FS PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The 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 Imam Hassan Aly from the Mecca Center of Willowbrook, Illinois.
IMAM HASSAN ALY: (Invocation)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Johnson, would you please lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance?
SENATOR JOHNSON: (Pledge of Allegiance)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Lisa Yuscius from Blueroomstream seeks leave to video stream the proceedings. Is there any objection? Seeing no objection, leave is granted. WAND TV seeks leave to record the proceedings. Is there any objection? Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Peter Hancock from Capitol News Illinois seeks permission to record and photograph the proceedings. Is there any objection? Seeing no objection, leave is granted. And Andrew Campbell from WGEM seeks permission to record video and audio of the proceedings. Is there any objection? Seeing no objections, leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Tuesday, May 2nd, 2023.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Mr. President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal just read by the Secretary, pending the arrival of the printed transcripts. 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Hunter 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.
Senate Resolution 242, offered by Senator Doris Turner and all Members. And Senate Resolution 243, offered by Senator Anderson and all Members. They are both celebration of life resolutions, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Resolutions Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 241, offered by Senator Halpin. Senate Resolution 244, offered by Senator Feigenholtz and Senate Resolution 245, offered by Senator Lightford. They're all substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Martwick, Chair of the Committee on Judiciary, reports Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 800 and Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1068 Recommend Do Adopt; House Bill 1268 Do Pass, as Amended; and Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 2174 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Johnson, Chair of the Committee on Education, reports Senate Bill 90 Do Pass, as Amended; House Bill 3932 Be Adopted; House Bill 3690 Do Pass. I'm sorry. Senator Johnson, Chair of the Committee on Education, reports - Senate Bill 90 Do Pass, as Amended; House Bill 3690 and 3932 Do Pass; House Bill 2396, 3524 Do Pass, as Amended; and Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 3570 Recommend Do Adopt; Senator Villa, Chair of the Committee on Public Health, reports - House Bill 1526 and 2820 Do Pass; Senator Morrison, Chair of the Committee on Health and Human Services, reports - Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 285 Recommend Do Adopt; and House Bills 439 and 3699 Do Pass. Senator Feigenholtz, Chair of the Committee on Financial -- Financial Institutions reports - Senate Amendment 2 to House Bill 3233 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Pacione-Zayas, Chair of the Committee on Early Childhood Education, reports - House Bill 3566 Do Pass, as Amended.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, Introduction and Reading of Senate Bills for the first time.
Senate Bill 2573, offered by Senator Napoleon Harris, an Act concerning regulation. 1st Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, Appointment Messages.
Appointment Message 1030204, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the Amusement Ride and Attraction Safety Board, Michael Clark. Appointment Message 1030205, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the State Board of Health, David Taewoong Chung. Appointment Message 1030206 Governor's non-salaried appointment, To be a member of the Torture Inquiry Relief Commission, Sheila A. Bedi. Appointment Message 1030207, Governor's non-salaried appointment, To be a member of the Torture Inquiry and Relief Commission, Vanessa del Valle. Appointment Message 1030208, Governor's salaried appointment, to be a member and Chair of the Civil Service Commission, Teresa 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Christine Smith. Appointment Message 1030209, Governor's salaried appointment, to be a member of the Civil Service Commission, David Luechtefeld. Appointment Message 1030210, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the Civil Service Commission, Judith Lynn McAnarney. Appointment Message 1030211, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority, James P. Connolly. Appointment Message 1030212, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority, Jacqueline Gomez. Appointment Message 1030213, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority, James M. Sweeny. Appointment Message 1030214, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Darryldean M. Goff. Appointment Message 1030215, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Krystal Tison. Appointment Message 1030216, Governor's salaried appointment, To be a member of the State Board of Health, Abel Kho. Appointment Message 1030217, Governor's non-salaried appointment, To be a member of the Eastern {sic} (Western) Illinois University Board of Trustees, Kisha M.J. Lang.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 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 Representatives has passed bills of the following titles, in the passage of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill 1109. We have received like Messages on House Bills 2204, 2507, 2539, 2579 and 3296. Passed the House, May 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 2nd, 2023. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, House Bills 1st Reading.
House Bill 1109, offered by Senator Gillespie, an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 2204. Disregard. House Bill 2539, offered by Senator Villa, an Act concerning revenue. House Bill 2579, offered by Senator DeWitte, an Act concerning revenue. House Bill -- House Bill 3296, offered by Senator Ellman, an Act concerning regulation. 1st Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Ladies and Gentlemen, beginning on page 2 of the printed Calendar, at the top of the page, Senate Bills 2nd Reading. Senator Koehler with 1555. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1555, an Act concerning safety. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen, for Members that can hear my voice. If we can come to the Floor, we have action to take up. We will be moving House Bill 2nd Reading, doing Executive Appointments and also completing some action on 3rd -- for 3rd Reading, as well. So, please come to the Floor, the sound of my voice. Senator Sims, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
A point of personal privilege, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Please state your announcement.
5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Mr. President, and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are joined by an illustrious guest today, President Reed, the 25th President of Loyola University Chicago. He is down visiting with us, today, to talk about the great things that Loyola is doing in the community across the State of Illinois. And I'm also proud to say that he's here at my -- my daughter's future school. So, my daughter recently announced that she's going to be attending Loyola University of Chicago. So, it gives me great pleasure to welcome President Reed and Loyola University to Springfield today. So, we give him a round of applause and welcome to Springfield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) As a fellow Rambler, we welcome you, sir. We welcome you.
