Illinois Senate Floor Debate — April 12, 2024

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 the Reverend Jessica Baldyga, First United Methodist Church, Pana, Illinois. Reverend. Thank you.

Thank you. Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Johnson, would you please lead us?

SENATOR JOHNSON: (Pledge of Allegiance)

Blueroomstream and WGEM request permission to videotape and audiotape the proceedings today. Seeing no objection, permission is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.

Senator Hunter.

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.

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, Introduction and Reading of Senate Bills for the first time.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are beginning the proceedings today, on the last day before the deadline for passing Senate Bills out of the Senate. I'd ask all Members to be at their desks. All Members within the sound of my voice, please be at your desks, we'll begin 3rd Readings in just a moment. Capitol News Illinois seeks permission to video/record the proceedings today. Seeing no objection, permission is granted. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, as a reminder, we're going to be taking up the Order of Agreed Bills this morning. If you wish to file a voter -- vote intentions sheet, you should do so, as soon as possible. The sheets are available, in the well, at the Secretary's Desk. Please be sure to file your vote intention slips if you wish to announce your votes on any of the bills on the Agreed Bill List. WAND TV seeks permission to record/video of the proceedings, seeing no objection, permission is granted. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we're now turning to the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading. Again, this is our final Session Day before the deadline for passing Senate Bills from the Senate. With leave of the Body, we're going to begin near the top of the Order, near the top of page 3, and we will be moving from bill to bill that we expect to be called. We'll start near the top at the order of Senate Bill 463. Senator Loughran Cappel, are you ready to proceed? Senator Cappel seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 463 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 463. Mr. Secretary, have there been any amendments approved for consideration. 2  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Senator Cappel, on Floor Amendment No. 1.

I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.

Senator Cappel moves to adopt Floor Amendment No.1. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Cappel, on Floor Amendment No. 2.

I'd like to adopt that amendment, as well, and explain it on 3rd.

Senator Cappel moves for the adoption of Senate Bill 463. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 463. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Loughran Cappel, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President. This bill, as amended, makes two changes to the School Code. First, the amendment creates the Performance Evaluation Advisory Committee to take the place of the Performance Evaluation Advisory Council. And second, the amendment allows career and technical education teachers to be granted tenure if they have a career and technical education license, with stipulations. I'm happy to take any questions.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 463 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 54 voting Aye, 1 voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 463, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to jump forward to Senate Bill 692, Senator Morrison. Senator Morrison seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 692 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 692. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

4  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Senator Morrison, on your amendment.

I'd like to adopt the amendment, please, and discuss on 3rd.

Senator Morrison moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 2, to Senate Bill 692. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 692. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Morrison, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This establishes a task force on Interjurisdictional Industrial Zoning impacts to be administered by DCEO. The Task Force will report back on December 31st, 2025. I know of no opposition to this legislation.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 692 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 5  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 692, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 693, Senator Koehler. Mr. Secretary, Senator Koehler seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 693 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 693. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Koehler, on your amendment.

Yes. I would move to adopt the amendment.

Senator Koehler moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 1, to Senate Bill 693. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendments adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 693. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Koehler. 6  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Yes, thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This changes the Illinois Waterway {sic} Sports (Ports) Commission Act by enabling the Commission to conduct specific work, on specific land, within the boundaries of the Commission. It also allows the chairs of each port district to be able to appoint a member to represent them on the Commission. Happy to answer any questions.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Erica Harriss, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

The sponsor indicates that he'll yield. Senator Harriss.

Senator Koehler.

Thank you for your question. This Port Commission actually includes all the local port districts along the way. So, this is part of what they're requesting. It gives them a, you know, a lot of room to maneuver and to create -- I mean, this is one of the heaviest traveled port areas in the United States. And so, 10 7  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 counties have come together with their individual port districts. So, this is all part of what they want.

Senator Harriss.

Senator Koehler.

This would include those 10 counties. But for that -- for the Commission to be able to do any work and within any jurisdiction of a port district, they have to have the approval and work in cooperation with that port district. So, they can't just do their own thing. They have to have local approval on this.

Senator Harriss.

Thank you, Senator. Any further discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 693 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 voting Aye, 16 voting No, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 693, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to move to the middle of page 3, we have Senate Bill 8 -- I'm sorry. Yes, 859, Senator Villanueva. Mr. 8  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Secretary, please read the bill. There is an amendment on the bill. Senator Villanueva seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 859 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 859. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Villanueva, on your amendment.

Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.

Senator Villanueva moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 1, to Senate Bill 859. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 859. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Villanueva, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President. Senate -- Senate Bill 859, as 9  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 amended, creates the Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment. And basically, states that the Office shall assist minority women, veteran non-for-profit corporations, and businesses owned by persons with disabilities through providing outreach and promotional activity. This is a bill given to me by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. It's a good bill. Vote Yes.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 859 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 voting Aye, 3 voting No, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 859, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to turn to the middle of page 4 on your printed Calendars. Senate Bill 2535, Senator Sims. Senator Sims. We'll return to that bill later in the order. Senate Bill 2573, Senator Napoleon Harris. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Harris, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President,, Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 2573 amends the Insurance Code to provide coverage for wigs and other scalp prosthesis for individuals experiencing hair loss due to alopecia, chemotherapy, or radiation. There's no opposition, and I seek its approval. 10  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2573 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 57 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2573, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. WGGM requests permission to video record the proceedings today. Seeing no objection, permission is granted. Continuing on the Order, Senate Bill 2586, Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, Senator Cunningham seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2586 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now, on 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 2586. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Cunningham, on your amendment?

Thank you, Mr. President. The amendment becomes the bill. I move for its adoption, and I'll explain it on 3rd Reading.

Senator Cunningham moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2586. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendments adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 2586. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Cunningham, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2586 amends the (Illinois) Dental Practice Act. It seeks to create a new level of consumer protections regarding the use of clear aligners. And it does so by ensuring patients receive an in-person examination within 12 months of having clear aligners affixed to their teeth. I'd be happy to answer any questions, and I ask for the Chamber's support.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

To the bill, Senator.

Thank you, Senator. Any further discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2586 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2586, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Continuing on the same Order, Senate Bill 2625, Senator Lightford. Senator Lightford. Senate Bill 2626, Senator Peters. Mr. Secretary, Senator Peters seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 26 - - beg your pardon. We're -- Senator, we're checking our paperwork here. Senator Peters, I believe all the amendments have been adopted and we're ready to go on 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Peters, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President. SB 2626 amends the Criminal Identification Act. It provides an anticipation of successful 13  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 completion of problem-solving court pre plea diversion or post plea diversion program. A defendant may file a petition of expungement of 61 days before the anticipated dismissal of his or her case. I ask for an Aye vote.

Thank you. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2626 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2626, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. The bottom of page 4, Senate Bill 2639, Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, Senator Hastings seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2639 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, permission granted. Now on 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 2639. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Hastings, on Floor Amendment No. 2.

Mr. President, thank you very much for the opportunity. I ask that I reserve time after I explain the bill and ask -- answer any questions that I can make a brief statement. Senate Floor Amendment No. 2, deletes all and becomes the bill. It amends the Illinois Insurance Code to expand insurance coverage for certain infertility treatments. The bill requires any group policy of an accident and health insurance, providing coverage that includes 14  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 pregnancy related benefits to ensure coverage of in vitro fertilization, gamete intrafallopian tube transfer, or zygote intrafallopian tube transfer. If a licensed physician recommends these treatments for the covered individual based on certain findings by the physician with no additional restrictions or requirements, and makes conforming changes to the County Code, Illinois Municipal Code, School Code, Limited Health Service Organization Act, and Voluntary Health Services Plan Act. And Mr. President, I'd like to reserve time for a statement, and I'd gladly answer any questions regarding this important topic.

Senator Hastings, a wonderful presentation of the Amendment. You can adopt those remarks when we get to the bill. Senator Hastings moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2639. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 2639. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Hastings.

