PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The regular Session of the 104th General Assembly will please come to order. Will the Members be at their desks while our guests in the gallery please rise. Today's invocation will be given by the Reverend Jessica Baldyga, Pana First and Owaneco United Methodist Churches, Reverend.
REVEREND JESSICA BALDYGA: (Invocation)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Thank you, Reverend. Please remain standing for the Pledge. Senator Johnson will lead us.
SENATOR JOHNSON: (Pledge of Allegiance)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Lisa Chess-Yuscius from Blueroomstream seeks leave to video today's proceedings. Peter Hancock from Capitol News Illinois seeks leave to record and photograph today's proceedings. Jade Aubrey from Capitol News Illinois also seeks leave to audio and - - and take video of today's proceedings. And Cameron Maine from WAND (TV) also seeks leave to record and video today's proceedings, as does Mike Mollsen from Lee Enterprises. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Wednesday, April 9th, 2025.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Glowiak Hilton.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal just read by the Secretary, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Glowiak Hilton moves to postpone the reading and approval of Journal, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 221, offered by President Harmon. It is congratulatory.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Turner, Chair of the Committee on Agriculture reports, Senate Bill 2309 Do Pass; Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2459 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Walker, Chair of the Committee on Financial Institutions reports, Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2318 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Ellman, Chair of the Committee on Environment and Conservation reports, Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1859, and Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2414 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Stadelman, Chair of the Committee on Energy and Public Utilities reports, Senate Bill 75 Do Pass, as Amended; Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2258 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Preston, Chair of the Committee on Consumer Protection reports, Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 314, and Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2247 Recommend Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please come to the Senate Floor. This is deadline week. You need to move bills from 2nd to 3rd, we're about to do that momentarily. And then we will be going to 3rd Reading, final action. Please come to the Senate Floor. Senator Balkema, for what purpose do you seek recognition? 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Mr. President, I have a point of thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please state your point.
I wanted to thank everybody for taking the time to sign my first bill yesterday. It was a remarkable experience, and I appreciate all the signatures. This will be framed and represent the spirit of unity in this Chamber and very much appreciated.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Congratulations, Senator. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, Supplemental Calendar No. 1 has been printed and is being distributed. We are going to start today's proceedings on Supplemental Calendar No. 1 -- Senate Bills on 2nd Reading. The top of that Calendar where Senator Murphy brings Senate Bill 75. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 75, an Act concerning regulation. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Energy and Public Utilities adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Oh, I'm sorry. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No amendments -- no further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please place that bill on 3rd Reading. Continuing on the Supplemental Calendar, Senate Bill's 2nd Reading. Senator Ellman 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 brings Senate Bill 2309. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2309, an Act concerning transportation. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Senator Hills, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
A point of introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please state your point.
I rise, today, to recognize and welcome the seventh- and eighth-grade students and educators from the Montessori School of Lake Forest. What an honor it is to have you with us today. Education in all forms opens paths and doors to so many worlds. The Montessori method encourages students to become independent thinkers, curious learners, and compassionate citizens. Their goal today is to simply be present in the Capitol building - to observe, learn, and experience government in action. This focus on present day experience, the mindfulness of the task at hand, right now, is essential in the development of young minds. It is also a valuable lesson that they will serve us all well during this incredible, important process of making laws and settling policies that affect all the residents of Illinois. We are honored to have them here and commend their commitment to civic education and engagement. I would ask all of my colleagues to take a good look… for these are among the leaders of our community, our State, our nation, and our 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 world.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Welcome to Springfield and your State Capitol. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we're going to continue now on Senate Bill 2nd Reading. We will now pick up our regular printed Calendar starting on page 2. And right at the top of that page where Senator Holmes brings Senate Bill 9. Senator Holmes, on Senate Bill 9. Senate Bill 144, Senator Villanueva. Senator Villanueva, on Senate Bill 144. With leave of the Body, we're going to move down to Senate Bill 1475, Senator Koehler. Senator Koehler, on Senate Bill 1475. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1475, an Act concerning education. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. For our next bill, Senate Bill 1486, we have a letter on file appointing Senator Harmon to serve as the sponsor for Senate Bill 1486. President Harmon wishes to move the bill. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1486, an Act concerning business. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Have there been any -- any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1523 from Senator Doris Turner. Senator Doris Turner. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1523, an Act concerning local government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Leave of the Body, we will go to Senate Bill 1559. Senator Feigenholtz. Senator Feigenholtz, on Senate Bill 1559. She indicates she wishes -- wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1559, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Transportation adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Feigenholtz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Feigenholtz, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. President… I'm sorry, Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1560, Senator Feigenholtz. Senate Bill 1560. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1560, an Act concerning mental health. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Education adopted Amendment No. 3.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. With leave of the Body, we're going to move down to -- ope! to Senate Bill 1911, Senator Hunter. We have paper on file appointing Senator Feigenholtz as the primary sponsor of the bill, or I'm sorry, appointing President Harmon the primary sponsor of the bill. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1911, an Act concerning revenue. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Executive adopted Amendments 1 and 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration? 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
No further amendments supported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. With leave of the Body, we're going to move to Senate Bill 2008 from Senator Cervantes. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2008, an Act concerning State government. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Leave of the Body, we will skip to Senate Bill 2062 from Senator Castro. Senator Castro, on Senate Bill 2062. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are now on page 3. Senate Bills on 2nd Reading, on the top of that page where Senator Ellman brings Senate Bill 2319. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2319, an Act concerning regulations. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. With leave of the Body, we will skip to Senate Bill 2415 from Senator Morrison. Senator Morrison, on Senate Bill 2415. With leave of the Body, we will skip to Senate Bill 2475 from Senator Hunter. We have paperwork on file indicating that Senator Villa has been designated a chief co-sponsor of the bill. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2475, an Act concerning mental health. 2nd 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Reading of the bill. The Committee on Health and Human Services adopted Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments supported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. With leave of the Body, we're going to go back and pick up some of the bills that we called earlier, that Members were not yet on the Floor for. Starting with Senate Bill 9 from Senator Holmes. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 9, an Act concerning health. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Executive adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Next, we have Senate Bill 144 from Senator Villanueva. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 144, an Act concerning education. 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Executive adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Leave of the Body, we're going to go to Senator Morrison who brings Senate Bill 2415. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2415, an Act concerning regulation. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
For an announcement, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please state your announcement.
Democrats will caucus in the President's Office for approximately one-half hour.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
For an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please state your announcement.
Thank you. The Senate Republicans will caucus for 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 approximately one-half hour in Room 400 of the Capitol.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The Senate will stand at recess to the call of the Chair. After the respective caucuses have completed, we will return to the Senate Floor for Floor action. The Senate stands at recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senate will come to order. We will be moving to Senate Bills on 3rd Reading, in just a moment. If all Senators could please come to the Floor. Senator Fowler, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Purpose of an introduction, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please make your introduction.
Thank you, Mr. President, and Members of the Senate. I'm honored to have up in the gallery with me today, three very special guests. With us today, is the -- is Mayor Dean Rogan from the beautiful City of Pulaski, Illinois. Mayor Rogan is also the owner of Rogan's Country Pharmacy in Pulaski. It's great to have you with us, sir. Additionally, we have with us the Mayor of Mounds, Illinois, Mayor Rodney Woods. As well as, thank you -- as well -- as well as, Kancy Houston, who is the Director of CHESI Community Health Services in Cairo, Illinois. Would you please welcome them to the Illinois Senate?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Welcome to Springfield and your State Capitol. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are on 3rd Reading. This is final action, 3rd Reading. We're going to begin on page 3 of your printed Calendar near the bottom of that page where Senator Preston brings Senate Bill 93. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Preston seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 93 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 93. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Preston.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Preston, on your amendment.
I'd like to adopt the amendment and -- and -- and explain on 3rd, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 93. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 93, an Act concerning health. 3rd Reading of the bill. 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Preston, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I proudly rise to speak in support of Senate Bill 93, the Illinois Food Safety Act (The Illinois Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act). This one is very special because it charges this Body or gives us an opportunity, to achieve something big, for the people of Illinois. The Food Safety Act (The Illinois Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act), Senate Bill 93, will effectively prohibit potassium bromate and propylparaben, two dangerous chemicals that are currently inside of our food supply, and many of the goodies that our children across the State are consuming every day. These dangerous food additives are linked to cancer and hypertension in our children. And I say this, in the utmost sincerity, "This is the most important thing that I believe I can do now, as a lawmaker, and that's protect the children of this State and this goes well -- this gives us an opportunity to do so." I want to tell you that this bill was heavily negotiated, when we passed this bill out of this Chamber, last session, it passed on a bipartisan basis with four additives. Since that time, the FDA has banned two of these additives, Nationally, because the science is clear - these additives are dangerous. They do not belong in the food supply in this country, and they are prohibited in several dozen other countries already. We should take the same steps. I want to thank all of the people who have joined on this bill. This is a bipartisan bill because at the end of the day, we have to make sure that we put the public first and our children deserve food that fuels their future, not food that risk their health. I ask this Chamber to vote Aye, thank you. 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to speak to the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I commend the sponsor on the bill. I certainly agree with you on the bill. Despite me wearing this red jacket, I know red dye can be very harmful. I do have to oppose the bill, though, because I do believe the federal government is dealing with this, and I think we'll see much more to come besides the other substances that were just banned. It's an important issue, and we should get all these substances banned, as quickly as possible. My issue is we have 50 states and I know it can be done and has been done where different states have different regulations. But at the end of the day, those candy bars are going to cost more, in Illinois, if we do this piecemeal and not at the federal level. I know other countries do it. Nestle's does a great job of doing candy bars here and candy bars in Germany, differently. But at the end of the day, those candy bars are going to cost more to the consumers if we do it piecemeal. So, that's why I oppose your bill. I want to let the federal government act, and I do believe this federal administration will -- agrees with your bill and agrees that these substances should be banned and our children should be protected. All of -- citizens of this country should be protected from these substances, so I believe we're going to get there. I 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 just want to do it federally. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Any further discussion? Senator Lewis, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
So, I do respect the opinion of my colleague. However, Senator, I stood with you on this bill last year, and I am proud to stand with you on this bill, again, this year. When we have ingredients that are banned by China, they're banned by the European Union, they're banned by India. I am proud that Illinois is taking a leadership step to ban these ingredients so that our children no longer have to ingest them, and they can live and grow up, in a safe nurturing environment. So, I encourage a Yes vote on this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion from Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
First, I do want to thank the sponsor for fighting to try to make sure our food supply is safer. And I do certainly understand the arguments that were made earlier about, well, if this state 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 has this policy, this other state has this policy, it complicates things, except for the fact that some of the most populous countries in the world already have these bans in place. And so, these companies are not just shipping these products to our local supermarkets. They are already doing that to various countries around the world. In fact, if you go to Meijer, locally here in Springfield, you can go down one side of the aisle and find products made with certain ingredients. And the same company has products that are labeled simply so simply potato chips or simply the same company, the products taste exactly the same, they just don't have these harmful ingredients. And so, I think that you have to ask yourself the question when you're voting for this bill, is it right for companies that are producing these products to produce the same product with safer ingredients and ship those around the world, but yet not let our own citizens eat these products with safer ingredients. California, I don't often agree with what California does. California has already put bans in place, so these companies are already going to have to manage that. But this is a bill for the safety of our food, for the kids of our Country, but also for everyone in our Country. I think that we should all be a Yes on this bill. And again, I thank the sponsor for keeping the fight up to protect our food and to make it safer for all of us to consume.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Preston, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank all of my colleagues who spoke to this bill. Senator -- Senator Tracy, I -- I just would argue on, in terms of cost, I think we have to look 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 at all costs, not just cost to the companies. We have to think about the cost that it takes to our health care system as well. And again, these companies are manufacturing these goods and adhering to other people's rules, which our colleague just mentioned. We need to ensure that our food supply is protected. So, thank you all. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 93 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 47 Senators voting Yes, 7 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 93, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 108, Senator Cervantes indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 108, an Act concerning criminal law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 108, basically, what it does, is it removes the sunset of the traffic we wait -- of traffic fee waiver program in Cook County. The program basically just removes any exorbitant assessment fees right now that may be incurred. And it is for low-income folks and asking for a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition? 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
And I thank the sponsor. So, in committee, we learned that this is a pilot program that's been in place to test it out. And so, I asked the people that were testifying in support of the bill. "Okay, how has this been working? What -- what studies have you done to see how - what effect this has had?" Well, they haven't done any studies on this. I said, "Okay, how do you know this is effective?" And they then quoted different county clerks from across the State who said how great this program would be if implemented there. So, we don't have any analysis as to exactly how this program is working. Usually when we have a pilot program, we want to know, okay, did it work? How much money did we lose? What was the savings? Nothing. We're just expanding it. And the justification for expanding it is because other county clerks have said this would be a good idea. Well, it doesn't affect other county clerks. It's only applicable to Cook County. So, for those reasons. Well, you know, I certainly appreciate the Senator's perspective on the bill. I would urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes, to close.
Thank you, Senator, for that. But just asking for a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 108 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 Senators voting Yes, 19 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 108, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senator Lewis, for what reason do you seek recognition? Leave of the Body, we're going to move to the top of page 4 where Senator Halpin brings Senate Bill 189. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Halpin seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 189 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 189. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Halpin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Halpin, on your amendment.
Thank you. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is -- all those in favor say, Aye. All those opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now, Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 189, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Halpin, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, this bill is an initiative of a YWCA in my district. They've built a new facility. Part of that facility is a swimming pool that ideally would contain a kind of an obstacle course, which is both for recreation, for fitness, and -- and for therapy. And right now, the existing Department of Public Health rules for swimming pools really make that an impossibility. We've tried to work with the Department to encourage them to rethink the regulations. These are old regulations that haven't, in my opinion, haven't been updated recently enough. I still want to work with the Department, but at this point, it's been several years since this project has been held up. I'd really like to see us pass this so that we can further continue those discussions or at least get a pathway for these types of facilities to -- to be in this State. These -- this equipment, this - at issue here, is already used in many other states. The language in this bill comes from the State of Minnesota. Their regulations are -- are almost verbatim as -- as what I've proposed here, the only difference is that we have -- had discussions with the State Board of Education. We have exempted school swimming facilities. So, these would just be other public pools that -- that would be allowed to do this and the contract to do it. I'm always available for any questions about swimming pools, so please feel free to ask.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Rose, for what purpose do 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 you seek recognition?
Well, I have questions about swimming pools.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield, Senator Rose.
Hello, Senator Halpin, how are you today? Very good to see you. I would question why did we remove the school pools, again? Because I would think if someone's maybe in a wheelchair, they might need that equipment as part of a therapy program.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Halpin.
Thank you, Senator. I'm certainly interested in maybe expanding this in the future. I think the State Board of Education, I think was, very respectful in their conversations with us, in trying to find a way where it might work. Given the approaching deadline, I did make the agreement to exempt them for now. And maybe let's see how it works in some of these other recreational facilities first.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
And by the way, I'm voting for this bill. It's a great idea, but I'm just curious, why did the State Board of Education, what was their rationale? Why do they care? I mean, I honestly think it would be an ADA violation not to allow this type of therapeutic equipment for a student who might be paraplegic.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Halpin.
Yeah. At this point, I don't want to speak necessarily for the Board of Education. I just know that this was something that they came to us. I think it was more of -- of a kind of a complexity issue. I don't think any school districts at this point had already proposed these projects. I don't know that a hundred percent for sure. And so, if that clamor isn't there yet, I was willing to -- to put this off. And -- and maybe if you've got schools in your district or if other schools in my district bring it to my attention and say, "Hey, we really like what that YWCA is doing or what that park, you know, park district pool is doing. We'd like to have it in our schools." I think we can reinitiate that conversation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
We can move on from the State Board of Education. How many years did the Public Health Department stonewall you on this conversation?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Halpin.
What I want to say is, I -- I appreciate the characterization. However, we initially had this project pending in 2022 and 2023. There was an unwillingness to approve the permit for this course back in 2022 into 2023. I filed an original bill in November of 2023 during Veto Session. At that time, I agreed to hold the bill while we tried to work out a variance process. To 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 date, as we sit here today, the variance hasn't been granted. We're still in this process. I'm still hopeful that maybe the Department will come. But I think at this point -- at this point, it's important to move the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I -- I agree with you it's important to move the bill, and I also think it's important for all of us to send clear messages to Departments who continually stonewall legislative initiatives. That same Department, on an unrelated matter, has refused to correct their Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever chart, despite what the federal governments actually showing, they just simply won't do it, over years of requests. So, quite frankly, I'm going to vote for this as much because you're the sponsor, as I am because I'm sick and tired of agencies stonewalling legislators who are trying to do something good for their constituents. And as long as I'm on the screen here, I would love for the State Board of Education to come explain to me why they think this doesn't apply to schools because what's good for the goose should be good for the gander. And if you're a paraplegic student, you should have the same access to these -- this type of equipment that the sponsor is trying to bring to other pools in Illinois. So, I salute you for standing up to Department of Public Health, I think we should do more of that. And quite frankly, DPH, DCFS, you can name them all. I'm just, 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 frankly, sick and tired of being stonewalled on different issues. And for that matter, and that matter alone, I'm going to vote for this. But I think it's a great intent, super excited, and I share in your enthusiasm for all things pools.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion. Senator Halpin, do you wish to close?
I would just appreciate an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 189 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 189, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Next, we have Senator{sic} (Senate Bill) 213 from Senator Stadelman. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Stadelman seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 213 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 213. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Stadelman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman, on your amendment.
Mr. President, the amendment becomes a bill. Like to adopt it and explain on 3rd. 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 213. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 213, an Act concerning business. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 213 creates the Government (Advertising) Spending Transparency Act, which will require State agencies and departments on an annual basis to report to the General Assembly and post on its websites the amount and distribution of advertising spending. This is support and initiative of local media organizations to increase transparency in how State agencies spend advertising dollars and who those dollars go to. I'm not aware of any opposition.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Questions of the sponsor, please. 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield, Senator Tracy.
Senator Stadelman, has there been an instance in this State where one of the universities has tried to stifle or change a story, or the media -- have -- has there been an instance that caused you to file this bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy, did you want -- need to clarify some… Senator Tracy.
What bill are we on?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none. Senator Stadelman, do you wish to close?
I just appreciate the heads up on a question for a future bill we'll be discussing later in the afternoon. Ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 213 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 213, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Moving down now towards the bottom of page 4 with leave of the Body, we're going to take up Senate Bill 314 from Senator Belt. He indicates he wishes to -- out of the record. With leave of the 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Body, we're going to move to page 5 of your printed Calendar. Near the middle of that page, Senator Hastings brings Senate Bill 328. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Hastings seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 328 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 328. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Hastings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Hastings, on your amendment.
Mr. President, I ask that we adopt the amendment. And I'll explain on 3rd Reading, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Hastings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Hastings, on Floor Amendment No. 2.
Mr. President, Floor Amendment No. 2 is a page and line amendment. I ask to adopt, and I'll explain both of them on 3rd Reading. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say Aye. Opposed, 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, is Senate Bill 328. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 328, an Act concerning civil law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Hastings, on your bill.