And Mr. President. Mr. President, I would also like to welcome everybody to the reception for the Loyola Caucus this evening at Arlington's this afternoon. You should have it on your calendars.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Ladies and Gentlemen, we will be moving on to House Bills 2nd Reading, at the bottom of the printed Calendar of page 22. We have House Bill 1015, Flowers. I'm sorry. Sims, House Bill 1015, Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1015, an Act concerning -- House Bill 1015, an Act concerning civil law. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House -- Ladies and Gentlemen, we're going to try this again. At the bottom of page 22, on House Bills 2nd 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Reading, we have House Bill 1111, President Harmon. House Bill 1122, Pacione -- Pacione-Zayas. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1122, an Act concerning employment. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 1187, Villivalam. House Bill 1187-- any, Villivalam. House Bill 1358, Sims. House Bill 1358, Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1358, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Moving on to page 23, at the top of page 23. House Bill 1367, Cervantes. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1367, an Act concerning health. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) House Bill -- 3rd -- 3rd Reading. House Bill 1496, Peters. House Bill 1571, Feigenholtz. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1571, an Act concerning civil law. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendments 1 and 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 1612, Peters. House Bill 1612. House Bill 1629, Rezin. 1629, Rezin. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1629, an Act concerning wildlife. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2091, Villivalam, 2091. House Bill 2145, Napoleon Harris. N. Harris. House Bill 2223, Peters. House Bill 2235, Villivalam. House Bill 2267, Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2267, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2296, Glowiak Hilton. House Bill 2296, Glowiak Hilton. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2296, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Licensed Activities adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3r Reading. House Bill 2301, Ellman. House Bill 2301, Ellman. 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2301, an Act concerning government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. On the top of page 24, we have House Bill 2372, Joyce. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2372, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Joyce.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Joyce.
I'd like to adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is there any discussion? 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 AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2395, Glowiak Hilton. House Bill 2395, Glowiak Hilton. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 House Bill 2395, an Act concerning regulation. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Licensed Activities adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2450, Glowiak Hilton. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2450, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Licensed Activities adopted Amendments 1 and 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved and consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2461, Joyce. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2461, an Act concerning wildlife. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2473, Belt. House Bill 2473, Belt. House Bill 2475, Joyce. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
House Bill 2475, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Joyce.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Joyce, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) All -- is there any discussion? 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 AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Senator Rose, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you. This is the greatest day. Today is Bacon Day. Can we all get excited? Republicans and yes, even the Democrats. We can all cheer Bacon Day in Illinois. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Thank you for your excitement and announcement. Continuing on -- on page 24. House Bill 2487, Belt. House Bill 2487, Belt. House Bill 2487, Belt. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
House Bill 2487, an Act concerning safety. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Environment and Conservation adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2499, Belt. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2499, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Licensed Activities adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2531, N. Harris, Napoleon Harris, House Bill 2531. House Bill 2719, Peters. House Bill 2826, Peters. House Bill 3055, Sims. House Bill 3055, Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3055, an Act concerning criminal law. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported. 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3135, Fine. House Bill 3135, Fine. House Bill 3140, Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3140, an Act concerning juveniles. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3161, Hunter. House Bill 3161, Hunter. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3161, an Act concerning public employee benefits. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3227, Peters. House Bill 3227, Peters. House Bill 3233, Villa. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3233, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Financial Institutions adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. Excuse me, Mr. President. There is a Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Villa.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Villa, on your amendment.
13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is there any discussion? All those in favor 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 AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3322, Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3322, an Act concerning criminal law. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3375, Pacione-Zayas.
House Bill 3375, an Act concerning criminal law. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Continuing on to House Bill 3400, Hunter. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3400, an Act concerning finance. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Labor adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3424, Villivalam. House Bill 3424. House -- House Bill 3425, Feigenholtz. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3425, an Act concerning education. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3516, Villivalam, 3516. House Bill 3563, Peters. 3563, Peters. Moving on to page 26 at the top of page 26, we have House Bill 3570, Preston. House Bill 3570, Preston. House Bill 3646, Napoleon Harris. House Bill 3733, Villivalam. House Bill 3743, Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3743, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Executive adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments considered -- approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3768, Villivalam. House Bill 3792, Stadelman. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3792, an Act concerning employment. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported. 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3811, Faraci. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3811, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Executive adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3817, Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3817, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Executive adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3856, Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3856, an Act concerning State government. 2nd 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3857, Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3857, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3902, Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3902, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. And House Bill 3903, Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3903, an Act concerning government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3955, Hunter. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3955, an Act concerning health. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Moving back on the Calendar to page 25, at the top of page 25, is House Bill 3135, Fine. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