Mr. President, as per your recommendation, I'd like to adopt 15  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 the previous comments as my explanation of Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2639. And I'll make my brief statement now, if that's okay, Mr. President. Mr. President, thank you very much. And ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, I come before you today with a plea for empathy and understanding about a topic that's deeply personal to me and families across the State and our nation. As we experience firsthand the challenges and triumphs of navigating the complex journey of infertility and in vitro fertilization. This bill was written on November 7th, prior to any Alabama Supreme Court ruling. Just to show you the importance of this bill, this topic was not only brought up to me by members of our staff, by Members of our Senate Chamber itself and members of my community, so I know it affects everybody. It affects both sides of the aisle that divides political parties that have been affected by not being able to have a child, whether it's our staff members or Members of the Senate. This issue affects every one of us in a profound way. These families struggle for years to conceive a child naturally, they endure countless doctor's appointments, invasive procedures, and heart wrenching disappointments. But through the miracle of IVF, families are blessed with the opportunity to welcome children into their families. These children are a symbol of hope, resilience and unconditional love. They are a constant reminder of the extraordinary lengths that individuals and families will go to in order to fulfill their deepest desires and dreams of parenthood. But these journeys are not without obstacles, particularly when it comes to navigating the maze of insurance coverage for fertility treatments. All too often, insurance companies would wield their disproportionate power over the reproductive choices of individuals and families, dictating what 16  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 treatments are deemed medically necessary and which are deemed optional luxuries. This cannot continue, Mr. President. Doctors with their years of medical training and expertise are best positioned to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for their patients. They understand the unique circumstances and medical needs of each individual, and should have the autonomy to recommend treatment plans based on their professional judgments and in the best interest of their patients. Yet, all too often, insurance companies overrule these recommendations, denying coverage for vital fertility treatments like IVF and placing unnecessary financial burdens on those already grappling with the -- the emotional toll of infertility. And we cannot allow for this to continue to occur. We must demand that the policies be reformed, to prioritize the recommendations of doctors, and to ensure that all individuals have access to the fertility treatments they need to build the families they desire. My daughter Maddie, my daughter Maddie, we call her Maddie Girl is living proof of the transformative power of IVF and the profound impact that it can have on the lives of families. She's a testament to every fact that every child is a precious gift, regardless of the circumstances of their conception. Mr. President, I want to say thank you very much to the Members of this Chamber, the Members of the Senate on both sides of the aisle for sponsoring this bill. This bill has an un -- is a lot of sponsors on the both side of the aisle. It shows that this -- this topic bridges both sides. And I urge an Aye vote. Mr. President, thank you very much for the time and I'll answer any questions.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Rezin, 17  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 for what purpose do you seek recognition?

Thank you, Senator. Any further discussion? Seeing none. Senator Hastings, to close.

Mr. President, I thank you again for the time to explain the bill. Look, there's -- there's people in this Chamber today, I want you to look around. You may not know it, look to your left and look to your right, there's at least two people in this room that have been affected by this. Two maybe more. Other Members in other Chambers have been affected by it, as well. And when an insurance company tells a young lady who wants to have a child that they can't have one through IVF unless they go through this treatment plan of IUIs or whatever the insurance company dictates. That not only causes an emotional toll on that individual, but it causes an emotional toll on their family. And that's not fair. Our job as Representatives of the people of Illinois is to stick up for folks across our entire State. And like I said before, Mr. President, I don't care if you're a Republican. I don't care if you're a Democrat. If you want to have a family, you should be able to have a family. And I urge, an Aye vote. Thank you, Mr. President. 18  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Thank you, Senator. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2639 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2639, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Moving to page 5, of the printed Calendar, Senate Bill 2682, Senator Ellman. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Ellman seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2682 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2682. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Ellman, on your amendment.

I -- I move to adopt the amendment, Mr. President, and I'll be willing to explain it on 3rd.

Senator Ellman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 1. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendments adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Ellman, on Amendment No. 2. 19  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Amendment No. 2, I believe it's already been adopted in committee, but if it -- I'll be glad to move to adopt it. And I'll explain that also on 3rd.

Thank you, Senator Ellman. Senator Ellman moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2682. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is or the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 2682. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Ellman, on your bill, as amended.

Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2682 actually originated right here in my district with a group of dedicated, passionate, and informed women who work in tech, who have seen the data, and also anecdotally are concerned about the future of women in tech. This Task Force will study just that, just that topic, the advancement, the retention of women in technology. It will be -- it will consist of members of academia, of business, government and to work on that very thing. I know -- I don't know of any 20  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 opposition to this and I urge an Aye vote. Thank you.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2682 pass? All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2682, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Let's move along to Senate Bill 2731, Senator Glowiak Hilton. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Glowiak Hilton.

Thank you, Mr. President. This bill is just a cleanup and a sunset extension also clarifies ownership in genetic counseling businesses. I urge a -- an Aye vote. Thank you.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2731 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2731, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 2745, Senator Lightford. Senator Lightford. Senate Bill 2764, Senator 21  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Turner. Mr. Secretary, Senator Turner seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2764 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on 2nd Reading Senate Bill 2764. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Turner, on your amendment.

Senator Turner moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2764. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 2764. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Turner, on your bill.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2764 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. Senator Tracy, you see - on that bill? Mr. -- Mr. Secretary, we're pausing the vote. Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

Will the sponsor yield? She indicates she will. Senator Tracy.

Senator Turner.

Senator Tracy.

Senator Turner. Senator Turner.

Senator Turner.

24  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Senator Tracy.

Thank you. And with that, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2764 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 41 voting Aye, 13 voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2764, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Continuing on the Order, Senate Bill 2788, Senator Edly-Allen. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Edly-Allen.

Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, Senate Bill 2788 amends the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act to clarify how a child's school is notified when an investigation to find that the child was physically or sexually abused. The bill removes the requirement that all reports by mandated reporters shall be confirmed in writing to the appropriate Child Protective Service Unit within 48 hours of any initial report. Under the bill, schools will continue to receive the same information they receive now. It requires that expungement of records occurs in accordance with the Illinois School Student Records Act.

25  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2788 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2788, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 2822, Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. 2822, as amended, codifies the educational standards currently recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation for training dentists to administer moderate sedation, deep sedation, and general anesthesia. In addition, Senate Bill 2822 gives IFDPR the power to regulate and approve any other continuing education course designed to qualify a dentist to receive an anesthesia permit from the Department for moderate sedation. Nothing in this bill expands the current scope of practice for dentists administering sedation.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2822 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2822, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared 26  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 passed. Let's move forward to Senate Bill 3165, Senator Koehler. Mr. Secretary, Senator Koehler seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 21, I'm sorry, 3165 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection. Leave is granted. Now on 2nd Reading Senate Bill 3165. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Koehler, on your amendment.

Yes, I move for its adoption.

Senator Koehler moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 3165. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendments adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 3165. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Koehler.

Yes. Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This 27  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 changes three dates, so it allows the EPA to better meet the requirements of the State Recycling Needs Assessment Act that we passed last year, ask for its approval.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3165 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3165, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Moving forward on the Calendar Senate Bill 3288, Senator Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Peters, on your bill.

Senate Bill 3288 amends the Mental Health and Development Disabilities Act. It provides that records and communications may be disclosed for research purposes in accordance with HIPAA. The bill exempts any authorization obtained in connection with research from needing the written consent of individuals with authority to consent. I ask for an Aye vote.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3288 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have 28  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3288, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. On page 6 of your printed Calendar, near the top of the page is Senate Bill 3420. Senator Gillespie, are you ready to proceed with what is, I believe, the last of your bills on the Calendar? Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Gillespie.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, Mr. President. As amended, Senate Bill 3420 creates the Prohibition of Unfair Service Agreements Act. It provides that a service agreement is unfair if the service is not to be performed within a year, and it purports to run with the land or bind future owners, allow for assignment without notice to or consent of the owner and create a lien, encumbrance, or other real property security interest. It also creates a right of action for property owners when an unfair service agreement has been recorded. This bill is an initiative of the American Land Title Association and is directed at non-title recorded agreements for personal services, otherwise known as Entraps that have been used across the country and are starting to surface in Illinois. These tools are used by people primarily trying to get elderly and the poor to sign these agreements in exchange for some nominal cash payment up front. It binds their 29  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 property, it creates a real property interest, and it really prohibits them when it comes to selling the property and getting their equity out of it. So, I ask for an Aye vote so we can protect these citizens against these tools. Thank you.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you rise?

Question of the sponsor.

Sponsor indicates that she'll yield.

Mr. President. Senator, does this bill require insurance -- insurance coverage?

Senator Gillespie.

I don't know what would make you think such a thing. It does not.

Senator Murphy.

Perhaps under your new position, you needed to have some additional work to have insurance coverage reviewed for this particular bill. I just wanted to make sure that that was not the case.

Senator Gillespie.

30  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 I -- I will add it to my growing to do list.

Senator Murphy.

Significant to do list, because we want to think back to all of the to do lists you've had since you've been with us in the Senate and know that you've just given so much thoughtfulness and insight and education to the rest of us on the areas that you brought. And we really have valued the time that you spent in the Senate. And I'm so glad that there isn't a musician sitting in that seat. And, Senator, I wish you the best of luck and nothing against musicians, that's an inside joke on a primary. But we wish you the best of luck and know that we're always here to work with you in your new position. Thank you.