Mr. President and Members of the Senate. The Floor amendments underlying on Senate Bill 328 amend the relation back statute in the Code of Civil Procedure. The bill provides that if a clerk's office rejects an electronically submitted document, the corrected document can be filed later but will relate back to the original submission date. The corrected document must be submitted within seven business days of receiving notice of the rejection. If the document is not filed due to technical failure in a court approved electronic filing system, the later filing will also relate back to the original submission date. The Floor Amendment No. 2 removes the immediate effective date and moves it to January 1st, 2026, for the appropriate parties to adopt and amend the technology into the system. This is an agreed bill, and I'll -- I'll answer any questions, and I urge an Aye vote. Mr. President, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senate Bill 328 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 328, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to skip ahead -- ahead to page 8 of your printed Calendar. Near the middle of the page where Senator Koehler brings Senate Bill 408. Senator Koehler seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 408 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 408. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Koehler.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 408. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senate Bill 408, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, this bill adds a student summary of performance form, a summary of the student's IEP, and special education information to the list of documents that may be included in a student's permanent record. A student or their parent or guardian may opt out of having summary performance of their permanent record. Finally, the Department of Human Services may access the student's permanent record solely for the purpose of assessing a student's qualifications for disability services. This is brought to me by the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission. We passed this unanimously last year, didn't get taken up in the House. And I'd appreciate your support again.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Fowler, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. A question for the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Fowler.
Senator Koehler, it was our understanding in committee that the school boards were opposed to this legislation. Is that still the case?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler. 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Yeah. Thank you, for the question. No, they're neutral.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Fowler.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler, do you wish to close? Then the question is, shall Senate Bill 408 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 408, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're now going to skip ahead to page 16 of your printed calorie -- Calendar near the bottom of that page, Senator Simmons brings Senate Bill 634. Indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Simmons seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 634 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 634. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Simmons.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 634. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 634, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons, on your bill.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. Senate Bill 634, as amended, requires municipalities to compile and publicly share a list of contracts for public infrastructure projects valued at five million dollars or more, ensuring the list is available for public inspection on their website. The amendment also restricts home rule municipalities from managing this information in a way that conflicts with State requirements. Mr. President, this is a transparency and sunshine initiative for our local government and big public infrastructure projects. I'm happy to take any questions from my colleagues and respectfully request an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator DeWitte, for what purpose do you seek recognition? 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. A question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield, Senator DeWitte.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Simmons, this covers every municipality Statewide, correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
That's correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator DeWitte.
Thank you. Every contract that a municipality must approve to spend dollars, whether it's one dollar or five million dollars, is a matter of public record as it typically shows up on an agenda for a public meeting. Is that not true?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
I don't know that that is always going to be a requirement, actually.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator DeWitte.
Seriously. Every public body I've ever been a member of, if we spend one dollar, it goes before the city council or a county board on an agenda becomes a matter of public record. So, the 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 general public can know what their elected government bodies are voting on. That should be sufficient public record of what a government entity is spending money on. Why would this additional burden be required to be implemented when it's already a matter of public record?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Very good question that the Senator has raised. So, the impetus behind this measure is to make it easy for taxpayers to go right on the website of the municipality and click a button to see all those infrastructure projects that are valued at more than five million dollars. Currently, you're not able to do that for the lion's share of municipalities. Now you can request a FOIA, do a FOIA request, or you can reach out to a municipality and say, you know, "I want to see your budget that you passed last year." And you've got the time to comb through that you can find that same information. What I'd like to do is make this easier for taxpayers to be able to see where their tax dollars are going.
Senator DeWitte.
Who -- who initiated this legislation?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
The Senator from the 7th District.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator DeWitte. 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
I'm sorry I didn't catch that response.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Senator, that represents the 7th District of Illinois.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator DeWitte.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
Thank you. Senator Simmons, thank you for your work and I appreciate your personal investment in this legislation. However, I think it's fair to say that this just becomes another burdensome mandate on municipal governments as everyone is fully aware, the Illinois Municipal League is adamantly opposed to this legislation as an unfunded mandate that simply requires another reporting responsibility to any government entity, spending, according to this bill, in excess of five million dollars. That information is already publicly available. It's available every time these types of contracts come before a government entity to be approved for expenditure. This is an unfunded mandate, a burdensome responsibility. And I would urge a No vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Arellano, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Arellano.
Thank you. First, we talked about this in committee. I want to make very clear, I reiterate, I'm a huge fan of transparency and transparency initiatives. The city I was a mayor of for eight years what -- what got me into that was the largest municipal fraud in U.S. history, and I was part of many transparency movements through that. Would your bill, as -- as I read it, would in simply introducing the budget which lists those contracts fulfill, already fulfill the requirements required in your bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Senator, for the question. Technically, you could find that information. But again, as you and I talked about in -- in Local Government Committee yesterday, you -- you have -- you have to comb through and -- and search through all of the you know, thousands of pages of -- of the municipal budget to be able to find that information. So, again, you know the -- the real spirit behind this bill is to make this easier for taxpayers and all to be able to see where our tax dollars are going.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano.
Thank you. How did we reach the number of five million specifically? Was it tied to anything specifically in statute, or what was the genesis of that particular number? 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
So, the five million dollar threshold assumes that most municipalities that have big contracts are going to be well north of five million dollars. We could -- we could have had a discussion about making this be at, you know, one or two million dollars. I don't -- I think that that might get into a situation where some of those contracts are sole source and are not as easily made available or their -- their entities are not actually able to be shared. And so, five million dollars seem like a reasonable place to start as a baseline on infrastructure projects that, typically speaking, are the contracts are going to be, and the cost of those projects are going to be well north of five million dollars.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano.
Are there penalties associated with this bill? Because I did not see any in the language.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
There -- if you -- if this bill should pass and the municipality is not in compliance; they would want to come into compliance to be in compliance with State law.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano.
To the bill. 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
As I mentioned, I'm a huge fan of transparency initiatives. I would note, though, that we need to be very careful with unfunded mandates. They need to accomplish what we're trying to accomplish. We need to put some thoughts in there because, as we do these, we burn goodwill, especially in my rural areas with local officials who get vague language, like this, and rack up legal bills or potentially upset watchdogs who interpret it the way they want, because we have not taken the time to make the language specific, accomplish what we're trying to do, and then put that necessary transparency mandate onto our local governments. In this case, only municipalities, when, in rural areas a lot of counties are the ones handling some of the bigger contracts. So, for that reason, I'm against the bill. I think we need to tighten up the language, make it accomplish what we're trying to accomplish, broaden the spectrum of who it's applying to, so we're not picking on specifically municipalities. And let them know we're doing this because transparency is important, it matters to our citizens, and we're going to take the time and intentionality to accomplish that goal before we put a mandate on our local governments. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Hastings, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Mr. President, question of sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Hastings. 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
You had stated in your testimony about the process of requesting a budget and combing through it, and how burdensome that may be on an average resident who may not be familiar with municipal budgets. It's a very burdensome process. Wouldn't you agree?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Absolutely.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Hastings.
Senator Simmons, it would be a proper remedy for a -- a average reasonable person to FOIA these construction projects. But in this, in the circumstances where you have a large municipality, say the City of Chicago, you may have a hundred, two hundred contracts that may be over five million dollars, maybe more. Is that a fair statement to say?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
I -- I think that's a fair statement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Hastings.
So, by FOIA-ing five hundred contracts, each individual sense, or FOIA them all at one time, that would be considered in some municipal circumstances, a voluminous request. Is that an 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 accurate statement?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
A thousand percent the case.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Hastings.
Mr. President, and the remedy for going through the FOIA process in the event that a municipality, whether that's a small municipality or large municipality may reject number one, your initial FOIA request for timeliness to grant or extension, whether that be seven days. And for other circumstances, it could be extended a little bit more. Then a municipality or a town can object because it's a voluminous request, and then they can reject it altogether, resulting in an average reasonable person to have to go to a public access counselor at the Attorney General's Office to -- to receive some sort of an opinion and a determination that could be an overly burdensome process, too. Is that a fair and accurate statement?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
10-4.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Hastings.
Circumstance where you may -- encounter what I would consider an adverse municipality who may not want to properly disclose -- 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 these contracts for whatever rhyme or reason that is. Because, it does happen locally, I know it happens in my community where they may even give an elected official the runaround as to a FOIA process. Just, because, they don't really want it to come out at a certain point in time that revolves around the month of April, for example. So, Mr. President, to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
Mr. President and Members of the Senate, I appreciate the arguments made by the other side of the aisle as to the unfunded mandates and overly burdensome process made to local municipalities. However, there are circumstances to which municipalities act in an adverse manner, not only to people who have the means to FOIA and the means to investigate a budget. However, they also can act adversely to the common resident -- the common resident, the common -- your neighbor who may want to just get to the bottom of one contract. And these contracts are something, as one person said on the other side of the aisle, are publicly already done on a -- on an agenda. And -- and for the most part, in my experience in local government which spans close to forty years, although I am 29 years old, Senator Simmons. I will say that it's not hard to put a five million dollar contract on a spreadsheet and post it online. We could go into the deluge of talking about websites and how burdensome it is just to find something on a website, but I think that's better suited for another day. But I think this bill achieves, for the regular common person, the objective of looking for more transparency and finding out more about government, especially for contracts in excess of 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 five million dollars. Mr. President, for those reasons and the questions that I asked today, I urge an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Lewis, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Will the speaker take questions?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he will yield. Senator Lewis.
So, Senator, does this bill only apply to municipalities?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
As stated earlier, yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Lewis.
Is there a process with our State agencies that we are looking for?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
That is not within the subject matter of this particular bill. If you or anybody else brought forward a bill to impose a similar transparency requirement on State spending, I would be happy to entertain discussion of that bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Lewis. 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
I -- I -- I'm just curious, though, we're going for a taxpayer transparency into my colleague -- that making it easier for the taxpayer to find jobs. You and I sit on similar committees. We know there is probably fifteen billion dollars' worth of infrastructure projects going on between Capital Development Board, Tollway, IDOT, just to name a few. Yet, we're not concerned about those agencies? We're starting with municipalities?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
I thank the Senator for the question. The scope of this bill is -- is focused on municipalities. I don't want to say that I'm not interested in exercising similar oversight over State spending. This bill deals with municipalities at this point in time. In the future, if another bill were to be brought forward, I would again be happy to entertain the discussion on how to configure that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Lewis.
So, what about then independent park districts, fire protection districts, anything other government entities at the municipal level?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Once again, I think that transparency and sunshine in government is always a good thing. And there are an infinite number 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 of ways that we could go about that work. I've started with municipalities because the municipalities are oftentimes the largest share of local governments. I live in Chicago, which itself is a municipality. And I -- I want my neighbors to be able to go on the City of Chicago's website and see any contract for any infrastructure project that is in excess of five million dollars. Point stop.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Lewis.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
So, I -- I understand the sponsors initiative. However, I think by limiting it in scope we are putting an undue burden on our municipalities and we're truly not giving the taxpayer the transparency that the sponsor is looking to do. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Sally Turner, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. A question for the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Turner.
Thank you. Senator, I just had a couple of questions. One was, I realize you did this bill just for municipalities, but why wouldn't you want to include county schools, parks, libraries in 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 addition to encompass all of them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Mr. President. Once again, I mean, I'm happy to entertain transparency in government at any time. This particular bill does deals with municipalities. That's the most pressing of mind for me as a resident of Chicago. I'm happy to entertain any discussion of park districts, library boards, municipalities or non-municipalities, townships, all that in another bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
I understand that, and I -- and I understand your compassion for that one area. But I think there's something else that if we're going to do that for one, we should do it for all. The other thing I wanted to ask in regard to your bill, does that -- would it take effect on those projects that are ongoing right now or -- or…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
That's a really good question. So, the -- it -- should this bill pass, it would anytime a municipality spends five million dollars on any public infrastructure project that would be the type of project that the entity would have to be listed on the website. So, any existing projects would have to be disclosed if they're renewed. But if an existing project say it -- it - the -- the expenditure on that runs out at the end of the fiscal year, then that obviously wouldn't be germane to this bill. 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
I appreciate that answer, that was helpful. And, but also, why -- why we just focusing on the City of Chicago? Why just them?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Actually, this -- this isn't just focused on the City of Chicago. This is -- this is meant for all -- all municipalities that -- that typically -- and I get -- I get some of the questions that the Senate Republicans are asking. Municipalities tend to be larger and so that to me, makes a lot of sense in terms of starting this off as even kind of as a pilot. But, I'm again, in the future I'd be happy to go further if this is something that proves to be valuable and I think it will be.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Thank you, Senator for answering all our questions. And I just want to say one comment to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
As a former county clerk, I think it's really important that we not only address things that are five million. Let's address all contracts. Let's address contracts that are a million. Transparency is the key. All of our constituents need to know what we're doing with their money. Is that a start? Maybe that's a -- 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 that's a good idea but I -- I think it needs to be all encompassing but thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Any further discussion? Senator Wilcox, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Wilcox.
So, Senator Simmons, Senator Hastings asked some great questions and questions that we absolutely agree with. But he didn't ask if the details of your bill actually will get a constituent, any of the answers they were looking for through the processes that he went through. Your bill simply asks a municipality to compile and maintain a list of each contract. Is that -- is that going to give the constituent the name of the company that was contracted with? Is it going to give an extent of the work that was to be done? Is it going to give timelines? Is it going to give contract numbers or is your compile a list going to be adhered to by municipal attorneys and municipal electees by being just a list, contract x, y, z, date here, a dollar amount. Is that exactly what you're looking for your constituent or as we discussed last night, do you not -- and we think you're looking for something much more. I think Senator Hastings agrees, you're looking for something much more. We're not opposing your bill. We're opposing the four sentences that we do not absolutely believe are going to get your constituents anywhere near what you're looking for. How do you believe the municipalities are going to 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 comply with those few sentences and get you your -- what you're looking for, for your constituent?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
There -- there were two questions. Let me answer the first one. So, the list of entities would just be the entities and the dollar amounts. And the reason I started there is because I think that's manageable. And I spent some time working in local government myself. I was a Deputy Commissioner at City of Chicago for some years, and that's a really easy piece of information to pull together and make available. So, I want to start there. In terms of the second question, this is really not the hardest thing to do for local government. I mean, just getting the contract. I mean, I can literally just see this playing out where the budget director is asked to just make that list available to Department of Innovation and Technology for the municipality in question. They post it right to the website, so I think it makes sense to start easy, not make this overly onerous, and not overburden the taxpayers with more information than they probably have time to process. So, just having the entity and the dollar amount, I think is a good place to start.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Wilcox.
So, in -- I don't disagree with that but we've spent as much time talking about this bill as many municipalities may give to complying with it, and I guarantee they will comply with it. But it is not going to come near the information you're looking for. 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 So, I'll probably not support this bill but look forward to continuing this discussion to maybe next year. Actually, having a bill that spells out ideally what it is we're looking for, how timely it needs to reported, just asking for them to compile a list, I think we're going to be disappointed in what you get, and I'd hate to do that and pass the bill and not get to your true intent.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion. Senator Simmons, to close.
Sorry. Thank you very much, Mr. President. Thank you to my colleagues for a very spirited discussion on this -- on this bill. Just in closing, really quickly, I want to say that this -- this -- the argument around unfunded mandates, that's why we -- why I structured this bill in a way that is, I think, going to be easy to -- to implement. Right, I'm not saying that the municipalities have to come up with every last little piece of information about every last contract that is probably going to be inscrutable anyway, to the -- to the taxpayer, to end user, and certainly to the staff that work in those municipalities. So, I don't -- I don't think this is an unfunded mandate at all. I think this is a pretty reasonable first step on transparency that I think we all need to see in government. The second point. I think the Senator brought up around penalties. You know, this really is just going to come down to audit findings. So, you know, at the end of the year, all of the departments have to show audits that have been done in the agencies, and -- and any findings that are not in compliance will be an oversight opportunity for the head - the mayors, or those that are in charge of those cities and ultimately taxpayers, if 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 they're not complying with the audit findings. So that, I think is a pretty good penalty to start out with. And then the topic also -- that was brought up about - what about contracts that are less than five million dollars. Again, Mr. President, we started this out at a number that I think is reasonable. I don't know that we want to ask municipalities to every single time, you know, there's a twenty thousand dollar contract that starts to be a lot of information that is inscrutable and unmanageable. So, five million seems like a good baseline. And I certainly don't think that this place is going out of business. So, if there are implementation issues on this legislation, I'm happy to bring a trailer for it. Thank you, Mr. President, I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 634 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 44 Senators voting Yes, 12 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 634, having received a constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to move to page 22 of your printed Calendar near the bottom of that page, where Senator Belt brings Senate Bill 784. Senator Belt seeks leave the Body to return Senate Bill 784 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 784. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Belt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Belt, on your amendment. 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to move the amendment and adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments for consideration
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 784. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 784, an Act concerning safety. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Belt, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 784, as amended, allows public safety agencies in Illinois to assist agencies in neighboring states during disasters like fires, floods, or earthquakes. It permits such assistance regardless of other state laws. I know of no opposition, and I would like an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 784 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 question, there are 56 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 784, having received the required majority, is declared passed. Leave of the Body, we're going to skip ahead to page 37 of your printed Calendar near the top of that page where Senator Simmons brings Senate Bill 1173. Senator Simmons seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1173 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1173. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Simmons.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons, on your amendment.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. I would like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1173. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1173, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill. 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons, on your bill.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. Members of the Senate, Senate Bill 1173, as amended, states that no fee shall be charged for any notarial act related to the execution of an Illinois Secretary of State Department of Driver's Services Homeless Status Certification form and at a notary public shall not charge a fee for any notarial act related to the execution of an Illinois Secretary of State Department Driver Services -- Homeless Status Certification (form). This legislation is intended to make it easier for those that are unhoused to be able to get State ID so that they can access housing, jobs, and more. I know of no opposition at this time, and we'll take any questions. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Question of the sponsor, on the correct bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Tracy.
Senator Simmons, I -- I have just a short questioning period, it won't be as long as that last bill you had. So, when you first presented this bill in Committee -- Committee the Republicans in Judiciary Committee had concerns that it was overly broad and perhaps individuals who had less than good intentions might access a -- many ID. And so, you made an attempt and an amendment to narrow that. Isn't that correct? 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Yes, Senator, that is correct. The way that we were able to work out the amendment ensures that this is -- hyper targeted to those who actually are unhoused who are looking to -- or who actually required to sign a very specific form for those that are actually homeless.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy.
And as I understand, this bill now will be -- the homeless individual can have the application for the ID certified by the Secretary of State's Office and notarized by -- by someone but we're presuming that will be the Secretary of State's Office.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Yes, that -- that is correct. So, the -- the big deliverable in this -- in this amended bill is that the fee is what's getting waived, but the actual form and the notary requirement stays in place. Which I think is a good way to filter out any -- I'm just going to say those that maybe don't need this form, as you alluded to in the committee hearing last week.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy.
Thank you. And I think that you've -- you've reached the solution to what we had concerns about. I support your bill. I -- 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 I do have concerns that the Secretary of State's Office may not have a notary at all, the -- the department offices across the State. But let's hope that they address that and get those notaries there so that individual can get the ID they need, for the reasons they need, and it's properly certified and notarized. So, thank you for working on this bill. And the clarifications you just gave. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Rose, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Rose.