House Bill 3135, an Act concerning human rights. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Human Rights adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. The Senate would stand at ease for a few minutes to allow the Committee on Assignments to meet. The Members of the Committee on Assignments will meet in the Senate's front room immediately. The Senate will stand at ease. Senator Koehler, in the Chair. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Aquino, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Lightford, Chair of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Re- referred to the Committee on Assignments Senate Bill 2357. Signed, Senator Kimberly A. Lightford, Chair. Senator Lightford, Chair of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Behavioral and Mental Health Committee - Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 1364; refer to Education Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 2392; 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 refer to Environment and Conservation Committee - Senate Bill 2357, Committee Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2357, Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1555, Floor Amendment 7 to Senate Bill 1769 and Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 3508; refer to Executive Committee - House Bill 3144, Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 2222, Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 3129, Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 764 and Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1071; refer to Licensed Activities Committee - Floor Amendment 3 to House Bill 2077; refer to State Government Committee - Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 851, and Floor Amendment 3 to House Bill 2412; refer to Transportation Committee - Floor Amendment 3 to House Bill 3436; refer to the Special Committee on Criminal Law and Public Safety - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 3779. Pursuant to Senate Rule (3-8) (b-1) the following amendments will remain in the Committee on Assignments - Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1070. Signed, Senator Kimberly, A. Lightford, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. The Senate Republicans will caucus for approximately 30 minutes in Leader Currans conference room.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The Senate Republicans will caucus for approximately 30 minutes in Senator Curran's conference room. We -- the Senate, will reconvene at 1:00 upon the -- for further Floor action. Senate stands in recess, to the call of the Chair. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Messages from 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate the House of Representatives has adopted the following Joint Resolution in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Joint Resolution 6, offered by Senator Doris Turner, adopted by the House, May 2nd, 2023. We have received like Messages on -- like Message on House Joint Resolution 20, offered by Senator Fine, adopted by the House, May 2nd, 2023. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House. They are both substantive, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Ladies and Gentlemen, we'll be moving to 3rd Readings shortly, but we will begin, again, with House Bills 2nd Readings. We will begin on the Order of Peters {sic} (House Bills 2nd Reading). Senator Peters, you have Senate Bill -- House Bill, excuse me, 1496. Senator Peters, on House Bill 1496. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1496, an Act concerning criminal law. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Continuing on to House Bill 1612, Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1612, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Licensed Activities adopted Amendment No. 1. 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 2145, Napoleon Harris. 2145. House Bill 2145, Napoleon Harris. Moving on to House Bill 2223, Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2223, an Act concerning courts. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Continuing on with the Order of Peters {sic} (House Bills 2nd Reading) moving on to page 24. House Bill 2719, Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2719, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Health and Human Services adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2826, Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 House Bill 2826, an Act -- an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. On page 25 -- 32 House Bill 3227, Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3227, an Act concerning employment. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3563, Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3563, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor -- Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Peters.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Peters, on your amendment.
I'll explain on 3rd. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. All those opposed will say, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration? 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Moving on to page -- at the top of page 28. Senate Joint Resolutions No. 7, Senator Joyce. Senator Joyce with Senate Joint Resolution No. 7. Mr. Secretary, read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 7, offered by Senator Joyce.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Joyce, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is an initiative of AFI and some of the Fire Chiefs across the State on putting a task force together on the lack of employment and the need for new hires within our fire industry. Ask for its support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, as the resolution requires expenditure of State funds, a roll call vote will be required. The question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 7 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? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 Ayes, 0 Nays, 0 voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, Senate Joint Resolution 7, is declared adopted. On the page of -- page 27 towards the bottom we have Senate Resolution 58, Senator Bennett. Mr. Secretary. The page 28 -- towards the top of page 28, we will be doing Senate Joint Resolution 22, Senator Bennett. 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
Thank you, Mr. President. I hope that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Sorry. Mr. Secretary, read the resolution.
Senate Joint resolution 22, offered by Senator Bennett.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Bennett.
Thank you, Mr. President. I hope as everyone had a chance to walk in today, you had a chance to grab one of those delicious BLT bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwiches in the black boxes that were outside on the table. Today, we're asking for the Senate's full support to declare today Illinois Bacon Day. We want to draw attention to the hard-working Illinois pork producers through Senate Joint Resolution 22. If I may, I'd like to read a little bit of that resolution of some very important facts. Illinois is the fourth largest pork producing State in the United States, contributing an estimated $13.8 billion to the State's economy and supporting over 57,000 jobs. Pork is the most widely eaten protein in the world, and consumers have a variety of delicious cuts, as choices, including bacon and Illinois pig farmers produce over 6 billion slices of bacon per year. The average American eats 17.9 almost 18 pounds of bacon per year, and the hardworking hog farmers who raised this high-quality product deserves our support. Whether it's plain or applewood smoked, whether store bought, or artisan made, bacon is a meat for any meal. So, what we're asking here today, if we may -- Resolved by the Senate of the 103rd General Assembly of the State of Illinois, the House of Representatives 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 concurring herein, that we declare May 3rd, 2023, as Illinois Bacon Day and invite all Illinoisans to partake and go from there. Thanks very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is there any discussion? Senator Joyce, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. A question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The sponsor indicates yield.
So, when Senator Bennett brought this before the Senate Ag Committee, I'm very excited about Bacon Day. A farmer, a supporter of our pork producers, but it was a bit disappointing that none of the committee members received any bacon that day. And I thought that was going to be a real problem with the bill, to be quite honest with you. But we had a discussion and we survived it. And there were some BLTs out in front of the Howlett Building today. So, you know, I -- I guess we will urge to support this resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) No question there but thank you, Senator Bennett. Any further discussion? Senator Bennett, would you like to close?
