PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The regular Session of the 104th General Assembly will please come to order. Will the Members please be at their desk? Will our guests in the galleries please rise? The invocation today will be given by Imam Hassan Aly, Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago.
IMAM HASSAN ALY: (Invocation)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Johnson, please lead us in the Pledge.
SENATOR JOHNSON: (Pledge of Allegiance)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Lisa Yuscius, Blueroomstream request permission to video stream, leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Tuesday, April 8th, 2025.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Glowiak Hilton.
Madam President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal just read by the Secretary, pending arrival of the printed transcripts.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Glowiak Hilton moves to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal pending arrival of the printed transcripts, there being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senate Resolution 216, offered by Senator Erica Harriss and all Members. It is celebration of life resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Resolution Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 217, offered by Senator Collins. It is congratulatory.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Edly-Allen, Chair of the Committee on Higher Education, reports Senate Bill 1475 Do Pass, and Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1958, Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Martwick, Chair of the Committee on Pensions, reports Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1455, and Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1456, Recommend Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cunningham, for what purpose do you rise?
To offer a motion, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your motion, Senator.
Madam President, on April 4th, Senate Bills 2105 and 2426 were part of a motion creating an Agreed Bill List. I move that Senate Bills 2105 and 2426 be removed from the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Readings Agreed Bill Senate List and placed back on the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Is there any discussion? Seeing none, Senator Cunningham moves that Senate Bill 2105 and Senate Bill 2426 be removed from the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading Agreed Senate Bills List and placed back on the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. Mr. Secretary, please print the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading Agreed Senate Bill List with those bills removed. Supplemental Calendar No. 1 has been printed and distributed. It reflects the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading Agreed Senate Bill List. It will be voted on today. Senator Arellano Jr., what purpose do you rise?
For an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) State your introduction, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President. Today I am very proud to welcome our 67th Miss Illinois County Fair Queen to the Senate Floor. Johnna Fulcher of Geneseo was crowned Miss Henry County Fair Queen last summer, earning her place in the State Fair Queen contest this past January, where -- where she was named Miss Illinois County Fair Queen 2025. She is the daughter -- daughter of Margo and David Hohe, and currently attends Black Hawk College, where she will graduate this spring. After graduation, she plans to attend Illinois State University for a career in marketing. Over the next several months, Queen Johnna will serve as an Ambassador for Illinois Agriculture, traveling to nearly 30 county fairs across the State. She will also serve as the official hostess of both the Illinois State Fair and the DuQuoin State Fair. 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Agriculture is at the heart of who we are here in Illinois. It is not just our top industry, it's a way of life for so many families across the State and across my district. Queen Johnna's role goes far beyond the crown, she's here to shine a spotlight on the hard work, dedication, and impact of our farmers and ag communities and to help share their stories at fairs and events all year long. Johnna is an accomplished athlete, having played soccer for the past 16 years. She's also a youth basketball coach, football coach, and avid runner. She has for over a half a decade been a public servant locally working at the local park district. Outside of sports, she enjoys cooking with her grandmother and playing the baritone ukulele. She is the proud older sister to three younger brothers. We are truly blessed to have such an outstanding individual representing Illinois Agriculture. Please join me in welcoming from the 37th Senate District. Miss Illinois County Fair Queen 2025, Johnna Fulcher. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome. Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Rose, for what purpose do you rise?
Other than wishing you a wonderful day, Madam President, I do have an introduction, if I may.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Rose. Will do, please state your announcement.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm deeply honored today to have a friend of mine with us who has represented our great State on the national stage. Miss RaeAnne Lindsay, right here, is your Miss 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Wheelchair USA 2024-2025. She is finishing up her reign as Queen of the National Wheelchair USA Competition. She had a platform of accessible playgrounds for all. I've known her and her dad Bob, who's here somewhere behind us for a long time. They're from Fisher, Illinois. In fact, I think I met them the first time when I went to talk to one of Bob's social studies classes. But RaeAnne has made history for our State, becoming the -- the first back- to-back champ in 30 years to win the Miss Wheelchair USA Crown. She is a graduate of the University of Illinois with Bachelor's and Master's degree. She also currently works at Vanderbilt University, coordinating the 504 plans for students with disabilities at Vanderbilt University. She is so passionate about advocacy, accessibility, and empowering others. Beyond that, she's one of the nicest people you'd ever meet. My wife and I have had the true pleasure of volunteering at Tim Tebow's Night to Shine for several years now. She was always there, returning from Vanderbilt to cheer on the folks as they come through the receiving line. And she also just remembered me that we always bump into each other at Menards on Black Friday. But, Ladies and Gentlemen, I could not be more pleased to -- to introduce a true leader and advocate for our State, and a wonderful champion and spokeswoman, Queen RaeAnne Lindsay. Let's welcome her, if we may.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome to the General Assembly, congratulations. Nice to have you. Senator Villa, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President, for an announcement. Today I have the honor of presenting one of my college interns, who will be graduating in May with a Bachelor's in Social Work from Aurora 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 University. After graduation, Machelle is seeking to join the macro field of social work by working on public policies. Machelle is passionate about working on policies that uplift our immigrant, LGBTQ+, and working-class communities across the State of Illinois and eventually across the country. In her free time, Machelle likes to practice self-care by watching movies of all types, hanging out with her friends, and playing with her dog, Charlie. Machelle's of Peruvian heritage and keeps her family's traditions and customs alive by listening to Peruvian music of all kinds -- all kinds, and learning more about Peruvian history from her family and loved ones. As the only social worker in the Senate, I'm always proud to have amazing college social work interns working to help out our constituents in the 25th District. I ask that you all give Machelle a warm Springfield welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome Machelle, to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Guzmán, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR GUZMÁN: Thank you, Madam President. I rise for an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement, Senator. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Hello, everyone. I'm really happy to be able to introduce my Page for a Day, Jesus Medina. Jesus comes from a district just adjacent to mine, Senator Omar Aquino's District. He is a senior at ITW David Speer Academy, a noble charter school. We have spent the morning together, deep diving into policy and organizing in so many topics, and I can already tell that he's a brilliant mind. He is an applicant to the Naval Academy with an interest in being a 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 fighter pilot in the future. He is a proud first-generation Mexican American who will be attending UI Champaign in the fall, and I'm just so pleased to have him and hope that you all can help me welcome him. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Nice to have you. Senator Anderson, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of an announcement, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement, Senator.
I just want to bring it to everybody's attention tonight is the Illinois State Association -- Ambulance Association Lobby Day at Saputo's, from 5 to 8. This is a group that's pretty near and dear to me, being a professional fireman and been in EMS for over 20 years. These are the folks that are there that -- that respond to -- to the calls, that -- is somebody's worst day and they do it day in and day out. So, if you have time, please stop by. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President, for purposes of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement, Senator.
Thank you. I would like to remind everyone that tomorrow 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 morning at seven-thirty is the Manufacturers Caucus, as well, seven-thirty breakfast at Arlington's. Tomorrow the panel will consist of companies from the pharmaceutical industry discussing issues that concern them. So, if you can attend, we would love to see you in the morning. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Doris Turner, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President, I have an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement, Senator.
Today is the best day of the year. It's Ag Day and you see all of the young people running around with their blue corduroy jackets on FFA members and 4H-ers. So, if you have a chance, stop and tell them hello and give them an opportunity to tell you how wonderful Ag is in Illinois. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. We welcome AG Day. Senator Doris Turner, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I have -- I have someone here, and I was just talking about the wonderful young people that are running around the Capitol today. So here with me, I have Nicholas Miller. He's 9 years old. He's from Decatur Academy Excellence, (Decatur Township School for Excellence) and he is Senator Lightford's Page for a Day. And I know that she will take really good care of him. 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome, Nicholas, to the Illinois General Assembly. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please come to the Senate Floor for Floor action. We will begin with Senate Bill 2nd Reading. We will then go to our Agreed Bill List, followed by 3rd Readings. Senators, please come to the Senate Floor for Floor action. Thank you. Senator Bryant, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President, for the purpose of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your introduction, Senator.
Thank you. Members of the Senate, I have with me today my grandson, Spencer. You may remember last week, Spencer's twin, Hunter, was here. So, they have a lot of things in common. Hunter, I told you about plays -- plays baseball - basketball. Spencer does, as well, plays basketball, plays baseball. But, he is kind of our science guy, so, he had a great conversation, yesterday, with Senator McClure talking about Apollo 11. And today, he was able to join me over at the Governor's Mansion for Makers Madness. So got to see one of my constituents present one of the four finalists that's going to be doing some oil cleanup with robotics. So, he's had a great time here yesterday, and today. And fourth grade at Opdyke Belle Rive. I think he intends to join one of the military branches, where, I'm quite positive, he will enter as an officer and end up here, in the Senate, eventually. So, help me welcome my grandson, Spencer Heinzmann.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Nice to have you with grandma. Okay. We are now headed to the top of the Order of 2nd Readings on page 2 of the Calendar. Please turn your Calendars to the top of page 2, we will begin with Senate Bill 25. Senate Bill 25, Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 25, an Act concerning regulation. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Public Health adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 191, Senator Morrison. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1274, Senator Glowiak Hilton. Out of the record. Senator Guzmán, on Senate Bill 1298. Please read the lady's bill.
Senate Bill 1298, an Act concerning public aid. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Health and Human Services adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Guzmán.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Guzmán, on your amendment. 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 SENATOR GUZMÁN: To adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1417, Senator McClure. Out of the record. Senator Martwick, on Senate Bill 1455. Senator Martwick, please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 1455, an Act concerning public employee benefits. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Martwick.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martwick, on your amendment.
Thank you, Madam President. I would move for adoption of the amendment and seek to explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Feigenholtz, on Senate Bill 1559. Senator Feigenholtz. Out of the record. Senator Feigenholtz, on Senate Bill 1560. Out of the record. Senator Morrison, on Senate Bill 1602. Please read the lady's bill.
Senate Bill 1602, an Act concerning health. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Health and Human Services adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Morrison.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Morrison, on your amendment.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to adopt and discuss on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Martwick, on Senate Bill 1692. Please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 1692, an Act concerning public employee benefits. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Morrison, on Senate Bill 1773. Please read the lady's bill.