So, like two questions. One is, like, who's going to go do this if they can't charge a fee? I mean like who's going to go notarize things and just show up and do it for free? But secondarily, does -- if it's going to be the Secretary of State's Office doing this, do they currently charge a notary fee? And I'm just asking those questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
The -- the language that we put into the bill when the amendment came directly from the Secretary of State's Office. And they have no -- they have no concerns about their ability to facilitate on this. So, I did want to say that for the record. In terms of the other questions, Senator, that you raised. You know, 55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 the Secretary of State's Office, again, they -- they understand the goal of this legislation. And so, they -- they could deputize or that's probably too technical of a term. They could actually train somebody that works in the DMV or somebody that's in one of those Secretary of State's Offices to be a notary, so that the notaries are on site but -- that -- I will leave that to the Secretary of State's Office on how they want to manage that piece.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
That's my point. Someone, ultimately, is paying someone to do this -- right? I mean -- I mean, like, who's going -- who's the notary going to be? Is it like, a Secretary of State employee or are we just pretending that people are going to show up for free and notarize things?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Senator, it is -- it is anybody that has completed the notary public requirements that is able to actually, provide the notarization. The -- the change here is that the fee will not be charged to actually do -- the charge won't -- the fee that normally, right now, would be paid by the unhoused individual will not be charged.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 To the bill.
One -- I think you're greatly underestimating the number of people that are going to go out and do this for free. But, I would point out that anybody who wants to do that can already do that. They don't need a law to let them to do it, they can just -- I mean if you want to have a homeless shelter and the secretary at the front desk wants to get a notary, she can just do that for free. Like no one's requiring anybody to charge a fee. So, I -- I think your pool of people is the exact same -- pool of people you have now. Because the people who are going to do it for free now already work at these places. And otherwise, if you're going to say that we're going to hire somebody to come in and they can't charge for their time to show up and do it, and the cab fee, and everything else to get there, because I guess we don't have cabs anymore, what do we have Ubers or something like that? So, you know, they're not going to get, you know, someone's going to pay them to show up. And if they want to volunteer their time, they can already do that we don't need a law. I -- I salute the intent. I just don't know at the end of the day that you actually need this, because if somebody wants to just do it for free, they can already just do it for free. Thanks.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Arellano, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Arellano. 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
First, I want to clarify. This doesn't change any of the processes or documentation needed to get an ID, right, it simply removes the fee if you go through this notary process.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Exactly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano.
Next question. Has there been any estimate? And I realize this would be a massive round figure but has there been any estimate to what that might cost or how often it might be utilized?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
There is not an estimate on that, however, the Secretary of State's Office worked very closely with me to actually, in fact, drafted the amendment language and is confident that the Secretary of State's Office can actually implement this in a way that does not cause any extra fee or -- or cost the State.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 I support this bill. I think making sure folks have access to -- to IDs and what that comes with it is very important. I'd also note, for the record, that I have been a huge proponent of voter ID, and I feel it would be rather hypocritical for me not to find pathways for folks to get access to all of our social responsibilities, including voting, as well as the social benefits of -- of the safety net and for that reason, and to remain consistent with my own past positions, I support your bill. And I thank you for bringing it forward.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons, to close. Oh -- I'm -- oh -- Senator Simmons, to close.
Thank you so much, Mr. President. Once again, I thank my colleagues on the other side of the aisle. I always enjoy a spirited discussion with the entire caucus. So, a couple of things I wanted to -- to… A couple of things I wanted to say in closing, I -- I forgot to mention in -- in the beginning that what -- what motivated this bill is I get a lot of constituents coming into my district office who are unhoused. It's just the reality of -- of what I'm seeing in my district, and this is an issue that has been consistently raised as a systemic barrier to access to housing is that I can't get an ID because I can't afford to pay for the notary. And so, this seems like a really -- you know, again, when we talk about removing systemic barriers to housing, I think this is it and it's a lot of measures like this. And so -- and I would ask for an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1173 pass. All those in 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 Senators voting Yes, 5 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1173, having received the constitutional required majority, is declared passed. Leave of the Body, we're going to stay on page 37, but move down to Senate Bill 1181 from Senator Stadelman. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1181, an Act concerning civil law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
Thank you, Mr. President, and Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 1181 is a response to a recent Supreme Court ruling that greatly impacts the media, the press and whether it can report without any protections and it protects its First Amendment Rights. I'm not an attorney so I don't need to go too deep into the background here. But -- about eighteen years ago, the legislature passed a law called the Citizen's Participation Act that basically protect the First Amendment Rights. Whether you're a person speaking out at a public hearing or you're the media reporting on government activities. It protects the First Amendment Rights by ensuring that lawsuits that -- were retaliatory or did not have any merit were not able to proceed, which could potentially chill speech, especially that of the media. A recent court ruling however greatly narrowed how that law is applied and could potentially impact the media and how it reports. And what 1181 seeks to do is 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 simply correct that by making sure the legislative attempt, a few years ago, remains and that the media has these protections covered by the Citizens Participation Act. I just want to again, make this very clear, that this -- proposed bill does not impact the underlying intent of the Citizens Participation Act. If a lawsuit is determined to have merit, if there was malice towards the facts, that lawsuit can proceed. It does not offer additional protections. But again, with this recent Supreme Court ruling needed, the media needs protected under the previous legislation. Happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1181 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voting who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Senators voting Yes, 1 voting No, 0 voting present. Senate Bill 1181, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1241, Senator McClure. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1241, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, this bill clarifies State law for township cemeteries. Under current State law, it says that the township collector is to appoint a cemetery board to look after a 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 local cemetery. Well, in most cases, I think, across the State now there are no more township collectors, but there are township supervisors. So, this allows for township supervisors to fill that role. I know of no opposition. I've spoken to various county treasurer's office across the State. They are for the bill, and I'd be happy to take any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1241 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Senators voting Yes, 1 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1241, having received the constitutional required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1261, Senator Guzmán. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Senator Guzmán seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1261 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1261. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes. Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Guzmán.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán, on your amendment. SENATOR GUZMÁN: To adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1261. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1261, an Act concerning housing. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán, on your bill. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Good afternoon colleagues, I am pleased to present Senate Bill 1261, which would recreate the Community Land Trust Home Task Force. Illinois and the nation are experiencing significant and worsening housing affordability challenges. These struggles include a shortage of affordable homes for prospective home buyers, increasing financial pressure for existing homeowners, and a lack of affordable units for renters. These affordability challenges can increase housing instability and displacement pressure in our communities. Senate Bill 1261 would recreate the Community Land Trust Task Force operated by IHDA and other stakeholders. IHDA has been on an extensive journey with community land trusts across the State since 2023, and while they have done immense work to advance access to lending programs and down payment programs, the Task Force would offer them the opportunity to operationalize the recommendations -- the recommendations, I'm sorry, of the initial Task Force. Happy to answer any questions. And I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Is there any discussion? Senator Preston, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
To the sponsor, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she will yield. Senator Preston.
Senator Guzmán, with you being a progressive champion, I -- I'm having a hard time understanding why don't you just give everybody a house for free? Why does this legislation just do that?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I take point with that Senator, if I could, I would, but we -- the CLT's have been doing immense work in our community. They are a native product of my district that I'm really, really proud to be a part of. And I believe that if we continue to research them, we will eventually see housing for all people in the way that we deserve.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Preston.
Okay, Senator. On page 1745 this bill does state that there's a remote possibility that people might have to pay this money back. And I'm very concerned that this is a really, really conservative bill. Can you please speak to that?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 I'm not aware that there's a page 1745, but I hear you. Thanks.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Preston.
Understand that -- this is my best try and attempt at -- at -- at hazing you. This is your first bill, and you have just been a champion for such good legislation already. I'm proud to serve with you. I do ask everybody to vote No that she can get broken in properly, into the Senate, and try better next time. This bill needs work. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Villanueva, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates she will yield. Senator Villanueva.
Senator Guzmán, I heard that you were about as graceful as a swan. Is that true?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I think the four stitches on my knee answer that sufficiently for me.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villanueva.
65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 And Senator Guzmán, is it true that you had a very -- very eventful Wednesday night, middle of the night, situation happen?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I got to experience several hours in the local emergency room. I'm really thankful for our safety net. Thanks.
Senator Villanueva.
And Senator Guzmán, is this true that this is your first bill on the Senate Floor?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Yes, this is my first bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villanueva.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The bill.
I just want to tell you how happy I am to have you in this Chamber. Even if you're as graceful as a swan with stitches in your knee but also to show how committed you are to being here because you were still here "up and at'em" on -- wait no, that was Wednesday morning, Tuesday to Wednesday morning was still here doing the work of the legislators. So, I commend you on your first 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 bill. I think this is a great idea and I'm very proud to serve with you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Ventura, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Questions to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates she will yield. Senator Ventura.
So, in all seriousness, sometimes people on the Floor give us a really hard time. So, I'm going to ask you some real important questions about this bill. Who are some people on this Task Force?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Yes. At the present, the composition includes the Governor or a designee, IHDA, the Director of Revenue, IDHS. And I think the part that is amazing about the Task Force is that we get to build and learn upon the findings of housing advocates. And so, I'm really proud that Palenque LSNA and other folks, other housing organizations in our district are serving. And the beautiful part is we have CLT's across the State that are represented in this Task Force.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
So, to clarify, a person who actually wants to purchase a house has not been given a voice on the Task Force? 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Many on the folks -- many of the folks that are on the Task Force are present homeowners and would certainly like to own.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
What type of houses are we talking about tiny homes, giant mansions?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: CLTs, and I think a lot of the misconception around them is that they are substandard or tiny. I've had the opportunity to tour many of them, and there are homes that I would be proud to live in, and I'm really glad that they are being repurposed in this way. That means that my community can stay in my community.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
Can you explain what a community land trust is?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: A community land trust is a partnership where you have housing and community development that creates a long-term affordability housing model through shared ownership. So, what that often means is that a nonprofit or another entity actually 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 owns the land that the CLT is built upon. And so, when the title of the home is, for whatever reason, say that person decides to move on and wants to sell that, the land in itself, stays with the CLT so that they're able to maintain that affordable price.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
Just two more questions. Have you played the Game of Life?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Said I'm ruthless, baby.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
Can you explain where on the Game of Life board have the options of forgivable, deferrable, or repayable mortgages?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Will you repeat the question again for me, Senator?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
Yes. On the Game Board of Life, can you explain to me where -- what spot on the board allows for forgivable, deferrable or repayable mortgages as your…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 SENATOR GUZMÁN: I don't often have a funny bone, mine is missing. And I feel like you're making a joke that I'm missing. I'm so sorry.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
That clearly was a different game from the 80's about Funny Bones being pulled off of the board games. But, I do appreciate you honoring this tradition of us giving you a hard time. And I hope this is good practice for bills to come, because I know you're going to be championing some tough bills that are really important to our community. So, congratulations on your first bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Koehler.
Thank you, Mr. President. A question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she'll yield. Senator Koehler.
So, this is kind of weird that I'm talking to you, but I'm looking exactly the opposite way. So, forgive me on that, but Senator Guzmán, you had quite a reputation coming into the Senate. I mean, I heard about your background, just very impressive. I got to meet you, and truly impressive. I mean, you've got all the things really a legislator needs. You're aware, you're 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 experienced. So, why is it that your first bill in this Chamber is a Task Force?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: In short, I got really excited about the Task Force part because it includes a lot of folks that I love. However, it does also include other provisions around IDA's Home Ownership Program, so, I would mention that piece. But I will also say that this process has been humbling. There were recommendations that we wanted to add to this bill, and we really slowed down and listened to IDA. And this is the manageable piece that we think will keep them working with our community in a sustainable way.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
That's all well and good, but I want you to understand that's kind of a tradition of why we evolve bills into Task Forces. When you can't get your idea passed any other way, what you do is reduce it to a Task Force and then you bring it to the Chamber and we pass it as a -- as another Task Force. How many tasks force have we had in this Chamber in the past several years? Quite a few. So, I just want to know if you -- if you understand the tradition of what a Task Force really is about.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I'm aware, sir, but I'm here to disrupt convention. And I do think that my Task Force will be really well served to continue 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 doing the vital work that they're doing. Again, IHDA and our community partners were in agreement about this step, so I'm looking forward to supporting them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
Bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I have no doubt that this is going to be a wonderful Task Force. I just want to say welcome to the Senate. You're going to be a great improvement here. And thank you for just all your energy and all your vitality.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Halpin, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
For a question of the sponsor?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates she will yield, Senator Halpin.
Thank you, Mr. President. And I only had one question, but I thought it was important for the sponsor to experience the awkwardness of trying to debate someone who's standing directly behind her. So, my only question and -- and do your very best to -- to address both. Both, me, while talking into your microphone, if you can. But why is this bill -- and this may be the most hard -- hard hitting question of all. Why is this bill most important 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 to you personally?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: To your first point, Senator Halpin, awkwardness level achieved, peak achieved. Why this is personally meaningful? I'm a renter and I haven't been able to own yet and my family and their journey here in the United States, it's almost took us twenty-two years. And I -- when I look at the promise of what it means to be able to have a home we want -- we need every single model and tool available. And I believe that this is, again, something that's being tested in my community that I'm really proud of. CLT's deserve the resource and capacity building and I believe if we support them, they will thrive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Halpin.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
Senator, that is an amazing answer, and I know that you don't represent just people like you in your own district. You represent that sentiment in people in my district and throughout the State of Illinois. And I applaud your efforts, and I will be supporting your bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Villivalam, for what purpose do you seek recognition? 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. Questions of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she'll yield. Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Senator, for bringing this bill forward. I'm just curious, you know, first question is -- what steps did you take to ensure there was no opposition? And how many steps was it, one step, five steps, six, seven steps? If you could clarify that to me, I would appreciate it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I think I took more steps than the steps that I tumbled down, which was precisely seven. I actually technically I slid -- I was a human sled on those steps. But I will say no, we've had countless meetings again with IHDA and advocates, I think we've really learned from a lot of the feedback with you all to really take measured steps with the Task Force. So, I'm really proud to report on that work.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, thank you for the answer. So, and -- and -- and these homes that are going to be helped offered through these programs, are -- are they going to have steps as well? And -- and I was curious if -- if people have issues getting up and down those steps. Will there be medical care included?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: There may be steps up some of these homes. I know that the homes that I visited certainly did have three or four steps. I navigated those pretty well. So, no medical is unfortunately not a piece of this bill, but hopefully they won't have as bad of a klutz streak as I do.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam.
To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
First of all, I think this bill needs a lot more work. I would -- I would prefer to see that we figure out this step situation -- before we proceed. But some of you may not be on -- in on the inside joke which is, I believe on Wednesday, afternoon, our esteemed Senator from the 20th District took a tumble down seven steps or was it six or five, I'm not sure. And, unlike -- unlike the average person that would go to the hospital and seek care. She went to three committees, three committees. She had dinner that evening, and at approximately 11:30, there's a few of us that were asked if we could -- if she could borrow our car to go to the hospital. So, first let me say respectfully, the few of us that you asked would in the future request that if this happens again, please ask us earlier in the day. Secondly, I -- I can't, you know, I'll try to put in words the best I can. I'm so excited. I'm so proud of -- of the work that you've done thus far and I 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 think what happened on Wednesday, although I would not advise to do it again, both the fall and waiting ten hours to go to the hospital shows that you're really committed to this work. And I look forward to many, many more bills like this and so, congratulations.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Simmons, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates she’ll yield. Senator Simmons.
Senator, shotgun housing. Does that ring a bell to you? Shotgun housing?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: No, it does not. But maybe you can educate me.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons. Start here
I - you know, I'm just really, you know, disappointed. You know, you're -- you're in your first term and you're already starting out bringing forward these big bills. And you know, no shotgun housing. Shotgun housing is the housing of the American South that a lot of you know folks that came up there in a great, great, great migration. We have one house that was just one room, and they called the shotgun because you literally shoot a pistol 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 from the front door to the back door. So, I encourage this freshman Senator to educate herself on shotgun housing if we're going to do any housing legislation. My second question, for the Senator, is this is such a complicated piece of legislation. You know, since you've brought forth such a -- such a meaty bill, can you please explain to us the -- the -- the derivation of the Illinois Housing Development Authority? That's a scary sounding title for the Department. Where does that come from?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Are we talking about what is the origin story of IHDA?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
I -- I -- I think that's a -- a fairly you know, I think it's a fair question, given the enormous complexity of this bill that's over my head.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I'm unaware of its specific origin story, but I also think a lot of a function it's probably in its name. Right. Illinois Housing Development Authority and with really good purpose.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 To the bill.
I -- first of all, I appreciate the Senator's response there. I'm -- I'm humbled at that response. In all seriousness, I'm so happy to have you in the -- in the Illinois Senate to call you a colleague, to call you a fellow Chicagoan, to have Senate districts that sort of boundary. You're on one side of Chicago River, I'm on the other but that's, you know, kind of my home area. And I really am looking forward to helping you in any way I can but also learning from you. I really feel like we all in the Senate learn from each other. I've learned something from everybody in this room. And so, I look forward to learning from you. And I look forward to getting in great trouble with you in the years ahead. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Villa, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Questions of the sponsor, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates she will yield. Senator Villa.
The bill language references a Revenue Code, the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Were you even born then?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: All good things were born in 1989.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Villa.
So, a bill of this caliber and seriousness really needs to build public trust and trust from your colleagues on the Floor. I -- I want to go back to the incident that happened a few days ago on those steps. So, you mentioned earlier in this conversation that you have four stitches on your knees, yet you said that you were falling down the stairs. I'm confused about how you got stitches on your knees from falling down the stairs.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I apparently can break physics, I fell forward, I landed on my knee. The end.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villa.
So, the combined issue with age. I believe you are the youngest Senator on the Floor. And this questionable falling up or down the stairs, it seems like you might not even remember. I don't know if you are, you have the caliber to carry a bill this this significant, Senator Guzmán.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: The super cool part is I no longer have to carry a physical folder. I can carry stuff digitally now. Yeah.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villa. 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Senator Guzmán, thank you so much for carrying this legislation to the bill. I'm just so incredibly thankful for you to carry this bill. I know that you've put a lot of thought and effort and energy. I urge an Aye vote for your bill. Welcome to the General Assembly, baby Senator. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Ellman, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
A question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she'll yield. Senator Ellman.
Senator Guzmán, all of my colleagues here had some funny, interesting questions. I can't think of a thing, but you know, I do actually have a question, and it -- I -- I look forward to learning more and more from you, but one of the things that I'm interested in, in all seriousness, is about how many of these community land trusts are there? I -- this is new to me, so I'm not familiar with any estimates?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: We presently have over at least eight CLT's that are in various stages of robust development, some that are as fully fledged out, as the one that I have in my community that has over almost twenty CLT individual homes and properties and folks that are living in them from my district and then others that are just 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 getting started across the southern and central part of the State. So, this bill will actually help continue to ensure that that Task Force can do things that support growth of a model that is working in my district everywhere else.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ellman.
Thank you. It really seems like a good model for those who want to pass on a legacy and, you know make something good for the future. And I look forward to working with you more, welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Leader Lightford, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Will the sponsor yield, Mr. President?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she will. Leader Lightford.
During debate, Senator, I -- I thought I heard Senator Koehler ask you a question and you told him that you were here as a disruptor. Can you please define disruptor?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: For me disruption looks like what a lot of us are doing. We're here to change a status quo so it can literally happen a step at a time. Like my right knee is experiencing. And it can happen in a lot of different ways. So, I'm just thankful to be a part of a Body that is doing that in its own way. 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Leader Lightford.
Well, Senator, I'm not sure where you got your definition from. But a definition of a disruptor can also refer to a specific weapon, software, or even a chemical. Which are you?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: All of it, I think. Really.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Leader Lightford.
Well, I'm looking further because I don't know that we need any other disruptors. I think that what we need is someone just like you. Someone who often has a strong focus, someone who's typically driven by innovation. And someone who has the ability to break down silos even when you're falling down the steps. I appreciate you coming on with us. I look forward to working with you, bringing in all your diverse backgrounds and -- and your skill set and being the youngest on the Floor is really special. So, welcome to the Illinois General Assembly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) And last Member seeking recognition is Leader Curran. For what purpose do you seek recognition?