Thank you, Senator Murphy. Further discussion? Senator Castro.

Question of the sponsor.

Sponsor indicates that she will yield. Senator Castro.

Senator Gillespie, does this cover insurance contract?

Senator Gillespie.

No, it expressly does not.

Senator Castro. 31  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Do you believe it should?

Senator Gillespie.

Ask me again in a week.

Senator Castro.

Oh, Senator Gillespie, you're going to add that to your very, very, very, very long list of grievances and issues in regards to that. But to -- to be a little bit more humbling point it has been an honor to serve with you. We will miss you and look forward to working with you, in your new role.

Thank you, Senator Castro. Further discussion? Senator Villivalam, for what purpose do you rise?

A question of the sponsor.

Sponsor indicates that she'll yield. Senator Villivalam.

Senator Gillespie, I'm confused. I think the President said this is your last bill. Typically, your last bill is the Medicaid omnibus. So, I -- I -- I'm trying to figure out if you can point to the -- point me in the statute or the analysis where the Medicaid omnibus portion of the bill is. Would love to see that.

Senator Gillespie. 32  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

I am sure the President will find somebody capable to handle that.

Thank you. Senator Villivalam.

Well, okay, that's an interesting answer. Second question. I was checking in the back, but I didn't -- I couldn't find -- did you bring brownies to the Floor today?

Senator Gillespie.

I did not. They were all eaten. I'm sorry.

Senator Villivalam.

To the bill, Mr. President.

To the bill.

Unfortunately, given the last two answers, I am going to respectfully urge a No vote on this piece of legislation. I think that there's more work to be done. Clearly, she needs to stay longer, and I think she needs to apparently -- ran out of brownies. She needs to bring more brownies. I think that would be appropriate. But please join me in urging a No vote for this piece of legislation. Thank you.

Thank you, Senator Villivalam. A reminder to the Chamber 33  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 this is Senator Gillespie's last bill, not her first bill. Senator Simmons, for what purpose do you rise?

A question of the sponsor.

Sponsor indicates she'll yield.

This is a very solemn question, and I would really appreciate an honest answer. Do you have a recipe for the chocolate brownies?

Senator Gillespie.

I do, but it's under lock and key.

Senator Simmons.

So, the recipe is written somewhere.

Senator Gillespie.

It is, but I'm reserving it for any potential future career needs.

Senator Simmons.

Excellent answer. Until I have the actual recipe, I also am going to have to encourage everybody to vote No on this piece of legislation. Thank you.

34  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Thank you, Senator. Senator Peters, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

I know more people want to hear us all do this, so I thought I might as well keep it going. But question for the sponsor.

Sponsor indicates that she'll yield.

Is there any opposition on this bill?

Senator Gillespie.

Before I got here, I hadn't had any.

Senator Peters.

Yeah. I -- I don't know what we're supposed to be talking about here, but I feel like we should be talking about the bill maybe, not anything that might be happening or anything like that. But in honest… To the bill. I -- I would just say, Senator Gillespie, you're an amazing, courageous leader, and we're going to miss you here. And I urge everyone to vote Yes, so that we can send you off with a good round of applause. So, thank you for your work.

Senator Peters as a procedural matter that was absolutely not to the bill. I will remind people as well, we have a retirement resolution later in the day, so don't use up all of your good material now. Senator Holmes, for what purpose do you seek 35  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 recognition?

Question of the sponsor.

Question -- the sponsor. She indicates she'll yield.

Senator, I believe we talked about you leaving when we were in caucus. And I know I made a specific request because I believe there's going to come a time when this Body is going to give consent to your appointment. Is that true?

Senator Gillespie.

That is my understanding and hope.

Senator Holmes.

I just want to make sure. Do you remember what this Body requested of you, when you do ask for that appointment?

I'm going to consult with the parliamentarian before… Senator Gillespie, you don't need to answer that question. The parliamentarians have been very clear. Senator Gillespie.

Thank you all very much. As always, it's a pleasure. And I really would ask for an Aye vote on this. It's really going to help a lot of people that are being -- being trapped into bad situations. Thank you.

36  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Thank you, Senator Gillespie. An excellent closing. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3420 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 58 voting Yes, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3420, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Congratulations, Senator Gillespie. Senate Bill 3473, Senator Sims. With leave of the Body, we'll move down to the -- towards the bottom of page 6 Senate Bill 3617, Senator Feigenholtz. Mr. Secretary, Senator Feigenholtz seeks leave of the Body to… The amendment has been adopted. So, we are on 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Feigenholtz, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President. Good morning. Senate Bill 3617 is a - initiative of the Department of Revenue. It is a -- so that they are able to implement a data match system with banks. There was an amendment put on this that satisfied everybody and I'd appreciate it an Aye vote.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3617 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 37  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 58 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3617, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 3630. Nope. Senate Bill 3631, Senator Porfirio. Mr. Secretary. Senator Porfirio seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 3631 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 3631. Mr. Secretary, has there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Porfirio, on your amendment.

I'd like for the amendment to be approved. I'll explain on 3rd.

Senator Porfirio moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3631. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 3631. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Porfirio.

Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 3631 establishes a formal Illinois Coordinate System Committee to address the changes needed to the Illinois coordinate system. This is to reflect the update in statute, for the new system that was set forth in the North American Terrestrial Reference Frame of 2022, which replaced the North American Datum of 1983. The Floor amendments address concerns from the ISP to be added to the statewide organization of the committee. It's supported by IDOT, ISP, the Illinois Coordinate System Committee, and the American Council of Engineering Companies. I'll stand by for any questions and I urge an Aye vote.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3631 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 58 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 3631, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. The bottom of page 6 of the printed Calendar, Senate Bill 3686, Senator Koehler. Mr. Secretary, Senator Koehler seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 3686 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now, on 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 3686. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Koehler, on your amendment.

Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption.

Senator Koehler moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 3686. All those in favor say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 3686. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Koehler.

Yes. Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. This bill creates the Portable and Medium-Format Battery Stewardship Act. Which, beginning in January 1st of 2026, requires those who sell or distribute portable and medium batteries or battery containing products to implement a battery stewardship plan provided by the Illinois EPA to recycle covered -- covered batteries. Producers are responsible for covering all costs associated with battery collection, battery transportation, battery processing, education, program evaluation, and fees for - 40  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 - for the EPA, and it cannot charge a point of sale to cover the costs. This prohibits people from knowingly placing covered batteries in waste containers or containers for mixed recyclables or burning, or incinerated, in - or incinerated and covered battery. This is a bill that's very important and very necessary for us as we continue to work on strategies of recycling, especially products that have materials that we can reuse and are very highly desirable. So, I'd be happy to answer any questions. And I appreciate a supportive vote.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3686 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 58 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3686, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Top of page 7 of our printed Calendar, Senate Bill 3687, Senator Koehler. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Koehler.

Yes. This bill amends the (Illinois) Credit Union Act to clarify and expand upon language to keep the current on the environment of the Illinois Credit Union. It provides that the aggregate of all fees collected from credit unions pursuant to the 41  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Illinois Community Reinvestment Act shall be paid promptly and received and accompanied by a detailed statement thereof into the Treasury, and should be set apart from the credit union. This is a bill that is brought to me by the Illinois Credit Unions, be happy to answer any question.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3687 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 58 voting Aye, none voting No, and none voting Present. Senate Bill 3687, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Let's turn to Senate Bill 3762, Senator Villa. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Villa.

Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.

Thank you, Senator. I believe the amendments have all been adopted. Mr. Secretary, we have adopted all the amendments in our third? You may proceed with the bill, as amended.

Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 3762, as amended, is 42  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 the initiative of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus to establish a language equity, and access framework across all State agencies to ensure that every resident in Illinois, with limited English proficiency, has access to vital State resources and procedures. Language access is a need in many communities, and they've expressed this for decades. Meaningful access to State information, programs, services, and activities will ensure that our communities benefit equitably from State resources. Senate Floor Amendment 1 addresses opposition and brings all State agencies in support of the bill. The amendment makes room for collaboration between the Governor's Office of New Americans and any other relevant agencies. In addition, to the Department of Human Services, and provides an adequate time frame to implement the legislation. The bill passed unanimously out of State Government Committee, and I would be happy to answer any questions.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3762 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 45 voting Aye, 8 voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3762, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. All right, near the end of the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 3775. Senator Villivalam, are you ready to proceed? Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Villivalam.

Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3775 is an omnibus bill from the Illinois Department of Transportation. Among a number of items, it changes the deadline for law enforcement agencies to submit traffic and pedestrian stop reports to the Department from March 1st to February 1st of each year, adds clarifying language on what vehicle -- vehicular crashes need to be immediately reported to law enforcement, and clarifies that law enforcement shall report those crashes to IDOT. I know of no opposition would ask for an Aye vote.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3775 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 2 voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3775, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. That brings us to the end of the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading. We're going to return and pick up a few bills that were passed over. If you'll turn with me to page 5 of the printed Calendar near the middle of the page, is Senate Bill 3115, Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

44  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Senator Morrison.

Thank you, Mr. President. This bill is an initiative of the Department of Public Health, requires a written transition plan to be submitted to the Department to ensure that adequate staffing and care remain in place during the transfer of ownership of a nursing home. If a facility does not follow its transition plan and harm to a resident is found, the facility may be given a high risk designation. This was negotiated with IHCA and HCCI.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3115 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3115, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Preston, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

Mr. President, it was my intention to vote Yes on Senate Bill 3115.

The record will reflect your intent. Senator Joyce, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

For the purpose of an announcement.

Please, state your announcement.

45  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 We're very busy today, and everybody's anxious to get home. But I have a very, very important announcement to make. Its May 1st, this coming May 1st, the traditional Illinois -- well it says House versus Senate, but Senate versus House softball game, will be coming up. We will be scheduling a few practices. I will be letting both caucuses know when those are. I'm -- I'm trying to put one together for this coming Monday. So that you can take 10 swings, so that we can, despite the umpires being paid off, win this year's softball game. One of the restrictions and requirements is that the Senate had was that we would only allow Representative DeLuca to bat in the designated order. So, we have some challenges there. So, we will have better scorekeepers on our side of the ledger. But I encourage anyone who is interested in participating in this event, please contact me. The Marty party has already started. There's been a -- he's driving my legislative assistant a little bit crazy, to be quite frank with you, but we will have a new venue. We are the home of the Lucky Horseshoes at Robin Roberts Stadium. So, it's a new and improved softball game this year, May 1st at 6:05 p.m. The information will be coming to your LA shortly, so please stand by.

Thank you, Senator Joyce. Better scorekeepers are clearly the key. Senator Fowler, for what purpose do you rise?

Please, state your announcement.

Thank you, Senator. If I could have the attention of the Chamber. Senator Bryant.

Please rise, if you are able to observe a moment of silence. (Moment of silence observed) With the leave of the Body, we're going to turn back through the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading and pick up some bills that we were -- missed in the first go around. Let's begin on page 4, near the middle of the page, we have Senate Bill 2535. Senator Sims, are you ready? Senate Bill 2625, Senator Lightford, are you ready to proceed? Mr. Secretary, 48  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 please read the bill.

Leader Lightford, please, on your bill.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 2625 is an initiative of the Liquor Control Commission. It amends the Act to restrict the locations where alcohol infused products and co-branded alcoholic beverages may be displayed and sold in retail establishments. It also amends the definition of alcoholic liquor and establishes definition of alcoholic infused products and co-branded alcoholic beverage. The goal here is to prevent the beverages that look a lot like beverages, but has some type of substance in them, not get confused for young children who are needing not to have those type of infused drinks. I'd be happy to answer questions.

Thank you, Senator Lightford. Any discussion? Senator Preston, for what purpose do you seek recognition? Thank you. Senator Erica Harriss, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

To the bill, Senator.

Thank you, Senator. Seeing no further discussion, Senator Lightford to close.

I ask for an Aye vote.

The question is, shall Senate Bill 2625 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 58 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2625, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. On page 5 of our printed Calendar Senate Bill 2745, Leader Lightford. 2745. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Leader Lightford.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. This amendment it -- excuse me. This bill is also an issue of the Liquor Control Commission. Um, it reinserts the underlying bill, but as the -- I'm still on the amendment. Forgive me just a second. 50  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 This initiative is intended to remove obsolete information from the birth defect warning sign that's required by the Liquor Control Act. It includes adding the phone number listed in statute, and it is no longer accurate information. It requires the retail licensees, such as bars and liquor stores, to display a sign that is no longer the proper signage signs, and it requires the OASA number to be printed on these signs. This number is no longer accurate as well. We're adding a help line telephone number 24 hours that differs from the telephone number in statute. So basically, it's a cleanup bill from the Commission. I'd be happy to answer questions.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2745 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 58 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2745, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. On page 6 of our printed Calendar Senate Bill 3473, Senator Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Senator Sims.

Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 3473 requires the State Board of Education, in 51  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 coordination with the Department of Public Health, to develop information materials for students, parents, and guardians on type I diabetes. The Department will -- this board would have to make the information available on the Department's website. I know of no opposition. Ask for - answer any questions, will ask for a favorable roll call.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 3473 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there 59 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. Senate Bill 3473, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, let's turn to the very top of our Senate Bills 3rd Reading Order and turn to the -- our attention to Senate Bill 1, Leader Lightford is ready to proceed. Mr. Secretary, Leader Lightford request permission to return Senate Bill 1 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now, on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1. Mr. Secretary, have there been any amendments approved for consideration?

Leader Lightford, on Floor Amendment No. 2.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I'm so excited to bring forth Senate Bill 1. It's an effort that this entire Chamber and I'd be happy to adopt the amendment and 52  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 debate it on 3rd.

Well played, Senator. Leader Lightford moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendments adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

Senator Lightford, on Floor Amendment No. 3.

Thank you, Mr. President. I'd be happy to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.

Senator Lightford moves for the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 1. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?

3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.

Leader Lightford, on the bill. 53  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Thank you, Mr. President. And I am still so excited that we have Senate Bill No. 1 before us. As I've stated previously, a lot of Members here have really worked hard to ensure that early childhood education was something that we were very concerned and proud of. We've been investing, investing, investing over the years, and we finally come to a place where we have the proposal to unite all of our State early childhood services into one new State Agency, titled the Department of Early Childhood. Uniting early childhood services in Illinois can make access to services simple, better, and more fair for families with young children and make more efficient use of State resources. Currently, most early childhood programs are split across three State agencies. We have programs in the Department of Human Services, at the Illinois State Board of Education, and at the Department of Children and Family Services. In this effort, we are going to ensure that this legislation does not substantially change early childhood programs or service delivery at this point, and we're kind of slow walking it to make sure the transfer works well. So, we create this Department effective July 1 of '24. We transfer all statutory authority to administer the early childhood programs from the three previous agencies I mentioned, beginning July 1, of '26. And we're requiring the new Department of Early Childhood to designate a body by July 1, of '26 to advise the Department on ongoing basis, ensuring its functions are transparent, operates with a commitment to racial equity, and devotes attention to data collection and timely public reporting. I'd be happy to answer questions.

Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Rezin, 54  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 for what purpose do you rise?

Sponsor indicates she’ll yield. Senator Rezin.

Senator Lightford.

Yes. Thank you, Senator Rezin, for reminding me of that concern. Definitely. Throughout the Commissions and Task Force that we've had from P-20, from the Early Childhood Department, prior to creating a department, but they had a working group. All consisted of individuals and organizations from all across the State. We want to make sure that we hear voices that touch every corner of this State, from rural Illinois to the urban areas. So, I'm certainly sure that that would continue on with that same effort.

Senator Rezin. 55  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

Senator Lightford.

Thank you, again, Senator Rezin. You're -- you're totally accurate in that it's a big moving piece. It's like a big puzzle that has to come together. So, when we look at the Department of Human Services alone, they have the Childcare Assistance Program, the Migrant and Season Head Start, the Head Start collaboration office, Early Intervention and Home Visit and it has a couple provisions there. ISBE has Early Childhood Block Grant preschool for all, preschool for all expansion and prevention initiatives, 56  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 and then the Department of Children and Family Services has the childcare day care licensing. So, when you think of transferring all those programs, also keep in mind we're transferring the bodies, as well. So, no employees will lose their job or lose their assignment. So, basically that's why the transition is taking a two-year period so that everything smoothly happens without any mishaps along the way. So, what we took a look at is that under this new agency, we will follow the Personnel Code that's already in existence. So, for example, ISBE has a different code unlike IDHS and DCFS, it's not subject to the Personnel Code. So ISBE has an independent board and a vastly different titles. They have a different pay structure. The avenues for career progression, movement, unions, pension and terms and conditions of employment are vastly different. The grant work in the new agency will be performed by staff and code covered titles. So, there's an issue there too, with titles that will be transferred over that are presently represented by AFSCME. And then we also have statutory language that's intending to direct those employees and some of the positions performing some of that work into what we call exclusive bargaining representatives, and making sure that everything foundational is there and all the labor laws being followed. So, that is the main reason why there is this transition of slow walk to make sure that Personnel Codes are vastly apart, comes under one umbrella. All of the programs that are being transferred can follow in sync under this one Department. So, there is a transitional team right now that is working on all of this. So, that group that you just mentioned is really important because they're kind of like those additional sets of eyes to make sure that things are going properly and it's just not from a policy 57  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 perspective. If you describe as really heavy policy driven, but it's also from a community perspective and advocate perspective, a parent perspective. So, I think that this legislation allows them to go down the right path, slow walk it the right way, make sure things are addressed properly, and all of those programs are properly transferred and fall under the right Personnel Codes.