Yes, I would, thank you. We do have additional boxes in the back, and we would love to help with more BLT's and glad to help with more protein. And I appreciate the questions and the conversation. Senator, appreciate that. If I may, thank you, Mr. President and Senate and I move, please, for an Aye vote. Thank you. 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 22 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. And overwhelmingly, Aye hear. So, the Ayes have it, the resolution is adopted. Happy Bacon Day. Brenden Moore from Lee Newspapers request permission to record and photograph. There being no objection, so ordered. Moving back to House Bills 2nd Reading on the Order of Napoleon Harris {sic} (House Bills 2nd Reading) we have on page -- on page 23 -- 21 House Bill 2145, Napoleon Harris. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2145, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. On page 24 we have, excuse me, House Bill 2531, Napoleon Harris. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2531, an Act concerning transportation. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. On page 26, we have House Bill 3646, Senator Harris, Napoleon Harris. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3646, an Act concerning public employee benefits. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Moving along to House Bill 3733, Villivalam. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3733, an Act concerning employment. 2nd Reading 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3768, Villivalam. 3768, Villivalam. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3768, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on State Government adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Moving to page -- back to page 22, we have House Bill 1187, Villivalam. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1187, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. On page 23, we have House Bill 2091, Villivalam. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2091, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Continuing on the Order of Villivalam {sic} (House Bills 2nd Reading) we have House Bill 2235. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
House Bill 2235, an Act concerning education. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Moving to page 25, House Bill 3424, Villivalam. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3424, an Act concerning public aid. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. House Bill 3516, Villivalam.
House Bill 3516, an Act concerning employment. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Labor adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 3rd Reading. Shia Kapos from Politico requests permission to photograph, there being no objection, so ordered. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is final action, 3rd Reading. We will be -- we will begin on page 16, at the middle of 16, with House Bill -- House Bill 2789, Murphy. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
House Bill 2789, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Senator Murphy, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen, House Bill 2789 provides the Illinois State Library, as well as the State librarian, are responsible for administrating the provisions and prescribing the rules and regulations of the Illinois Library System Act. The bill also declares that the policy of the State is to encourage and protect the freedom of libraries and library systems, to acquire materials without external limitations, and to be protected against attempts to ban, remove, or otherwise restrict access to books or other materials. The bill adopts the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights that indicates that materials should be prescribed and removed because of -- cannot be - should not be prescribed, nor removed, because of a partisan or doctrinal disapproval, and it prohibits the practice of banning specific books or resources. Lastly, HB 2789 provides that in order to be eligible for State grants, a library or library system must adopt the American Library Association's Bill of Rights or develop a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books or materials within a library or library system. So, I'm happy to entertain any questions should there be any.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is there any discussion? Is there any discussion? Senator Plummer.
Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The sponsor indicates she yields. Senator Plummer.
29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Thank you. Senator Murphy, it seems like this empowers this American Library Association to make a lot of decisions for our local communities. Could you inform the Body who the American Library Association is and how their Board members are elected?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Well, thank you for that question, Senator Plummer. I can tell you that the American libraries, the American Library Association, is part of the American library standards that the General Assembly approved back in 1971, in Illinois and has served as that standard since.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Plummer.
And how are their Board members elected?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
One second, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
I'll have to get back to you with all the details of that, but the Library Association consists of a diverse group of librarians that have approved the rules and regulations of the Library Association.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Plummer, further questions? 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
Yes. Thank you. So, -- so, I heard you mention a Bill of Rights. I'm pretty confident, you know, when I make decisions here, I try to make decisions off the U.S. Constitution, the Illinois Constitution, and our -- our Federal Bill of Rights, I'm assuming that's not what you were referring to. Since we can't really identify who this organization is and who the decision makers are at the organization, how that they're put -- how they're put into their positions, can you, tell me who came up with this Bill of Rights, how they were adopted, and was there opposition to the Bill of Rights that were basically giving the authority to make decisions across all of our communities based on -- on these Bill of Rights? I'd like to know a little more about them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Again, they were established under the American Library Standards Act of 1971. The American Library Association is made up of librarians from across the State. They affirm that all libraries are forums for information and ideas, and that the following basic policies should guide their services. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation, extremely consistent with the Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of the State of Illinois. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historic issues. Materials should not be prescribed or 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval. Libraries should challenge censorship and their fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment. Libraries should cooperate with all persons and groups concerned with resisting abridgment of free expression and free access to ideas. A person's right to use a library should not be denied or abridged because of origin, age, background, or views. Libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve, should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of individuals or groups requesting their use. All people, regardless of origin, age, background, or views, possess a right to privacy and confidentiality in their library use. Libraries should advocate for, educate about, and protect people's privacy, safeguarding all library use data, including personally identifiable information consistent with the Constitution. All of the Library Association standards meet constitutional requirements, and librarians across this diverse State participate in that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Plummer.
Thank you. So, I was talking to a member of my local library board. I have a lot of -- 11 counties, so I -- I have quite a few in my district, but I was talking to one, in particular, earlier today. I asked them about this organization. They never heard of the organization. So, I'm just curious, since we all represent a lot of different library boards, when we get our real estate tax bills, there's always a line item here where we're funding our local libraries. How do my local library boards, how do my local 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 library personnel have any say in this national organization that basically controls so much power?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Thank you, Senator. I would suggest you tell your librarians that the American Library Standards version 4.0 is out, and that is the -- provides them with all the information from the Illinois State Library Association to operate a library.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Plummer.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill, Senator Plummer.