Question of the sponsor, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she will yield. Leader Curran. 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Senator, I -- I see in reviewing your legislation this Task Force that I would have to appoint a Member of -- of my caucus to serve in this Task Force. So, I just wanted to confirm a couple, details on it. It looks like this Task Force is to start with its first meeting sixty days after enacted. So, we're thinking Summer, we're going to start this over the Summer. Would that be correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Yes, sir.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Leader Curran.
And -- and I see you -- they have to write reports to us, the General Assembly. So, they got a homework assignment, as soon as they start on this Task Force, starting over the Summer. Would that be correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Also, true.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Leader Curran.
Well, Senator, you've had several months now serving here and gotten an opportunity to get to know all the Senators on the Republican side of the aisle. So, a very important question. Do you have a recommendation on who I should punish or -- or appoint, 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 I should say, to this Task Force.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Ooh. I'm looking at Li Arellano, and I'm just kidding. I, you know, ooh I'm hearing all the names called out, I'll definitely will take some under advisement. But I've been here long enough to know to not give you a name directly, I'll let you all figure that one out.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Leader Curran.
Well, Senator, I would just let you know if -- if you don't come up with a recommendation, you're going to get Senator Rose. So, just, be warned and I look forward to your recommendation. Senator just want to welcome you to the Illinois Senate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán, to close. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Thank you colleagues, in all seriousness, for the space that we've offered the CLT Task Force, I really appreciate your comments and your insights. I'm becoming a better human I think through your challenges to me as I've gotten started. So, just really appreciate the time and space and looking forward to serving with each of you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1261 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 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 the record. On that question, there are 56 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1261, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to move down near the bottom of page 37 of your printed Calendar, where Senator Fine brings Senate Bill 1346. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1346, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Fine.
Thank you, Mr. President. This legislation takes consumer confusion out of your insurance plan. It allows for concise, accessible information for the consumer about what is mandated by the State and covered under your plan. Currently, plans have to provide consumers with information about providers, emerging coverage and benefits, and the appeals process. This legislation adds any mandates that are covered under their plan. I know of no opposition, and I would appreciate your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1346 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1346, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senator Balkema, for what 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 purpose do you seek recognition?
I -- for an apology.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) State your apology.
I offer a sincere apology to Senator McClure. I intended to vote Yes, on Senate Bill 1241 and I would like to wreck -- let the record reflect accordingly. And I am learning now on who to listen to in the future.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The record will reflect your intention. With leave of the Body, we're going to move to near the bottom of page 37 Senate Bill 1422 from Senator Halpin. Senator Halpin seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1422 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1422. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Halpin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Halpin, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to adopt the amendment and debate it on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1422. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1422, an Act concerning employment. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Halpin.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, this is an initiative of the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association to put some teeth into the human trafficking training requirements here in the State. Essentially, what we have are local communities in the State that are -- are willing and able and interested in trying to police some of the bad actor businesses in their -- in their municipalities. They don't really have the tools to do that. And so what this bill does, is it allows an enforcement mechanism by those local municipalities to get that done. The amendment brings the Department neutral and also offers the Department the optional ability to -- to police these and find -- find violations of the training requirement. It also allows the Department to use federal money that they're receiving, to redesign and update their human trafficking training program to accommodate the hotels, lodging, truck stops, and restaurants that are often places where this type of trafficking occurs. So, they're able, the -- the change that we made in addition to, allowing them the enforcement mechanism is 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 also to extend the effective date, to give them time to use that grant to get this done. So, at this point, I'm aware of no opposition and I will answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1422 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1422, having received the constitutional required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to move to near the top of page 38 where Senator Feigenholtz brings Senate Bill 1507. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1507, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill. Senator Feigenholtz.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1507, as amended, has transformed into a study at the University of Illinois Urban Transportation Center. About crashes on North and South DuSable Lakeshore Drive and the effectiveness of random cameras at these locations. These cameras have been very successful in the United Kingdom and in Europe in actually changing driving behavior for any of you who've come to visit. The fine City of Chicago and driven on Lakeshore Drive, you probably feel like you're in a Mario Brothers video game sometimes, but I'd -- looking forward to this study and trying to figure out how to reduce accidents and crashes. Sixteen thousand crashes have occurred on Lakeshore Drive between 88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 2019 and 2024, so let's try and figure out how to reduce that number. I'd appreciate your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Bryant, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
I think we just have a few concerns on this side of the aisle in regard to privacy issues. There is a portion of the bill that -- where they're going to be studying some AI and you can maybe remember this Body and over in the House when we talked about facial -- facial recognition issues and so forth. So, I realized that this is just a study that's going to be done. But -- just have some real concerns in regard to, privacy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion? Senator Feigenholtz, do you wish to… Ope, I'm sorry, we have a late light there. Senator… I'm sorry, Senator Bryant, was that a question?
No, that was to the bill. But it looked like Senator Feigenholtz had questions of me. So maybe she wants to just make a statement on what I had said. So, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Feigenholtz.
It's hard to get used to this. I just want to respond to my 89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 dear colleague, Terri Bryant, who -- brings up a very important issue. I am also very circumspect of technology, as you can imagine. And privacy is definitely a priority for me. In other locations where this has been employed, these photographs are completely eliminated, and -- and I wouldn't be working on a bill that didn't do that. So, I'd like to assure you that privacy is of great concern to all of us on this side of the aisle, and I'd appreciate any support you can provide.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
Thank you. So, UIC -- my understanding is UIC, whose really essential to this bill, has made several statements about it. One of which is they don't know where the funding is going to come from, they don't think that they can afford to do this. And number two, they're concerned that they can't be unbiased. So, when you've got such an essential entity to -- performing this task that says they can't really perform this task, to me that's a problem. And I think our constituents, it's safe to say for the most part, are against this type of a thing. And so, for those reasons, I would ask for a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) See no further discussion? Senator Feigenholtz, do you wish to close? 90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Sure. I'd appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1507 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 Senators voting Yes, 19 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1507, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Leave of the Body we're going to move to Senate Bill 1551 from Senator Stadelman. Indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Stadelman seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1551 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1551. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Stadelman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman, on your amendment.
Mr. President, I'd like to move the amendment, and I'll explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now in the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1551. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1551, an Act concerning aging. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1551 addresses the financial exploitation of vulnerable adults and seniors. It's a big, big problem. Nearly one in five citizens over the age of 65 has been victimized by financial fraud. Senate Bill 1551 does -- specifically, it gives financial and investment advisers the ability to pause and slow down transactions and disbursements when they suspect an older person is being defrauded. The delay will allow the transactions to be verified and make sure they're legitimate. The other major provision that it requires investment advisors to report to the Department of Aging and the Secretary of State Securities Department, which regulates investment and securities dealers. I just think it's important for information to be shared between these two State agencies, so they can be aware of what's happening on the ground and take any appropriate action. Happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Plummer, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. A question of the sponsor. 92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Plummer.
So, a -- a lot of the people that would be impacted by this legislation, I would imagine have a fiduciary responsibility to their clients. You caught my attention when you said they may pause or slow down transactions. That seems to be a little bit of a double-edged sword for those folks. So, if someone asks them to execute a transaction and they don't -- that could lead to significant liability for them and I don't think that they're being good stewards of that responsibility if they do execute it, I -- I suppose you're potentially creating a new liability for them. So, what do they do in that scenario where they have a fiduciary responsibility to act on behalf of their client's account?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
I think it just needs to be pointed out that everyone in the financial industry, including advisors support this legislation. This is -- these are tools that are provided in 42 other states. And so, everybody in the industry realizes this is an appropriate and reasonable step, it delays it for a few days. And then if it's found out to be legitimate, it can proceed. If it's not legitimate, I think that it's worthy of investigation or reported law enforcement so additional investigations can take place. I just simply said, it -- would I -- respond that if -- if there is suspicious activity, it needs to be reported to law enforcement no matter what the concerns you may raise.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Plummer.
Why, I -- I -- I hear you loud and clear, but you just said that folks that might be impacted by this are in support of it, and that's absolutely false. There are still plenty of organizations that oppose this legislation. So, I don't know how you can say that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
The legislation that has been modeled and used by many states is supported by the National Association of Securities, which deals in this area. They are promoting this language and this protection for older adults, some of the opposition from the financial institutions doesn't deal with this provision. It deals with the potential reporting requirements to the two state agencies that I mentioned. That's the concerns that were expressed to me as far as why they filed an opposition. But regarding the provision of delaying these transactions for a certain time to make sure legitimate. I've never heard any opposition from those entities.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, just to clarify, when you said that the organizations that would be -- be impacted by it, support it. That -- that's actually not accurate. The banking organizations in this State oppose it, the credit unions, I believe have issues with it. This creates significant liability for these organizations. And I just want to be very clear, you know, we're Illinois State Senators, so 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 I'm not really concerned with the National Association of Securities Broker Dealers has to say about this legislation. So, there is plenty of opposition in the State of Illinois on this legislation because you're setting these people up to incur significant liability if they do not act as good fiduciaries for their client accounts. Is that not, correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
I'll address the liability concerns. The language does include civil and criminal liability protections, if they act in good faith. So, as long as they're acting in good faith, they're not liable for any actions that may take place.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, if they're acting in good -- so, let's move on for a second. You said that if they want to investigate this and a few days later it turns out that there was nothing there. What sort of transactions are you talking about, that they could come back a few days later and execute?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
Securities transactions, investments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, as we've all seen over the last ten days, you can have 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 market swings of ten or twenty percent like this. And so, they again having a fiduciary responsibility, they take actually an oath to that fiduciary responsibility -- miss out on a market swing because of this legislation. You think that just a few days later they'd come back and somehow execute that?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman. Senator Stadelman.
So, in the report from the National Security Association that these delays are rarely used -- and again, they're not liable. But as far as the market swings, again, I would argue it's such a prevalent problem, billions of dollars -- are lost by senior citizens, one in five citizens are affected by this -- this fraud. I would argue the protections afforded by this delay in -- in the transaction is well worth any potential cost down the road. But again, have to stress - investment advisors, securities dealers support this legislation. They want this tool to delay these transactions. Again, if forty-two other states have this capability and again, if no one expressed to me concerns about the -- the ability to delay. And I've heard nothing but positive support for that provision of this legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
Well, now -- now you just have me confused because you just said that the proponents of the legislation at the national level say this is a rarely used tool. And then the next sentence you said, because of the billions of dollars that are being lost, that outweighs the obvious fiduciary concerns that these people have. 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 So, does it happen often, or does it not happen often? Because those are very contradictory claims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
A -- a point of clarification. The bankers wanted transactions included. Initially, it was just disbursements, it was the bankers who wanted the transactions delayed to give them the extra tools. So, they asked for this tool.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
Okay, can you answer the question though?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please repeat your question, Senator Plummer.
My question was, you said that the proponents claim that this is a very rarely used tool. The very next sentence you said because of the -- and you said billions of dollars being lost because of this exploitation, that -- that concern outweighs our concerns about the legislation. So, if it's a -- make those, make sense.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
The only concern I'm hearing is from you, Senator Plummer. From the -- financial industry, bankers, community bankers, investment advisers, security dealers they want this tool to delay -- delay the transaction. So, no one has approached me. This again, 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 this is model legislation supported and -- and implemented in forty-two states. If it was so opposed, I'm not sure why forty- two states would have implemented this -- this language.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
That is just absolutely false. The bankers, in Illinois, oppose this; other financial institutions, in Illinois, oppose this. In fact, they claim that the legislation is unworkable. Okay, and I know that this legislation is not identical to the other forty-two states that have similar laws on their books. There's already laws on the books about senior exploitation. I'm very familiar with them. Banks have to report a tremendous amount of this information, in fact, I think the financial industry would tell you that they're extremely frustrated with government because when they have to report Suspicious Activity Reports, also known as SARs reports or things of that nature, they're reporting literally thousands of those a year, and government is not following up, in many cases, on those claims. So, yes, forty-two other states have laws on the books to support senior exploitation. I completely support that. It is a significant problem, one hundred percent. But most of these financial institutions have the tools in place to address this already. The problem is when they submit their Suspicious Activity Reports, or their SAR reports, or any of the litany of other things they have to report, there's minimal follow up from the appropriate agency. So now we're creating -- an another one here that not only is it going to be -- not only is it going to be very similar in terms -- in terms of the reporting mechanisms, right. But it also violates the fiduciary 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 responsibility these people, these financial institutions, these broker dealers, whomever else -- have to their client accounts. If -- if -- if -- if they appeal something and as you said, "A couple days later they find out it's okay." And by the way, I don't know what state agency can get back to anyone in a couple days. But assuming that's the case, what -- what -- what dollar amount can the trade be executed at, the trade that day or can they go back in the future and do the previous one? This is a really bad piece of legislation and as the Illinois bankers say, "It's an unworkable piece of legislation."
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there a question there, Senator?
Yeah. So, my question is, you said, "This is important that people can go to law enforcement." How come they're not reporting it to law enforcement if it's important it gets to law enforcement, because this doesn't go to law enforcement?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
You know, we -- we had a lot of discussion with financial institution, the bankers, and they provided a lot of this language that is incorporated in this bill. And this is, you know, the final product. The only opposition I heard from Illinois bankers was having to report to the two State agencies. I would -- I would argue, providing information is important to help crack down this problem. But the language regarding the -- the delaying provision, again, we worked with the language, it was satisfactory to them. This is implemented in forty-two other states. I've not heard any 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 opposition regarding the financial industry not wanting this tool to prevent these transactions from going through. If there's concerns of scams or irregularities.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
Hopefully this is the final question. Can you -- can you answer the last question, though, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
You repeat the question, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
You've said multiple times that it's important that this information gets to law enforcement so that bad actors can be penalized. I totally support that. How come this isn't reported to law enforcement then?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman.
From, what I understand, it is reported to law enforcement, a couple other entities called SARs and FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network). So, it doesn't immediately go to law enforcement, but -- often it is reported to -- law enforcement. I'm not sure I'm answering your question or not.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer. 100 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
This -- this bill… Look, I'm -- I'm just extremely disappointed in the way this bill has been presented, just in the last few minutes. I know for a fact the Illinois bankers are opposed to this. The credit unions are opposed to this. The Illinois securities dealers are opposed to this. There's a litany of organizations that are opposed to this. And for a piece of legislation to be presented in the manner that there's -- I'm the only person you've heard from opposition. Everyone that I know of that this bill impacts is opposed to this legislation. They call the legislation unworkable. Okay. Now, there might be some national organization that no one knows anything about that -- that might like the bill, but there are no other states that have -- I want to be very clear about this, there are no other states that have this legislation on their books. All states have legislation on their books, as they very well should, to protect seniors. Okay. But this is an unworkable piece of legislation, it's not going to protect seniors from exploitation. Okay. There's already plenty of examples of how that system is in place and could be improved upon, but this isn't one of them. And it sets every organization up, that this bill impacts for severe liability -- because of how unworkable it is. This bill is opposed by everyone it impacts. This bill is unworkable. It's not going to help seniors, and it's going to create liability for people who are honestly trying to work their best on behalf of their clients, who they have a 101 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 fiduciary responsibility for. I understand we all want to protect seniors, but this is a terrible piece of legislation, and I urge a No vote along with everyone it impacts.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Stadelman, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. Appreciate the debate. Again, I want to stress, the opposition - we heard from the Illinois bankers, dealt with their requirement and, again, this doesn't mention bankers or credit unions specifically, as far as the reporting requirement. It's just that obviously they employ investment advisers and so, the legislation simply asks that those investment advisers report that information to state agencies. I think that's important information to share, so they can get a handle as what's happening as far as scams on the ground and ability to take action. Again, those -- that was the area, the mandatory reporting, good versus bad faith -- requirements that we heard the opposition. As far as the provision, to delay the transaction that is supported, I would argue universally by the financial industry, the organization's called the North American Securities Administrators Association and in their report that's provided a model legislation for forty-two other states that has this specific language. It says that state securities regulators are committed to protecting retail investors and are often well positioned to intercede on behalf of vulnerable seniors. It's also important to break down barriers and share information about financial exploitation with states, as well. So, this is again model legislation forty-two states have adopted. This is a good bill. This is a huge problem, billions of dollars in losses. Let's 102 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 help protect seniors.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1551 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 38 Senators voting Yes, 17 voting No, 1 voting Present. Senate Bill 1551, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Leave of the Body, we are going to move to Senate Bill 1602, Senator Morrison. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1602, an Act concerning health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Morrison.
Thank you, Mr. President. The Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act, SASETA. It has a working group that's comprised of the Attorney General, HFS, DPH, hospital staff, IHA and several other stakeholders. They have been meeting for quite a while together, and at the urging of the Attorney General, I am presenting an update and improvement of services for victims of sexual assault. This increases opportunity for sexual assault nurse examiners at treatment hospitals. Removes a sunset for out- of-state hospital participation in Illinois, updates billing protocols and allows transfer hospitals to generate vouchers and specifies that the SASETA enforcement falls under IDPH. It is truly a pleasure to bring a bill to you that has such wide support and 103 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 will make such a difference to the life of survivors. I'm happy to answer questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1602 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1602, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 1667, Senator Martwick. Senator Martwick seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1667 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1667. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 4, offered by Senator Martwick.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Martwick. This is -- this is Amendment No. 4 do you not wish? Okay. Okay. Senate Amendment 4, out of the record. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 5, offered by Senator Martwick.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Martwick.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would ask that we adopt the amendment, move that we adopt the amendment and ask for an opportunity to explain it on 3rd. 104 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1667. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1667, an Act concerning civil law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Martwick, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 1667 is -- amends the revised, Unclaimed -- Uniform Unclaimed Property Act in several ways. This is an initiative of our State Treasurer. As I would note, there were five amendments to this, as we have sought to mollify the concerns of all the interested parties. And it is, I know of no opposition. What this basically does is establishes a licensing process through the State Treasurer for unclaimed property finders. Lowers the period of abandonment for non-retirement tax advantaged accounts, addresses pay -- final pay for deceased State employees and streamlines the process for unclaimed property owned by State agencies and address unclaimed property for non-depository State regulated financial institutions. Again, five -- five amendments here to address all 105 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 the concerns. I know of no opposition. Ask for an Aye vote. Happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 16… Oh, I'm sorry, we have a late light. Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Questions of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Tracy.
Senator Martwick, you just stated that you didn't know of any opposition, and, I believe there is opposition and I -- I just -- just wanted to acknowledge that. I'm not sure of the exact nature of the opposition, they did not come to Committee and testify. I just wanted to clarify that there was some opposition, and I don't know if they contacted you, but if they did, could you please elaborate on what their opposition might be? Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Martwick.
Senator, with sincere thanks -- thank you. I -- I did, I -- I misspoke, you're right the opposition was not -- they did not testify in Committee. There is a group of people, or organizations that act as unclaimed property finders which is who this bill seeks to regulate and license. They sent a letter stating their opposition to the process of being regulated and licensed. That who is -- who is opposed to the bill. Again, it was not -- in person, opposition, it was just a letter. But that is the 106 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 opposition that exists in the bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion. Senator Martwick, do you wish to close?
I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1667 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1667, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we are going to move to Senate Bill 1797 from Senator Walker. Indicates he wish to proceed. Senator Walker seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1797 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1797. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Walker.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Walker, on your amendment.