Senate Bill 1773, an Act concerning criminal law. 2nd Reading of the bill. Committee on Criminal Law adopted Amendment No. 4.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Had there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Feigenholtz, on Senate Bill 1844. Out of the record. Senator Loughran Cappel, on Senate Bill 1943. Senator Loughran Cappel, on Senate Bill 1943. Out of the record. Senator Peters, on Senate Bill 1976. Out of the record. Senator Cervantes, on Senate Bill 2008. Cervantes. Out of the record. Senator Stadelman, on Senate Bill 2012. Out of the record. Senator Stadelman, on Senate Bill 2013. Out of the record. Senator Holmes, on Senate Bill 2180. Senator Holmes. Out of the record. Senator Peters, on Senate Bill 2258. Please read the gentleman's bill. 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
Senate Bill 2258, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Energy and Public Utilities adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Ellman, on Senate Bill 23 -- excuse me, Senator Simmons, on Senate Bill 2285. Please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 2285, an Act concerning transportation. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Transportation adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Ellman, on Senate Bill 2310. Please read the lady's bill.
Senate Bill 2310, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Hills, on Senate Bill 2381. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2381, an Act concerning criminal law. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Criminal Law adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Hills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hills, on your amendment.
Yes. Adopt -- talk it on 3rd Reading. Discuss on 3rd Reading. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 3rd Reading. Senator Ellman, on Senate Bill 2401. Out of the record. Senator Villivalam, on Senate Bill 2405. Please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 2405, an Act concerning regulation. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Morrison, on Senate Bill 2415. Out of the record. With leave of the Body, we will return to Senate Bill 2423. Senate Bill 24 -- 2505. Senator Morrison, on Senate Bill 2505. Out of the record. Senator Peters, for what purpose do you rise?
I rise for a point of introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your introduction point, Senator.
Madam President, Members of the Senate, I rise today with great pride to recognize and celebrate two outstanding high school basketball teams who brought excitement and inspiration to their schools and communities throughout the 2024-2025 season. First, I want to congratulate the Kenwood Academy Girls' Basketball Team, who made history on Saturday, March 8th, by winning the first ever IHSA Class 4-A State Championship for the Broncos program in a commanding 65-44 victory over Palatine's William Fremd High School. The Kenwood Lady Broncos capped off an extraordinary season with an impressive 35 to 3 record, setting a new standard for athletes across the State with their skill and teamwork. And also in my district, I'm proud to recognize Walter H. Dyett Boys' 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Basketball Team, who brought home their own historic win by capturing the IHSA Class 2-A State Championship on Saturday, March 15th in a thrilling 52 to 41 triumph over Belleville's Althoff Catholic High School. The Dyett Eagles secured the school's first ever State title, finishing the season with a 27 to 7 record. Their journey, marked by perseverance, is a testament to the power of dedication and community spirit. Both of these victories are more than just wins on the court. They represent what is possible when young people are supported, encouraged and given the opportunity to excel. I ask for everyone to join me in welcoming Kenwood Academy, Lady Broncos and the Walter H. Dyett, Eagles to Springfield and congratulate them on their remarkable achievements.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Kenwood. Welcome to the General Assembly. Thank you for your hard work. Senator Preston, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Point of privilege. Point of announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) State your announcement, Senator.
Today there's a very special day in the Preston household as I celebrate the anniversary, the 21st year my wife, Brittany and I, have been together. Today is our anniversary. Happy Anniversary to my lovely wife, Brittany. And it's also, a day to change my life. Because our daughter, Elizabeth Preston turned 17 years old today. So, happy birthday, happy, happy birthday Lizzie. Hope you have a wonderful day, sweetheart. Thank you. 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Happy Anniversary. Happy birthday, baby girl. Senator Villivalam, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Purposes of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I am pleased to let you know that the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago is having its annual Legislative Day today. The District's Board of Commissioners will be in the Capitol this afternoon. And they're hosting a reception this evening and a continental breakfast on Thursday morning. The reception tonight is at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel from 5 to 7 in the Lincoln Room, and the Thursday breakfast is from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. in Room M-1 of the Stratton Building. All legislators are invited to attend both events, and let's give the District -- District Board of Commissioners a warm Springfield welcome. Thank you, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator, and welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Peter Hancock, Capitol News Illinois request permission to record photo. Leave is granted. As -- 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 Supplemental Calendar No. 1. The Order of Senate Bills 3rd Readings Agreed Senate Bill List. Mr. Secretary, please read the bills on the Agreed Bill List for a 3rd time. 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
Senate Bill 26, an Act concerning civil Law. Senate Bill 27, an Act concerning families. Senate Bill 31, an Act concerning courts. Senate Bill 90, an Act concerning State government. Senate Bill 104, an Act concerning civil Law. Senate Bill 119, an Act concerning health. Senate Bill 128, an Act concerning animals. Senate Bill 224, an Act concerning safety. Senate Bill 243, an Act concerning government. Senate Bill 1230, an Act concerning State government. Senate Bill 1249, an Act concerning transportation. Senate Bill 1289, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 1301, an Act concerning State government. Senate Bill 1344, an Act concerning employment. Senate Bill 1376, an Act concerning education. Senate Bill 1383, an Act concerning civil law. Senate Bill 1418, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 1443, an Act concerning civil law. Senate Bill 1446, an Act concerning State government. Senate Bill 1491, an Act concerning local government. Senate Bill 1524, an Act concerning criminal law. Senate Bill 1548, an Act concerning local government. Senate Bill 1550, an Act concerning local government. Senate Bill 1563, an Act concerning civil law. Senate Bill 1583, an Act concerning education. Senate Bill 1584, an Act concerning education. Senate Bill 1594, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 1605, an Act concerning education. Senate Bill 1614, an Act concerning finance. Senate Bill 1672, an Act concerning education. Senate Bill 1675, an Act concerning State government. Senate Bill 1738, an Act concerning civil law. Senate Bill 1742, an Act concerning safety. Senate Bill 1752, an Act concerning public employee benefits. Senate Bill 1764, an Act concerning State government. Senate Bill 1774, an Act concerning public aid. Senate Bill 1777, an Act concerning finance. 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senate Bill 1883, an Act concerning transportation. Senate Bill 1941, an Act concerning transportation. Senate Bill 1983, an Act concerning education. Senate Bill 1989, an Act concerning local government. Senate Bill 1994, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 1999, an Act concerning transportation. Senate Bill 2102, an Act concerning revenue. Senate Bill 2129, an Act concerning State government. Senate Bill 2179, an Act concerning transportation. Senate Bill 2220, an Act concerning civil law. Senate Bill 2280, an Act concerning safety. Senate Bill 2323, an Act concerning human trafficking. Senate Bill 2351, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 2394, an Act to revise the law by combining multiple enactments and making technical corrections. Senate Bill 2408, an Act concerning safety. Senate Bill 2455, an Act concerning conservation. Senate Bill 2457, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 2492, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 2493, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 2494, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 2495, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 2496, an Act concerning regulation. And Senate Bill 2503, an Act concerning regulation. Senate Bill 2506, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The next roll call will be on the final passage of the Senate Bills just read by the Secretary. The question is, shall Senate Bills on the Agreed Bill List 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. For those who filed vote intention slips with the Secretary of the Senate declaring his or her intent to vote No, 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 present or abstain, the record will appropriately reflect the Senator's voting intention. The Senate Bills on the Agreed Bill List, having received a constitutional majority by record vote, is declared passed. The record vote for each bill shall be entered into the Journal. Ladies and Gentlemen, please turn your Calendars to page 3, the bottom of page 3. We are beginning with Senate Bills 3rd Reading. Senator Murphy, on Senate Bill 69. Senator Murphy. The lady indicates she will proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 69, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Murphy.
Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chairman -- Madam President. So, Senate Bill 69, as amended, makes following changes to individual group or accident health plan to provide coverage for hypnotherapy, which is also known as equine therapy. Horses have become very effective in the treatment of PTSD for veterans, autism for children and as amended this makes some technical changes to the underlying bill that would provide coverage. So, I know of no opposition and I'm happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 69 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 52 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 2 voting Present. Senate Bill 69, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 71, Senator Murphy, on Senate Bill 71. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 71, an Act concerning safety. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Murphy.
Madam President, Senate Bill 71 is in a response to a train derailment in Ohio by a school. So, we found out that our schools don't really have a plan in place should a disaster of that nature occur. And we needed to have something to prevent them -- to know how to respond to this kind of hazardous material spill. So, this bill creates the Local Response Planning Officials from the State Emergency Response Commission to create a plan so students have an effective evacuation should this type of rail disaster occur. Again, I know of no opposition, but I'm happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 71 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 71, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator DeWitte, for what purpose do you rise? 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
Thank you, Madam Chair. I would ask the record to reflect my Aye vote on Senate Bill 71. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The record will reflect your intention, Senator. Please turn your Calendars to the top of page 4. To the top of page 4, on Senate Bills 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 175, Senator Fine. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 175, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Fine.
Thank you, Madam President. This legislation would require State health plans, Medicaid and private insurers to cover tests to diagnose Klinefelter syndrome. Many times, this is not diagnosed until adulthood and can lead to infertility. I know of no opposition and request your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 175 pass? All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 voting Yea, 1 voting Nay, 3 voting Present. Senate Bill 175, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. WAND request permission to record and audio. Leave is granted. Senate Bill 188, 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senator Halpin. Senator Halpin seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 188 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 188. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Halpin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Halpin.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and debate the bill on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Absolutely, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now, on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 188. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 188, an Act concerning mental health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Halpin.
Thank you, Madam President. So, this bill, the -- the underlying statute was actually my first bill when I served over 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 in the House, the first bill that I was able to pass. It was a pilot program at the time to allow Iowa mental health patients to be committed in Rock Island County facilities right across the river, rather than send those patients at the time, halfway across the State of Iowa, away from their family and their support networks and other medical providers. And so this bill, now, extends the sunset on that date and the amendment that we -- amendment that we adopted, effectively, changes the name. So, it's no longer a pilot program, it is a full standing program and will continue until the new sunset date. I would cautiously answer any questions, and I would ask for your favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is… Is there any discussion? Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 188 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 188, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 189, Senator Halpin. Senator… Out of the record. Senator Fine, on Senate Bill 212. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 212, an Act concerning employment. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Fine.
Thank you, Madam President. This legislation requires 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 employers to give paid break time for nursing mothers to express their milk.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 212 pass. All those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 voting Yea, 3 vote Nay, 1 voting Present. Senate Bill 212, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Morrison, on Senate Bill 291. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 291, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Morrison.
Thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. This bill creates the One Health Commission to develop a strategic plan to promote collaboration between physicians, veterinarians, and other professionals to create cohesive plans to handle diseases and health risks that are risk to both humans and animals. There is no opposition. I would appreciate, an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 291 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? 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 291, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we will turn our Calendars to the Order of page 8. Please go to Senate Bills 3rd Reading page 8. Very bottom of the page, Senator Koehler. Senator Koehler, on Senate Bill 408. Senator Koehler. Out of the record. Please turn your Calendars to page 25. Fast forward please to page 25, middle of the page, on Senate Bill 849. There has been a change in sponsorship. Sponsorship has been changed to Senator Joyce. Senator Joyce, on Senate Bill 849. Would you like to proceed, sir? Senator Joyce seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 849 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 849. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Joyce.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Joyce.
