted on both sides, for people on both sides of the aisle. He is someone that doesn't necessarily need a title of leadership. He showed -- he showed it through his work, and his commitment to others and to this institution. I mostly think of Tony and I think of service. I think of the service that he provided as a vet to his country, a service that he provided to a city as a police officer, and his service to the State as a State Senator and leader for -- for over two decades. But I also think of the service to his community and his family. If you've ever have the privilege to either going and attending a Tony Muñoz event that was on the official side, or on the political -- either side of the political, it would be filled with his family. They, too, serve their community alongside with them. We do this work and we have these titles, but we don't do this alone. And certainly, for the Muñoz family, it was indicative. And, there is no greater compliment, at least for me, and -- and how I was brought up and taught to say that, Tony Muñoz is a man of his word. You give me your word, that is better than gold. And with Tony, 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 you knew that. You knew when he was for something. You knew when he was against it because he would let you know. But at the end of the day, you knew it was as good as gold because he kept his word. And so, Tony, I congratulate you and wish you luck in your retirement. I know that we will be seeing you and that your phone and your door is always open for -- for help and assistance. But, just to let you know, that Javier also has come in to a place where he has a family here that is willing and ready to help and give that service and help that you gave to so many, right back to him. So, he's in good hands. Take care.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Villanueva, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Madam President?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
So, apologies, I'm losing my voice. I think there's a lot to say about Senator Muñoz, about Tony. But for me, what really stands out is Italian food and incredible wine in his office on literally like the last days of Session for the past few years. We have a small, but very mighty, crew and the Latino Caucus here in the State Senate. And again, we're not always together on everything but we try to come together as much as we can on the really important things for our community. And I remember one of the first things that Tony said was, "You know what? Whatever you guys want, I got you," because he understands the importance and the impact of what "us working" together means, in order to help our communities. And again, as a Southwest sider, because I don't live 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 too far away from him. I know I'm going to still see him around and hopefully we'll have more time for Italian food and really good red wine, because I need your recommendations. But I think that really conveyed his leadership with the rest of us who were so very much, you know, his junior and learning from him, but also, again, his sense of camaraderie, to say, all right, guys, let's break bread, let's spend this time together and probably in the most intense time while we're here in Springfield, in Session. And let's just enjoy ourselves and get to know each other better. And it's been incredible to be able to, not just get to know him more in an actual, you know, professional relationship, but also as friends and also get to know his children, his daughter and his son, who every time I see them, it's like, "Hey guys, what's going on?" And having good times with them and now having Javier in the Senate seat and being able to do incredible work. I won't talk about the size of the shoes. I'm just going to let you know you have to buy the Italian food the last week of Session, that's on you. And I think there might be some other Members now that might be joining on that meal. So, it might cost a little bit more than just the six of us just letting you know. But I want to congratulate you, Tony, because you have earned time with your grandchildren. You have earned time with your family. In order to enjoy yourself and not have to be here every week from January to May. But also thank you for what you've done for our communities, because you have made such a huge impact and such a huge difference for so many people. Not just on the southwest side, but throughout the State of Illinois. So, I'm not going to say we're going to miss you. I mean, we're going to miss you being here, but we're going to see you around. But I say Godspeed, enjoy the time and enjoy 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 the rest of your life because you have so many more years ahead of you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Bryant. For what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