Mr. President, please pass Floor Amendment 2 and move on to 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. 107 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1797. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1797, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Walker.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. This is a fairly comprehensive and complex bill about a dynamic emerging industry. It is called the Digital Asset and Consumer Protection Act, and it is designed to protect both the industry and the consumers in the State of Illinois. It is a -- it's a balanced approach in that I am pro this industry and pro consumers, simultaneously. The reason it is so important right now, is this crypto industry including NFT's and digital assets and all kinds of other things that have that label, this industry is booming. This industry is expanding, it is growing at a geometric rate new products, new customers, new players, and -- and especially in Illinois, we are a center of this innovation. There are three hundred new blockchain companies in Illinois alone. As startups, we have W3, Web3 development, we have the quantum development, we have AI development, we are a center of this development. So, I don't want to stall that in any way. On the other hand, with this growth comes -- growth in 108 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 opportunity comes growth in risk, which is typical in these kinds of startups. The -- the amount of fraud that is hitting Illinois consumers is also growing geometrically. And we're talking tens of thousands of individuals, millions of dollars in fraud or -- or illegal activities or customer abuse, depending on how you define it. And so, what this bill does is try and put guardrails around the industry so that the industry itself can grow. Only twenty- three percent of the consumers in Illinois, in a 2025 survey, said they trusted the credibility of the crypto industry as a way to invest or gain wealth or even store wealth. The -- with that lack of credibility of the industry, they cannot grow. If we can put the right guardrails around them, they can increase their own credibility with the public and therefore build their own opportunity and in that case, I believe this protects the industry as well. It is not typical registration -- regulation, it is registering your company with the State so that we know who you are. It sets minimum requirements for that registration that are what you have to have, not what you must do. It is like saying if you have a multi-family dwelling, you have to have a sprinkler system. If you are a -- shop that - like a pawn shop that holds people's property, you have to be able to lock your front door. So, the kinds of things this does are the things you need to have in fitness, in fraud protection, in security. The -- it is therefore more about what you need to have to qualify as a business in this space and protect your own customers versus what you need to do. So, that's -- that's the -- the basis of the approach. I would -- am open to any questions and look forward to them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Rezin, for what purpose do 109 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I have a few questions for the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he will yield. Senator Rezin.
Thank you, Senator Walker. Thank you for bringing this legislation, I enjoyed the testimony during Committee. However, I do have a few questions. First of all, what current laws already -- current laws already address many of the crimes and misconduct seen in the cryptocurrency industry. What specific types of misconduct would this bill address that aren't already illegal?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Walker.
Thank you, that's a very good question. What this bill does is establish an environment so that the companies, themselves, can build fraud protections for their own consumers. We already have definitions of what are frauds. The -- the issue is and let me be clear about this, crypto and the industry is not a scam. These companies are good companies operating with new technology. The difficulty is that scammers love to participate in this technology because it's quick, it's powerful, it allows them to be confidential and anonymous, and it allows them to get out of town really quickly with the money and thereby become almost untraceable. So, the -- what we're trying to do is establish requirements for companies such that they can develop their own anti-fraud programs, their own money laundering programs, their 110 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 own protections in terms of identity protections and disclosures to customers. It -- it does not define new fraud.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. Last question. This bill is a major new expansion into an area IDFPR, currently, has little involvement in. As an Oversight Department, is the Department equipped to manage a massive new responsibility, especially when it's just now getting a handle on major licensing backup -- backlogs?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Walker.
A very good question and a pointed question. My approach to this has been to use the capabilities of IDFPR, in primarily, in their arena of financial institutions. They -- their know how to build anti-fraud programs, money laundering programs, identity protection programs, security programs, and use that expertise to build into this industry. It is not to be a new Department. It is not a big investment. I'm… I have been very conservative in my -- design such that we don't have to spend a lot of money at this. And as you might recall in IDFPR that Section, like our Insurance Department as well, they are self-funding by the fees people pay in order to be reviewed.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rezin.
Mr. President, to the bill please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 111 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 To the bill.
Thank you. I appreciate this conversation. This is a new area for many of us as we're trying to grasp, first of all, what is this area and how to move forward as a State, as many states across the country are trying to do the same. This bill framework closely mirrors current laws applied to banks and credit unions. It's counterintuitive, as the cryptocurrency industry was specifically set up to provide consumers with alternative financial options that aren't as regulated or as centralized. There are already numerous regulations at the federal and State level which protect consumers participating in the cryptocurrency market. These include laws on fraud, money laundering, money transmission, and -- and more enforced by the SEC, FinCEN, and the CFTC. IDFPR cites, the collapse of FTX in 2022, as a prime example of why this legislation is needed. However, their CEO is currently sitting in jail, and it was reported last year that all consumers will be repaid in full plus interest. All of that was accomplished under the current law. We support strong consumer protections and agree that there is a place for unique and thoughtful regulations on the cryptocurrency industry. However, the approach Senate Bill 1797 takes, is broad and comes at a time when there is federal legislation, which will preempt it, being considered by Congress. I appreciate the work of the sponsor on this bill, I feel that instead of passing a patchwork of legislation in our State, it would be good to start with a working group to put a package together to work alongside the federal government and what will be coming down from the federal government. So, on those -- because of that, I'll ask for a No vote on this side. Thank you. 112 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he'll yield. Senator Plummer.
Thank you. Senator Walker, I appreciate you bringing this bill. I know it's very well intended. I noticed that IDFPR identifies the need for maybe ten people initially to kind of monitor this industry at a cost of about three million dollars. Where do you see that number growing to?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Walker.
Recollect my recollection of IDFPR's testimony in committee was that they initially would need two people. And after the 20 - - January 1, 2027 date, they would have another three and then grow to ten eventually. And so, it is a long ramp to that growth. And again, these as they grow with reviews and with registering companies, those are self-funding activities.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
I understand the -- the -- the self-funding piece. I'm -- I'm -- I'm less concerned about that then the potential -- impact this could have on what you identified and I agree with you, being a dynamic and emerging industry. Right now, IDFPR has a hundred and forty-seven people headcount, I believe at the Division of 113 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Banking, sixty-two in the Division of Financial Institutions. And for credit union oversight alone they're requesting a headcount of twenty-seven. When you see one forty-seven here, sixty-two here, twenty-seven here, I'm -- I don't know how they're going to do this with two people to grow into ten people without absolutely slowing down the ability for small businesses and this emerging industry to grow to get licensed and everything else and keep up with all the competition around the country. I -- I just don't see how that is possible. Do you have concerns as to, you know, this legislation as well intended as it may be, putting a brick on the industry's growth here in the State of Illinois?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Walker.
Thank you. My concern is actually with this industry. I -- I understand I don't manage IDFPR, but I -- I do understand their capabilities. My concern with the brick is for this industry is like something I once said to senior executives of the health care companies in the United States. If you don't fix this preexisting condition situation with your customers, someone else is going to have to fix it for you. I think that if they don't fix their fraud problem in the public's mind, this industry will not grow. It's still less than it's less than twenty-five percent of potential adult customers in this country that trust this industry. We together have to deal with this problem so they can grow.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
To the bill. 114 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I -- I -- I appreciate Senator Walker's interest in this industry and this legislation. I know it's very well intended. My concern is, if you look at other states that have done this the reality is there's fifty states. We all compete with each other for industry. There are some states, like Wyoming and Nevada and elsewhere that are doing things differently, and they're seeing a lot of growth in this industry to the benefit of their economies. As far as concerns for customers or those that could be impacted by fraud. The reality is that's going to be something that's handled at the federal level. We all know that's going to be handled at the federal level. So, what about Illinois? Well, this legislation it seems to me or us, at least most clear -- most closely resembles legislation in the State of New York. And initially, State of New York center of finance for the country had a robust, crypto industry early on. They put in place similar regulations, and they've completely crushed all the growth of that industry in the State of New York. The State of New York and their regulatory agency overseeing the industry has fifty-five people. We're going to have two, and then it's going to grow to ten. And pretty soon we're going to have fifty-five people. Then we're going to have seventy-five people, and we're going to stop the growth of this industry in the State of Illinois, to the detriment of the people of this State, and for the investment that could come to the State. So, I know that the sponsor of this legislation wants to see this industry do well in Illinois. The problem is this legislation will harm this industry and our ability to grow it in 115 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Illinois. And for that reason, I oppose it. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion? Senator Walker, to close.
Thank you. Thank you for all your comments and concerns. Let's vote Aye.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1797 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish. Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 39 Senators voting Yes, 17 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1797, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Next, we have Senate Bill 1859 from Senator Guzmán. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Senator Guzmán seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1859 to the Order of Second Reading. Leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, have there been any amendments approved for consideration.
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Guzmán.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán, on your amendment. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Yes, to adopt the amendment please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, is there any further -- is there any further amendments approved for consideration? 116 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1859. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1859, an Act concerning safety. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán, on your bill. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Good afternoon again, colleagues, I'm pleased to present Senate Bill 1859. The measure would create the Climate Displacement Task Force to make recommendations regarding climate displacement within the State. This bill intends to ensure that we're proactively planning for climate driven displacement by identifying resources, supporting community resilience, and developing policies with residents, advocates and industry stakeholders. The bill would propose that the Task Force submit two reports on the Task Force findings, conclusions and recommendations to the General Assembly by no later than June 30th of 2026 for its first report, and subsequently in 2027. In 2023, the International Panel on Climate Change published a report highlighting that due to widespread and rapid changes in climate, approximately three point three to three point six billion people live in highly vulnerable areas of concern. These areas have increased drought, forest fires, rising sea levels, flooding, creating issues with food, water security, and rapidly causing displacement within these communities. Again, this Task Force is 117 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 a proactive measure to ensure that we are putting our State in a position to create a strategic plan to support people fleeing from climate fueled crises. Happy to open up for any questions. And I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1859 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 39… Excuse me, there are 40 Senators voting Yes, 15 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1859, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Next, near the bottom of page 38 of your printed Calendar, we're going to go to Senator Villivalam who brings Senate Bill 1939. Senator Villivalam seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1939 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1939. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for 118 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1393 [sic] (1939). Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1939, an Act concerning business. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1939 modernizes the Illinois franchisee laws to close emerging loopholes being explored by some legacy auto manufacturers. It explicitly prohibits manufacturers from using affiliated subsidiary or spinoff entities to circumvent existing laws competing directly 119 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 with their own Illinois franchised dealers through direct sales or service operations. It was negotiated and agreed upon by the Illinois Auto Dealers Association and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which is the automobile manufacturers, which is a reflecting a thoughtful and negotiated approach. So, with that, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation is neutral, as are the Illinois Manufacturers Association, and the Illinois Chamber. I would ask for an Aye vote and happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you. To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
Senator, I certainly rise in support of this legislation, I think it's -- it's -- it's important and good, we're just kind of surprised in our side of the aisle and actually kind of happy that with this legislation that you're supporting Elon Musk and Tesla and allowing them to have and maintain a monopoly that they'll be able to maintain this same kind of -- of -- direct sales but now we're taking away or eliminating any opposition going forward. So, we appreciate your -- your support for the -- for the -- for Tesla and for Elon and urge people to support this legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion? Senator Villivalam, do you wish to close?
120 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Yes, I do. Thank you to the previous sponsor. It's always good to hear some misinformation. So, first and foremost, this is legislation that was negotiated with the auto dealers and the Alliance for Illinois Automated Innovation. This is legislation that will support seven hundred dealers serving communities across the State, ninety thousand total jobs. The sales tax collected alone three point three seven billion. One out of every seven dollars in Illinois is what it's attributed to -- this is also, as I mentioned, protecting jobs and that's why the AFL-CIO, the machinists and others are supportive. I would add that this is not an Elon Musk bill, like the previous speakers mentioned. There was court decisions that referenced what has occurred there. Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid who exclusively sell EV vehicles. This this- this did happen in court. These decisions happened in court. The circuit court judge in December of 2022, dismissed a lawsuit and said that -- held that the Motor Vehicle Franchisee Act does not apply to manufacturers that do not have franchise dealers. So, this was the -- the Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid. Part of it this, has been decided, long before this bill became introduced. But I'm glad you mentioned Elon Musk. I really am, because just the other day, I read on CNN business that Tesla sales plunged thirteen percent in the first three months of this year, the largest drop in deliveries in its history, as backlash against CEO Elon Musk and growing competition took a large bite out of demand for its EVs. Tesla reported Wednesday that it delivered three hundred and thirty-six thousand six hundred and eighty-one cars in the quarter, fifty thousand fewer vehicles compared to the first three months of last year. The results were the company's worst sales in nearly three years; fifty thousand fewer vehicles compared to the first 121 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 three months of last year. Can -- I won't -- I can't ask a question because I'm the sponsor, but I'm curious what changed from the first three months of last year to the first three months of this year? Maybe -- maybe we can talk offline about that. But I would just say this, the -- the reality is Tesla's imploding, the auto dealers -- the auto dealers have through an independent study, been shown to increase their EV sales from eleven percent to thirty-five percent over the last few years. They are committed to continuing that trend. They're invested in EVs, and they're going to need to be because apparently Tesla has a lot of problems. And I want to note for the record, that the Illinois Environmental Council has no position on this legislation. So, I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1939 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1939, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we're now going to move to the top of page 39 of your printed Calendar where Senator Doris Turner brings Senate Bill 1954. Senator Turner seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1954 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Mr. Secretary… Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 122 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Turner, on your amendment.
I'd like to pass the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner, on Floor Amendment No. 3.
Adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1954. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1954, an Act concerning recall of countywide elected officials.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Doris Turner, on your bill. 123 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1954 genesis is from the horrific murder of Sonya Massey at the hands of a Sangamon County sheriff's deputy last summer. After that murder occurred, a lot of things came out with regard to the way that the deputy was hired and also a lot of questionable activities that were in his background that Sangamon County was not aware of and did not have privy to before an offer of employment. After that happened, there was -- the community banded together and asked that the sheriff resign. He was very adamant that he was not going to resign and then the community asked for him to -- for him to be recalled. Sangamon County through their attorneys, indicated that they didn't believe that they had the legal authority to recall him and they asked that the Illinois General Assembly give them that authority. And that's why I have brought the bill. I will tell you that this is -- has been discussed and we have been talking to and listening to the concerns from my colleagues, from stakeholders, from the community, from the Massey family, from the Massey Commission, and the Sangamon County Board. And we have narrowed it in a way that it is very specific and only applies to Sangamon County. It only gives the Sangamon County Board the authority to put the question of recall and through a binding referendum on the November 2026 ballot only. And the -- it will be repealed on December 31st, 2026. So, there's a one shot opportunity. When I presented the bill in Committee, Sangamon County Board Chair, Andy Van Meter, testified that Sangamon County was in support of the bill. Sangamon County Board passed a resolution in support of the bill. And they have committed that they will put the question before the voters at the November 26 election. I would really like 124 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 to -- this has been a -- a heavy lift and a -- and a long haul it and I really want to thank, Giovanni Randazzo because he has worked so hard with me on this, and I have really leaned on him a lot and -- and called him a lot and disturbed him and his weekends and his holidays a lot. So, I really want to thank Gio for all the work that he's helped me to get this to this point. And as -- as you can tell, there have been a number of amendments to the bill. So, it is very different today from when we first filed it. And I'm happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Plummer, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she will yield. Senator Plummer.
Senator, thank you for bringing this legislation. It -- it -- from your description of it, it sounds like to me it's a piece of legislation that was fairly narrowly tailored to address a particular elected official with -- with, you know, this legislation coming down the pike, how is that elected official kind of -- what is -- what does he had to say about or how has he reacted to this legislation?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
I -- let me -- let me make one clarification. I appreciate your question. And while the genesis of the legislation began with 125 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 a specific elected official, I think that the community is very interested in having that -- that ability overall. And I have not had any conversations with any specific elected officials in Sangamon County. My conversations have basically been with the Sangamon County Board Chair, Sangamon County Board Members.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, the person that this bill is targeting has resigned from office and no longer holds office. Is that a fair statement?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Yes
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, what's the purpose of it now?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
I think -- I think that that's a fair question from someone who is far removed from Sangamon County, far removed from the consternation that my community felt while they were going through this and actually are still going through it. And, I believe that my constituents have asked me for this relief, Sangamon County Board Chair has asked for the clarification, Sangamon County Board Members have asked for the clarification, and as their elected representative, I feel an obligation to provide them with that 126 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 clarification.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, if -- if… Look, I support recall. I think every elected official in the State of Illinois should be liable to recall, by their constituents, if they're not doing their job properly. I -- I -- I think everyone in this Chamber should be - the -- the potential to recall them should exist. I think every county; every constitutional officer should be able to be recalled. I think every township person should. I think every elected official should have the ability to be recalled. So, if -- if the person this was targeted towards has resigned, no longer is -- the in office, but you're doing it for the community because you think the community should have this ability, why is there an expiration date on it?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
The expiration date is not necessarily for them to have the ability to recall. The expiration date is for Sangamon County to have the opportunity to put the issue before the voters, if they want to give Sangamon County constituents the opportunity to recall, and they have said that they're going to take advantage of it on that date.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, if the county board has the authority to put this to the -- to a vote -- have, I guess two questions here. Have the county 127 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 board members -- are -- are they liable to recall or are they exempted from this? That would be the first question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
The legislation only applies to countywide electeds (electees), not…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
So, then this address, I mean look, Sangamon County experienced a tragedy. And you know where I stand on recalling elected officials. My next concern would be pretty simple, if there's a tragedy in Champaign County or there's a tragedy in Will County, or there's a tragedy in DuPage County, or there's a tragedy in -- in St. Clair County, how come the people of Sangamon County have the right to recall these countywide elected officials, but no one else in Illinois has the right to recall their elected officials in a similar capacity?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Actually -- actually Cook County does have the right, it does have the authority. So, I -- I will put that right there and I will also say to you that I -- when I first filed this legislation, it was much, much broader, -- much broader. And I got all kinds of pushback from people on your side of the aisle, other, you know, associations, and so -- so what I'm bringing today is - - and having it narrowed in the way that it is narrowed is taking 128 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 all of that into consideration and bringing forward a piece of legislation that I feel has the best opportunity to be passed.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
So, I didn't ask about Cook County, because I -- I know that -- that exists in Cook County. I asked about Champaign County, DuPage County, Will County, St. Clair County, and, you know, the one hundred other counties in the State of Illinois, populated by millions of people who do not have the right to do this. I -- I think everyone that should be elected -- everyone that's an elected official should be able to be recalled. I think that we should lower the threshold to recall elected officials. We see these problems at the municipal level, at the State level, at the federal level, this look, if we're for good public policy and if we're for cleaning up government, and if we're making sure that our constituents voices are heard, all of our constituents should have the same rights. All of our elected officials should be held to the same standard. And this piece of legislation, very narrowly defining county wide elected officials in one of a hundred and two counties. It's not the townships in Sangamon County, it's not the mayor's, it's not the village boards, and it's not the darn county board that can do this to the countywide elected officials. It's just the county wide elected officials, Sangamon County, that can be recalled by just the people of Sangamon County. And so, if you 129 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 represent one of the one hundred counties that doesn't get this right, or if you're one of the vast majority of elected officials that are exempted from this responsibility we are making, we are putting forward a very terrible precedent. If the precedent we want to say is when something happens bad in your county, we're going to do something after the fact to narrowly, you know, go after a few people when the reality is, as we all know in this Chamber, every elected official has the potential to do something wrong. And so, I'm for good public policy. I'm for recalling elected officials but most importantly, I'm for making sure everyone in Illinois has the same rights. And this bill creates a double standard and it's inappropriate. And I urge this Body to get serious about ethics and serious about recall. This bill doesn't do that. I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any further discussion? Senator Preston, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) A question for the sponsor. She indicates she will yield. Senator Preston.