Thank you, Madam Chair. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, is Senate Bill 849. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 849, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Joyce.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 849 simply takes the ag industry's ability to have farm-related and ag-related CDLs from 180 days to 210 days. With the unpredictable weather and the different challenges that fertilizer companies and -- and ag people have with getting their product to and out of the field. This is a necessary bill, and it's another tool that our farmers need, so I appreciate any support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 849 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 849, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to correct the record. Senate Bill 212, I was recorded as a Yes, and I wish to be recorded as a No. It was the extra paid time for breastfeeding 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 bill. Some of us were caught off guard, and I meant to speak against it. Certainly believe in breastfeeding, but I don't believe that this bill is good and that it adds extra time…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator. Senator, we're not speaking to the bill and the record will reflect your intentions, thank you. Ladies and Gentlemen, please turn your Calendars to page 37, page 37. Senate Bill 1195, Senator Edly-Allen. Senator Edly-Allen. The lady indicates that she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, 1195. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1195, an Act concerning government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Edly-Allen.
Thank you, Madam Chair. Presenting, Senate Bill 1195 ,Trauma Informed Response or Anna's law. Senate Committee Amendment 2 deletes all and becomes the bill. This bill amends the Illinois Police Training Act to add trauma informed programs, procedures, and acts to police training, as well as training on identifying conflicts of interest and how police can address these conflicts of interest. First, Madam President, I want to give a little data that according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, one in every five women will experience sexual violence in their lifetime. Ninety-one percent of victims of rape and sexual assault are female, and 9 percent are male. While these statistics are startling, rape is the most underreported crime. In fact, 63 percent of all sexual assaults are not reported to police. When 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 victims do come forward, law enforcement must use utmost care and come from a position of trauma informed procedures and practices. And that is what Senate Bill 1195 attempts to address. I have worked with the Illinois State Police, Illinois Sheriffs, LSP and the Illinois Chiefs of Police. Under the current language, Senate Bill 1195 with Senate -- Senate Committee -- Committee Amendments…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Shhhhhhhhh! Thank you. Please proceed.
Thank you. With the Senate Committee Amendment No. 2, they have moved from opposition to neutral. This legislation is an initiative of Anna Williams, a constituent of a nearby district, who reported to me that she had a negative experience with police when filing her sexual report. As a teacher, it's extremely important to me to come from a position of helping people learn and grow. The intent of this bill is to focus attention on how law enforcement handles survivors of sexual assault. While we have come a long way, there is much work to be done to address this issue. And when we know better, we do better. And I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1195 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1195, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1231, Senator -- Senator Loughran Cappel. The lady 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 indicates she wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1231, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Loughran Cappel.
Thank you, Madam President. As amended, this bill seeks to allow school districts 7 school days, rather than 5 calendar days{sic} (14 days), to initiate an impartial due process hearing. In response to a parent or guardian's request for an independent educational evaluation of their child. It also allows those conducting independent educational evaluations at public expense to be completed within 60 days, rather than 30 days after a parent requests an independent educational evaluation. Happy to take any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1231 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1231, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. On the top of page 38, ladies and gentlemen, Senate Bills 3rd Reading. Senator McClure, on Senate Bill 1256. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator McClure seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1256 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1256. 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator McClure.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure, on your amendment, please.
I ask to adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1256. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 1256, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McClure.
Thank you, Madam President. This is a bill that came to me from a constituent. And essentially what happens is that every year for a person to receive a disability license plate or a placard, they have to prove that they are disabled. Well, people that are permanently disabled have to do this every single year, 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 and it's really a burden. And I'm glad that Miss Wheelchair USA was here because I brought this bill to her attention and she talked about, "Oh my gosh, every single year". So, this bill makes it so that if someone has a permanent disability, they just have to verify that once every five years. And so these people need our support, need our help. And I think this will make their lives a little bit easier if we can get this passed. So I'd be happy to take any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1256 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1256, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1288, Senator Turner. Senator Sally Turner. Senator Turner seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1288 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1288. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Sally Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Turner, on your amendment.
Thank you, Madam President. Adopt amendment, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Yes. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now, on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1288, Senator Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the lady's bill.
Senate Bill 1288, an Act concerning health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Turner.
President and I'm sorry for my little delay, it was a fast walk. Anyway, I'm going to talk about Senate Bill 1288, and a lot of you are familiar with this. This is a bill about enhancing our public health. And the bill I have proposed amends the allergen awareness training statute by including gluten. Which has a lot to do with celiac disease. That training would be included in the requirements for food service training. We have no objection. And also, the Department of Public Health is with us on this, and they added sesame oil to the allergens as well. So, I would appreciate your vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1288 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 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1288, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We will return to the Order of Senate Bills -- Senate Bill 1310 on page 38, Senator Halpin. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1310, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Halpin, on your bill.
Thank you, Madam President. This bill is an initiative of Western Illinois University. They're in the process of making sure they're able to fund operations going forward. They have an agreement with their foundation to be able to borrow some funds, for this upcoming summer and academic year. But this change in statute was needed to make sure that that was authorized. The money will be repaid within 5 years. I'll answer any questions with a healthy dose of skepticism. And I would ask for your Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Go, Leathernecks. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1310 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted -- 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1310, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Cunningham, on Senate Bill 1348. Senator Cunningham. Out of the 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 record. Senate Bill 1380, Senator Curran. Senator Curran, on Senate Bill 1380. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1467, Senator Villivalam. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1467, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1467 is this year's Vehicle Services Omnibus Bill from the Illinois Secretary of State. I know of no opposition, it passed out of committee unanimously. I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1467 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 37 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1467, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1507, Senator Feigenholtz, on Senate Bill 1507. Out of the record. The bottom of page 38 -- Senate Bill 1519, Senator Villa. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, she seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1519 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1519. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration? 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Villa.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Villa.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1519 is a bill that talks about…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) On the amendment, Senator.
Can I adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Absolutely, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1519. Mr. Secretary, please read the lady's bill.
Senate Bill 1519, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Villa -- on -- your bill.
Thank you, Madam President. Okay, as a former school social worker, I had the privilege of working closely with students and 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 families to address students' behavior. Disciplinary action, such as ticketing has not and will not ever address the root cause of these behaviors. The practice of issuing tickets instead of transferring -- instead transfers the responsibility of paying the ticket to families, which can create an overwhelming financial hardship for all types of working-class families. In Illinois, we have seen the practice of student ticketing not only increase by the thousands of tickets, but we've also seen an increase of negative impact on students of color. And they are twice, actually twice, as likely, to receive a fine, than their white counterparts. Senate Bill 1519 is a long overdue piece of legislation that will hold school districts accountable and ensure that we look to equitable practices to address student misbehavior. We need to be able to meet students where they're at and create a positive and uplifting environment. This bill has been fully negotiated with ISBE and the Debt Free Coalition, as well as other stakeholders to ensure we're addressing discipline fines in an equitable manner, while still allowing law enforcement to properly determine, if an offense, constitutes a crime. I'm happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I would like to speak to the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
I, certainly, respect the sponsor's intent, but I do think 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 this bill will have some unintended negative consequences that I'd like to point out. I consider this legislation to be flawed, often these fines and fees are used as disciplinary measures to avoid greater charges -- greater charges, for example, the Chiefs of Police are concerned that this will force them to place previously, unnecessary, criminal charges on students who commit criminal or juvenile acts on school grounds, because they can no longer issue the smaller fines. I don't think that's what this legislation is intended to do, but it does. There are situations like fights on school grounds or property damage and the like, that currently could be resolved by campus police with an ordinary violation, such as a fine, or citation, or fee. However, this legislation would prevent the de-escalation and require, in many instances, law enforcement to, instead, issue a criminal charge, instead, of just a citation or fine, which is often much more damaging to the student than a small fine. So, with that -- reason of what I consider the unintended consequences, I would urge a No vote because I think the fines are much less severe, than criminal charges, that might become necessary. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any further discussion? Seeing none. Senator Villa, to close.
Thank you, Madam President. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1519 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 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 37 voting Yea, 17 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1519, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Okay, with leave of the Body, we will return to Senate Bill 1348 on page 38, please. Senator Cunningham, the gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1348, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cunningham.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1348, amends the Counties Code. It creates a two tier filing fee structure for the service of civil process in Cook County. It's designed to encourage electronic filing of process by establishing a lower fee for online filings, and a higher fee for filing in person. I know of no opposition, would appreciate the Chamber's support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thanks, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1348 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 42 voting Yea, 12 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1348, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we will return to the Order of Senate Bills 13 -- 3rd Reading on Senate Bill 1380. Senator Curran, on Senate Bill 1380. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 read the bill.
Senate Bill 1380, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Curran.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1380 is at the request of some of my local police chiefs who are simply seeking to be able to utilize -- public owned poles, not private utility poles, public owned poles so IDOT, county, local for public safety equipment mounting. It does have a process in place, to ensure nothing's just being thrown up, but go through a systematic process of having these placed. I know of no opposition on it, and would certainly appreciate a favorable vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1380 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1380, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we will now go to the Order of 3rd Readings on page 39, top of page 39. Senator Sims, on Senate Bill 1537. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1537, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill. 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Sims.
Thank you, Madam President. As amended, Senate Bill 1537 creates a regulatory framework for "educational income share agreements" within the Student Loan Servicing Rights -- Servicing Rights Act. The bill caps monthly payments towards EFIAs at 8 percent of a person's income and sets income threshold of about 40 -- $47,000. The bill further requires that E-I-S-As providers clearly and conspicuously disclose the amount financed, the payment calculation method, the maximum number of payments, the maximum duration, the income threshold and itemization of the amount financed, and any additional fees and costs; the definition of income and the payment schedule. I know of no opposition and ask for a favorable roll call and answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is shall Senate Bill 1537 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1537, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1607, Senator Koehler. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1607, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senator Koehler.