I, still over in the House, I had the opportunity to have dinner. Representative McCombie, now, Leader McCombie and Tony and I with a couple of other folks. Great time. Had an awesome time. So much fun. Joked. You know, Tony's retired from law enforcement and retired from corrections, so we shared some -- stuff. I thought, you know, I could connect with this guy, right? So, I make the transition over to the Senate, come over here and I -- I know you're going to find this hard to believe now, but those first couple of weeks I tried not to talk, tried not to say too much, right? But it was like 2 o'clock in the morning, and it was a bill super important to my district, that I hated, hated the bill, right? So, I'm used to debating over in the House, which gets very contentious, and, you know, debates that we have over here are an hour, over in the House it might be four or five hours. It's what I'm accustomed to. So, I started -- I have a paper like this and I start asking my questions. Tony is in the Chair. I ask like my third question. Tony says, "Senator, I'm going to let you have one more question." I'm a House Member at my depth, right? I go, "No! I have at least ten questions." and I hold my paper up 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 like that's going to matter. "I have at least ten questions." He said, "Well, I'm going to let you have one more question", "I will be heard!" Right? So, he said, "Well, then we're going to a five- minute clock," "Whatever, whatever you have to do over here, I don't know." And then I go, "Fine, never mind. I'll give my questions to my seatmate," who happens to be someone who doesn't really like to talk that much. So, I saw his eyes get really big, and then I think Tony saw his eyes get really big. So, he actually did let me ask several more questions and didn't put us on a five- minute clock. But afterwards, so, this is to your character, as so many people have said here, he came over to me afterwards, and he goes, "Hey, hey, hey." He goes, "Listen, it's okay. It's okay." He goes, "You might notice I voted No on that bill. Right, so everything's all good." And actually, it was, so it was a good lesson to me as a new Member of the Senate, that we don't actually have to do the same things the same way over here that we did over in the House. But, the atmosphere of collegiality is real when it comes from people like Tony Muñoz. So, I thank you for your patience with me and for the good stories that we shared and I hope those will continue for many years to come.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Belt, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, to the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
I -- initially, I wasn't gonna to get up and say anything, 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 I was going to walk to Tony and say it personally to him. But one of the takeaways from Scott Bennett's death, is that you should give people their flowers while you have an opportunity to do so. And so that's what I'm doing. With that being said, Tony, when I grow up, I want to be like you. You know, you -- you -- you are truly as cool as the other side of the pillow. And -- and I just like that about you. Right? So, Tony and I was -- we were roommates in -- in the 102nd. And, so I really got an opportunity to spend time with Tony. And one of the things that I loved about Tony, which everyone has said, which is the undercurrent theme, is that, Tony doesn't flip-flop. Tony is what he purports to be, Tony is. I -- I had a bill, and that bill was a controversial bill during COVID, and -- and I was trying to build up capacity for the bill. And I -- I went to Tony, he was again, my roommate, and I explained the bill to him and I asked him to get on the bill, and he said, "sure." After -- after it was all over and done, and the bill, you know, as -- as opposition grows and grows and grows, everywhere we went the bill was gaining opposition. So, I went back to Tony and I said, "Hey, are you -- can I still count on you?" Tony looked at me and said, "I told you from the start I was on this bill." And he stayed on the bill. Now, the bill wasn't called, but the fact that he stayed on that bill for the merit of the bill, always meant a lot to me. And so, I just wanted to rise and say those things about Tony. Tony, I consider you a friend. Again, you're -- you're the coolest dude I know. And -- and -- and, so I just look forward to continuing the dialog with you. And, I think you told me you were going to give me your -- the business card of your tailor. So please do that before you get out of here today. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Thank you, Senator. Further discussion? Senator Fowler, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President. For those of you that truly know me and spend some time with me, you know, I do a lot of boasting about the district that I live in and the beauty, the natural beauty that we have in the 59th. And, I believe it was the spring of 2018, we adjourned early one day, and I was able to go out and spend some time with Tony on the golf course. And, needs a little work on his game, but, you know, he's getting there. You're going to have more time now, right, brother? So, but anyway, so I --I was talking to him, he's asking some questions about my district, and I was saying, "Yeah," I said, "we got twenty State Parks in the 59th. We've got the incredible Shawnee National Forest." And I said, "Man," I said, "I'd love for you to -- I'd love for you to come down and visit, and spend some time, spent a long weekend, bring your family." and said, "in fact, -- in fact, brother," I said, "I've got a cabin at the Foothill of the Shawnee, you're welcome to." And, he said -- he said, "Dude, man! I'm coming. I'm coming down. I'm bringing the family, coming down this - coming down this summer." And then I said, "Oh, by the way, did I tell you we're also home of the incredible Shawnee Wine Trail, that includes approximately twenty-four wineries?" "Dude, I'm definitely coming now! I'm coming." Well, that summer went by. Guess what? No, Tony -- No Tony's family showed up. So, next 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Session, "Bro! What happened, man? I thought you just coming down." "Dude, I promise you, man, bro, I'm coming down this summer, this is it -- this