Senator Turner, if this measure is adopted, that just means that in the county -- Sangamon County, that if they adopt this measure and the voters, the majority of the voters vote on it, that means that this referendum provision will be in place in perpetuity until that -- the voters decide it is over, that they don't want that anymore. Is that some kind of surmise this law? 130 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner. Senator Preston.
I think by and large, I believe that elections are the referendums. That is generally my view. I believe the majority of Illinois -- I'm sorry or should I say to the -- to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
I principally believe that elections are referendums. I believe the majority of Illinoisans believe that referendum are best left to the elections that we have. However, in this specific case, this is a majority of the county in a -- residents in Sangamon County calling for this because of what they experienced. And for that reason, I believe that we should all support this measure and allow the voters to further clarify in Sangamon County, is this the way that they want their county run? So, I urge an Aye vote, and I thank the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) See no further discussion? Senator Turner, to close.
I -- I would just urge an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1954 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 Senators voting Yes, 19 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1954, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared 131 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 passed. Leave of the Body, we're going to skip to Senate Bill 1958 from Senator Castro. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Senator Castro seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1958 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1958. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Castro, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. And ask for its adoption. And I'll explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1958. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1958, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Castro.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1958 amends the Student 132 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Transfer Achievement Reform Act to improve the transfer of academic credits between community colleges and State universities. The bill requires State universities to facilitate credit transfers including entering into articulation agreements with community colleges upon request. It defines agreement requirements, establishes a model transfer articulation agreement and committee to resolve disputes, and mandates a transfer credit review process at both community colleges and State universities. The bill requires universities to submit an annual report to IBHE starting May 1st, 2027, with IBHE compiling and publishing the data relevant to the implementation of the Act in an annual report by October 1st, 2027, and each October 1st thereafter. This legislation not only impacts IBHE but ICCB, there was some conversation in education -- on higher education, in regards to the "2+2" (programs) and the "3(+)1" (Bachelor's Degree Programs). There are already institutions of Higher Ed that are doing that and community colleges in partnership with the universities. I just wanted to clarify that since it came up in Committee. I know of no opposition and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Bryant, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Statement to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she'll yield for questions. Senator Bryant.
Thank you, and this is actually to the Body. I asked those questions in regard to the "3+1" that was in our notes, a little 133 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 bit concerned about what that meant. Commend the sponsor for clarifying the questions that I had in Committee, no longer have any questions. And, I too, know of no opposition, so I think we're good with it on this side.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) See no further discussion. Senator Castro, do you wish to close?
I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1958 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all vote who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1958, having received the constitutional required majority, is declared pass. Senate Bill 1988, Senator Koehler. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1988, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1988 amends the College Campus Press Act. It extends speech protections already afforded to student journalists on campuses, to all media which have been produced by entities receiving public money and have been licensed to produce media using resources from State-sponsored institution 134 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 of higher learning. This came out of a discussion that I had with a number of public radio stations that are housed at universities. And I'd appreciate Aye vote and happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you. Just questions of the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he'll yield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy.
Leader Koehler, my analysis indicates, as you mentioned, that this came out of a conversation with your local NPR and others. Was there an instance or specific issue that they had that they thought required this bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
There was no particular instance or - or issue in general. In fact, this happened before the election. We had had a discussion on this, I recollect last summer or so. I think there was just a desire to make sure that what they were doing was always going to be protected. And so, they -- they asked for this, and I said I would bring it forth.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy.
135 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Sure, I appreciate that. I -- I -- I understand the request was made, did they not think that the -- the First Amendment would protect them from any involvement or infringement on their speech or their presentation on the public media?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
This grew out of their desire to make sure that the First Amendment was protecting them. So, I -- I don't know what to say about that. Again, I'm -- I'm bringing this forward because they seem to think they needed it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy.
Now, I understand that. I just -- I just curious even election or no election, I just, I thought, I didn't understand why the bill was necessary. But, I understand you addressing constituent issues and so we'll go from there. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Rose, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Several questions of the sponsor, if I may.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he'll yield. Senator Rose.
So, Senator, I've got a -- concern in specific about the provision related to -- immunity for publication. Is it an absolute immunity? Are you allowed to knowingly lie about someone? 136 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
There -- there's no immunity from the media. It's the institution, is immune from what the radio station puts out.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
Great. But that's, I think sort of my point. Right. So, let's just state that the University of Illinois, Illinois public media gets, you know, some student journalists get mad at the Mayor and says something that's completely salacious and -- and completely a lie. And by the way, I'll distinguish from satire. Right. I mean, we all know satire, but if the university independent media center student journalist gets mad at the Mayor and says the Mayor beats her dog. And then the Mayor of Champaign says that's ridiculous. Who do they sue? Even if the suit is a non-monetary suit, they're just asking for an apology or a correction or someone to say this wasn't true. We made a mistake. Who do you sue?
This -- this already -- to furthering what is already in -- in effect. This pertains to students already, we're -- we're extending this to media that is housed at public institutions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
That's a very interesting non-answer answer. So, can you sue the university or not in that circumstance? Yes or no for a retraction? 137 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
You -- you can probably sue anybody.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
A state sponsored institution of higher learning shall be immune from any lawsuit arising from expression actually made in campus media or made by public media, produced at a State sponsored institution of higher education. So, again, Illinois Public Media in Urbana, Illinois gets mad at the Mayor, issues a salacious article accusing the mayor of all kinds of horrible things, knowing that they are not true. Where is the recourse for the Mayor?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
The Mayor could certainly sue the person making the statement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
Right. Okay, so, let's -- let's… Okay, I guess. But the -- the -- the -- student has graduated and moved. Where's the retraction?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler.
I -- I don't know where you're going with this. This -- this 138 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 was a pretty simple bill. It just said that in terms of media that are located at college campuses, they have protections of the freedom of the press.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rose.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
The simplest bill is with unintended consequences. Freedom of the press. Yes. But the New York Times is not allowed to knowingly say something false about a citizen of the United States. And in fact, there are plenty of Supreme Court cases on that point. Now, for politicians, they get a little bit more leeway and they can go pretty far. They have to know it was false. But as regards just like a citizen -- citizen they have a right not to be slandered and, in this case, libeled by a publication. And one, this is a State actor. The citizens of the State of Illinois have a right not to be libeled by their own government, which in this case, any State owned public institution of higher education would be State owned. There is no remedy, I have absolutely nothing against the rest of your bill, and I'd be more than happy to vote for the rest of your bill. But we cannot grant blanket immunity against a libel suit for knowingly false information. And with that, I -- I -- I would ask you just to run the amendment, take that Section out and I'll vote for it. You know, tomorrow when we're all sitting here at 7 o' clock tomorrow night.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 139 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Is there any further discussion? Seeing none. Senator Koehler, to close.
Let -- let me just -- so -- so look at it this way, it's kind of a balancing act. Right? We're -- we're trying to assure, you know, media that is housed at public universities the right to have freedom of expression. Right? Now, they -- they don't have to go through the board of directors of the university to get their stories confirmed or approved. Right? So -- so we're saying is that the media has a right and they're funded by, in part, by -- by the university. They have a right to have freedom of expression. But at the same token, if the -- if the board is not going to be overseeing them in responsible for their content, we should also make them immune from having… If -- if somebody wants to sue, you sue the media, you don't sue the university.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1988 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 36 Senators voting Yes, 19 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1988, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senator Ventura, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
To correct the record. I would like to be listed as a Yes on the last vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The record will reflect your wishes. Senate Bill 2108 from Senator Porfirio. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, 140 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 please read the bill. Senator Porfirio seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2108 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2108. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Porfirio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to adopt and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2108. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2108, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2108, as amended, 141 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 transfers enforcement responsibilities under the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act from the Department of Transportation to the Illinois State Police, effective October 1st, 2025, and administrative responsibilities to the Illinois State Police effective January 1st, 2026.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Sally Turner, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Mr. President, a question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Turner.
Senator, I just have a few questions I want to ask you. One of them is, will this legislation transfer the administration and enforcement of the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and the Illinois Motor Carrier Safety Law from the Illinois Department of Transportation to the Illinois State Police within January 2026?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio. Senator Turner.
I have another question for you, Senator. Is it the intent of the Illinois State Police to utilize sworn police officers to primarily conduct audits with regulated motor carriers?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio.
No. 142 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Is it the intent of the Illinois State Police to use the regulatory authority within the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, or the Illinois Motor Carrier Safety Law to circumvent the warrant process?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio.
No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Illinois Department of Transportation employees, of any capacity, have any authority to regulate or enforce the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and the Illinois Motor Carrier Safety Act, once this bill becomes law, effective January 1, 2026. The Illinois Department of Transportation. Okay. Yes, will they or won't they? Sorry.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio.
Thank you. Effective January 1st, 2026, the Illinois Department of Transportation will have no authority to regulate or enforce the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act or the Illinois Motor Carrier Safety Law.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner. 143 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
And, Senator, is it -- the intent of the Illinois State Police to increase any of the fines, fees, or penalties associated with the enforcement of the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and the Illinois Motor Carrier Safety Law?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio.
No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Is it the intent of the Illinois State Police to -- I'm sorry. What is the fund or funds currently receives -- receive penalties collected under the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and the Illinois Motor Carrier Safety Law?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio.
The Road Fund.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Thank you, Senator. What fund or funds will receive the civil penalties recovered under the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and the Illinois Motor Carrier Safety Law?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio.
144 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 The State Police Operations Assistance Fund.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Thank you, Senator. One last question. Will the civil penalties collected under this bill be utilized for the furtherance of commercial vehicle safety and enforcement within Illinois?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio. Senator Turner.
Thank you, Senator, for those clarifications. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion. Senator Porfirio, do you wish to close?
I would just request an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2108 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 Senators voting Yes, 2 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2108, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Andrew Adams from Capitol News Illinois seeks leave to take photographs and audio recordings of today's proceedings. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Leave of the Body, we're going to move to the middle of page 39 on your printed Calendar, where Senator Simmons brings Senate Bill 2111. He indicates he 145 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 wishes to proceed. Senator Simmons seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2111 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2111. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Simmons.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2111. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2111, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons, on your bill.
Thank you very much, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. 146 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senate Bill 2111, as amended, states that a bicyclist may treat stop signs as yield signs when it is safe to proceed and if they give a signal of intention. The bill also states that an individual needs to slow to a reasonable speed. Yield the right of way in order to proceed through an intersection without stopping. These rules do not apply to railroad crossings or individuals under eighteen. This is a legislation that I'm proud to bring forward as myself an avid cyclist but also representing a district where many are commuting by bike, oftentimes with their children in tow. This is a great way to update our rules of the road to support the safety of cyclists and is a proven way to reduce crashes at intersections. The safety stop would allow bicyclists to treat a stop sign as a yield sign, assuming traffic hazards have been assessed by the cyclist, and it is safe to proceed. Importantly, the right of way still applies, and that bicyclists must still yield the right of way to pedestrians and to other roadway users who arrive first at stop signs. If a motorist arrives at the stop sign first, the bicyclist must stop and allow the motorist to proceed through the intersection. This does not allow for sanction, allow for -- or sanction blowing through an intersection, which would remain unsafe and illegal. I am proud to announce that this bill is supported by several advocacy organizations, including Active Transportation Alliance, Ride for Illinois and many others. And I will take any questions. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Tracy, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
I have, thank you, Mr. President. Comment. I have questions 147 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 of the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he'll yield. Senator Tracy.
Senator Simmons, I'm a bicyclist. I actually kind of practice what you're attempting to legislate. But I -- I'm always concerned to make sure there's no vehicles coming at me, when I do that yield thing, because I -- I'm not sure. I mean, it's not like -- I want to make sure they know I'm there, and -- but I yield to them, obviously, if they're coming. How is that big semi coming at me knowing that I'm just kind of -- how do we get the word out that bicyclists don't have to stop at the stop signs, that they're going to slide right on through?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Senator. So actually, this legislation would not put the onus on the driver of the semi to yield to the cyclist. It's actually the opposite. So, the cyclist still has to yield to any hazards in the intersection. So, if there's a semi coming, you and I, both as cyclists, know we better stop. We're not going to -- we're not going to depend on someone driving a semi to see little ole us on a little bitty bike. So, I want to -- I want to be clear about that, that this is not legislation that's just going to allow someone on a bike to blow through a stop sign.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy.
But eventually, we're going to have to let people, bicyclist, 148 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 motor vehicle owners, know that we've made this law change. And that's what I'm concerned about, other than just publicizing that the bill would pass or be signed into law. How are we going to educate the public that this is now law of Illinois?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
That's -- that's a great question. So, I actually -- that reminds me that in the Committee, Senate Transportation Committee. I made a commitment to the Committee Members that I would, should this bill pass out of the Senate, I will ask the House sponsor to consider doing an amendment that would add this to the Rules of the Road that the Secretary of State's Office puts out to motorists. So, you know, that is a commitment that I absolutely will execute on. We also made a commitment to ask the Zero Fatalities Task Force, which is already up in operation, to monitor this and make sure that we're doing everything we can to educate all road users about this new law, if it becomes law.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Tracy.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I would just say -- to the bill that -- that will help. I haven't had a road test because I'm a safe driver in quite a while. And I haven't read a Rules of the Road Book in quite a while, so I -- I'm just saying that maybe we ought to implement it in bike 149 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 safety classes, many things. Because I do fear that we may have some in accidents -- questions about liability as to who hit who and who was at fault. I still think a bicyclist -- bicyclist, in the end, is going to have to be responsible for their own safety. I mean, it's just, semi and my bike. If we don't each know what one another's doing. I defer to the semi. And because I -- I have to take my own responsibility first to protect myself. So, with that, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator McClure.
Senator, so if someone is under the age of eighteen, they have to stop at the stop sign. But if someone is over eighteen or older, they don't have to stop. They can check and then kind of do a rolling.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
That -- that's not the -- let me -- let me correct that. So, this -- this legislation would not change one's relationship or obligation under a stop sign. All it does is it gives cyclists the option to yield, but you still have to yield. That doesn't mean you can go through the stop sign. It doesn't mean you have to stop, because if there are no hazards there, then the idea here is that 150 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 we let the cyclists proceed through the intersection if it's safe to do so. So, does that answer the question, Senator?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure.
It -- a little bit, but my question is, like, if you're eighteen or older you've got to treat -- you can treat the stop sign as a yield sign, in certain circumstances. But if you're seventeen, you cannot take advantage of this change in law, if this passes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Mr. President. Yes. So, the amendment that we drafted with the Secretary of State's Office. Those that are cyclists under age eighteen will still have to stop. And I guess -- and that, you know, they may -- someone under eighteen may not necessarily even know how to operate a bike safely. So, just we're just going to have them stop. But if you're over eighteen, we're saying that if it's safe to proceed through the stop sign, you may do so if you yield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure.
Okay. So, here's my concern and this is speaking from personal experience, since I believe I'm the only sitting State Senator to ever have to show your ID to get into a Rated R movie. How is someone supposed to tell the difference between a seventeen year old, a sixteen year old, an eighteen year old, a nineteen 151 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 year old, etc.? Taking into account that some people look a lot younger perhaps, than they actually are.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
So, I -- I would raise the same question for someone driving a car. I mean, you -- somebody saw a photo of my desk this morning of me ten years ago, and they thought I looked like a baby. And, you know, I don't look like a baby today because my hair's a little longer, so there's no way to really know. But, if the person on the bike gets stopped by the police, then they'll have to be able to show their age. And if you're under eighteen and there's a whole set of consequences that would ensue.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure.
I appreciate that, but the difference is that if you're in the car and driving, you're pulled over for an age check, you've got your driver's license, which you have to present. You have to be sixteen years or older. If you're driving a bike, if you're riding a bike, you don't have to have any identification on you. And obviously kids under the age of sixteen would not have a license in the first place. So, that gets to be kind of a tricky situation. So, I guess how does your bill address that? Because that could potentially be an issue.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
I -- I would say, Senator, I don't think that -- I mean, 152 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 people under eighteen are basically kids, right? I mean, kids are basically in the neighborhood. Mom and dad are saying, you can't go off the block or maybe you go down the street to the park. So, I don't think we're going to have a whole lot of, like, bad actors on something like this. So, I think that those are the under eighteen are not going to have a whole lot of practical reasons to need to go through a stop sign, because they probably don't have a whole lot of places they can go. And certainly I trust the local law enforcement to do their outreach efforts and everything else to have the right relationships with the community, to make sure that the youngsters in that community understand that they still have to stop at a stop sign, even if their big brother is able to yield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure.
Thank you. Senator. I'll speak to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Look, people are already rolling through stop signs as it is, we see bicycle -- bicyclists often do not from my experience. And I suspect, I don't speak just for myself, are not following a lot of the rules they're supposed to follow on the road. I think this is tough to enforce, particularly when you get to, is this person eighteen? Is this person fifteen? That's kind of a strange difference. But, as long, you know, we have people that are, you know, they've got earbuds in as they're riding their bike. They've got all kinds of things that they're 153 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 ignoring that they should be following. I just think that we shouldn't be encouraging behavior that could be risky on bikes. And so, I appreciate why the Senator is doing this. I suspect most people already do this anyway. I just feel like we need to be encouraging our bicyclists to be safer on our roads. And for that reason, I'm voting No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Any further discussion? Senator DeWitte, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I just want to thank the Senator for his efforts on this legislation. I know, Senator Simmons like you in your community, we have a very active bicycling community -- in my community, out in the western suburbs and we've talked about the great facilities along the river and things like that. But I have -- I have to maintain my position, like we discussed in Committee, the philosophical problems I have with this legislation. I mean, most of us grew up riding bicycles. Many of us still ride bicycles. I still ride fairly regularly. All the years I've been riding a bicycle and we've been riding on public streets it had always been ingrained in our brains. If you're going to use the public highways, you have to abide by all of the traffic signals and signage that an automobile needs to abide by. There have been enough situations across our communities where bicycle -- bicyclists have been hit by automobiles because somebody ran a red 154 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 light, and the automobile in the next leg of the intersection expected him to stop. Based on that philosophy, ingrained in our brains, if you're going to ride your bike on the street, you abide by signage. I -- I'm -- I have grave concerns about this legislation, not because the rider of the bicycle may not be as careful as they need to be, but it's the guy in the car at the next leg who does have to stop, who may not realize the bicyclists will be rolling. Now, I know the bicyclist has the obligation to yield to another vehicle in the intersection, but the driver of the car is not going to know if this law passes that -- that he's going to be rolling through that intersection. I just have serious concerns. I don't think putting this in the new Rules of the Road book is going to make a difference. I'm not sure how you put signage on every intersection that bicyclists will be rolling through stop signs. I just from a pure safety standpoint, and those years that have been ingrained in my brain about how you safely ride a bicycle on public streets, I cannot support this legislation. Thank you, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Rose, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
A quick -- question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Indicates he'll yield. Senator Rose.
Senator Simmons, I will see your bicycles and raise your cars. Okay. Everybody's doing this anyway and with absolutely zero disrespect to any of my colleagues who all have wonderful positions 155 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 and points, this is what is happening in reality. And honestly, like in the immortal words of Val Kilmer, who passed last week portraying Doc Holliday, my hypocrisy only goes so far. I'll be voting for your bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he will yield. Senator Arellano.