Thank you, Madam President. This bill creates the Illinois Freedom Trail Commission Act and establishes the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission. The purpose of this Commission shall be to explore, research, and commemorate the journeys of freedom seekers in our State. A couple of years ago, we -- we passed a bill to create a Task Force on the Underground Railroad. I want to thank Senator Doris Turner and Senator Jill Tracy, for your involvement in the Underground Railroad Task Force. When the Task Force was - - was done with their report, that came to the legislature and the Governor, one of the things it recommended was an ongoing effort to really look at the history of the Underground Railroad and what freedom seekers had to do, to survive, in this State. And, the stories, we -- we heard from people from all parts of the State, in fact, our own doorman, where is Art? He -- he is involved in Jacksonville, there are -- there are places all over this State that are involved in looking at their own history and uncovering, really, the uniqueness that is Illinois. So, with -- with this effort is trying to do is combine all that into one place where we can all enjoy that. And I ask for your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I would also like to speak to this bill. It -- it was a pleasure…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill. To the bill, Senator. 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
To the bill. It was a pleasure to serve on this Commission. All of us get -- actually, it was a task force. All of us get appointed to commissions and task force. Not all of them are all that interesting, to be honest, but this was a fascinating one and I enjoyed every bit of it. This is truly a good part of Illinois's history that needs to be told, we learned a lot through the Commission and there's much more to unfold, every part of this State was -- affected by the freedom trails and this needs to be highlighted. And, so, I just urge everyone to support it. Likewise, I hope that we can have a funding mechanism. It wouldn't be a great amount of money, but this story needs to be told and it -- it makes Illinois proud of all the people that sought freedom here and the Illinoisans that helped them try to achieve that success in -- in searching for their freedom. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Further discussion? Senator Doris Turner, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
I was very, as Senator Tracy said, this was a task force that was very exciting and very educational. One of the things that I really -- appreciated the focus is that it was really focused more on the freedom seekers, rather than what usually happens with the other way around. It also explored and brought to light the various places around this State that were involved with 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 the Underground Railroad and those freedom seekers that you really had never thought about. And it lets you know that their journey was not on a straight trajectory, it really ended outed across the entire State. The other thing that I really liked about it, was that even though it was a task force that was created by the General Assembly, it really became more community led. And we had individuals that -- from all walks of life not just historians, not just academia's, but average, everyday citizens that really enjoy this part of Illinois's history that became involved and really started to take a real leadership role in the work that we were doing. This was their recommendation that came out of the report that we move forward with creating a Commission to finish that work. And I urge everyone to support with an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Further discussion. Senator Preston, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President. I just rise to give my full- throated support for this. As a descendant of American slaves, I am proud to have the opportunity to support a measure, such as this. This bill speaks to the resilience of African Americans, who were held in bondage, against our will and it celebrates and commemorates our resiliency, again. And so, I encourage every single Member in this Chamber to support this measure, because it 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 demonstrates that Illinois will always stand for freedom, will stand for truth, will stand for justice for all people. So, thank you so much. And thank you to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Koehler, to close.
Thank you for all those comments. I appreciate any support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1607 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 Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1607, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Ellman, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like the record to reflect my intent to vote Yes on Senate Bill 1380.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. The record will reflect your intentions. Senate Bill 1612. Senator Murphy, on Senate Bill 1612. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1612, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Murphy.
46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Thank you, Madam President. Ladies and -- Gentlemen, Senate Bill 1612, as amended, is an initiative of the Illinois Park Districts, and it simply gives them additional authority on increasing their bid amounts to keep pace with inflation and rising costs. In this bill, we're going to separate out, however, services and goods, which removes any of the opposition. I'm happy to answer any questions, but I know of -- all the opposition has been reconciled.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1612 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1612, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Cunningham, on Senate Bill 1701. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please -- Senator Cunningham seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1701 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1701. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Cunningham.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cunningham, on Floor Amendment No. 1, please.
Madam President, I do not wish to adopt Floor Amendment 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Cunningham.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cunningham, on Floor Amendment No. 2.
Thank you, Madam President. Floor Amendment No. 2 becomes the bill. It does make a -- a minor change to address some of the opposition of the bill, by adding ranks that would not be subject to collective bargaining. I move for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now, on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1701. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman's bill.
Senate Bill 1701, an Act concerning government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cunningham.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1701, as amended, amends the Illinois Public Labor Relations Act. It seeks to clarify within police agencies which officers in leadership roles are 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 permitted to gage in collective bargaining. And it does that by changing the definition of the word supervisor. Be happy to answer any questions, and I ask for the Chamber's support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1701 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 52 voting Yea, 2 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1701, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1740, Senator Edly-Allen, on -- the lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1740, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Edly-Allen.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1740 streamlines the Illinois School Code by eliminating unnecessary, duplicative, and overly burdensome mandates. We all know that public school teachers play a critical role in shaping our young minds and preparing them for the future. And as a former classroom teacher, I know firsthand how important it is to support our schools by removing outdated mandates. And that is what Senate Bill 1740 aims to accomplish. SB 1740 would also create the School Code Mandate Reduction Council to evaluate the 699 mandates introduced since 1982, an essential step toward improving our laws to fit with the evolving education 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 landscape. Senator Loughran Cappel and I worked with numerous education stakeholders over a period of several months to draft this bill. I would like to thank those stakeholders for their participation, as well as, Senate staffer, Liam Bower for the countless hours invested in this legislation, and I ask for a favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
Thank you. First of all, I would like to commend the sponsor on a job well done. This is a conversation and a topic that we have discussed for well over a decade, if not longer. And I commend you and your team and everybody who was at the table to truly go through the whole list of hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of mandates that schools have to abide by, instead of teaching our kids. So, every time we pass an unfunded mandate, realize there's somebody who supports that mandate. So, this is not an easy task. I do appreciate the sponsors. Thank you, Senator, for -- for taking this bill and also Senator Cappel, as well, for working on the bill for, I don't know, a better part of half a year; to go through and see what we can do to help our school districts and relieve them from many of these mandates, so they can do what they do best, and that's teach our children. Congratulations. I think that this is a great bill. Thank you. 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion. Senator Bryant, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield for a question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Sponsor indicates she’ll yield. Senator Bryant.
Thank you. Senator, in -- as a component of this bill, was a portion that talked about -- I -- I know it's mandate relief, but there's also a mandate that involves teaching consent and I think you negotiated some of that language. Can you just explain what the language says now?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Edly-Allen.
Thank you, Leader Bryant, for that question. Yes, as we know, the sexual education is permissive. This simply defines what consent is, if the district does do the sexual -- sex ed component.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Bryant.
Thank you. I believe that answers my question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Lewis, for what purpose do you rise.
To the bill, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 To the bill, Senator.
Also, today, rise in support of this bill. Thank you to the sponsor, thank you to Senator Cappel. Our education system is being crushed with mandates coming out of this Legislative Body. I know this firsthand, being married to an educator. I hope we go through this with a fine-tooth comb so that we can further educate, allow our teachers to do their jobs, and deliver a robust education. Thank you to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Further discussion? Senator DeWitte, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
Thank you. I just want to add my thanks to the sponsor. Senator, we had a long conversation about the consent language that was added to this particular piece of legislation. You said you'd make some changes; you'd narrow it down to the specific issues that have ended up in the bill. I just wanted to thank you for doing what you said you'd do, which I think is a trait we can all learn from in this Body. So, thank you for your good work.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Further discussion? If I were at my seat, I would commend you as well. Seeing none, Senator Edly-Allen, to close.
52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Thank you. Thank you for those comments. And I ask for a favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1740 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1740, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1793, Senator Ellman. The lady indicates she wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1793, an Act concerning health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Ellman.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1793, as amended, it amends the Crematory Regulation Act. It allows for the scattering of ashes into rivers, when a deceased individual is a member of a religion where the tenets of their faith require the scattering of that individual's cremated remains in water, they may scatter an Illinois river without the approval through the -- Department of Natural Resources' permit process as long as the remains meet certain provisions. I know of no opposition, and I request an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1793 pass. All those in favor 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 47 voting Yea, 4 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1793, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Villivalam, on Senate Bill 1779 -- 1799, excuse me. The gentleman indicates he wishes to proceed. He seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1799… One moment, the Senate will stand at ease. (at ease) Senator Villivalam seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1799 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1799. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Villivalam, on your amendment.
Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd Reading, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed. Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now, on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1799. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman's bill. 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 SECRETARY ANDERSON: start here Senate Bill 1799, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1799 is an initiative of the Illinois Education Association. As amended, it establishes a clear definition for emergency situation, in which a school board may hire third party non-instructional staff. It also extends the public hearings that are required by current law to apply to emergency contracts that are renewed. And then after, two emergency 90-day contracts, it requires the school district to speak with the collective bargaining unit -- unit, to seek a mutual agreement to continue further emergency contracts. Again, it's an initiative of the Illinois Education Association. This is our -- the amendment was our attempt to address as many concerns that were raised as possible, would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Wilcox, for what purpose do you rise?
The bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
So, want to thank the sponsor, certainly for the amendment that made the bill significantly better. I think there still is a slight concern, that after the emergency, and the public posting 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 and the discussions with collective bargaining, that if they can't come to a mutual agreement, there is the potential that then the -- the still emergency situation may not be deemed as such, and some non-instructional positions could go unfilled to the detriment of the student. But certainly appreciate the amendment, hope that we track this well and see how the results go, it may be, you know, mid next fall before we truly know for sure. But, wanted our side to know, there's still a slight concern on how this plays out.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Any further discussion? Seeing none. Senator Villivalam, to close.
Thank you. I want to thank the Senator from the other side of the aisle. Again, this was legislation brought to me by the Illinois Education Association to address specific concerns about emergency contracts not lasting 90 days, but -- or 180 days but years. And in order to -- to really change the dynamic of dealing with staffing shortages, we need to have this legislation in place. It does also push back the effective date to give school districts more time to adjust. But I believe in our -- our teachers and members of IEA, that they will look at these mutual agreements and ensure that there was no child that's detrimentally impacted. And I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1799 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 42 voting Yea, 8 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1799, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Koehler, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) On page 39, we're going to continue with 3rd Readings. We have Senate Bill at the bottom of page 39, is Senate Bill 1814, Senator Anderson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1814, an Act concerning health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I rise and ask for support of Senate Bill 1814, which establishes support and an educational initiative for AFE, also known as amniotic fluid embolism. This issue is extremely personal to me. My district operations staffer, Annie Hewitt, suffered from AFE following the birth of her son, Dolan in 2023. After being rushed in an -- into an emergency C- section, Annie went into cardiac failure. She later woke up on an operating table, unaware, as if she even -- if she even had delivered Dolan yet. She was then airlifted to the University of Iowa, where thankfully she survived. Because of Annie's rare survival story, she has made it her mission to raise awareness about AFE, and I couldn't be more proud to support her. AFE is extremely rare -- extremely rare, affecting approximately one in every 40,000 deliveries in the United States. Its cause remains unknown, and studies suggest the death rate may be as high as 60 percent. While AFE is rare, stories like Annie's allow us to take 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 action by promoting education through legislation right here in Illinois. I believe that more cases like Annie's come to light. We will raise awareness of possible symptoms and solutions that may help save lives. This legislation has been negotiated with the Department. I know of no opposition, and I would ask for an Aye vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Sally Turner.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to thank the sponsor. So, I'll speak to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
I just want to say how much I appreciate Senator Anderson bringing this bill. Just recently, my daughter's best friend, the same exact thing happened to her, but she lived but her baby died. So, I had never heard of it before until that happened to her. And then Neil brought this, Senator Anderson brought this to us. It's so important that we recognize this. And also, my -- one of my State Representatives and my other half in the 87th District is Representative Doctor Bill Hauter. And he has seen some of these as well. So, it's just an eye-opening experience. And I'm really, really glad and I'm proud of the young lady that came here to testify. I know that was really difficult on her. So, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson, to close.