is it." Well, guess what? You know, you don't have to guess, right? So, each year -- so we've had this ongoing conversation, had it just a few minutes ago with -- with Tony and his family. "Bro -- Bro, you got to come down, man. You know, -- I'd love to host you, love to take you, show you God's country. And now we're going to be opening up a world class resort Casino, Walker's Bluff in the spring. And I'm serious. I want you. What? Can you say it a little louder? You're coming. All right. All right, we have witnesses, but no, in all seriousness, I -- we have had a lot of - a lot of fun with that, because I truly do mean it, and -- and -- and anyone in this body, actually, because we have a lot to be proud of in our entire State. And I love talking about my district. But, you know, and I know when I -- when I first became a Member, I know I may have been Senator Anderson said "man," said "Tony Muñoz is one of the first guys you need to get to know." And, your smile is infectious. You've been great to me, you've been a great friend and we're going to miss you, and I'll see you in God's country. Right, brother? All right, bro. Thank you. Thank you, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President -- President. To the resolution, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023
Thank you. Yesterday, during the inauguration, we were asked by the media, what advice would you give a freshman who's here today, who's in the Senate. And, you know, we thought about it and my answer was, well, first of all, make sure you go out and reach across the aisle and introduce yourself to your new colleagues. That will go a long way. Secondly, is find some common ground on bills where you can help Members on the other side, whatever that looks like, because we don't agree on everything but on certain bills that are regional important to your district. As my colleague said, we can find common ground and find that person that can help you with the bill. And, when I said that, Tony Muñoz comes to mind. Because, Tony was that person, Tony was the person that we could go to across the aisle and say, "Hey, can you help me with this?" Now, he's going to give you an answer. You may not like it, but he's going to give you an answer, and he's going to stick to his answer. And we appreciate that. Madam President, I know you read in the resolution that he passed -- I don't know if it was eight- hundred or more bills. In the age of partisan politics that we're in now, that is unheard of. It's unheard of in these Chambers to get so many bills passed. So, that's a huge accomplishment. And that's because Tony is able to -- he has that reputation that people can go to with their bill. And many people that we represent go to Tony because he knows he has that respect on the Floor by both people across the aisle to get their legislation passed to help whatever they're advocating for. Any bill that comes up regarding the Chicago police, Tony's the sponsor. He is the voice for the Chicago Police Department and law enforcement. Any bill that deals with first responders, Tony's the person. And we know 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 that Tony will get that bill passed. Every Veterans Day, Tony stands up and talks about being a veteran, and we will miss that. To his family who's here today, we want you to know that Tony will be -- his legacy as a Senator and it's all about when you leave this Chamber, what is your legacy? What are people thinking about you? What are people saying about you when you leave? And Tony's legacy will be, first of all, he's that person that's always smiling. Whenever you see Tony, he's always smiling, even when it's 2 o'clock in the morning and we don't want to be here. And we've been fighting back and forth, Tony's smiling, and we appreciate that. Tony's legacy will be that he will work with you, if he can, to help you get your bill passed. He gets things done. But most importantly, Tony's legacy is he is an incredibly well- respected Senator and he's a statesman. And that is the legacy. Tony, I know we're going to see you. We will miss you on the Senate Floor. I know you'll have a little time to improve your golf game, which is probably a good thing for you. But we look forward to seeing what this next couple of years in your life hold for you. And we wish you well and it's been truly an honor to serve with you. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Villa, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President -- President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
So, they say that you can't be it, if you can't see it. And I was a kid who grew up out in the suburbs, DuPage County, small 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 town called West Chicago. And being out there, I never thought that I had any place in the General Assembly, because I didn't see it. Then, I remember in 1997, we had a Senator by the name of, Miguel del Valle come out to talk to us at the College of DuPage. And I was just floored that we had representation, that we had someone that looked like us, someone who came from a place like I came. So, I kind of started paying a little more attention. And, then the caucus grew and there was Tony Muñoz. I remember when I joined the General Assembly in the House, I was a part of the Latino Caucus and the warm welcome that Tony gave me, that smile. Immediately, I just felt comfortable being around him and knowing that he was going to be a good friend and mentor to me. Maybe it was because of the bigote that reminds me of my tío's. It's an epic bigote. So, you know, being able to see someone really, who has been leading this fight and paving the way for a kid like me out in the suburbs to feel like I had someone there, someone representing me and the needs of our communities. And eventually, when I had the ability to run myself and to be sitting in the room with you, it just meant so much, Tony. I thank you for welcoming me and for being there. I truly, sincerely am going to miss you so much. It has been an honor to serve with you and I know that we'll stay in touch and continue to see each other around. So, thank you for all of your service.