Senator Simmons, I wanted to make sure you got through our entire caucus this time. So, I wanted to ask a couple questions. First, Idaho stops have been officially enacted in several states and cities already. Has there been any evidence or any research as part of your investigation of this bill of what the safety results were? Mine, and I'm going purely off of memory, is that in areas that are low traffic or mid traffic is actually much safer to have an Idaho stop under the theory that as a bicyclist or even as a motorcyclist, the transportation systems aren't always designed around you, and it's a goal to get through the intersections as fast as possible. However, in high traffic areas, it's a little bit more mixed results. Can you speak to the research of safety, if any?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Absolutely. Thank you, Senator. So, yeah -- yes, we do have some, just succinct, data here. So, we have a traffic safety fact 156 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 sheet that -- I can actually make available to -- to anyone here who might want it. But it says that and this is from the Federal Transportation (Transit) Administration that bicyclists stop as yield laws allow cyclists to treat stop signs as yields, which in other states bicycle injuries from traffic crashes declined by fourteen percent the following year on average, so there are eleven states total that have already done this; Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho was the first, Washington, Oregon and Utah. And so, in each of those states the Federal Transportation or Safety Administration has released that data that has shown that the number of traffic safety incidents actually decreased by double digits in the following year.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano.
Thank you. Follow up question to that. One of the questions I have has to do with road density and population. And, I believe I'm going to be voting for -- for your bill and supporting it in the guise that I have very rural districts. And I think they mirror some of those results that you just spoke to and also my hypocrisy also goes only so far, and I probably already do this at times. That being said, for the heavilized -- (heavily) urban areas of Chicago has the safety evidence been any different and should we, as a Body, be looking at that? Chicago specifically, and certainly I can't speak to that or represent that nearly as well as some of my other colleagues, but I certainly have the concern as I vote for this bill, I want to make sure that safety information has been in any way looked at urban density and how it might impact it? 157 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
So, actually, staff just brought up -- brought up a really good point, Senator. And that is that in Chicago, the most popular areas for cyclist traffic are going to have traffic -- traffic signals, red, green, yellow, red light. So, when there's a green, yellow, red light, you have to stop. In fact, you know, the thing about this legislation is that those eleven states have already done this. And some of them, they actually are letting cyclists treat red, red signals as they yield. I'm not doing that in this bill. I think we should take a little bit more of an incremental approach on this, because I really do care about traffic safety, not just for cyclists, but for motorists, those that are pedestrians, those that are in our roadways. And so, yeah that -- that would be my answer to the question for the Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Arellano.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I support this bill. I urge a Yes vote as it continues through the process. I do think we need to continue, yes liberty, I'll "Live Free or Die". But I thank you for bringing this forward. I think it's very applicable to my rural regions. I do, as it goes through the rest of our process, believe we should follow up, as you mentioned, on some of the possible amendments that might happen 158 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 on the other side to strengthen the knowledge and education component that will be necessary to make this change successful. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) See no further discussion. Senator Simmons, to close.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. I, respectfully request an Aye vote on this legislation. And I just want to say to some of my colleagues that might have a little bit of cold feet on the roll call. This is absolutely best practices when it comes to safety on our roadways. Countless studies have made that case, including the federal government. I -- I cited some data earlier. I want to actually zero in on a -- on an even more robust data point that traffic crashes involving bicyclists as stop sign intersections fell by twenty-three percent -- twenty-three percent in the thirty months after this law's passage, compared to the previous thirty months. And eight states that have done it, including Arkansas, Delaware, North Dakota, Oregon and Utah. So, I think that a vote for this legislation is a vote for safety, not just for those that are on bikes, but those that are driving cars that need a little bit more predictability when they're trying to get from point A to point B, and certainly those that are bus drivers are operating our public transit vehicles, as well. I encourage everybody to vote Aye. I thank you very much for your time, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2111 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? 159 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Take the record. On that question, there are 48 Senators voting Yes, 4 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2111, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 2153, Senator Castro. Senator Castro seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2153 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2153. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Castro, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I ask for its adoption, and I'll explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2153. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2153, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 160 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Castro, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, Senate Bill 2153 allows a physical therapist to perform any initial physical evaluation via telehealth. If the patient has a referral or a diagnosis is an established patient -- patient or the therapist has the capacity to perform an in-person exam or reexamine any time. As amended, the bill requires the therapist or their assistant to only engage in telehealth when licensed, and only when the scope of their practice -- within the scope of their practice. The bill also allows IDPFR to exempt a therapist or their assistant, providing services as part of the Illinois Early Intervention Program and Individualized Education Program, or a federal Section 504 plan in order to address service delays. With this amended bill, it removes all opposition. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2153 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2153, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 2201, Senator Guzmán. Senator Guzmán seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2201 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2201. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Guzmán. 161 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán, on your amendment. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Please amend and -- or please adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2101. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2201, an Act concerning criminal law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Guzmán, on your bill. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Good evening, I am pleased to present Senate Bill 2201 to address the problem of contraband in the Department of Corrections. This measure is timely given the growing problem of contraband in Illinois prisons. To effectively address this issue, it is critical that DOC collect and report data that will help discover how contraband enters facilities, and specifically what contraband, where it is identified, how it is getting in, and how to stop it from entering. I urge an Aye vote, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 162 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Is there any discussion? Senator Anderson, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Bill. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
Senator, this seems like a great piece of legislation, but I take pause seeing, Senator Rose's name next to yours. This is very odd, and I, I'm just not sure. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion? Senator Guzmán, to close. Guzmán to close. SENATOR GUZMÁN: I feel like I have to defend you, Senator Rose, in this instance, and just say thank you so much for being willing to come on here with me just the one time. I'm not committing to full time. I'm just saying I really appreciate you coming on. And with that, I really urge an Aye vote colleagues. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2201 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2201, having received the constitutional required majority, is declared passed. Senator Rose, for what reason do you want to prolong the agony?
Point of personal privilege. 163 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) State your point.
I just want -- I just want everybody know that was either the greatest idea ever or the worst idea ever. But we appreciate the vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Leave of the Body, we're going to move to 20 bill -- we're going to move to Senate Bill 2247 from Senator Villivalam. Senator Villivalam seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2247 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2247. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 164 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 2247. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2247, an Act concerning business. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2247, as amended, creates a Micromobility Fire Safety Act setting fire safety requirements for micromobility devices, including e-bikes, e- scooters, and personal e-mobility devices and their batteries. It mandates safety standards for manufacturers and guidelines for individuals on proper use, maintenance, and charging to reduce fire hazard. We dealt with all the opposition with the amendment, and I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2247 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2247, having received a constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Leave of the Body, we're going to move to near the bottom of page 39 on your printed Calendar where Senator Simmons brings Senate Bill 2285. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2285, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill. 165 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2285, as amended, redefines the "bicycle" as every human-powered device and every low-speed electric bicycle with two or more wheels not less than twelve inch in diameter, operable pedals, and designated seats for the transportation of one or more persons. This is the legislation has been brought forward by Ride -- Ride for Illinois, Active Transportation Alliance, Illinois Environmental Council, and the League of American Bicyclists. I know of no opposition at this time, and we'll take any questions. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Sorry, I wasn't in Committee to hear this, but just a quick question. So, this is…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he'll yield. Senator Syverson.
This is redefining what is a bicycle. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
It is redefining a bicycle. But I would say in layman's terms, it is expanding the definition of a bicycle to include tricycles, bicycles that we often see on paths where someone is disabled and maybe they're riding horizontally. We want to make 166 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 sure that those types of bike vehicles are actually considered bicycles.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Syverson.
Then, in light of the previous bill that you passed, and these people can then go through without stopping at intersections the same way as the previous legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you. Senator. No, that is not correct because the previous legislation, Senate Bill 2111, that the Senate just adopted still requires that bicycles treat stop signs as a yield, they can't just go through it. So, under that scenario, this legislation would not -- lead to the scenario that you just articulated.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Syverson.
Thank you. Let me just correct that then. They -- this would allow these other types of now bicycles to do the same scenario, that they could just treat it as a yield, as -- as well. So, not just regular bicycles, but now you're expanded definition of bicycles would also have that same opportunity to do the rolling stops.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
167 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Yes. Yes, Senator, that is correct. However, it's -- it's specific in the language that we're talking about operable pedals and designated seats on a bicycle because we're not including, e- bikes and other -- other types of motor powered vehicles that could create a real safety issue. And that was a -- a flag that was brought by the Illinois State Police, and we did accommodate that concern.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Syverson. Any further discussion? Senator Bryant, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor, if he'll yield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) He indicates he will yield. Senator Bryant.
So, this definition is different than the federal definition. Why a different definition? Did I miss that?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
This definition, the language was given to us by Illinois State Police and our local authorities. I cannot speak to the federal definition because we -- we relied on our local partners to come up with a definition that will work for Illinois roadways.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant.
I -- I don't see the State Police as a proponent of this 168 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 bill. I see multiple opponents. So, I see ABATE, Illinois Trucking Association, Midwest Truckers Association.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, with the amendment that we adopted, SOS -- ABATE, SOS, and IDOT are now neutral and that is reflected on today's bill analysis for Senate Bill 2285.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant.
Thank -- thank you for that clarification. In the amendment, does it also -- have you also addressed the question of why twelve inch is specified? Because I have six grandkids, and I'm pretty sure that their bicycles are smaller than twelve inch, a couple of them. So, why the twelve inch?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Senator, for the question. So, this was the diameter, the twelve inches that was recommended by Ride for Illinois. And the thinking is that -- that captures the type of bike vehicle that we want to afford, the definition and privileges of what a bicycle is on our roadways. I don't know if I'm now, I'm just I'm telling you what I think about the tricycles and things like that. Those are smaller. I don't know that we want to fully assume that a five year old on a tricycle should be treated by law as a bike or be on the roadways or any of those kinds of scenarios.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 169 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Bryant.
So, I just have a question here that basically asks or so if -- so you're -- you're just basically saying that it's -- I mean obviously the words are different bicycle and tricycle. But I lived in South Florida for a long time and seniors ride tricycles. So, if children are riding tricycles, as well -- that -- I -- so the only reason for the twelve inch bicycle… What if I want to ride a smaller? What if I have a wheel? I don't know, maybe it's not even significant. I just find it odd that twelve inches is described in it, and that it's different than the federal law. So, I'll wait and hear any other debate on this. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you. To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
Thank you, Senator. After the first bill that passed, we tried to listen to your intent on the bill that allows you to roll through a stop sign after you yield. We had concerns about liability, right? If you roll through a stop sign and you, unfortunately are hit by the oncoming car, who is liable? That's a concern. Not only for safety, but in terms of the liability aspect. As we read this bill now, this bill allows -- low-speed electric vehicles to -- that there are three different classifications, up to twenty-eight miles an hour will be able to since your last bill passed, roll through the stop sign and be 170 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 considered legal. I'm sure that you can understand, now that you're adding a new classification to bicycle in a new definition to bicycle. We've seen these low-speed electric bicycles when we're driving, and they can go very fast. So, we are concerned, especially with the passage of the last bill, about the safety of everyone involved, because -- I'm assuming your first bill will pass in the House. And more importantly, about the liability that -- and that's why you -- you see the groups that are opposed to this bill, such as the truckers. So, because of those issues, we have many, many concerns over here. We're asking for a No vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion? Senator Simmons, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. First, I want to correct the record. I -- I do not believe that the truckers are opposed to this legislation. I work very well with the truckers and make sure that they always have a voice in any transportation legislation I bring forward. So, in closing, Mr. President, I just want to say that the previous Senator is correct about the electric bikes, but we are only including class one, class two, and class three. They have to have operable pedals. So, these are not like, motorcycles or vespas that we're going to be including as bicycles. These are going to be the definitions that I talked about earlier with the twelve inch or larger operable pedals. And for e-bikes, they would be under twenty-eight miles an hour. So, I think that's an important distinction to make that we're not -- we're not talking about bikes that are just going to be all of a sudden, you know, out -- out riding cars or other speed vehicles. So, I ask everybody 171 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 for an Aye vote. And I -- I thank you so much for your time and attention.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2285 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 Senators voting Yes -- I'm sorry, 43 Senators voting Yes, 11 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2285, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to move to near the top of page 40 where Senator Ellman brings Senate Bill 2318. Senator Ellman seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2318 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2318. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Ellman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ellman, on your amendment.
I wish to adopt the amendment and I'll explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye, Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. 172 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2318. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2318, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ellman, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2318 increases the penalty for advertising as a bank if you don't meet certain provisions. The amendment merely cleans up some language and removes all opposition to this bill. And I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2318 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2318, having received the constitutional required majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to move to Senate Bill 2326, Senator Villivalam. Out of the record. Senate Bill 2339. Senator Cervantes, indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Cervantes seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2339 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2339. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
173 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Cervantes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to adopt the amendment on 2nd, explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, is Senate Bill 2339. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2339, an Act concerning employment. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. What this bill does is, it's more like a -- like a trailer bill. It adds to the privacy in the workplace. What it does it add -- it adds the right to private action (private right of action). And also, for the interested -- interested party to represent any affected employees that are dealing with issues with E-Verify or no match letters. We worked this amendment -- was worked very carefully with the Illinois 174 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Chamber of Commerce and with IMA. We addressed their concerns, and they've become neutral. And I'm asking for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator McClure, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Questions for the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The sponsor indicates he will yield, Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator, on the definition for interested parties -- I think there were some concerns about small businesses with fewer than twenty-five employees, etc. Can you please let me know, in the bill, what is an interested party?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes.
Thank you, Senator. Thank you, Mr. President. So, the interested party is basically a -- like an organization, a union, or a non-for-profit that already has like a relationship with the workers and is representing the workers when it comes to these issues. We want -- we want to make sure that we -- we narrowed it down. And this again, this was language that we received from IMA and from the Chamber, just so that we don't just have any type of -- any -- any -- any attorney, you know, posting shop and just running a bunch of lawsuits.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure.
175 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 So, does this definition include people that were not directly harmed? Would they be able to bring action under this particular change of law?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes.
Yes, that's correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill, Senator.
Thank you. That's where I think in -- in Committee this is what the issue was, was the definition of interested parties. So, you have someone that was not harmed at all that's now able to bring forth a lawsuit alleging harm, but not to themselves? That's dangerous, and that-- that could cause frivolous lawsuits. I think we're close on this, if the definition would change but when you've got people that really don't have interest -- interest in the -- in a lawsuit and they're allowed to bring a lawsuit where they're not harmed themselves, that just adds to the list of potential frivolous lawsuits that businesses, particularly, small businesses, are going to have to defend and it's going to cost them a lot of money to do so. So, if you'd be willing to work with us on the definition, I think you could get a bipartisan bill that we would all vote for. But for those reasons, however, that's not the bill we're voting on, we're voting on this bill. So, I'd ask 176 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 for a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Any further discussion? Senator Arellano, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
Part of my life includes as a very young man in my twenties, opening up a small business. I'll note that the National Federation of Independent Businesses is against it. And I'd like to give you a little real world example of why -- what my colleague, Senator McClure just explained. As a young man not coming from by any means a rich background, I had to work my way into that. I certainly leveraged quite a bit of myself in order to do that business and that makes you very susceptible to things like lawsuits or other parties using those kinds of practices. And there's a history of small businesses, especially ones that people know aren't necessarily highly capitalized, of -- of being targeted via lawsuits and other methods to attack their business model. And I think the key to solving this, as mentioned, was to define interested parties. Those outside entities that want to protect young workers, which I also sympathize with, because I was that before I was a small business owner. Need to be working with the employees, giving them information, advocating for them and helping empower them to -- they themselves take some of those actions, because the moment you step beyond that wall, outside of the employees, and the employer, and the small businessman; 177 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 especially for the smallest of businesses, the young startups, the young Latino entrepreneurs undercapitalized, trying to crack into existing market share, you are the most vulnerable. The bigger the company is with HR Departments and Legal Departments, the less susceptible they are to this. I have personally seen this in action in the business community. I think the core of the idea is very good. I appreciate my colleague, Senator Cervantes for bringing it forward. But I do agree, as written, it still leaves -- especially for those independent, small -- the smallest businesses, are they going to be the one most susceptible to the particular flaw of this bill. I urge a No vote until amended. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Seeing no further discussion. Senator Cervantes, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to add one more thing too, though -- that this is -- you -- you have to work with the - - with the Illinois Department of Labor and with the State first to -- deal with those issues first. If you only going into -- being able to sue if you can't get any remedies through that, and it goes to them, but so, there is a Safe Harbor provision on here, as well. So, I -- I -- I -- I understand your -- your concern, but I do ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall Senate Bill 2339 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye, Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 Senators voting Yes, 21 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2339, having received a constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. 178 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senator Guzmán, for what purpose do you seek recognition? SENATOR GUZMÁN: Yes, for a point of clarification.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) State your point. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Hoping to correct the record that I intended to vote Yes on Senate Bill 2201.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The record will reflect. Leave of the Body, we're going to go to the middle of page 40, where Senator Villivalam brings Senate Bill 2409. Senator Villivalam. Leave of the Body, we're going to move down to Senate Bill 2437, Senator Collins. Senator Collins seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2437 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2437. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Collins.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Collins, on your amendment.
Yes, I wish to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
179 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2437. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill, 2437 an Act concerning public aid. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Collins, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill -- I mean, Senate Floor Amendment 2 deletes all and becomes the bill. It eliminates all concerns from IHA and the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association while maintaining the intent of the underlying bill. There's no opposition to the bill, and I'm open for any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2437 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 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2437, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 2438 from Senator Ellman. Out of the record. With Leave of the Body, we're going to skip to Senate Bill 2459 from Senator Cervantes. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Senator Cervantes seeks leave of the Body to move Senate Bill 2459 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2459. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration? 180 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Cervantes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2459. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2459, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. This bill replaces Title 9, Part 530 through Part 561 and Title 9, Part 3125 through -- Part 3142 of the Code of Federal Regulations, is a technical change requested by the Department of Agriculture which helps accomplish the goal of bringing the Illinois Meat and Poultry Inspection Act in compliance with federal regulations. This was regarding, I can't 181 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 pronounce its name, so I'm going to say it's catfish.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2459 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 Senators voting Yes, 1 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2459, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 2463, Senator Erica Harriss. Senator Harriss seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2463 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 2463. Mr. Secretary, are there any amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Erica Harriss.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Harriss, on your amendment.
May I please adopt the amendment, Mr. President, and discuss on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 182 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 2463. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2463, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Harriss, on your bill.
Thank you. So, this is an initiative of the Department of Natural Resources. Senate Bill 2463 intends to offset taxpayer costs in the event that an oil well operator fails to remediate a well that they're responsible for after operations have ceased. This legislation strengthens compliance mechanisms, reducing risks for our State, and encourages responsible operations. This was on an Agreed Bill list in Committee, and I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2463 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2463, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we're going to move to the top of page 41 on your printed Calendar, where Senator Koehler brings Senate Bill 2466. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read that bill.