So, yet again, we find ourselves in this position in the Illinois State Senate, where the majority is trampling on the minority and pushing an ideology on -- on Illinois citizens, regardless of where they live, regardless of what they believe, simply by stripping away local control and taking power away from local elected officials. It's a -- it's a offensive to the principles of good government to threaten to take away public funds from the very people whose taxes pay for these grants, just because certain politicians may not agree with their beliefs. How much do your constituents pay in taxes to support their local libraries? How much do your constituents pay in taxes to support their local schools? How much does the American Library Association pay to support our local libraries and our local schools? The organization 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 that we're turning all of our power over to. Duly elected library boards chosen by the members of the communities they serve, carry out their obligation each and every day, year in, year out, to increase literacy in our communities. And they do it without this book ban agenda being foisted upon them by random, unelected organizations that the sponsor of the bill can't even identify. This is -- I don't know if you've read it. In fact, this book is probably high on the banned list, after this goes into effect, if it goes into effect. But this is like Fahrenheit 451 level stuff. I mean, this concept would make Ray Bradbury blush if you're familiar with the book. I oppose this ridiculous legislation, just as I opposed your attempts to strip curriculum decisions away from our locally elected school boards, and to take zoning decisions and zoning powers away from our locally elected county boards. I think it's important, as a Body, that we take our role into account and we think about what we're doing, just like I hope our locally elected officials do, as well. A Yes vote on this bill does two things, and I think everyone in this Chamber, should really think about. One, it deprives local taxpayers of the very revenue that they spend to support their local schools and libraries. And it allows unelected and unidentified random people of some organization at the national level to ban books, to set local policy, and to usurp the authority of the local elected officials, that our constituents voted into their position to make decisions on their behalf. None of your constituents voted for this random organization. None of your constituents are funding this random organization. They're funding their local libraries. They're electing their local library boards, and you're taking their powers away from them simply because you may not agree with their beliefs. 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 And I think that -- that is a very frightening path for the State of Illinois to take. I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is there any further discussion, Senator Tracy?
Thank you, Mr. President. Questions of the sponsor, please, -- if she'll…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) She indicates she would yield, Senator Tracy.
Senator Murphy, you mentioned that the Bill of Rights of this American Library Association is very much in line with the U.S. Constitution. And -- and with that I agree, but what I'm asking is, then why is it required that we adopt this Bill of Rights if we already have a Constitution and a U.S. Bill of Rights?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Thank you, Senator. Unfortunately, we have seen a movement lately of people wanting to ban books similar to what the -- our colleague said on the other side, that he wants the ability for people to ban books. And the Constitution says that all people are equal and that they should have the equal opportunity to go to a library to access information. And all this does, which is the American Library Association is the oldest library when libraries were established in the 1800s, that's how long this organization has been in place. But we feel we have to protect their Bill of Rights, at this particular point in time, because of the attack that has been made on libraries across the nation. 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Tracy.
Also, you mentioned that the State librarian will require every library to adopt this American Library Association's Bill of Rights, or develop a written statement declaring the inherent authority of the library or library system to provide an adequate collection of books and other materials, sufficient in size and varied in kind and subject matter, to satisfy the library needs of the people of this State and prohibit the practice of banning specific books or resources. Are we clear on legislative intent that the libraries of the State of Illinois, or the school libraries of the State of Illinois do not have to adopt that Bill of Rights, but can adopt a statement, just as I read, saying that they have this policy, is that going to suffice for them to still be able to satisfy the Secretary of State's requirement that they do one or the other? Adopt the Bill of Rights or just adopt a policy with this very simple statement in it?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Senator, this bill also permits a library to develop a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books and materials within a library or library system.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Tracy.
That will suffice and satisfy the State librarian that these libraries or school districts that adopt those policies are going 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 to be okay to still apply for State grants for libraries.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
As long as they have developed a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books, it should suffice.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Tracy.
Well, thank you. And -- and -- and I think many of them might -- may do so within the website for the American Association of Libraries and -- and the sponsors correct it's been a long standing. But it talks about how you interpret the Bill of Rights, and it talks about the ALL statements and policies on schools and minor rights. And it talks about, that minors should have access in the libraries to all of the resources and books there. Do you think that within this interpretation of Bill of Rights, if a library adopts the American Association of Bill of Rights, that the librarian would be able to withhold a hustler magazine from a five-year-old, if they asked for that book, magazine, publication?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Current practice in your library system because all libraries have to follow the American standard -- The American Library Standards, and we're at version 4.0 right now, provides them with explicit instructions on how to deal with materials of that nature. If a visit to your local library or my local library shows that those are behind a counter, which someone would have to 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 explicitly ask to receive, and those are in the adult section counters.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Tracy.
So, you think that there's no violation of the American standard as a Bill of Rights if that librarian says no, you cannot have this publication to a five-year-old wanting a hustler magazine?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Again, libraries in the State of Illinois operate under the American Library Standards version 4.0 that explicitly directs them on how to deal with that. They will follow those standards. Those standards also are -- meet the standards of the American Library Bill of Rights.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator -- Senator Tracy.
I appreciate that and I -- I wish that is exactly true. However, if you look at the interpretation of the ALA.org statements, it -- it says to the contrary, that a minor can have access to anything he wants, online resources. It's here. Black and white minors can have access. He has the same rights as anybody else in that library. That -- that's the kind of thing that gives us pause, is I believe what you're saying is correct and accurate and should be. This says that minor can have whatever he wants in that library. I -- I appreciate -- to the bill, please. 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill.
I appreciate the comments of the sponsor. I want them to be true. I want our school districts and our library boards to be able to adopt a policy statement that they do not, will not ban books. I agree, we -- we need to have sections of a library. It needs to be age appropriate. But if you look at some of these ALA interpretations, that is not -- that's not what's in here. They want no limits, no guardrails for minors access to certain things. I think that's not appropriate. And I -- it sounds like the sponsor agrees. We have a Bill of Rights, we have a U.S. Constitution, we have a State Constitution, our local school boards and our local library boards take an oath of office to abide by those constitutions. This is just a layer of bureaucracy and a threat to these local districts of -- of a bureaucratic threat of taking away their funding that they desperately need. I hope those districts choose to do a policy. I think they have been following those policies for numbers of years. We all value our public libraries, our school libraries. They are a wealth of knowledge and discovery for students and all people of all ages. I think this is an overreach of power. It's totally unnecessary, and it just, an overreach. And I urge a No vote. And God bless our public libraries and -- and they are great institutions and will continue to be so without the American Library Association Bill of Rights. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) For further discussion, Senator Halpin.