Senator Rezin.

To the bill.

Thank you, Senator. Further discussion? Senator Bennett, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

Sponsor indicates that she'll yield. Senator Bennett.

Senator Lightford.

Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah. Senator, thank you for bringing that up. It has been an ongoing works in progress. Even previous Governors have set up different programs and commissions to take a look at Early Childhood Education. But Governor Pritzker is making sure that it actually happens, and that all of these different silos are being brought together to create a single agency for early childhood. We created the P-20 Council about 15 years ago, perhaps, in 2006. We passed preschool for all; we did an extension of that. We've been constantly, as a legislative Body, improving the funding streams that we've attached to early childhood, and we have become a national model, something that we should all be very proud of. This is taking that next step. This is pretty much bringing 20 years together to say it is time for us to make sure that parents have easier access. That is simple for providers and that is more cohesive and streamlined for the State overall.

59  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Senator Bennett.

Senator Lightford.

I can't quote that number Senator but if you have the statistics, I will honor your word.

Senator Bennett.

To the bill, Senator.

Thank you, Senator. Further discussion? Senator Morrison, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.

To the bill, Senator.

For several Administrations, for several Governors, for several Directors. DCFS has, I believe, failed to do an adequate job of managing daycare. I have asked repeatedly, since I've been in the Senate, move daycare out of DCFS these are not at-risk children. These are children going to daycare so, usually their - - their parents can work. And there's always been a reason why we 61  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 can't do that. I am delighted to see that this measure, Senate Bill 1, will move children out of this Agency and put them in a new agency where they will be hopefully, have more regulation, more attention, more education brought into the daycare setting where it belongs. Thank you, Senator Lightford, for this initiative.

Thank you, Senator. Leader Lightford, to close.

Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you to all the Senators who spoke and expressed their concerns and acknowledged the need to make this Department happen. Senator Rezin, I just wanted you to know that there is some additional engagement and communications opportunities. The Transition Advisory Committee still have three meetings yet to take place in April, May, and June, and then the bimonthly listening sessions are still scheduled for May 17th and July 19th. So, there's still plenty of opportunity to get involved at that level. And then also, just to close out by letting us all know that this is the right thing to do. This is something, again, that we should all be very proud of. There was a report in '21 from the bipartisan Illinois Commission on Equitable Early Childhood Education and Care Funding. They recommended that we should centralize programs into a new State agency in order to make our system more equitable, to make it easier for parents and providers to navigate, and to support the State and efforts to eliminate service deserts and optimize our investments. And that's exactly what we're here doing today. I ask for an Aye vote.

Thank you, Senator. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1 62  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, none voting No, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 1, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, as previously announced, and with leave of the Body, we will now proceed to the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading Agreed Senate Bill list. Please turn to page 7 of the regular Calendar. The Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading Agreed Senate Bill list. Mr. Secretary, please read the bills on the Agreed Bill List for a 3rd time.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Koehler, in the Chair. The next roll call will be on the final passage of the Senate Bills just read by the Secretary. The question is, shall the Senate Bills on the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading Agreed Senate Bill list pass. All those in favor 65  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 of 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 59 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And the compiled list of the Senate Bills Agreed Bill list, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. For those who filed vote intention slips with the Secretary of the Senate declaring your intention to vote No or -- or Present or abstain. The record will appropriately reflect the -- the -- your -- your vote. This series of Senate Bills, having received the required constitutional majority, by record vote is declared passed, and the recorded vote for each bill shall be entered into the Journal. Senator Wilcox, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. We're going to go to page 13 on your Calendar to Senate Resolution 909. President Harmon. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon. PRESIDENT HARMON:: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. We received devastating news, earlier, that we lost a dear friend and a former Member of the General Assembly, former State Representative, most recently County Clerk in Cook County, Karen 66  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Yarbrough. In response, Leader Lightford and I have introduced this resolution celebrating Karen's life. She was a political dynamo, at the helm of the Democratic Party in Proviso Township. She turned out enormous votes. She had an even more profound impact here in Springfield, leaving a legacy. Passing not only the Smoke- Free Illinois (Act) law, but also abolishing the death penalty, something that for years, many of us thought was impossible, but she saw it through. I was commiserating with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. And for all the -- the political accolades we could give her, we both had -- had the same experience talking to people. So many folks, in response to her passing said, she was kind, she was nice to me, and truer words could not have been spoken, no matter what lofty position she held, she was kind to all of us, whether we had fancy titles or were brand new staff members. That's a lesson we should all learn, and we should follow Karen's example. I will miss my friend. I will miss my ally. But the world is a lesser place for the passing of Karen Yarbrough.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is. I'm sorry. Senator Leader Lightford.

Thank you, Mr. President. If I may speak to the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Absolutely.

Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to just rise and share a story about Karen that's real personal from being a little girl. Many people don't know, but Karen Yarbrough and my family, we all lived on 11th Avenue. We lived on the same block, a couple houses 67  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 down from one another, and her daughter Carmen, and my sister graduated grammar school together. And we've been a part of each other's families, gosh, since the 70s. And we ended up on different sides of the political coin. But it didn't stop us from working together here in the legislature. And it did not stop us from, representing the Village of Maywood and Proviso Township, as a team. Karen's father was the Mayor of Maywood at one point, and it's just a lot of family history. So, I just rise to extend my love and condolences to her husband, Henderson, who was also the Mayor of Maywood at one point, and to her daughter Carmen, her grandchildren, her sisters, just the whole entire family, the Hathaway family and the Yarbrough's. May Karen rest in peace and knowing that God is pleased with her service. Thank you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Tracy.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Feigenholtz.

Thank you, Mr. President. I was looking around the Body here, trying to figure out who had spent time with Karen in the House. And I'm delighted to remember that Senator Tracy was one of them. Like the Senate President said, Karen was a dynamo. I think I'd like to also describe her as someone who was a mentor to younger Members, because she demonstrated a fearless approach to some of the most difficult pieces of legislation that have had a seismic impact on the policy changes in this State. And as the Senate President mentioned, one of them, of course, was the abolition of the death penalty, along with the "(Illinois) Clean Indoor Air Act" and a plethora of other really tough bills. And one of the things that she taught the rest of the Body was that we can do it. She was positive and she told everyone -- she changed the vibe in the Chamber. When the clouds of doubt were covering the heads of many Members who were looking for the courage to pass their bills, it was Karen who lifted them up. And I know that she is loved and remembered by anyone who served with her, with her resonant voice and just -- she was wonderful. Rest in power, Karen.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Hunter.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. I concur wholeheartedly with this resolution and everything that everyone has stated today. Karen was not only a sorority sister of mine, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, but she was a personal friend of mine. You know, I knew her before I came down here to Springfield. We wind up serving 69  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 together. I worked with her on numerous pieces of legislation, especially appealing, the death penalty and COWL… And I can say that she was also a mentor, every time I mentioned an issue that existed in the community, I'd go over and talk to her and she said, "Yeah, yeah, yeah, let's do that. Yeah, we can do that. Yeah, sure. Let's do that, Mattie." You know, and so she never said, no, we can't do it. Or she always said, we'll find a way. There is a way, you know. And I loved her spirit and I'm going to really miss her. I really, really am going to miss Karen. I've been very sad as soon as I heard that she was stricken because I had had a conversation with Karen a couple of days before she passed away, and I had no indication that she was that sick. Maybe because she was -- she was just like Karen, you know, I knew she was at home. I could tell that she was relaxed and that she was in the bed. And - but she called me, she wanted to talk to me about something that was going on down here over in the House. And I'm sure you all know what it is. And -- and we had that conversation and, then when I hear later on, you know, that she was gone, I just couldn't believe it. But anyway, you know, we have -- we have very joyful, memories of Karen. And that is what is so important, all of the pictures and all the conversations and experiences and that will live with me forever. May her soul rest in peace. Thank you, Mr. President.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon, would you like to close? PRESIDENT HARMON:: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you all for your comments. You -- you proved just at how many intersections Karen existed. She was my neighboring committeeman on the -- in the western 70  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 suburbs for almost two decades. She was Leader Lightford State Rep for more than a decade, and Leader Lightford was her State Senator. Whether you were a neighbor, a sorority sister, a fellow House Member, I think it's going to take us an awful long time to discover just how many voids Karen has left. These are going to be enormous shoes to fill. And I challenge us all to be kind, like Karen. Godspeed, my friend.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) And so, the question is, shall Senate Resolution 909 pass? All those in favor say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. On the Order of Resolutions. The Senate Resolution No. 910. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) On the Order of Resolutions is Senate Resolution 910. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon moves to suspend the rules for the purpose of immediate consideration and adoption of Senate Resolution 910. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the rules are suspended. The board is already lit up with people wanting to speak. President Harmon. PRESIDENT HARMON:: Thank you, Mr. President. I rise on a much happier sad note with this resolution. It's always hard to say goodbye to a colleague, though, in this case, Senator Gillespie, you are leaving in one of the best ways that we get to leave, to take on a new challenge that excites you and at which you will be enormously successful. Senator Gillespie, you were one of the Members of the Senate that perhaps wasn't supposed to be here. You were in that class of Members who won in very difficult elections in a pivotal year, and you have made the most of every moment in the Senate. I joked in caucus that after your announcement, so many people said, I'm going to miss her so much, and can I have a little bit of her stuff? The reason you have so much stuff is that you are so good 74  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 and so trusted and so talented, it's going to be very difficult to replace you. As a Member of the Judiciary Committee, I am especially disappointed to lose one of the few lawyers that we have. It means I'm going to have to continue to serve on that Committee for the foreseeable future. But -- consistent with the last resolution. You have a kindness about you that is admirable. Everyone enjoys working with you. Even when you say no, you do so in a way that recognizes the importance of the request. I can't wait to see what you're going to do in the next chapter. Our loss is the Governor's gain. And hate to lose you in the Senate but thrilled for the State of Illinois that you're going to take on this new challenge and do it so spectacularly well. You're always a Senator, once a Senator, always a Senator. We look forward to working with you in your new role. Congratulations and can't wait to hear all the great things that happen. I can't imagine how many lights are lit up. I hope you didn't use all of your good material during Ann's last bill. So, I'll -- I'll yield the Floor to a parade of speakers.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion. I think I'm going to get a suntan with all these lights lit up. Senator Morrison.

Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Gillespie was literally a grassroots candidate. She wasn't somebody that had participated in politics, over decades, like some of us had. She retired, and then she got really inspired, got involved in a group, and suddenly was pushed into a position where she was the candidate and was elected to the Senate. We have been so fortunate to have Ann because she's an expert, and we don't often get someone who, at the caliber that 75  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 she is at, to lead us in some very, very difficult subject matters. But it's the ethics. It is the fairness. It's the equity that she has brought along with her. And I think that she has been respected on both sides of the aisle for what she has brought to the Senate. I know we're going to lose her to the Governor's Office and the Department of Insurance, but more than anything else, she has been my friend from day one, and I know that she will continue to be my friend as my neighboring Senator. I wish her nothing but the absolute best. And I know we'll continue to see you thrive. So, congratulations. So very happy for you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Napoleon Harris.

To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

I just want to say to Senator Gillespie, you've been a true, true public servant. The way that you handled your business, as you came down here, since we've had an opportunity to work together on several key issues, in the Insurance Committee. You've been very practical, but as the previous speaker said, "your expertise". You have been an expert in the subject matter of insurance and health care, which really brought a sense of information, like you were - like a teacher. You taught us all of how to navigate and how to put pieces together when they start to fall apart. And maybe that's why you're such a good baker. Because you can put pieces together before they fall apart, and bake them out, and they all come out in one whole piece. But I just want to say thank you for 76  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 your leadership and I look forward to working with you on matters of insurance for the State of Illinois, to make Illinois a better place. Senator Gillespie, thank you for your service.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Holmes.

Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

I just wanted to continue because I was sort of cut off last time because I think the Senate President and the parliamentarian thought I might say something a little questionable, which would be ironic for somebody who has been one of the biggest champions in ethics reform. So, I will restrain myself on that. But I did want the opportunity to wish you the best and say your expertise in Medicare and Medicaid and all of the insurance issues has been absolutely fabulous for all the people of Illinois. I'm so happy you're going to continue doing that work just in another position. So, I just wanted to congratulate you and say, I look forward to voting for you on your well-deserved Appointment. And my final accolade will just be, you make delicious macaroons.

PRESIDING OFFICER:(SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Aquino.

Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

77  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Ann, you are an amazing principled leader. In a short amount of time, because of your past experience, you were given a lot of things to -- to -- to lead on and -- and you did it, in such a way, that has… It's going to leave a -- a void, certainly in the Medicaid work group. Because of you, in your work, there are more people that are covered in this State, and there are more people, especially that -- that -- that lack - that are getting better quality health care. And you will forever leave that legacy. This is a more ethical place because of you. We treat each other a little bit better because of you. Even locally, I have - some of us have a friend, the Collins family. There's a certain gentleman, who's a constituent of Ann, who, when she won her primary, - he spends a lot of time in the Chicago area, even though he's a resident, of hers, because he likes to help some folks. And he called to say, "Oh, Omar, I'm really excited because there's a possibility I can get a -- a -- State Senator in my area who's -- who's -- who's just a gem". And I know that when the announcement came out, him and his wife were at a loss, of like, what's going to happen? But they certainly were so proud to have you as their legislator. And, Mr. Senator, I want to thank you for your motherly patience, not only in Committee, edited work groups, but with a few folks that I won't name names. I know that they're going to - they're probably going to speak for themselves, to make sure that we were contained in our own passions. Most of all, though, I want to thank you for your friendship and camaraderie. Yesterday, a number of us were able to come together for like a sendoff, and my colleague to my right this morning said, "Hey, how'd you sleep? You know? And I said, "Oh, my God. Like, it's been a while. I slept great, like I woke up an hour before my -- my alarm went off and 78  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 it was amazing. He said, "It was because of all the belly laughing that happened". It must have been. That was the recipe, and, so, I thank you for that and that -- that's really an - a tribute to who you are. There's some folks, that I know, that have become family, we truly have become friends and -- and truly family. And I know that it's like, oh, you're going to another thing, but it's just, it really isn't the same. But while it is hard to say goodbye out of this Chamber to you, I'm -- I'm so glad that it's to continue service to the State of Illinois. So, thank you so much. Love you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Villivalam.

Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

Ann, when I think of Senator Gillespie, I think of integrity, hardworking, organized, collaborative, trusting, diet Coke and brownies. And not necessarily in that order. There's so much I want to say and there's so much I've already said to you, privately and jokingly, earlier. But I -- I am going to miss you incredibly. I'm going to miss you so much because of our friendship, because of your mentorship on issues, because of how you thought through so many different things and provided a perspective that I didn't have. I'm also going to miss the fact, as it was alluded to earlier, you came in at a time, you know, you can say that your district was polarizing in some ways, some would argue. And, you found a way to do what we all try to do here, which is take on the issues that are big, that are tough, in a way we can explain it, in our 79  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 districts and that is incredibly hard, but you accomplish that. You did that every single day. We talked about ethics reform. We talked about the Medicaid omnibus. We talked -- we can also talk about TIF and so many other issues that you've taken on and quite frankly, that some of us don't want to. And, I will always remember that about you. That fearless attitude of I was sent here to do something and it's going to be hard, but I'm going to do it anyways. I also want to say that my one of my favorite stories is when stakeholders were trying to pass something Medicaid related and this little knock on me, but we were having a meeting and I said, "Oh, Senator Gillespie's going to be there". And the response was, "Oh, no, I got to -- I got to actually know my stuff for this meeting". And I think that, you know, again, you've certainly gained a reputation in this Chamber, but I don't think there's a person in Springfield that wouldn't say Senator Gillespie knows her stuff and she works hard. So, I am going to miss you. I know that you're not going far. We got to do more dinners with belly - - belly laughing, but I -- I'm so incredibly happy for you, too, because I know that this is something that you want to do. And again, our State is just going to be so much better for it. So, thank you. And I'll see you at Portillo's.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva.