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. More lights, Tony, you're really loved. Senator McClure, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCLURE: To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 To the resolution, Senator. SENATOR McCLURE: So, I first met Tony when I was an eighteen-year-old Senate page. And I went to college, came back and worked on staff as an ILSIP intern for a while. And I went back and became a prosecutor, did some other things, and then became a Senator. And, Tony was still here. And let me tell you something. Tony looks exactly the same as he did when I was eighteen years old. Now, Senator Syverson, on the other hand, no comment. Now, let me -- let me say this too, in my four years as a Senator, I've always enjoyed when Tony is in the Chair, because no matter what is said on the Floor, he does not bat an eye. And it's -- it's really incredible, actually, I've been very impressed by that. But my favorite times with Tony have been when I see him after Session, or at a lunch. One thing about Tony is, he will tell you it like it is. His word is his bond. And, he sticks up for things he believes in. On this Floor, he stuck up for law enforcement. And, on this Floor he stuck up for things that really matter, not just to him, but to our State. And, I miss that already. I have to say that, you know, Tony, I hope that you will come around quite often. And we can hang out again. But your presence was missed immediately. Especially after hours. You can always lighten the room up and make everyone feel at ease and happy. And that's a great quality. And I'm honored to be your friend. And I was -- it was an honor to serve with you. So, thank you very much. And you will always be missed.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Napoleon Harris, for what purpose do you rise?
31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 To the resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
I just want to take this opportunity to salute and thank my friend, Leader Tony Muñoz. I believe in any profession, you always want to be appreciated. And I can say without a shadow of a doubt, based upon all the comments that have been made and we're making, that Senator Muñoz was appreciated. I always say friends. How many of us have them? Tony Muñoz has been a true friend. From my first day, hearing his voice come into the Senate, the first thing I heard was, "What's up, big man?" And, the first time I heard that, I was like, man, Tony Muñoz is a cool dude. And it's been stated earlier by Senate President, Senator Muñoz was always a team player. I remember some of my first caucuses that were really rambunctious. They were really tense and things start to get out of kilter a little bit. And all of a sudden, Tony's presence was felt. "Hey, hey, let's bring it back in. Let's bring it back." In the room, you can hear a pin drop because of the respect that many of us and all of us have had for Senator Muñoz. So, at this time, I want to just say thank you for your service to your family, to your community, to the State of Illinois and to our country. You've been an exemplary role model for myself as being my -- I call you, my sidekick, but you were my leader. As my Vice Chair of Insurance, he always had the right tone. "Hey, we were -- we were going to do it like this man." You know. So, he always had that keen sense of understanding of how to deal with people. And it shows because on both sides of the aisle, you generated that same amount of love, respect and admiration. And one thing for me that I'll always 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 remember, and I know we're going to see you more, Tony, I know we're going to not fall out or not be friends because you're no longer a Senator. But you always kept your word. And you said it like it was. And so, for me, I feel like I'm a straight shooter. If you want to know, you ask me, I'm going to tell it to you the way it needs to be told. And I gravitated to you because you were the first person that I saw in this Body to have that same type of passion or delivery, as myself. So, thank you for your passion. Thank you for your service. And thank you for being a good friend.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Martwick, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