39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill.
So, this is an important issue to me and -- and to folks in my district. I just want to clarify that, you know, this bill allows local governments to make their own decision. It doesn't take any control away from those elected officials that a previous Senator had talked about. And all it does is make sure that State resources then don't go to those districts as a matter of State policy, because although I may not have, constituents or taxpayers in a library district that's making these poor decisions to ban books, but I have taxpayers that pay money to the State that have told me they don't want their money being used to support libraries that impose book bans. And so, I'm speaking for my own taxpayers in the district when I say that we want to make sure that this practice isn't happening in Illinois, or at the very least, making sure that our resources are not going to those local districts. So, I would urge a Yes vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) For further discussion, Senator Rezin.
Thank you, Mr. President. A question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Sponsor indicates she’ll yield. Senator Rezin.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Murphy, if you look at the Bill of Rights, talks about number six libraries, which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 serve, should make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individuals and groups requesting their use. Could you expand upon that, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Thank you, Senator. That simply says that the library will not discriminate, not discriminate against people, and recognize that the State librarian trusts the education and experiences of our local librarians to determine what books meet the standards, what community groups meet the standards, doesn't remove any of their ability but they can't discriminate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. The previous sponsor talked about the grant funds here. And if a library chooses not to follow these Bill of Rights, that the Secretary of State has the ability to not grant funds, State funds, to that library, is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
If a library or library system chooses to ban books they will not be eligible for a State grant. That is correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. What if the library chooses not to allow certain groups use their public spaces within the libraries? Is that within 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 the Secretary of State's realm, to withhold grant money to that library, should they choose not to allow certain groups to use the space?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Every Library has established a policy, in conjunction with the American Library Association Library Bill of Rights and the American Library Standards version 4.0. The Secretary of State trusts the education and the experience of the librarians to determine some of the appropriate actions of their own libraries.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. So, is it fair to say if a library in the suburbs, denies a group who say wants to hold a drag show or drag culture in that particular library, will that library then lose, potentially lose their State funding or State grants?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Thank you, Senator. A library, as stated in the bill, can develop a written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books or materials or discriminating if they do not choose to file -- follow the American Library Association's Bill of Rights. So, they would submit their proposal to the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State trusts the education and experience of our librarians to make decisions, but they would have the opportunity to submit their written policies to the State librarian. 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill, Senator Rezin.
Thank you. I think what I heard is regarding the -- the Bill of Rights here, that if a library does not make its public space available for anyone who wants to use it, including, say, a drag show, because of what the local officials of that library feel is not appropriate for the library, that -- that library can now potentially lose their State funding. That's how I understand this conversation, because this is part of the Bill of Rights, number six, that says libraries which make exhibit spaces and meeting rooms available to the public they serve, shall make such facilities available on an equitable basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of the individuals/groups requesting the use. Also, I would like to say, please, I know that the conversation has been based around book bans. This bill is about taking local control from your elected officials who are elected locally to decide for their libraries what's best for their libraries. Southern Illinois may be different than the suburbs. The suburbs may be different than Chicago. This bill is taking the power and giving it to a Board that's choosing in Chicago what books are best for the libraries across the State. What we haven't talked about today, is the groups that are supporting this bill. And when I look at some of the groups, these are some of the groups actually, that were supporting another controversial bill that set 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 national standards, as well. And I look at these groups that are supporting the bill and I'm concerned because when I see Planned Parenthood say that it's supporting this bill, my question would be, well, if Planned Parenthood supports this bill, which means they want to have literature, probably in the libraries that are reflective of their beliefs. Are the pro-life groups also going to be afforded the same? Will they be able to have their literature, or their books represented in the library as well, or where will -- will their books be omitted? I look at this bill not as a book banning, but a potential omission of books that may not be reflective of certain groups that don't support this bill. At the end of the day, I'm confident that our local library boards and administrators are more than capable of completing their duties that they were elected to do, and I ask for a No vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) For further discussion, Senator McClure.
Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The Sponsor indicates she’ll yield. Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, this legislation gets into not limiting the acquisition of books and then not banning those books. One of the common ways, in which, libraries in this State receive books is by donations. Sometimes a person passes away, or there's a good Samaritan that decides to spend a lot of money to give to their local library, purchase books, and then deliver them. What about books that are donated that deal with nothing but hate 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 speech, or give instructions as to how to build a bomb? What are we to do in those situations? And how does this Association, which we're not -- not sure who they're made up of, how do they filter these books for public safety?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
Thank you, Senator, for that question. There is nothing in this bill that prohibits the education and experience of librarians from continuing. It simply says, that they will follow the American Bill of Rights, or they will submit their own policy. If they choose to submit their own policy, then they would follow that policy. That policy that they would develop would be determined on the current American Library Standards version 4.0, which was first established, in this State, in 1971.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator McClure.
Okay, so what are these standards say about books that include information as to how to build a bomb?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
It permits the librarian to make those decisions. So, each library would either establish and implement the American Library Association Bill of Rights, or they would determine their own written statement. But it would prohibit the practice of banning books or materials.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Senator McClure.
Thank you, Senator Murphy. Before I go to the bill, I do ask for a verified roll call vote, on this measure.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) There will be a verified roll call if this bill receives the required constitutional votes to pass. Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill. Senator McClure.