Just ask for an Aye vote, Mr. President. 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1814 pass. Those in favor vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 1814, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We will go to Senator Sally Turner. Do you -- for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to show an Aye -- a No vote on Senate Bill 1799, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. Senate Bill 1827, Senator Porfirio. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1827, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1827 allows fire protection districts to be added to the list of units of government that are allowed to use the design-build process.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1827 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 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 1827 having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're now on page 40 at the top of the page we have Senate Bill 1872, Senator Castro. I'm sorry. Skip that. Senate Bill 1899, Senator Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1899, an Act concerning safety. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1899 amends the Unified Code of Corrections to provide that First Time Weapons Offense Diversion Program (First Time Weapons Offense Program) participants can apply for a FOID card after receiving a court order demonstrating completion of the diversion program. Mr. President, I would -- I would add that this bill has no opposition, but it does have a -- a host of -- of -- unique set of -- of proponents to the bill, including the Illinois States -- the -- the Cook County State's Attorney, Illinois State Police, the Illinois State Attorneys Association, the Illinois State Rifle Association, the Cook County Public Defenders, and the Gun Violence Prevention PAC. As for -- I know of no other -- no opposition, but I'd ask for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1899 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 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 are 54 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 1899, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We'll go to Senate Bill 1909, Senator DeWitte. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1909, an Act concerning civil law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitte, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1909 amends the Eminent -- Eminent Domain Act. This bill provides for a quick-take proceeding that may be used for a period of one year. It's an initiative of the Kane County Department of Transportation. Many of you may know, Randall Road is a major north/south thoroughfare through Kane County. This project -- will allow a $25 million Infrastructure Improvement and Jobs Act grant to move forward to help cover the cost of this significant project. It is a realignment and grade separation that will increase capacity improvements along Randall Road, as well as, reduce congestion and improve safety with a grade separated crossing over the Canadian National Railroad. If there is such a thing as a friendly quick- take action, I would say this would fall into that category. All of the property owners have been notified that because of the expedited requirement to take this property, to allow this grant to move forward, all of these property owners have been notified. And like I said, if there's -- if there's ever been such a thing as a friendly quick-take Act, this would fall into that category. I'm aware of no objections. I'm happy to answer any questions. 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1909 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 53 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 1909, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We'll go to Senate Bill 1947, Senator Loughran Cappel. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Loughran Cappel seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1947 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1947. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Loughran Cappel.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel, to explain your amendment.
I need to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now, on the Order of 3rd Reading, is Senate Bill 1947. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senate Bill 1947, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel, to explain your bill.
Mr. President, as amended, this bill makes several changes to educator licensing exams and preparation programs. These changes support the development of educator preparation program partnerships between community colleges and public 4-year universities that creates an expedited paraprofessional educator preparation program for those with previous experience in training and updates out-of-state licensing reciprocity to ensure parity in teacher license testing. It also creates a new Advisory Committee to develop and implement a new Teacher Performance Assessment that is in line with the edTPA Task Force recommendations that were published in October 2024. I'm open for any questions, but I just want to add that this is something that was the work of a Task Force and several stakeholders coming together to put this bill together.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Balkema.
Thank you so much for this, Mr. Chairman. I appreciate Senator Cappel's discussion on this. And we went through a couple of iterations, and I think we've ended in a good spot. I had originally voted No, but I appreciate the hard work that she did. I want to make sure that we are extending every opportunity to folks to take these tests and the most efficient manner. And I think we're much better than we were before. So, I appreciate all 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 of the engagement. And I will be voting Yes now.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel, to close.
Thank you, Senator Balkema. I do appreciate your kind words and the work that we've done on this. This is something where many stakeholders have come together, Illinois Board of Education, and other entities, through the Task Force. And I just would appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1947 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 Yea, 2 voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 1947, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1950, Senator Ellman. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1950, an Act concerning health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1950, as amended, introduces new regulations for meal kit and ready to eat meal distribution facilities, requiring them to comply with food safety standards, including temperature control, health inspections and labeling requirements. It also grants the local health departments the authority to enforce these provisions and mandates the 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 facilities published food safety compliance information on their website. It also allows those local health departments to charge inspection fees to conduct their responsibilities as charged. I know of no opposition, and I request an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1950 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 Yea, 1 voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 1950, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We will go to Senate Bill 1953, Senator Doris Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1953, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Doris Turner, to explain your bill.
Mr. President, I would say that this is one of the most important bills that I've brought forward to this Chamber since I've been here. The murder of Sonya Massey at a Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy's hands shook my community and brought light to some of the unjust hiring practices within the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office. This is a bill that I've worked on since last summer with the Sheriff's Association and the Chiefs of Police, and towards the end, the Illinois State Police also became involved with it. Before I go any further, I really want to thank Ted Teros and Giovanni Randazzo. They have worked so, so very hard to get me 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 to this point. Since last summer, they've spent tireless hours, working with me, working with stakeholders, working with the law enforcement community, the Massey Commission and Sangamon County. And -- and we actually have a bill that, believe it or not, law enforcement is agreed -- agreed on. As amended, Senate Bill 1953 amends the Illinois Police Training Act and the Personnel Records Review Act to address law enforcement hiring practices at the State and local level. It provides that no law enforcement agency shall make an offer of employment to any officer without first requiring a signed release from the applicant, directing any previous employers to provide all of his or her employment records, including background investigations; duty-related physical and psychological examinations; work performance records; and criminal, civil, or administrative investigations of conduct; as well as any arrests; conviction; pleas of guilty; or pleas of nolo contendere. The bill also provides that a law enforcement personnel file shall entail the officer's complete employment file, including any disciplinary reports that are more than four years old. Moreover, it requires the producing law enforcement agency to verify that all responsive records that have been provided and none have been withheld. Additionally, the requesting law enforcement agency must receive and review all materials before making a final offer of employment. The bill also insulates from liability the producing law enforcement agency or private employer. Lastly, the bill amends the Sheriff's Merit System Law of Counties Code to provide that the county board of any county with a population of at least 75,000 which is currently at one million. Must (shall) adopt and implement by ordinance the merit system provided by the Sheriff's Merit System law. You know, having 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 worked on this, law enforcement -- law enforcement wants good officers on the street. They don't want bad officers out on the street. And I believe that with this legislation will go a long way to ensuring that what happened last summer, in my community, will not happen in another community. And we will have officers that are working hard to serve and protect our communities. Thank you and I'll take any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Wilcox.
Question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
Is there -- a precedent for this type of language for where we have significant concerns for public employees or is this the first that you know of this language coming about?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
I believe this is the first, I know that there's some precedent in the Police Trainings Act, but this is kind of carved out for law enforcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
So, this doesn't exist for the hiring of teachers or firemen or doctors or any other profession that you know of that serves the public. 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
Sorry. As far as I know, this is very specific to law enforcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further questions, Senator Rezin.
To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. Senator Turner, I would like to commend you on taking the lead on what was considered a tragedy and witnessed by everyone from across the country and the community who felt the pain, from this, you pulled together by forming an incredibly, a workgroup that their goal was to correct and make sure that this doesn't happen again. And as a result of it, you have several bills from the committee that you worked with in your community. And so, I commend you for that, because that takes a lot of time. And you and your staff, I know that you spend a tremendous amount of time here, and I would say that this bill is a very good bill, and that's why we're all going to support it here. I just wanted to make sure that, I stood up in support of your bill but also stood up in support of your leadership on this issue that touched the - 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 - touched the nation, and it truly did. So, this is a good bill. Thank you. You've spent a lot of time, you and your -- your staff on working on this, and I ask for an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Preston.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just -- to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
I just want to commend -- Senator Turner for this. This is something that, as my colleague on the other side of the aisle said, or suggested, had the potential to rip this nation up. Not just this town, not just the State of Illinois, but had the opportunity or the potential to rip this nation apart. I come from the activist community, largely activated on issues of police reform and the murders of black people across this City and State in this Country and saying that we could do better. And it's difficult because there are incredibly good people in law enforcement, and there are certainly terrible apples. And the terrible apples could sometimes represent the majority. But Senator Turner's leadership, working both with the community and people inside of law enforcement, gives us a template on how we address these issues and come together, regardless of what your political slant is, and say that a bad apple will not represent all of us, and that every person has a right to survive and call the police and end up alive after that incident. And so, we can do better. Senator Turner, you are a true champion, a true champion, and a leader in this country. And the way you handle this is 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 inspiring. I strongly encourage everybody to not just support this bill, but to view this for what it is. This is the greatest type of leadership we could do in these Chambers across this country. Thank you so much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, to close.
I want to -- I really want to thank everybody for the support that they have shown throughout this entire ordeal. When -- when this tragedy first happened, all of my colleagues reached out to offer their sympathy, offer their -- offer their condolences, and to literally say, what can we do? What can we do to be helpful? And your support of this legislation speaks volumes about your response and what you could do. And supporting it and voting Yes is a huge thank you from me and from my community. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1953 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 1953, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Down towards the bottom of the page we're going to go to Senate Bill 2019, Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2019, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison, to explain your bill. 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2019 includes electric motors over 10 horse power as relates to a Boating Safety Certificate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2019 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 44 voting Yea, 10 voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2019, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to Senate Bill 2044, Senator Balkema. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2044, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema, to explain your bill.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. I'm excited to present this bill. In the name of efficiency, this came to me from an idea in our District where we still had different chunks of government submitting or requesting wet signatures, followed by snail mail, which allowed a delay in the process. And in an era where we've got a whole lot of electronic and arguably a lot more safer ways to sign documents. This just really moves up the government, both at the municipal and at the county level, and allows us to be able to expediate in a more safe and secure fashion those signatures and break from the past. So, I would appreciate -- appreciated all 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 the support in the Executive Committee, and I would really appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there discussion? Senator Wilcox.
Question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he’ll yield.