Hey, Tony, my man. You know, like Senator Belt said, I wasn't going to rise. But, you know, recently, since your departure, as I've met people, I told them about what you meant to me. But I've never told you. And so, I wanted to rise to say thank you. I came into the General Assembly ten years ago because of people that I was aligned with in politics back home. I knew Tony Muñoz. And as you come here as a freshman and you're like, you don't know where the bathrooms are and you don't know which way is up. You look for guidance, you look for someone you know, you look for a friendly face. And Tony, the word that comes to mind is gentleman. I was a freshman. You were a legend. But you treated me with respect like an equal. You treated me like a gentleman. And I quickly knew, you 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 know, they say that imitation is the most sincere form of flattery. Well, I offer you this flattery. As I have grown in my time here in the General Assembly, there are very few people that I look to, and I say that I want to approach my service and the things that I do in the way that I deal with my colleagues. And you, have been the person that I try to emulate. What people talk about, the bipartisanship turned up, and I don't want to repeat what everyone else has said. That's all true. But that -- that respect, that even keeled approach. But most importantly, this, and I'll leave - I'll close with this as I say, thank you. We all know that our society has grown polarized, and that we have become more contentious in our -- our beliefs, and our debates, and our politics. And I think the most important lesson that you have left to me, and I hope to every Member of the General Assembly, and I will do my best to carry on, is that, if I file a bad bill, I hope that someone who thinks it's a bad bill will get up and tell me how rotten it is. They should. But don't ever assume that just because you disagree with someone. or you think they've got a bad idea, that they're -- there's something bad in their hearts. And you never did that. You always believed that people are good people because we are. And if we ever hope to save this institution, this State, and our country, we've got to start believing that, like you did, that people are good people, always. We can disagree on those policy positions and we can be really mad about it, but don't assume that the person is a bad person who started it. So, thank you for treating me like a gentleman. Thank you for being a mentor to me. I do not -- I do not - just when I say that I -- I -- I hope that in some way, you are the person that I modeled myself after and I hope that I am -- I am acting appropriately. I imagine 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 there are a few people who would suggest that's not even close, but I'll keep trying. So, Tony, best of luck to you. Thank you. I can't wait to see you back in the neighborhoods. And we'll miss you here. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Pacione-Zayas, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
I think with what we've heard here, you know, it can't be overstated. Tony has unwavering loyalty to very distinct groups, whether it's veterans, the Chicago Police Department, his family and Latinos. I particularly am just struck by how much of a bridge builder he is. I mean, to the fact that you have so many Members across the aisle speaking in very explicit, detailed ways about how, Tony, you showed up. I also want to just acknowledge you're an innovator, to have established the Latino Caucus, the Latino Caucus Foundation. And I as - hopefully going on to another term for co-chair, I am committed to carrying that forward and taking it to the next level, because literally, we stand on the shoulder of giants and you're one of them. You're also, you know, a trailblazer. I think about when you came into the General Assembly and how very few, if any, you - Latinos there were. And being unapologetic about who you are, who you represent, who you're committed to, that gives us permission to show up the way we are. And I'm eternally grateful for that. And I just really want to second the good Italian food and wine, that familia - that event 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 that happens at the end of Session, it's just such -- it brings you home. And I am grateful for that and I will be looking, Javier, for the invitation. And so, you know, thank you for sharing all of your years, your wisdom, your support. And now you have more time to be with the grandbabies.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Koehler, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President, to the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
So, I was thinking of what I was going to say. And I want to mention a couple of names that only probably three or four of us in the room even know who they are, remember them. But, first time I met you was when I was Senator-elect from Peoria. And I was down here to have the vote for the President, Senate President, when Emil was running again for Senate President. And, you came into the room late and I just was -- was cracking up at the banter between you and Jimmy DeLeo. None of which was politically correct, by any means. But it cracked me up. And I want you to give you what I think you'll appreciate as -- as really the ultimate compliment. So, I followed George Shadid in the Senate. Remember that? And -- and George, you know, was formerly a sheriff of Peoria County, and I think that he had that kind of connection with you in law enforcement. But George was giving me the rundown on all the people in the Senate and who I should look out for, who is okay and he said, "Tony Muñoz, he's the guy you can trust. He's the guy you can trust." And boy, was he right. So, that - and 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 George didn't say that about a lot of people, did he? George did not say that about a lot of people, so, you know, what I mean. But I consider you, Tony, an institution of the Senate. And an institution is not just because of longevity, it's because of quality. And all these things that people have said are absolutely true. Godspeed, my friend.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Koehler, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cervantes.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.