So, essentially, this national group tells you, you can't ban any books, no matter how they're acquired and you can't limit acquisition of these books from outside sources. So, we have a local library that decides that these books, one of which includes information as to how to build a bomb or that is pure hate speech, are not going to be acceptable to be present in this library for that decision they will not be eligible for State funding. Anybody who thinks that makes sense, vote Yes. But if you have common sense, and if you want to stick up for our local communities to keep everyone safe, at the very least. This is an easy No vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) For further discussion, Senator Simmons.
Thank -- thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill. 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
So, as I listened to the course of this debate, there are a couple of arguments that I would like to refute. It was said, by previous speakers, that legislation like this is taking power away from local governments. I want to first of all, thank Leader Murphy for bringing this legislation forward, because what this discussion is really about, is we as a State, going to allow localities and library systems to erase entire communities? That is what this debate is all about. That is what this issue has been about all around the country, and that is what the issue will be if we don't pass this legislation. Because we have seen that in book banning efforts, that 41 percent of those book bans have targeted books that - where the protagonist was a person of color. And 40 percent of those book bans have targeted LGBTQ communities. Those are the communities that I come from and I represent, and I feel compelled to rise, today, and speak up on behalf of those communities so that we can pass this legislation. And Illinois can send an unequivocal signal and message to the rest of the country that we are going to be an inclusive society that makes sure that the next generation of people like myself, can actually exist. Thank you so much, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) And for further discussion, we have Senator -- Senator Bryant.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The Sponsor indicates she’ll yield. Senator Bryant.
47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Thank you. Senator Murphy, you've mentioned a couple of times that, I think the American Library standards or that organization, American Library Association, was established in 1971. So since 19 -- No, did I state that wrong? Okay, I'll -- I'll let you -- So, let me ask my question then you can straighten that part of it out. Okay. So, 1971 has been mentioned several times. Has Illinois -- have Illinois libraries been mandated to follow those standards or create their own rules since 1971, or is that just an establishment date that they started?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Murphy.
So, the American Standards, Library Standards, in Illinois, was first established by legislature in 1971. That is what my librarians refer to as the Bible of how to operate their libraries. It is widely used in every library in the State of Illinois.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Bryant.
So, widely used does not say to me that it's mandated, its standards that were developed but not mandated. But I'll give you a second to think about -- to answer that one. But then in response or in addition to that, so, these are standards that are 4.1, right, or 4.0 whatever number you said. So, it's a fourth edition of some sort of these standards. So, the second part of this question, basically is, then if a library decides to go by, they -- they -- they follow the -- the Bill of Rights, and go by those standards then. Are they saying that they're going to go by the standards, as of today? And that's what always the standards are 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 going to be or if those change, are they locked into continually having to measure up to those standards?
Senator Murphy.
There are two separate editions here. There is the American, and I apologize that it must have been confusing. The American Library Association Bill of Rights stated, I read you the six points that contain there. There is nothing -- that is a living document, nothing would change in that. But our libraries also operate under the library standards and now we are on version 4.0. They would operate in conjunction -- currently they operate in conjunction with each other. If a library, in which all of our libraries are operating under that, currently, and that was established in Illinois in 1971, of course, that's a living document. That's hence the 4.0 version. If a library doesn't want to follow the American Association Library Bill of Rights, they can develop their own written statement that would prohibit the practice of banning books or materials within a library or library system.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Tracy. Sorry, Senator Bryant, excuse me.
So, you're right that I am -- this is a little bit confusing because some of what's being said, I don't believe is actually in the bill, itself. And, so, you --you've twice now said, I think twice that it's a living document. Which says to me, I'm -- I'm just going to go to the bill because I -- that's actually not a question in this. So -- so… 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill.
Yeah. Thank you. Multiple times now, the term living document has been used here, which says to me that the rules are, ever changing. And in that ever changing, it leaves too much authority on the Secretary of State to decide whether or not a library is going to get their funding, because they're either going by standards that are from a Bill of Rights that might are -- are from a Bill of Rights. I'm sorry, not going by those standards, but by a Bill of Rights that might change or standards that we know are at 4.0 right now. Not only is it confusing to me, but I think that if we don't have rules or standards that govern us, which we have in the Federal Bill of Rights and in the State Bill of Rights, when we start expanding on those, then we're going to get into trouble not only in court, but we're going to have individuals making rules and laws that are unelected officials for our own local facilities and our own local people. So, for that reason, obviously, I'm going to be a No vote on this.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) For further discussion, Senator McConchie.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) To the bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to read from the Access to Library Resources and Services for Minors Interpretation that's on the ALA's website, because I think this is important and gets to 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 the key point that we have been discussing here. In their interpretation, it says libraries and their governing bodies have a legal and professional obligation to ensure that all members of their communities have -- they serve, have free and equitable access to a diverse range of library resources and services that is inclusive, regardless of content, approach, or format. This principle of library service applies equally to all users, minors, as well as, adults. I think we all have -- can agree that there is material that is appropriate for adults or acceptable for adults, that is not to minors or perhaps certain types of minors. And what this would do is require an adoption of a policy that one can change, like the previous speaker said. But secondly, is interpreted as requiring equal access regardless of age, meaning that if -- if there is information about reproduction that may not be really appropriate to elementary school age or middle school age, they would be required to give access to that. And the community and the Board and the parents do not have the ability of limiting access to information that they may deem appropriate. So, with that, I would encourage a No vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Seeing no further discussion. Senator Murphy, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is a simple bill that you've just seen morph into things that are never likely going to happen, or it reinforces the need for us to make sure they can't happen. We want to prohibit the banning of books. It's pretty simple. The American Library's Bill of Rights is not a living document, that's not what the additional versions are for, the Bill of Rights has six points. It's going to stay that 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 way. It's been that way from inception and it's going to continue that way. But it is so important that people can become educated. The way you become educated is you read and we provide an avenue for people to learn to read to a public library where there is no better equalization, where people from all walks of life can come and get information and learn and be educated equally. There is nothing more important than that. But we have to allow them to become educated, particularly, in this environment, where people want to skew history and rewrite history. We need to be able to study all forms of history, all information, because the worst thing that happens is you have an educated person. We are allowing in this bill for nuances, for areas if they don't like the American Bill of Rights they can submit their own statement. But it is that important that we protect the right for people to read, to read information that might be different than their mindset, that might expose them to new things. You want to know the books that currently are being discussed for banning. How many of you read Catcher in the Rye, The Great Gatsby, To Kill a Mockingbird? All those books now are being proposed to be banned in certain states. Those are literary classics that we need to teach every American. History tells us what happens when somebody said first, in the immortal words of Martin Niemóller, "First they came for the books." Let's not let that happen in Illinois. I ask you for your support and for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Ladies and Gentlemen, as a reminder, before we take this vote, we are on final action. There is a request for a verification of a roll call. If Members can please be at your seat to take the -- to -- to take the vote. Members, please be at your seat to take 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 the vote, as there has been a request, for verification of the roll call. Also, let's make sure that the -- the computers are up and open and are able to vote. With that, the question is, shall House Bill 2789 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 39 Ayes, 19 Nays, 0 voting Present. Having received -- House Bill 2789, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. I withdraw my motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) The verification has been withdrawn. Moving to resolutions, we are moving to page 27, the middle of page 27, we have Senate Resolution 22, Senator Villa. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 22, offered by Senator Villa.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Villa.
Thank you, Mr. President. This resolution would make to -- May 3rd, 2023, Paleteros Day in the State of Illinois. I want to briefly chat about what a paletero is, and then welcome all of you to go and get a nice treat. We have three paleteros outside giving away paletas. So…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator, apologies. I read the wrong resolution, give us a second. Thank you. Mr. Secretary, let's start that over. At the 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 bottom of page 27 we have Senate Resolutions 221, 221. Senator Villa. And Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 221, offered by Senator Villa.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Senator Villa, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, as I was saying, a paletero is a beloved sight within the Latino community serving a frozen treat from a -- frozen treat staple during a hot summer day. The paleteros push mobile carts that are typically the size of wheelbarrows throughout residential areas and parks. Michoacan, a State in Mexico where my mom is from, is considered the birthplace of Paletas, which were first introduced in the 30's. Rafael Malfavon, a Michoacan native, would distribute his paletas using a herd of donkeys with wooden crates, which made him one of the first paleteros. The paleteros job is physically taxing and they spend all day in the sun, oftentimes walking between 5 to 10 miles a day, and their carts can weigh over 200 pounds. Selling paletas benefits beyond the bonds form within the community. By purchasing a paleta, you are spending and supporting a local business and enriching the community's culture and providing a safe space for Paleteros to continue their work. Paleteros flourish within Latino based communities across Illinois, including Chicagoland neighborhoods, Cicero, Melrose Park, Berwyn and they also extend into the suburbs within Kane County, including Aurora and Joliet, and downstate with the Quad Cities and Fairmont City. For generations, Paleteros have been bringing much joy to the children and residents of the communities that they serve. They are a staple 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 in the local economy and an inspiration to those who aspire to become small business owners. While their hard work and dedication to the paletero profession often goes unnoticed, it is essential that we continue to fight for them to have a safe space within our neighborhoods. Therefore, be it resolved by the Senate that today, May 3rd, 2023, would be called Paleteros Day, in the State of Illinois. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Is -- is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Resolution 221 pass. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the resolution is adopted. Ladies and Gentlemen, for an announcement. The Floor amendment deadline is this Friday at 3 p.m.. Again, the Floor amendment deadline is this Friday at 3 p.m. Another announcement, Ladies and Gentlemen, we are preparing to adjourn here in the Senate. Please go to your respective committees, immediately upon adjournment. With that, there being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned. Before we do that. Senator Pacione-Zayas, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President, for point of personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) Please state your announcement.
Just wanted to acknowledge we have some very special guests here with us in the Capitol. And we are celebrating the Advocacy on Moms On a Mission Day. So, whereas the Members of the Illinois Senate recognize that Mother's Day is celebrated, nationally, on 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 43rd Legislative Day 5/3/2023 Sunday, May 14th, and every mother wants her child to succeed. And a child's parents are the foremost authority in the needs of the child. And every day, mothers and grandmothers stand up for the rights of their children and advocate for their needs. Many of these individuals include parents and grandparents. They come right here to Springfield to advocate on behalf of legislation that supports their children. Therefore, be it resolved by the Senate on the -- of the 103rd General Assembly that May 3rd, today, is declared Moms On a Mission Day in the State of Illinois to honor mothers, grandmothers, fathers, and their families and grandfathers who stand up for children's right. Be it further proclaimed that we welcome them presence here in the Illinois Capitol today, particularly those who are here for the first time to join the efforts of Mom on A Mission. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR AQUINO) We welcome all Moms On a Mission here in the Senate and in the State of Illinois. And there being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until 12:30 p.m. on the 4th day of May 2023. The Senate stands adjourned. 56