Is there any requirement for web-based signatures to be in cursive?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
No, there is not. You can actually sign it. I would highly encourage cursive, but it's not required.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
Was there a generational discriminatory aspect of not requiring cursive?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
Most likely, so, I would say.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
Although my kids did not have the opportunity to learn 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 cursive, and I regret that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
How many automated digital signatures allow a wet signature, and what does that do to your screen?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
Can you repeat the question? I am flustered by the presence of standing next to you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
Yes. So, the question you talked about wet signatures, and I didn't know how many of the digital signature capabilities allow for a wet signature and what will that liquid or wetness-based aspect do to my screen?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
Through the secure process of the about 6 or 7 companies, there is no wet-ink involved whatsoever. It is, bits and bytes, zeros and ones passing through the atmosphere very, very quickly. And there is no ink involved. It's a -- it's a -- really, it's a savings. I'm surprised the ink industry did not oppose the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Some Members of this Chamber may take offense if there's only zeros and ones, because we have a lot of ones, we have a lot of tens. How do you handle that feeling that I've got to have some mixture of zeros and ones in the signature?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
Actually, Illinois, we are, of course, leading in the quantum computing, and so the days of only having zeros and ones are quickly behind us, because we're going to grow the data centers and we'll be able to do lots of different numbers and alphabets to move these signatures through even faster. Thank you for that question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox.
That was a surprisingly great answer. I'll -- I'll rest my case.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Chesney.
Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he’ll yield.
Thank you. Senator Balkema, you worked incredibly hard in your last election. When you went to your constituencies, did you push very hard and what got you over the edge was, these dry- ink/wet-ink bills. Was this -- was this what you campaigned on? 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Are you fulfilling a campaign promise today?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
Surprisingly, most of my district this was the number one issue. They didn't care about tax reduction or reversing moving trucks back. They really wanted to make sure that that signatures went through as fast as possible. So, I feel like when I passed this bill, I may be done in the legislature. I wouldn't know what else that my district could possibly want.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Chesney.
Well, I can't think of a more appropriate villain, for you, fulfilling a campaign promise when you went to the electorate and said that your first bill when you get to the Illinois State Senate is you are going to pass a Web-Based Signatures Act with unanimous support. Congratulations, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Sally Turner.
Question for the Sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he’ll yield.
So, Senator does this bill have anything to do with the Gray Fox?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema. 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
I was, realizing that in another discussion I needed to become a gray fox, for an example. And so, some of us remind me that I will always be the gray fox in the -- but, you know, the fox runs super-fast, and the fox will run about as fast as these signatures are going to fly through to be able to get to their destination. So, it's a great illustration.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
That's a really nice segue to get out of it, but a fox can live in a hole too, so you have to beware of that. However, I want to say that was such a fun thing that he took the shape -- the shape-shifter of a gray fox. Anyway, thank you, Senator Balkema.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Rose.
Senator Balkema, welcome. I see that this is doing a web- based signatures. Has Peter Parker weighed in on this bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
Tried to contact him but he didn't respond, surprisingly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rose.
Hold on, hold on. We're going to pass a bill without asking Spider-Man, himself, his opinion on Web-Based Signature Act? I mean, is he pro or con? We need to know this before we vote, 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senator?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
You know -- Chapin brings a great point. And if it's the Committee's desire I can hold the bill, try and make that contact, and come back better.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rose.
Oh, buddy, you just made a big mistake. Well, I would love to hear what Peter Parker has to say about this, but I look forward to supporting your bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he’ll yield.
Thank you. Well, first of all, obviously, this is Senator Balkema's first bill. So, welcome and congratulations. As my partner in crime, in Grundy County, it's always very nice -- we're honored to have you on the Floor. I want to know, so many years ago -- first of all, I'd like to know how did you get this bill? This is a great bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 I actually was close to Mr. President's territory, earlier this spring, in the Peoria area and we had a combination of state, and county, and city, and health departments represented. And it kind of came out of the collective discussion and we said, "Hey, wait", electronic is a whole lot more safer -- it's a whole lot more safer than, than the details. And so, from an overall perspective, it kind of grew out of -- out of morphosis in that discussion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. To the bill. I would just like to say that as when we're new here, typically we're given bills to -- for our first bill, they're usually easy bills. So, I just want to remind you, the first bill that I had to speak on was about roadkill and groundhogs. So, I can see, yes, I -- it should have been. Yes, it should have been. But you have a very good bill, and I know it comes from your background and everything that you've done as a former Chairman in Grundy County. Welcome to the Senate, my friend.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Morrison.
Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he’ll yield.
So, one very simple question. Can you please define web for us?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senator Balkema.
It is anything that uses the electronic internet connection of servers - with it move safely and securely, from one server to the next.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison.
So, why doesn't your bill say that? Web indicates to me we're talking about a duck's appendage or a spider web, or even the Portuguese water hound, which is known to have webbed feet. So, why aren't you being clearer in what we're voting for?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
In the spirit of continuous improvement. Senator Morrison makes an excellent point, and I will make sure to be more specific in the future.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison.
Thank you, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Ventura.
Yes. Thank you. To a -- question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he’ll yield.
79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 So, it's really important to lead by example. So, my question is, when you ask me to co-sponsor this bill, why did you not use the electronic request for my signature?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
That's a wonderful point. It was the sheer pleasure of walking over and saying hello to you and shaking your hand. In the spirit of computer age, some of us remember that life existed before the web internet. As Senator Morrison points out, and I still believe in the old style of coming over and shaking a person's hand and looking at their smiling face. And for me, that was more important than utilizing the own bill of which I'm presenting.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
That was a -- that was an excellent answer. And I just want to congratulate you on your first bill, and I look forward to working with many more bills where you can walk over here and ask me to co-sponsor. Thank you so much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin, did you have a follow up? Seeing no further discussion, Senator there is one late light. Senator Doris Turner.
80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Have a question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he'll yield.
So, when you do your web-based signature, do you sign it as Senator Balkema or do you sign it as the Gray Fox?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema.
It actually will be depend on what document I'm signing. I think there's one committee here that I will need to be signing as the Gray Fox going forward, I think -- be -- remain legal.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no further discussion. Senator Balkema to close.
In closing, I really want to thank the Executive Committee and I want to thank everybody. It's been a real pleasure to get to know folks over the past two and a half months. I look forward to working with all 58 of my peers to move Illinois forward in the directions. There's so many areas that we can agree on. It's so fun to present what some would perceive as a small bill up front. I would -- I would, much more categorize it as a building block to build foundations. Building trust between each of us is, to me, is far more important than, picking out the big things versus the little things. And if I can use this to build trust with everybody in the Chamber and even in the other Chamber, in the Executive Branch of government. I'll do these things all day long at the small level to -- to build that foundation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 And so, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2004{sic} (2044) pass? All those in favor of vote, Aye. All those opposed, will vote Nay. I'm sorry, 2040 -- Senate Bill 2044 shall pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. All those opposed, will vote Nay. And the voting is now 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2044, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. The bottom of the page, Senate Bill 2057. Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2057, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 2057 requires the State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois State Police, to provide school districts with guidelines outlining specific steps to be included in a school district's threat assessment procedures. The -- the State Board of Education, in consultation with the State Police, shall be allowed to make emergency rules for the implementation of this Act for one year. The genesis of this -- the genesis of this bill, Mr. President and Members, is we've had in the south suburbs and I'm -- and I'm almost certain that across the State of Illinois, we've had various threats to schools for school shootings. One thing we've noticed through reviewing the statute, is that there needs to be more joint coordination between various entities of 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 government in order to properly respond and properly plan for this. This bill has no opponents, and I ask for an Aye vote, Mr. President. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Balkema, your light is on. Do you wish to discuss this?
Apologize. I do not wish to discuss this. I would never want to do what I just went through.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2057 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2057, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. The Senate will stand at ease for a few minutes to allow the Committee on Assignments to meet. Members of the Committee on Assignments will meet in the Senate's front room immediately. The Senate will stand at ease. (at ease) The Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Lightford, the Chair on the -- of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Referred to the Energy and Public Utilities Committee Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2258; refer to the Executive Committee - Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 8 and Committee Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2336; refer to the Higher Education Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2448; refer to 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 the Judiciary Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 328, Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1173, and Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1939; refer to the State Government Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2108. And Be Approved for Consideration - Senate Resolutions 28, 33, 43, 44, 62, 69, 97, 99, 126, 138, 143, 144, 147, 150, 152, 157, 194, 196, 203, 205, 208 and 212. Signed, Kimberly A. Lightford, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We're going to continue on 3rd Readings. We're going to go to page 41, at the top of the page is Senate Bill 2075. Senator Lewis. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2075, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2075 is an initiative of ABATE. We all love to ride motorcycles, but it's important that we ride motorcycles - and when we're trained - and in a safe manner. Senate Bill 25 makes the training process more efficient, as well as, more cost effective. I know of no opposition, and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2075 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Bill 2075, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Go down to Senate Bill 2149, Senator Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Johnson seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2149 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2149. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes. Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Johnson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, is Senate Bill 2149. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2149, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, to explain your bill.
85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2149, as amended, excludes the depreciation of assets funded by the federal -- by federal or donated funds for school district's capital project funds, as well as, assets paid for with private funds and donated to schools when calculating the per capita tuition calculation, or PCTC. Senate Bill 2149, as amended, only applies to limited school districts, and with the amendment it more narrowly tailors the bill to limit its impact to the intended school districts. I know of no opposition, and I request an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2149 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2149, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to Senate Bill 2154, Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2154, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Castro, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, Senate Bill 2154 provides that the use of superficial exfoliants; micro abrasion (microdermabrasion), -- hydro abrasion {sic} (hydrodermabrasion) as -- as -- and deplaning for cosmetics or beautifying purposes constitute the practice of cosmetology and estheticists. As 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 amended, the bill also provides that the use of any technique, product, or practice that affects the living layers of skin, is subject to disciplinary action, or penalty, and adds an effective media -- effective -- immediate effective date. So, I know of our{sic} (no) opposition, I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2154 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2154, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to Senate Bill 2156, Senator Ventura. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Ventura seeks to leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2156 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2156. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Ventura.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, to explain your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. Please adopt the amendment, I'll discuss on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration? 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2156. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2156, an Act concerning government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, to explain your bill.
Thank you. As amended, Senate Bill 2156 creates the Child First Reform Task Force to review and study juvenile detention centers; complaints that arise out of these county facilities, community-based alternatives, and makes recommendations consistent with child-first directives. And I'm happy to take any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy.
Thank you. Question to the sponsor please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she'll yield.
Senator Ventura, totally agree that we need to have a task force to -- to -- to discuss and -- and look at every aspect of ways we can support our youth from being held in detention. Those that need detention, we need to see what services need to be offered. But, are the Association of Sheriffs included as part of this task force? 88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura.
So, the answer is no. Of the 11 duties that we've laid out for the task force, the last one is the only one that really requires the training of law enforcement. We did include the State police on this, and I did make a promise to the Sheriffs Association to continue working with them as we work through with the task force. Might provide, as well as, a number of other members could appoint a sheriff to the task force if they so choose -- chose.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Tracy.