So, I was -- I was waiting for the first time to get on the mic for today, and everything that we've heard today, about Leader Muñoz, I had written down, I was about to say myself, but everybody said it. So, I just want to just say, thank you, thank you, Tony. I'm sorry. Thank you, Tony, for everything that you've done. You've been a mentor, a leader in my community, in the 1st Senate District. You've done amazing work and have passed incredible, incredible bills that have helped my community and our families. So, all I wanted to say is from the bottom of my heart. Thank you -- thank you. Thank you very much, Leader Muñoz. And I'm looking forward to doing my best to fill the big shoes that I'm going to try to fill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Leader Lightford. 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023
Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.
Thank you. Well, Tony. Tony! Hey! And Tony would say "Kimmy! Hey!" So, I'm going to stay there, because I think this is the hardest goodbye that I've had to do in my tenure here. So, Tony and I arrived in the same class. And I think everyone knows that by now, because we're proud of that, and we share that with everyone. He always say, "Me and Kimmy classmates." And I go, "Yeah, that's my guy." You know. But when Tony and I arrived, I've got to tell you guys something. On our class, it was Lisa Madigan, and of course, her father was Speaker of the House, so she had a little edge on us, you know, just a little bit. She got the best furniture and those kind of things. Didn't even know that warehouse existed. But then there was Ira Silverstein, you know, and Ira is a great guy, a lawyer from the north side, you know, and had his relationships in his community. And then there was Tony Muñoz. And they tell me he's a Chicago police officer and he's a veteran and he's Latino and -- and I'm 29 years old, African American woman. And I'm thinking, I have nothing in common with anybody in my class. But then I arrived to the legislature, and Tony and I are the last two Senate Dems who were in the minority. So, we ate that humble pie for a couple of years together. And one of the things that we began to do is create our own. And -- and everyone here that spoke described what you created. We were not liked by the administration at that time, and I'm not talking about the opposite side of the aisle. I'm talking about this side of the aisle. And 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 we found a way to still become leaders. We found a way to be respected. We found a way to be loved and endured by our colleagues and friends, in spite of. And, Tony was so disciplined and so focused and all the smiling that you guys described, Tony didn't smile much -- Tony didn't smile much. He was the po-po. Tony was the po-po, he was serious. So, I started calling him the po-po. When I saw the first big smile on Tony's face, Tony, I hope you remember this, as freshmen we have the freshmen's where they tell us stuff not to do and what to do. Now, it's a full training. Well, when Tony and I got here, Vince Demuzio was our trainer. Vince walked in a room, he was jovial, he said "Families are off limits." And we say, "Okay." He's said, "And stay out of the strip joints." And me and Tony looked at each other and we really laughed. We like it. That's what this is all about. We'll do good. That's the first smile I saw on Tony's face. And then when Vince left, and that was the end, we looked at each other and knew that we had each other. We didn't get much guidance. Like what's given today. Again, we were in the minority. Wasn't much support there, but I found my brother. I found my brother. A big brother. And every time I had a bill, that was a bill that this industry just hated me for, they would give the impeding bill to Tony, and I'd be so excited that Tony would be the Member I had to negotiate with. And he'll come and say, and you -- you guys have already said it, he's loyal and he's committed. And so, I thought, well Tony's carrying a bill opposite of this bill. I'm in good hands, because I already know that we love each other, because we're brothers and sisters. So, Tony had the opposite bill of the payday loan back, in like, 2005. And we were not suite mates yet. That came after the fact, and Tony say, "Hey, Kimmy! I got this bill." And I was like, "Oh, 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 the po-po." I was thinking, I'm in trouble. So, the respect and love we have for each other, we began to turn that industry into an understanding of the opponents and the proponents. And, I don't know of anyone else, Tony, could have done that, other than the two of us. I just don't know. They were a very tough industry. In fact, we're just now on twenty twenty-one, twenty-two, passing thirty-six percent. So, that fight went on for many years. But then moving on, we became suite mates. And I know your colleagues have spoken about the Italian food. You can go in Tony office, for me, it was more like tequila. Tony was always available to just knock that edge off your shoulder, give you that big smile, let reassurance - you reassured me -- time and time and time again and you believed in me. I thank you for believing in me. And I thank you for not giving up on me. And, I really thank God that I was able to develop a true friendship. Because many people say things and then they don't mean it or they do something different, and they show you. All you have to do is to sit back and observe and they show you who they are, and what you showed me. I love it. I love that you're my brother. I love that you're a man of integrity. I'm glad you're the po-po. I always felt safe. And, I know this is not a goodbye for us. I just know this is a so long, farewell, from this Body. But if I could quote John Cullerton, if you remember when every Member left, he said there's three ways for them to go. And I screw up the bottom line every time, but I'm gonna give it a shot. One of them was that you - you die and, I'm glad you're still living and breathing. The other was that some people come and get you. I'm glad you're still here and the people didn't come and get you. And the other is that you can serve, and leave a legacy, and walk out as a strong leader that you've 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 developed, in yourself, and be able to pass that on to another member of your family. I've enjoyed watching your children grow. Your wife is fantastic. And, I'm just going to close by saying, I love you, brother. And, I'm appreciative of our time spent here in the legislature. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) And our final speaker, President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President, to close on the resolution. I'm glad Senator Lightford made a joke or two at the end of that very emotional appeal. On a day like today, I am haunted by a specter standing at the side of my desk saying, "Come on, Prez, all these people are talking. It's getaway day." And I'd say, "Tony, we'll get it done." But, Tony, every word spoken, every minute we spent saluting you and your career was time well spent. Thank you for sharing twenty-four years with us in the Senate. Did I get that right? Twenty - twenty-three, okay, we're close. We'll round up. And thank you for your friendship and for all that you have done for all of us in the Senate and for the Senate as an institution. God bless and Godspeed, my friend. I ask for the adoption of the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Resolution 9 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The vote -- the resolution. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Representatives has adopted the following Joint Resolution, the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate to wit: House Joint Resolution No. 2, offered by Senator Lightford. RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING HEREIN, that when the House's - two Houses adjourn on Thursday, January 12th, 2023, the House of Representatives stands adjourned until Tuesday, January 31, 2023, and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Wednesday, February 1st, 2023, and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Thursday, February 2nd, 2023. and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, or until the call of the Speaker; and the Senate stands adjourned until Thursday {sic} (Tuesday), January 24th, 2023, and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Wednesday, January 25th, 2023, and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Thursday, January 6th, 2023, and when it adjourns on that day, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, or until the call of the President. Adopted by the House, January 12th, 2023 John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon. Senator Peters, for an announcement.
For an announcement. Haley Owens has been an amazing com staffer, who has perfectly captured my voice and my passion. And you've all seen her on the Floor, taking photos, capturing us in our best light and our best look. And she's leaving and heading over to the AG's Office to do digital coms. I'm going to really miss her. Yes. Thank you. Going to end with the whole idea of a 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 round of applause, but you've all done it. But if you can give her another round of applause as she heads out. And I'm going to miss you, Haley.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Our work here on the Floor is done, but our work here in the building to organize the new General Assembly is not. We're going to go through the once in a biannual period process of selecting offices and seats on the Floor. The Secretary of the Senate will be calling Members to inquire and secure your choices. So, please do not leave, if you leave, you will be contacted by telephone and have to do it remotely. So, please stick around until the Secretary calls you down to choose your office and your seat on the Floor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We will now proceed to the Order of Resolutions Consent Calendar, celebrations of life resolutions. With leave of the Body, with those resolutions read in today will be added to the Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, have there been any objections filed to any resolution on the Consent Calendar?
No objections filed, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? If not, the question is, shall the resolutions on the Consent Calendar be adopted. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is adopted and the motion carries -- and the resolutions are adopted. On the Order of Resolutions is House Joint Resolution No. 2. Mr. 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 2nd Legislative Day 1/12/2023 Secretary, please read the resolution.
House Joint Resolution 2, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lightford, on your resolution. Senator Lightford moves to suspend the rules for the purpose of immediate consideration of adoption of House Joint Resolution No. 2. Those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. Ayes have it. And the rules have been suspended. Senator Lightford moves the adoption of House Joint Resolution 2. All in favor will say Aye. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. There being no further business to come before the Senate, pursuant to House Joint Resolution No. 2, the Senate stands adjourned until noon on the 24th day of January, 2023, or the call of the President. The Senate stands adjourned. 44