To the resolution? Mr…

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

Okay, so I know everyone's talking about the brownies, but 80  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 they're forgetting about the cookies. Ann, I would like that recipe, please, if you can slide that over. I know I said some stuff last night, and -- and also, you know, before… I think you walk through these halls with integrity and grace and your dedication to not just your district, but to the people of Illinois through the work that you do, is something that shines through. It's -- it's a little difficult, you know, herding some cats that shall remain nameless, that might be to the right of me, and helping to keep our sanity especially in the crazy times. But I always felt like I had a safe place with you to be able to just decompress, but also just to be able to feel understood in this very large battle that we're constantly battling. But I know that when I heard the news, I was actually driving and I had to pull over because I was like, whoa, let me read this correctly. And while it felt kind of, you know, I was sad, it was also just a sense of pride because one of us is going on to do something that I think is so important. And because of your work and your expertise that everyone has talked about, but also in your pursuit of continuing to serve people. I'm just so happy for you, and I'm so proud of you, because I know that while we might lose you on the day-to-day here and, you know, again, with all the shenanigans and, you know, hopping us up on sugar. You're going to continue to do incredible things. And I'm just proud to be able to call you my friend, not just my colleague. And -- and part of this very large, wonderful family of and cast of characters. But to be honest with you, at the end of the day, it's just so much pride to be able to see you do something that I know you're just going to kick butt at. Thank you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 81  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Senator Tracy.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz.

Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

So, I just read this resolution. Who does all this in 6 years? So, when I came to the Senate, you know, I got familiar with the Women's Caucus and I was watching who was doing what, and everyone was like, oh, Ann will do it, Ann will do it, Ann will do 82  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 it, and Ann would -- Ann did it. You know, I don't want to repeat what all of our colleagues have said, I want to look forward, and I think I told you how excited I am that all these stars are aligned now, that there are fresh eyes on Medicaid, and an attitude about dignity for people in this State who are looking to be helped with health insurance. And, I know that when you get there, that is what you're going to focus on, because that's what you've done and that's what you've demonstrated to all of us. And hat -- hat tip, to the Governor because he picked a good egg, somebody who has a moral compass, who can move the ball. And that's you, Ann. I don't know how much you are going to miss a 7 a.m. Thursday morning Medicaid work group that you have guided with cool hands under very, very difficult subject matters with as my previous -- the previous colleague, Villanueva said, that there have been a lot of things going on in there and you've been able to temper them with great leadership. The ushering in of the State Health Exchange is fortunate to be guided with the cool hands of Ann Gillespie, and I really look forward to what we can all do together in the future. Bless you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt.

To -- to the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

Ann, we came in together in -- in 19 and -- and, just let me say, I have seniority in that class. But -- but I'm sorry, but, I'm just -- I got sworn in before you guys, I'm just saying. I 83  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 know, right? But Ann it -- it has been a pleasure working with you. We -- we started off as roommates, and I guess we'll end as roommates. You have been Grace Under Fire. And you have what a lot of us spend our lives looking for, you have found your purpose - and it shows, right? This is you and you get to work in it day in and day out. And things just don't happen like that, right? You - - some of us are here because, you know, were -- we -- we wanted to be Senators. And we ran. We wanted to be -- some of us are here for whatever reason. But you are working in your purpose and it shows day in and day out. I remember many a conversations that I -- that I had with you about health care industry, PNAS, and you just brought me up to speed on so many things. I had constituents up here one day, and you caught us in the Rotunda, and you talked to them and you -- that's when you know someone is in their purpose, right? When their passion and their compassion intersects and -- and so, that's where you are. And -- and the last thing that I will say to you is your courage is admirable. You didn't care what -- if you felt like it needed to be changed, you took it on, right? You -- you and that's courage and your conviction to see things through, right? Sometimes you come up here and you can lose your nerve. And -- and I just want to thank you for reminding me that ships are safe in the harbor, but they weren't built to be in the harbor. God bless you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Fine.

To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution. 84  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

I am in denial. I'm not letting you leave. But I know you're not going so far away. This is a crazy place. Nobody understands what we go through here until you've actually been here. And the most special part about this place is not only the legislation that we get to pass in order to make this a better State for the people of Illinois to live. But it's the friendships we make, and we are able to meet and establish these friendships with people from all corners of our State who we would have never otherwise met if we had not had the privilege of serving in this Body. Ann, I know so many people have said so many of the wonderful things that you have accomplished, and that's all true. But to me, you've just been one of my closest friends and always sitting to my left, which is very hard to be on my left, but you're always there for me. I think everybody in this Body can understand that we've been through things together that nobody else would understand, and it makes us stronger. How many people will still be your friend when you stand in a room and spit into a tube? How many people will not tell you how tired you look when you're on the Floor until 6 in the morning, and how incredible it is when it's within a week of having knee surgery. How many people can you pick up the phone and call and say, I have to go to this event. I don't want to go alone, will you come with me? And you've never said no. I'm going to miss so much you having -- having you right next to me. But that doesn't mean you're not going to be a phone call away. That doesn't mean you're not going to be able to have breakfast with our crew. And that doesn't mean that - there will always be a seat for you in the back seat of my car. Just one last quick item to say. Bingo.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 85  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 Senator Ventura.

To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

So, when I came on, Ann has been very welcoming. For some of us coming into the Senate, it was a little harder than others but not only was Ann very welcoming and helpful, her Chief of Staff was, as well. So, some of those first events that I went to, it was nice to have a friendly face in the room to be able to go to. Also, you are very patient and passionate about things other people are not passionate about, like TIF reform. And when I first went to the policy team and talked about TIF reform, they were like, oh, you have to talk to Ann Gillespie. And I don't know that we've had we had much of a conversation about policy up until that point. So, I didn't know what type of - her thought process on stuff. What I found was that she was a woman after my own heart, that she likes to get into the weeds about things. And I know many people in this Chamber probably find it quite annoying that I come up and I want to get right into the policy of stuff. And some of you have even reminded me that I have to say, good morning first. But my passion is getting into the details and trying to solve things, and that is exactly who I found in Ann Gillespie. And there's no other industry that gets into the weeds like insurance. So, you are extremely knowledgeable and very detailed and looking at boring things like Medicaid. And last year when we were dealing with kind of the Medicaid shortcomings, I will remember that when people were asking questions in caucus, you just knew the numbers. You 86  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 know, they would ask things and you're like, no, it's not that. It's this. And you really had a way of explaining it to people, who, it just it amplified your knowledge on the on everything, but also how you tracked every change and that you were able to explain it to people so that we could take that back to our districts. So, you are definitely a powerhouse in insurance and in health care, but also that passion in making sure that people have access. And that's really what our State and our whole country needs at this point. So, I will leave you with the hope that you will now have the peace of never having to deal with any stadiums in this State. And I look forward to working with you on your continued path. Thank you for being my friend.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.

Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

So, Senator Gillespie, I just want to add just a couple of things to Senator Villivalam list that I believe he left off. You are brilliant. You are patient. You are supportive and you are resourceful. So much so, that you turn me on to the you know, there's a Batmobile, the Batman elevator at the Abe Lincoln Hotel, So that's the secretive elevator, so, thank you very much. But as Senator Villivalam mentioned too, you take on big issues and you've made Illinois better for that. Actually, we are all better for having served with you. And, you know, I -- I will never forget a coin that you phrased to express the work that we do. You -- you 87  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 said, "we deliver". And that is so important to know. Because when we go back to our districts after having events, really nation leading legislation that really, truly make Illinois a better place, you help us communicate that. So, thank you for that. And I'm going to close because I believe there's probably other speakers. But I understand that we have a few things in common, as well. We share BG or Buffalo Grove, my hometown, current hometown. And you have a sliver of Buffalo Grove. So -- so that's wonderful. And I found out just the other day that we share something else. We both love shoes. And so, in closing, we have some special parting gifts for you. We have a gift card to DSW, and if you don't know what DSW is they sell all these shoes and Senator we also have a plant for you, for your office, so that you never forget us. So, we wish you, ongoing success and we all love you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.

Mr. President, to the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

Senator Gillespie and I entered this Chamber in 2019 as part of, I'd say, a magnificent cohort of new legislators in both Chambers. And from the very start Ann demonstrated her knowledge, her smarts, her focus and her leadership. And I stand, I -- I stood in awe, and I continue to stand in awe at how much you've been able to accomplish and bring people together, whether it's the Women's Caucus or the Medicaid Working Group, which I'm grateful to not been part of, because that's not my thing. But your -- your 88  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 leadership, your -- your knowledge and obviously everything that everyone has already said, it's -- it's something that I'd like to emulate. And I thank you for -- for being here Ann, and -- and being that model. And I'm thrilled to have known you. I'm thrilled for you. And I'm thrilled for the State of Illinois and the direction you're going to take us. Thank you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims.