Thank you for that answer. And now to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
As I said, a task force like this is very needed. We had a -- a bill yesterday about juvenile detention and how we handle it, the type of services that are needed. And the Sheriff's Association was very good to give us some testimony about what is available in this State and what should be available. It's just -- I know -- it's the sponsor would like to perhaps have them be part of the task force. I don't want to speak for her, but I think some of the other members of the task force pushed back on adding the Sheriff's Association? I -- I think if we really want to have a good discussion of how we handle our criminal justice system in the State of Illinois, all stakeholders add something. And if you look 89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 at the members of this task force, yes, they will all add something. But most importantly, especially downstate, our Sheriff's Association, our sheriffs are often the front line, not the ISP. I have great respect for the State police, but they're most likely, well, they are not the first line of defense. It's our sheriff's and it's our police departments. So, I -- I just want us to be aware that all law enforcement wants to be at the table to improve how we do law enforcement in this State, and it's critical that we include them as stakeholders. They are the front line of defense, and response, and they deal with these cases on a day-to-day basis, and not using their knowledge and experience will not help the situation. So, for that reason, I'm going to oppose the bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, to close.
Thank you. This is the first step of looking at reforms for our juvenile justice system, and we will continue conversations with all stakeholders and I ask for an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2156 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 voting Yea, 17 voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2156, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to Senate Bill 2164, Senator Halpin. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senate Bill 2164, an Act concerning employment. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Halpin, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, Senate Bill 2164 is an amendment to the Wage and Payment Collection Act. The way the process, currently, works is that the Department of Labor seeks to enforce wage claims on behalf of employees. There's administrative process, involving an internal -- judge at the DOL that makes a determination. Once that determination is made, a final order is entered in the Department. And under current law, at that point, it is the Attorney General's responsibility to file that administrative order with one of the circuit courts in the State. And at that point, the order becomes a final order that can then be appealed. What this bill does is make the agency's order, a final order, and bypasses that step through the Attorney General. The reason this has come forward is because the existing process has seen extreme delays, and what we're talking about are delays in payments for employees that have had their wages stolen or wages not paid to them that they're entitled to. Some of these cases can take months, if not years, and this is an effort to streamline that process while still giving the employers the opportunity to respond. This is not a new, I guess strategy, or -- or method, or procedure. Several years ago, under the Workers Compensation Commission, we did something similar that allowed a final order of the Commission to be, then, appealable and enforceable. I think that generally covers the bill. I'm of course, always available for questions, but would also, defer to my colleague in this row, 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 putting him on the spot to answer all the tougher ones. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, Senate Bill 2164 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 37 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, and none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2164, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Going to Senate Bill 21 -- 2194. Senate -- Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Johnson seeks leave for the Body to return Senate Bill 2194 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2194. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes. Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Johnson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2194. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
Senate Bill 2194, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2194 requires lead entities (entity) of the 2-1-1 service to provide the Department of Human Services a report on a regular basis that includes information, but it is not limited to caller data; referrals made and service outcomes; service referral gaps; service providers and coverage; and trends. In addition, this bill requires the lead entity -- entity to establish standards consistent with prevailing national standards and adds DHS to a variety of agencies that have collaborated rights with the lead agency. And, as amended, the bill will provide -- adds approval -- adds approval to the lead agency -- entity for the 2-1-1 service providers, and it shall be contingent upon the 2-1-1 service providers continuing to meet minimum qualifications -- the minimum standards as determined by the lead entity. And then, in addition, this amendment clarifies that 2-1-1 service providers shall receive and retain accreditation of national 2-1-1 standards. I know of no opposition, and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2194 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 2194, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We'll go to Senate Bill 2215. Mr. Secretary. Senator Glowiak Hilton seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 21 -- we'll put the bill on 3rd Reading, we'll take it out of the record. Senate Bill 2266, Senator Villa. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2266, an Act concerning safety. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2266 is a clarification bill that amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to ensure Illinois is consistent with federal law. Currently in Illinois statute, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency regulates community water supplies, while the Illinois Department of Public Health regulates smaller, non-community water supplies. Under the Illinois Groundwater Protection Act, IDPH has the authority to seek criminal misdemeanor fines, injunctions, and revocations of permits to entities who fail to follow the regulations under non-community water supplies. This presented an issue as the United States Environmental Protection Agency has mandated to states across the country that when you implement the Safe Drinking Water Act, you must have statutory authority to impose penalties against all public water supplies. The U.S. EPA has stated to Illinois that if the Department of Public Health's authority to issue penalties is not clarified, that the Illinois EPA might lose its -- premises status under the Safe Drinking Water Act, which could impact the 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Illinois EPA's federal funding levels that it requires to operate -- operate successfully and efficiently. I'd be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2266 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 44 voting Yea, 11 voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 2266, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to bill -- Senate Bill 2306, Senator Ventura. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senate -- Senator Ventura seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2306 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 23 -- 2306. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes. Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Ventura.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and discuss on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2306. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2306, an Act concerning finance. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, to explain your bill.
Thank -- Thank you. Senate Bill 2306 merely amends the Illinois Finance Authority Act and the Climate Bank Loan Financing Act to expand to cover clean water, drinking water, and wastewater treatment, or climate resiliency projects. This allows local government to save money on debt repayment. I know of no opposition. I'm open to questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Tracy?
Yes. To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Senator Ventura, as I understood from the testimony of the Director of the Illinois Financial {sic} (Finance) Authority there's funding available for wastewater treatment plants and clean water improvement for small and rural villages and cities and -- and the like that will really help and enhance the ability to finance projects that before did not have that ability.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Is that a question of the Sponsor? She indicates she’ll yield. Senator Ventura.
Yes. Thank you. That's correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Tracy.
I'm excited about that. And with that, I look forward to seeing this bill pass. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, to close.
I'd like to thank the Illinois Finance Authority, especially Chris Meister and his staff. I think this is an excellent bill, and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2306 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 voting Yea, 4 voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2306, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to turn the page to page 42, we're going to go to the top of the page -- we're going -- Senate Bill 2326, Senator Villivalam. Mr… -- we're going to go down the page a little bit to Senate Bill 2418, Senator Sims. Moving on down Senator Fine, on Senate Bill 2420. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2420, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Fine, to explain your bill. Out of the record. We're going to go to Senate Bill 2421, Senator Fine. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2421, an Act concerning health care. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Fine, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. This legislation fills a gap in the care Illinois provides to psychiatric patients under 21 and on Medicaid. It creates a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities program, or PRTF. This is a distinct standalone facility. It provides inpatient psychiatric treatment services by a physician in a non-hospital setting for individuals who require more intensive care than in a community setting. It is a short- term, 24/7 care with a focus on returning children to a less restrictive setting. This allows us to provide our kids with the care they need in Illinois and not out-of-state, and it puts us in compliance with the federal consent decree. I know of no opposition, and I would appreciate your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2421 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Bill 2421, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to Senate Bill 2427, Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2427, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Castro, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2427 requires all school boards on or before the 2026-2027 school year to adopt a policy that prohibits students from using a wireless communication devices in school during instructional time. Wireless communication devices or devices that allow communication between two or more parties and include cell phones, computers, smartwatches, but do not include school issued or required devices for educational purposes. The school board policy must allow for exemptions for medical reasons, IEPs, 504 plans, and for English learners to access learning materials. School boards may allow exceptions for educational purposes permitted by school personnel and emergencies. Policies must be reviewed every three years and posted on the school board's website. One of the things that we had a lot of discussion, we had a lot of folks, a part of it, a lot of our educational partners. One of the things that I want to say, and we had a very great discussion in education, that this sets the floor, not the ceiling. We also recognize there are already some school districts that -- that have these policies in place. We didn't want to undo those policies. So, this allows for the floor, not the ceiling, for folks to decide how and when 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 students should have access to these devices. As many of us know, when we talk about distractions, we all own a cell phone. The minute we get a ping, what do we do? We look at our cell phone. We want students to be focused on their educational experience, and also be paying attention to what's going on around them, and not be distracted by many of these -- these devices. This also helps them when it comes to students mental health, right? Because you have bullying, people are on pins and needles when it comes to social media and different things. So, I appreciate a lot of the work that has been done and many of the support I know of no opposition. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Rezin.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. I'd like to commend the sponsor on this bill. It's something that we've talked about, it's long overdue. The -- the challenges that teachers have when they're competing in the classroom with cell phones, it makes it very difficult for teachers to teach, and that's what we want them to do. I know that there were some concerns by parents about not being able to get in touch with their children. We've spoken with enough schools to feel comfortable that they have policies in place in order to alleviate that concern. But more importantly, teachers need to be able to teach, and this is competition with the teachers all day long with the teachers, and as Senator Castro said, the ping, ping, ping 100 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 everything to distract them is not good for student outcomes. So, it is -- it's, you know, setting a statewide standard, I get it. Many states are going to this. This is a topic that we need to look at, not only the distraction in schools, but the conversation around bullying too, which will be another conversation not in this bill. But again, thank you for carrying this bill and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Castro, to close.
I think the last speaker summed it up. I think one of the things is like this is setting the floor, not the ceiling. We did have a lot of broad conversations. I obviously there's some parents that are a little uncomfortable about it. But, you know, at the end of the day, here's the thing. The schools can set the different policies on how people can get in contact. We made some exceptions working with our school management alliance and partners and teachers. But here is the end all, students need to focus on what's going on in the classroom, and we want to help them be successful. Let's get the distracting devices out of their hands and have their noses in those books. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2427 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 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2427, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go back up the page to Senate Bill 2418, Senator 101 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2418, an Act concerning criminal Law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2418 amends the Uniform -- Unified Code of Corrections to create the Youth Nonviolent Resource -- not Youth -- Nonviolent Crime Resource Program, making those -- those resources, including mentoring, access to educational resources, and collaboration with the State Board of Education. Employment training opportunities, behavioral health services including trauma informed services, and parent supports. I ask for if -- a roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2418 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 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2418, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go down to Senator Turner, on Senate Bill 2431. Senator Turner seeks leave of the Body to return 2431 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2431. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Doris Turner. 102 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your amendment.
I'd like to pass the amendment and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, is Senate Bill 2431. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2431, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, Senate Bill 2431 amends the Illinois Explosives Act. It makes several changes to the Act, including clarifies that the Act applies to all persons rather than only licensees or certificate holders. Clarifies that any person, license, or certificate holder who violates any applicable provision of the Act is guilty of a Class B misdemeanor, with some exceptions. Number three allows for the Department of Natural Resources to suspend, revoke, or refuse to issue or renew a license in the event that previously issued fines have not been paid by the license holder/applicant. Prevents current license holders who 103 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 have had a license revoked twice from being able to further apply for licensing. Makes demolition of explosives its own category under the Act. Adds regulations concerning consumer fireworks, such as no consumer firework cake designed for consumer use shall exceed 500 grams in total explosive chemical composition and finally provides that it is a violation of the Act and a Class 3 felony to obtain control over stolen explosive material knowing that the explosive material is stolen, or where a reasonable person would believe the explosive material was stolen.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Bryant.
Thank you, Mr. President. Will the sponsor yield for questions?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she'll yield.
Thank you. Senator, we're showing some opposition to this bill. Are the -- is the Illinois State Rifle Association and the Illinois Federation for Outdoor Resources still opposed with your amendment?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
I've had several conversations with them, and I believe that their opposition is based on a misreading of -- of the bill. The bill does not apply to rifles it does not apply to guns. And I've explained that to them. And I've actually had conversations with one of their lobbyists who said that he understood. So, I'm not 104 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 speaking for the entire industry, but I will say that when I had conversations with their lobbyists, he said that, okay, he understood that there was, you know, some confusion around it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Bryant.
So, does the bill actually speak to the transport of black powder?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
Okay. The use of firearms and black powder is exempted, so it doesn't apply to that in the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Bryant.
The use of black powder, right. But if you're transporting black powder, is that excluded as well?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
Yes. Black powder, in general, is exempted.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Bryant.
Thank you for your answers. I still have a little bit of confusion about what's actually in the bill, and so for that reason, I'm not going to support it until I get some clarification on why the opponents are still on here. But that's just me. Thank 105 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, to close.
I hope that the clarification regarding black powder and its exemption from the bill clears up any confusion, and I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2431 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 Yea, 16 voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2431, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We will go down to Senate Bill 2438. Senator Ellman seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2438… Out of the record. We'll go to Senate Bill 2456, Senator Feigenholtz. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2456, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2456 extends the repeal of the Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency and Coal Resource Development Law written in 1997, including the Renewable Energy Resource Trust Fund. It is an extension of -- an extension of a sunset. I'm happy to answer any questions. 106 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2456 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2456, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to turn the page and we're going to go to Senate Bill 2500, Senator Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Peter seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2500 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now, on the Order of 2nd Reading, is Senate Bill 2500. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Peters.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Peters, on your amendment.
I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2500. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
107 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senate Bill 2500, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Peters, to explain your bill.
This is a bill that just makes it easier for us to implement SESA. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2500 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 2500, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to go back to page 3. The bottom of the page we have Senate Bill 93, Senator Preston. We're going to -- with leave of the Body we'll go to page 8 towards the bottom we have Senate Bill 407. The sponsorship has been changed to Leader Lightford. Mr. Secretary, please read the -- Leader Lightford seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 407 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 407. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Leader Lightford, on your amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The amendment becomes the bill. I'd be happy to discuss it 108 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 407. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 407, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Leader Lightford, to explain your bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, more than 3 years after schools have reopened to in-person learning since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of chronic absence remain at historically high rates. High rates of chronic absenteeism has an adverse effects on all children in the school, not just those who are absent. And the hard work of educators is undermined by chronic absenteeism among students. There's a slew of different negative effects that happen on a child when they miss school at such young ages. What we like to do is create a Chronic Absence Task Force to study the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on chronic absence, and to support the development of a state strategy to address the ongoing challenges presented by chronic absenteeism for students in pre-K through 12. The task 109 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 force study would be led by the State Board of Education, and our goal is to address the current 26.3 percent of students who miss 10 percent or more of school days, with or without a valid excuse. I'd be happy to answer questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 407 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 Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 407, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. I'm going to read the Committee meetings this afternoon. These Committees will meet at 4:00, Executive Committee in Room 212, License Activities in Room 400, State Government in Room 409, at 5:00 we have Judiciary in Room 400, Local Government at -- in 409. At 5:30 we have health and Human Services at Room 212 and Revenue in Room 400. Those are the committees. So, upon adjournment, please be prompt to your committee meetings. After committees will be returning to the Floor to move bills from 2nd to 3rd. Senator Lewis, what purpose do you seek recognition?
Question for the President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) State your question.
Announce Committee for Appropriations, Public Infrastructure at 4:30.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Yes, it is meeting. I didn't announce that as part of the 110 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Committee structure. Yeah, yeah. Other committees that are posted are still meeting in their regular times. So, remember that after committee meetings, we'll be coming back to the Floor to move bills from 2nd to 3rd. So, at this point, we will stand at recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Glowiak Hilton, Chair of the Committee on License Activities, reports Senate Bill 2348 Do Pass, as Amended, and Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2153 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Castro, Chair of the Committee on Executive, reports Senate Bill 2062 and Senate Bill 2319 Do Pass; and Senate Bills 9 and 144 Do Pass, as Amended; Senate Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 8, Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 213, Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1797, Senate Amendment 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 1954, and Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2325 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Joyce. Chair of the Committee on State Government, reports Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2108 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Hastings, Chair of the Committee on Judiciary, reports Senate Bill 1523 Do Pass; Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 10, Senate Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 328, Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1173, Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1261, Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1411, Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1551, Senate Amendment 5 to Senate Bill 1667, Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill -- Senate Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1939 and 111 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2463 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Johnson, Chair of the Committee on Local Government, report Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 634, Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 784 and Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1422 Recommend Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolutions 218 through 220, offered by Senator Curran and all Members. They are a celebration of life resolutions, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Resolutions Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Messages.
Appointment Message 1040178, Attorney General salaried appointment, to be the Commissioner of the Executive Ethics Commission, Patricia A. Schuh.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I'm directed to inform the Senate the House of Representatives has passed bills of the following title, in the passage of which I instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill 24. We have received like messages on House Bills 28,57, 1062, 1149, 1189, 1234, 1270, 1278, 1364, 1365, 1367, 1368, 1373, 1447, 1576, 1648, 1710, 1832, 1861, 2350, 2361, 2386, 2391, 2394, 2459, 2490, 2506, 2545, 2546, 2572, 2574, 2589, 2602, 2690, 2724, 2755, 2783, 2805, 2949, 2952, 2986, 3000, 3026, 3046, 3087, 3125, 3144, 112 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 3164, 3238, 3255, 3294, 3327, 3345, 3359, 3409, 3462, 3467, 3470, 3486, 3489, 3500, 3527, 3528, 3564, 3638, 3650, 3699, 3709, 3740, 3756, 3842, 3849. Passed the House April 8th, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House. A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President I am directed to inform the Senate the House of Representatives passed bills of the following titles in the passage of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill 1226 we have received like messages on House Bills 1331, 1577, 1700, 1712, 1715, 1823, 1908, 1927. Passed the House April 9th, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Mr. Secretary, House Bills first Reading.
House Bill 226, offered by President Harmon, an Act concerning business. House Bill 1073, offered by Senator Joyce, an Act concerning education. House Bill 1081, offered by Senator Loughran Cappel, an Act concerning public aid. House Bill 1108, offered by Senator Rezin, an Act concerning public aid. House Bill 1120, offered by Senator Erica Harris, an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 1149, offered by Senator Anderson, an Act concerning education. House Bill 1226, offered by Senator Simmons, an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 1234, offered by Senator Collins, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 1270, offered by Senator Glowiak Hilton, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 1278, offered by Senator Edly-Allen, an Act concerning employment. House Bill 1312, offered by Senator Castro, an Act concerning government. House Bill 1331, offered by Senator Hunter, an Act concerning regulation. House 113 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Bill 1367, offered by Senator Edly-Allen, an Act concerning local government. House Bill 1373, offered by Senator Cunningham, an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 1431, offered by Senator Stadelman, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 1447, offered by Senator Porfirio, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 1461, offered by Senator Anderson, an Act concerning civil law. House Bill 1502, offered by Senator Martwick, an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 1577, offered by Senator Ventura, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 1616, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning employment. House Bill 1648, offered by Senator DeWitte, an Act concerning public employee benefits. House Bill 1710, offered by Senator Peters, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 1715, offered by Senator Peters, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 1823, offered by Senator Morrison, an Act concerning courts. House Bill 1832, offered by Senator Doris Turner, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 1865, offered by Senator Doris Turner, an Act concerning business. House Bill 1908 -- 1908, offered by Senator Preston, an Act concerning local government. House Bill 1927, offered by Senator Glowiak Hilton, an Act concerning conservation. House Bill 2339, offered by President Harmon, an Act concerning wildlife. House Bill 2350, offered by Senator Halpin, an Act concerning local government. House Bill 2361, offered by Senator Sally Turner, an Act concerning government. House Bill 2386, offered by President Harmon, an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 2391, offered by Senator Simmons, an Act concerning safety. House Bill 2394, offered by Senator Cervantes, an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 2397, offered by Senator Johnson, an Act concerning criminal law. House 114 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Bill 2459, offered by Senator Glowiak Hilton, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 2490, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning employment. House Bill 2546, offered by Senator Cervantes, an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 2602, offered by Senator Loughran Cappel, an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 2690, offered by Senator Castro, an Act concerning criminal law. House Bill 2755, offered by Senator Collins, an Act concerning government. House Bill 2783, offered by Senator Villanueva, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 3011, offered by Senator Rezin, an Act concerning education. House Bill 3026, offered by Senator Guzmán, an Act concerning education. House Bill 3046, offered by Senator Doris Turner, an Act concerning education. House Bill 3095, offered by Senator Feigenholtz, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 3140, offered by Senator Napoleon Harris, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 3144, offered by Senator Sims, an Act concerning courts. House Bill 3176, offered by Senator Simmons, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 3238, offered by Senator Arellano, an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 3255, offered by Senator Porfirio, an Act concerning employment. House Bill 3294, offered by Senator Ventura, an Act concerning safety. House Bill 3327, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning children. House Bill 3345, offered by Senator Fine, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 3359, offered by Senator Hastings, an Act concerning courts. House Bill 3391, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning transportation. House Bill 3467, offered by Senator Martwick, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 3486, offered by Senator Preston, an Act concerning State government. House Bill 3489, offered by Senator Ventura, an Act concerning regulation. House 115 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 33rd Legislative Day 4/9/2025 Bill 3500, offered by Senator Faraci, an Act concerning children. House Bill 3528, offered by Senator Johnson, an Act concerning education. House Bill 3564, offered by Senator Simmons, an Act concerning civil law. House Bill 3699, offered by Senator Johnson, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 3709, offered by Senator Villanueva, an Act concerning education. House Bill 3740, offered by Senator Anderson, an Act concerning real property. House Bill 3756, offered by Senator Morrison, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 3760, offered by Senator Holmes, an Act concerning wildlife. And House Bill 3842, offered by Senator Fine, an Act concerning local government. 1st Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until noon on the 10th day of April 2025. The Senate stands adjourned. 116