Thank you, Mr. President, to the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

You know, it's always important when we can give people their flowers, when they can smell them. I got a chance to meet Ann not as when she became a Member but as a candidate. So, I got a chance to meet her during that experience and I instantly liked her. Because I -- I -- I could see in her, the passion. I could see in her, the strength. I can see in her conviction, all the things that Members have said here today. But that was only confirmed for me when you got here. Because I got that -- got those -- those -- those memories from you initially. But then when we got here, that was only confirmed because that's not just an act you put on when you're campaigning. That's who you are. You're somebody who was dedicated, somebody who is principled, somebody who wants to do right by people that she may never meet. You know, I said this in the Senate Appropriations Human Services Committee the other day that Ann has made an impact on us that will be long -- that we will long remember. She has been someone who we, as you've heard 89  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 from comments today, folks didn't have to worry about it because you knew Ann was going to take care of it. And you dig into the most challenging of issues with this fervor, that you -- you know it's going -- whether you -- whether you know - you like the policy or dislike the policy, you know that the details have been worked out. Because all of those issues have been delved into. But one of my favorite conversations and one of the most memorable for me that I won't repeat the details of the conversation was during the passage of the Black Caucus's Four Pillars. As Ann and I were talking about the individual pieces of the pillar, and then particularly the criminal justice portion of the pillar, watching the -- the thoughtfulness with which she approached all of those pieces. But the -- the piece that resonated the most with me was her empathy in that moment. Her understanding of why those pillars were necessary. That's what you want in a colleague. But most importantly, that's what you want in a friend. Ann you have been my friend. You have been someone I have relied on, someone who I have depended on, someone who we have debated issues back and forth, and you have made me a better legislator, but more importantly, you made me a better person. And I appreciate you for that. You know, there is a poem that says a person comes into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, you know. And when you come in for a reason, it's for a specific purpose. And I think your -- your, the reason you came into all of our lives was to elevate our game. The -- the season it's that finite period of time and you've been here - for the time that you have been here you have made a tremendous impact on all of us. But that lifetime is the impact that will last far after you have left this Chamber and you are going out and doing work on behalf of the people of 90  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 the State of Illinois. I am so proud to be your -- your colleague. But more importantly, I'm proud to be your friend. Thank you so much. Thank you, Mr. President.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.

To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

As a social worker oftentimes, I have conversations with lawyers and I get very emotional, and I tell stories, whether it's stories of my students or of my constituents. And that's how I often start with the work that I do in the General Assembly. With Ann, when I talked to her about things such as TIFS you think that you can't find a tear-jerking story about that? But I can find a way. Always. I talk about my students who live in communities that are -- have underfunded schools, and I talk about the hard-working parents paying their property taxes. Ann listens, and she never makes me feel as though I am speaking with too much emotion. Whether it's about TIFS or Medicaid, talking about my families that are uninsured or underinsured. Whether it's about the essential workers during COVID who had to continue to go to work. Ann would listen, as I would cry, but she always would listen, stoically. And then she would propose legislation and I would hear the things that I said, in the legislation that she was passing. And it made me see that she saw my families and my constituents. And so, I stand to say thank you Ann, on behalf of the constituents of the 25th District. 91  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Doris Turner.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Simmons.

To the resolution.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ann, a lot of what I wanted to say has already been said, so I'm going to keep it brief. The thing I'd like to thank you for is, I'd like to thank you for being a role model for me. When I arrived here in February of 2021, it was during the pandemic, and I have a lot of anxiety, so it was hard to kind of navigate those first few months. And I just remember 93  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 you being very welcoming, you taking my calls, offering to help proactively and also kind of helping to guide some of my passions and sort of giving me a sense for where I could sort of land them in the institution and I appreciate that. You know, having a role model, I think is -- is something I don't take for granted. And - - and this Chamber and there are many of you that are role models. But -- but you especially Ann, the way that you approach your work with -- with seriousness really resonates with me, even the formality that you approach your work. The depth of knowledge that you come to your work with is, is inspiring for me and is something I've tried to model as -- as -- as I said earlier and, you know, I'm going to miss that. And it -- it really -- it reminds me that I feel like the Senate is a place where everybody leaves a piece of themselves when they leave. And I've said that about previous colleagues who've departed here. And I think that you'll leave a robust legacy here. And I know for me, you know, the part of you that will still be here is, is that part of you that approaches your work with that, that seriousness, with that depth of knowledge, and that empathy for -- for your colleagues. And so, I thank you for that. I'll do my best to try to -- to continue that legacy in the way that I approach this job. And I also just want to thank you for -- for, you know, you -- you have a reputation as being a serious lawmaker. But as other colleagues have said, you also have a reputation for being a human. I mean, you know, you've got private sector experience. You've got towering list of accomplishments in 6 short years, you participated in the Women's March, as you told me and I think that's part of what brought you in your journey to come here. You're a mother. You can bake like no one that I know. In fact, I tried to -- to get you to give me 94  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 a recipe and you wouldn't do it. And that -- that's a gift to this institution to have somebody that has -- just can be all that in one person. So, I thank you. I hope that you will continue to take my calls at the Department of Insurance, and I'm going to really miss working with you. But I know that you will continue to work together, and I know that you will continue to do great things. Thank you.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) And our final speaker before the closing, Leader Lightford.

To the resolution, Mr. President.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.

Gosh Ann, there's nothing left. I'll just say that you are a quiet storm. That should be your new nickname, quiet storm. And because you're just, like, cool as a cucumber. Did anyone tell you that? You're just cool. Very laid back. And that's a small class of lawyers to be laid back. And you're such a true leader. And you make it look easy. And so, I just want to thank you for your time here in the General Assembly. I'm so glad I got to know you and got to serve with you. And I know you're going to make us really proud to be the head of the Department of Insurance. So, we're lucky as a State to have you. And I don't know who's going to take over the Medicaid group but thank you for waking me up and having me address you at 7 in the morning. You definitely made me a better person. So, thank you much quiet storm, and I'll be seeing you soon.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 95  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 President Harmon, do you wish to close?

Thank you, Mr. President. I'm going to ask the Senate historian to determine whether we've ever had so many speakers on a retirement resolution. That's something we could quantify, but -- but Ann, what you can't quantify is the -- the emotional depth of the comments today, not a courtesy speech among them. And that's a testament to your impact here. So, I'll close where I began, once a Senator, always a Senator. We're thrilled to have you move on to an exciting new chapter that you're eager to take on, but you will always be one of us. God bless you. Break a leg. And congratulations. Mr. President, I ask that we rise in support of the motion.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Harmon moves for the adoption of Senate Resolution 910. All those in favor will please rise. The motion is adopted. And perhaps for a last time, maybe not. I'm going to call on Senator Gillespie, for what purpose do you seek recognition?

Point of personal privilege.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) State your point.

Wow. You know, I'll be -- I know we got to get out of here. But I first off, I want I really want to thank all of the staff we have here in the General Assembly. We couldn't do any of this without you. And when I would get asked shortly after I was elected, I would get asked, what is the best surprise you got there? And I always said, I was overwhelmed by the professionalism 96  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024 and the strength of the staff that we have here. So, thank you, policy, communications, legal couldn't… Will say this, if you're ever looking for a change, you know where to find me.

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) That may be out of order.

Okay. Moving on. Moving on, moving on. I am -- I am so thankful for the unexpected journey that has brought me here. It's the best job I have ever had. You can learn so much here. I've had the opportunity to visit Safety Net hospitals, Critical Access hospitals across the State and learn their challenges. I've traveled to meet farmers and saw their incredible knowledge and stewardship of some of our most valuable resources in the State. I've toured -- toured men's and women's prisons and learned of the tragic stories that have led people there and saw the challenging jobs that the workers there have. I've met with small business owners and manufacturers and saw their pride in what they make. I've learned way more about TIFS than I ever wanted to, and I want to apologize for everybody I stressed out with TIFS. You know, we all come here from many different walks of life, but what brought us here was the desire to make Illinois a better place. And we have the chance to impact so many lives with what we do here. Be grateful for that. It can be hard, I know. It's never ending Committee hearings, near all-nighters in May, the just sheer exhaustion of the job. But you make a real difference, here, in so many ways subtle and great. I'm grateful the people of the 27th District sent me here. I'm grateful for knowing and working with you all. And I'm incredibly grateful for the privilege of being an Illinois State Senator. Thank you. 97  STATE OF ILLINOIS 103rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 98th Legislative Day 4/12/2024

PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Not to be mundane, but WCIA seeks leave of the Body to video and audio. Leave is granted. We will now proceed to the Order of Consent Calendar Congratulatory Resolutions. Mr. Secretary, have there been any objections filed to any resolutions on the Consent Calendar?

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 say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries and the resolutions are adopted. We'll now proceed to the Order of Consent Calendar Celebration of Life Resolutions with leave of the Body all those resolutions read into day will be added to the Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, are there any objections filed to any resolutions on the Consent Calendar?

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 say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries, and the resolutions are adopted. There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until noon on the 16th day of April 2024. The Senate stands adjourned. 98