Senate Bill 2466, an Act concerning conservation. 3rd Reading of the bill. 183 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a bill from the Department of Natural Resources, and I'm carrying it for Senator Aquino. This amends the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Act, which is OSLAD by defining the metrics used to determine a distressed community and a distressed location and setting funding floors and ceilings for grants directed at said communities and locations. I'll just further describe this, that currently the statute reads that the amount of funding that could assist distressed communities by stipulating that no more than ten percent of the off-led grant program can assist distressed communities. This bill would define the metrics used to determine distressed communities and would increase the total funding cap from those communities from ten percent to thirty percent. Additionally, non-distressed and distressed units of local government may have neighborhoods within their boundaries that can be deemed as distressed locations. The Department seeks to amend the statute to be able to provide more assistance to those neighborhoods. Happy to answer any questions and appreciate your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2466 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. All those 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 Senators voting Yes, 10 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2466, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Next, we 184 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 will move to Senate Bill 2487. Senator Johnson, she indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2487, an Act concerning human rights. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Johnson, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2487 is an initiative of the Illinois Department of Human Rights, and this is the Agency responsible for investigating and enforcing the Human Rights Act. And, at this time, where there's been a number of cuts, of staff, at EEOC and HUD, and these staffers -- and turning away many complaints, the Human Rights -- this part -- the Agency must fill these gaps and handle an increased number of discrimination cases. And as a result, IDHR is seeking to streamline its investigations and enhance enforcement penalties as a deterrent. This bill allows IDHR to exercise discretion and improve efficiency in investigations, by deciding on a case by case basis, whether to hold a fact finding conference, as part of their investigation. Now, by law, IDHR is required to investigate every charge it receives, and there is a path for doing this. So, they do individual interviews, and they witness -- and witnesses of parties -- the parties and the witnesses and they request the necessary documentation, etc. And so, with Senate Bill 2487, it amends the Human Rights Act to eliminate the mandatory fact-finding conference for the Department's investigative procedures for all complaints pending or filed on January 1st, 2026. And the Department may hold a fact finding conference, as part of their 185 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 investigation into complaints but are not required to do so. And there is some light opposition from ACLU and it's only because they want the parties to agree on that. But this is the same process that IDHR uses in housing discrimination cases, that's already part of statute. So I -- happy to answer any questions. But I request an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2487 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2487, having received the constitutional required majority, is declared passed. Will the Committee on Assignments assemble in the President’s Anteroom immediately? Committee on Assignments, please meet immediately. The Senate will stand at recess -- stand at ease. (at ease) Senator Koehler, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Lightford, Chair of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved for Consideration - Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1723, and Senate Resolutions 211 and 215. Signed, Senator Kimberly A. Lightford, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We're going to continue on Senate Bills 3rd Reading. We're 186 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 going to go to page 38. In the middle of the page is Senate Bill 1723, Senator Faraci. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Faraci seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1723 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1723. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Faraci.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Faraci, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt and discuss on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor 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 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1723. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1723, an Act concerning safety. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Faraci, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1723 prohibits carbon 187 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 sequestration activity at a facility that overlies -- underlies or passes through the Mahomet Aquifer. It creates a study committee that will do a five year deep dive into a safety of carbon sequestration and storage in the Mahomet Aquifer. This will be a very public open study committee where all parties can submit their findings and submit their science results. I understand there's been some rumors about this bill. I do want to clear the record that this amendment does not ban carbon sequestration throughout the State of Illinois. It bans carbon sequestration at a facility that overlies, underlies or passes through the Mahomet Aquifer, which is a sole source aquifer. As I understand it, Labor is neutral. So, we did a lot of work to get them to that position. I've spoken with advocates for the Mahomet Aquifer, and we will continue to work with them, business and labor, on additional safety provisions for any carbon sequestration moving forward. So, as you all know, if you knew Senator Bennett, he was a tireless champion for all the people of Central Illinois. I've been committed from day one to continue to fulfill his legacy. And I do believe, Senator Bennett would be proud of this legislation. And if I were -- if he were here, he'd be doing something very similar. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Rose.
Thank you. To the bill, if I may?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
So, I want to extend my sincere thanks to my friend, Senator 188 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Faraci, for your help and input on this. I know this is a huge issue, and it was perfectly fitting to mention our dear friend and departed colleague, Senator Bennett, he and I served on a half dozen commissions over time to protect our aquifer. So, I do just want to say how much I appreciate the thoughtful work that has gone into this. There's a million Illinoisans that this is their only source of water. This bill does not prevent carbon sequestration. Eighty-five percent of the geographic land mass of Illinois is suitable for such sequestration. But what this does do is says you can't do it on the Mahomet Aquifer because it's our only source of drinking water. So, you can go north, south, east, west, but just not in this little piece that bands through central Illinois. This has been bipartisan from the beginning. We signed the letter together last May. We have still completely confused why this was left out, in the bill, at the end of Session, but I stand today in support of this with sincere thanks to, Senator Faraci. And also, I will also mention President Harmon, which I rarely get a chance to compliment the President, but he is also a chief co-sponsor here. So, thank you, President Harmon, I know -- I suspect this roll call is going to be very bipartisan. And it's for the right reason, because water is not political. Water is just not political and, you know, we've got Republicans, Democrats, independents, everybody under the sun. And you can't just flip a switch if you screw this up. And if you've been through what I've been through in my district with people's gas leak, we're almost ten years later, you still can't drink the water without complex filtration systems that literally mechanically disintegrate because of this -- whatever this toxic substance is, they push down into the water to push into the system, to pressurize the 189 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 systems. No one should have to go through that, No one should have to go through that. And now what? No one knew in May when this was voted, when the original bill was voted on the first time, when we were told it was safe. And I refer you all to my Floor remarks, that day, on how unsafe it was. But no one knew that actually the leak that the -- very well that they were going to sign the bill at the -- Governor was going to sign the bill. It was actually leaking when he signed the bill. It's not safe. It wasn't safe then. It's not safe now. It's too precious a resource for a million Illinoisans. So, I appreciate what you've done, Senator Faraci. I'm just so pleased that you mentioned, Scotty, in your comments and you're correct, he would love to see this bill. So, thank you. I would -- I would also join you in asking for -- for an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Sally Turner.
Thank you, Mr. President. Just want to make a comment to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you so much. And thank you, Senator Rose, for co- sponsoring, as well as, Senate or President Harmon. This is a really, really important bill that affects my community greatly. This is our number one concern, and I just want to thank you very much for bringing that and thank you, President Harmon. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Balkema. 190 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
I want to thank, Senator Faraci for the hard work as a partnership on this, I've got a lot of folks in my district that are equally concerned. I also have a lot of manufacturing and other entities in the district that say, if we're going to make jet fuel, that's green jet fuel, we're going to need to put the carbon someplace. So, I'm brand new to this, I'm learning. I understand, and I agree that we cannot put this carbon anywhere around the aquifer. But I think the bigger question we've got to look at is, do we want to put this in the ground anywhere? And if we do, we have to figure out just not over water. So, I totally support the bill. But the bigger question is, where do we go from here? Because there's science that says it's good. There's science that says it's bad. We all want the carbon someplace. We got to figure out where to put it. But I'm so comfortable to work with my friend and colleague, Senator Faraci, on this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Faraci, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you to all who have put a ton of work in this. I'm somewhat embarrassed. There's so many people that worked on this, and I'll take the credit, but the credit really belongs to a lot of us who put as much work as we did to get this across the finish line. The public, others in --- in my district and the other Senators. So, I really appreciate everybody's indulgence. It's taken a while, but we've got this done. And thank you, Senator Rose, I appreciate your comments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) And so, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1723 pass. All 191 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, None voting Nay, None voting Present. And Senate Bill 1723, having received the required majority, is declared passed. Seen on page 38, we're going to go to Senate Bill 1784. Senator Peters seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1784 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1784. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Peters.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Peters, on your amendment.
I would like to not adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1784. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1784, an Act concerning courts. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Peters, to explain your bill. 192 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. This bill is supported by probation and court services, and it allows them to focus on a population of thirteen and older. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator McClure.
Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
Thank you. So, just to get into the bill. So, this makes it so that a juvenile can no longer be detained in detention. Who is under the age of thirteen now? Is that right?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Peters.
There is a carve out, particularly for things like aggravated vehicular hijacking, murder for twelve year old's. And I'm sure there's a few other charges, but for violent crimes, there's a carve out for twelve year old's.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you, Senator, for that clarification. So, it is really 193 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 hard to detain a juvenile. It is particularly hard to detain a twelve year old. There's a juvenile point system that exists, and really bad stuff doesn't add up to enough points to detain a juvenile. So, the system is very geared towards making sure we don't detain kids unless it's absolutely necessary. My concern with this bill is now it will no longer allow twelve year old's to be detained. I can assure you, based on the point system, there are very, very, very few being detained. But here is what is going to happen with these twelve year old's who are so out of control that they need to be detained. They are going to be what's considered to be locked out by the family. And when someone is locked out, who gets involved, DCFS. And we've read a lot about DCFS lately, one of the areas that DCFS has faced a lot of criticism, and I've met with them about this very recently, was a facility called Martha's Integrated Care in Chicago. And a lot of the kids that were going there ended up being sexually abused, and horrible things happened there. And guess who those kids were? They were the kids that had severe behavior problems. And so, this no longer allows for a child to be put in detention for a few hours, maybe a couple of days. They can't be held for more than thirty days. Instead, this might put them permanently in the DCFS system, where all kinds of horrible things can happen. But if you look at the recent reports and -- and what's been happening for the last few years, it's typically the kids that have bad behavior issues that are getting to these places where they get abused. And I met with DCFS about this. I know they're not going to use Martha's Integrated Care Center anymore, but this is the vulnerable population of people that are getting abused. This is going to be very few kids but if you think it's bad for them to spend a few 194 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 days in detention because they're misbehaving, criminally, throw them into DCFS for a while, where they've got to go to one of these places and things can really go bad. I had a situation where we had a foster kid who was sexually assaulting other foster kids. So, look, we want to help kids. We don't want them to go to detention, we don't want them to go into DCFS custody. My concern is with this bill. There will be nowhere else for these kids to go, and it could be much more detrimental than spending a few hours in detention if they're put into the DCFS system. So, for that reason, I ask for a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Peters, to close.
Yeah, a few things. Let me just first say that you put a young person in a detention center where there's also older people you're putting them at or older youth. You put them at risk with people who may be well organized and be able to be an influence on them that might not be good. And let me also add, when it comes to our juvenile detention centers, just this past February, so not DCFS, there was a child sexual abuse case that popped up at juvenile detention. And third, and finally, I'll just say, any one of these kids, whether they're 12, 13, 14 or 15, could end up interacting with DCFS and anything like that in terms of abuse could happen. So, 12 or 15, it doesn't matter. You could see this happen to them. At the end of the day, what we know is we're going to improve this system. And I'm willing to work with folks on the other side of the aisle to make sure that everybody has good, comfortable services that give dignity to our young people. I ask for an Aye vote. 195 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Bill 1784 pass. All those in favor of vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 33 voting Yea, 17 voting Nay, None voting Present. And Senate Bill 1784, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Leave of the Body, we'll go to page 3. Senate Bill 42, Senator Ventura. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 42, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 42 amends the vehicle Code to clarify a law enforcement officer may not stop or search a vehicle solely based on the odor of burnt or raw cannabis. It also strikes the requirement from current law that cannabis possession in a vehicle must be stored in odor proof container, but it continues to require the cannabis be stored in a secured, sealed, and resealable child resistant container. And with that, I'll open it up for questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Rose.
Thank you. To the bill, if I may?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill. 196 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
So, I've actually prosecuted DUIs, and I will tell you that my -- my opinion before I became -- before I was a traffic prosecutor was a lot different than after as a traffic prosecutor. And when you see the families that come in that have been hurt, injured, impacted the drunk driver flying down I-74 in the wrong direction of the interstate, hitting a family, somehow they lived, although permanently maimed for life. Totally different view of life. We would never, ever ask a police officer to disregard the odor of alcohol when they pull a car over. Why would we -- why on earth would we ask a police officer to disregard the odor of cannabis? At a minimum, they should have the duty to ensure that the driver is not impaired. I mean, this is no different than just simply pulling somebody over for speeding. Smelling it over alcohol. Never going through a field sobriety test and saying, go on about your way. Hope you don't kill somebody. Why would we not ask -- why would we ask anybody to ignore their own senses, taste, touch, smell, hearing. If there's four people in the car, wouldn't we want the police officer to make darn sure that the driver isn't high? I mean, this is your family, our family, our kids, ourselves. Any one of us could be impacted by this on the way home today. Well, not today, but if the bill passes. I just -- I don't get it -- I don't get it at all. I -- I suspect the bill probably passes because that's what happens here. But I don't get it. This is anti- common sense. If you're speeding, whatever it is, you get pulled over. Police officer smells cannabis. They should at least be able to say, you know, have that interaction, do the field sobriety, do whatever. And then if they're not impaired, put them on their way. Great. But if they're impaired, don't put them on their way. And 197 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 whatever you do, don't just let them keep going. I'll tell you what, the day will come when that person will be let go, drive down the road, get in a wreck and kill somebody. And then that police department, that county sheriff is going to get sued because they put an impaired driver back on the road because they didn't even follow up, because they're prohibited by it. I -- I don't know, I -- I do not say this lightly because I have immense respect for the sponsor, especially in the last year, when she was the only one. Well, one of the few brave enough, last spring, to join us in the Mahomet Aquifer Bill. So, I -- I don't say this in any way as a pejorative towards her, but this defies common sense and logic. Not -- if you asked a hundred people on the street today, should a police officer let somebody get back in their car after smelling alcohol without taking the extra issue to determine if they're impaired? They would say, no, that's crazy. But we're being asked the same question here. And somehow, because it's cannabis, we should just look the other way. It's nuts, it's nuts and I don't know. I've met too many family members in a couple years, I did traffic. Victims, and the other really sad part is the person gets injured, it's never the one that's high or drunk. They're so high or drunk that somehow they make it through the accident. It's the kid that went through the window, in the case of the that car, it was all three of them, I mean, it just -- I don't know, I've -- I've said my piece, but my piece is this is not common sense. And I -- I hope, I truly hope -- I truly hope that none of you have to go through being a victim of a drunk or high driver because it because it is life altering, life changing. You, your family will never be the same and I just I can't do that to somebody else. So, thank you for indulging me. 198 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator McClure.
To the bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
First of all, I do want to say that the sponsor has tried to work with people, so I do commend her for that and made some changes. She's been working on this I guess, for now, a year. So, I do want to say that complement the sponsor for that. But there's a real issue with this bill. The main reason for the bill, when this first came about last year, was the argument that why should people have to use odorless containers in their vehicles when there is no such thing as an odorless container for cannabis? And just at the committee hearing alone, the sheriffs brought a container that had cannabis, a lot of cannabis in it. And guess what? It was completely odorless. We passed it around. No one could smell it. So, the entire premise behind the bill itself is a false premise. It's not true. And what this bill allows for is drug dealers who have way more cannabis than our State statute -- statutes allow, are going to transport and utilize this to transport drugs, and part of the reason for legalizing marijuana was to ensure that the black market would go away. This bill strengthens the black market, and that's why the odorless containers were implemented in the first place. And that's why the limits were implemented -- implemented in the first place. Because the marijuana that's being sold on the streets can be laced with all sorts of things. I had a situation in my district where some kids were smoking marijuana, 199 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 not purchased legally, but at the State of Illinois, but purchased from a drug dealer. It was laced with fentanyl. And this is happening more and more, unfortunately, which is all the more reason to dissuade people and stop the black market. This bill is going to encourage the black market. And this - I'll take this a step further. You're going to have people transporting drugs from other states where right in the Midwest, right in the center of the country, and they're going to be driving through the State of Illinois. They're going to start in a place where marijuana is not legal, and they're going to end in a place that marijuana is not legal, but they're going to use the fact that when they're going through Illinois, if they have the cannabis out and it's smelling and it's the scent is out there, it can cover up the smell of other drugs and other things they are trying to hide. And now our law enforcement cannot stop them and search that vehicle. That is going to be a problem. So, the very premise of the bill is incorrect. There are odorless containers and obviously you cannot use cannabis and drive, so there is no reason why anyone should be in support of this bill, because you shouldn't be using cannabis in a vehicle, and it should be transported in the same way that alcohol and other things are transported in a safe manner. This bill eliminates that, and it adds to an already growing problem of the black market for not just marijuana, but for fentanyl and everything else because they will be able to cover the scent up with this smell legally. And when they go to trial, they will be able to argue that the only reason you searched this vehicle was because of that smell. Even if that's true or not, that's a new burden for law enforcement to have to meet to. To convict drug dealers who are poisoning our State and poisoning our country. So, for those reasons, I urge a 200 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Hastings.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
You know, one of the best parts of -- of being in the Senate is to hear the alternative argument. And when you hear it from skilled legislators that spoke on this bill on the other side of the aisle, they raise and they raise valid points, but they also don't fully explain the genesis of the bill, and why we're bringing this bill forward. And I'm -- I'm sure the sponsor of this bill will clarify the reasons why she brought this bill. But I'll say from an attorney's point of view? Yes. To the other side of the aisle, it's never easy defending somebody who may have killed somebody because of drunken driving. It's not. That's a very valid point. It's not easy dealing with the victim's family. It's because the emotions run high, because some of the circumstances that surround a case where there's a fatality may not necessarily include just one set of facts. There's a lot of things that go on in those cases. This situation to which Senate Bill 42 has been brought as a response to the conflicting rulings of two cases that made it to the Illinois Supreme Court, that being the People versus Redmond and the People versus Molina. And it's evident that Illinois law requires clarification on whether the odor of raw cannabis alone can establish probable cause for a search. The Illinois Supreme Court has consistently held that the plain 201 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 language of a statute is the best indicator of legislative intent when the language is clear and unambiguous. Courts must apply its ordinary meaning without relying on external aids of statutory construction. I want to bring this Chamber's attention to paragraph 59 of the Molina decision, which explicitly suggests that the General Assembly may wish to amend the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, the underlying Act. The court pointed out that while the Act legalized adult use cannabis, existing statutes still govern on how an individual may lawfully possess cannabis within a motor vehicle. This legislation addresses that gap by making clear that the mere odor of raw cannabis - absent. And I want to make sure this is crystal clear, because I think this was missed in the other side of the aisle. Absent, additional evidence, shall not constitute probable cause for a warrantless search. The measure not only aligns with the spirit of the cannabis legalization in Illinois, but it also upholds the constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. If you were to look at both of these cases, if you were to review all of the oral arguments that were made, whether that be at the trial level, the Appellate level, or at the Supreme Court level, there is a distinction. The distinction is that burnt -- the odor of burnt cannabis when recognized by a police officer, has been held by the Supreme Court, that it does not, on the sole fact alone,-- it does not limit a police officer in the event that there's other circumstances that establish probable cause. But on that soul, the soul fact alone of burnt cannabis. Burnt cannabis may linger for a long period of time. And when you look at the case of Molina, the fact that you have a scent of raw cannabis, not burnt cannabis, can generate probable cause. It -- it causes two different situations when they 202 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 shouldn't be conflated as such. So, based on my statements, I urge an Aye vote. This is a very -- it's a very emotionally charged area of law where there can be fatalities in the event that there is a driver that drives high and kills somebody. But in this situation, I believe this bill narrowly focuses on probable cause, and I think the Supreme Court in Molina has dictated, I shouldn't say dictate, but has expressed the guidance that the General Assembly to make this -- to make this piece of legislation a law. I urge this Chamber to vote Aye. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Tracy.
Thank you, Mr. President. Just to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
The previous speaker was right, there's two Supreme Court cases that seemingly -- are two court cases that seemingly were conflicting, but one was burnt cannabis, one was raw cannabis. Now, we heard in -- in Committee, very often law enforcement can distinguish the odors and -- and so I think it's best to air on the side of public safety. We know and -- and it was acknowledged in Committee there are people driving, smoking, and using cannabis. It's illegal. And it's a -- it's a situation that is happening every day. We know it. I bet when we leave this building tonight, we can drive down the streets of Springfield and smell it. We have a real problem, in that regard, and it's our duty to air on the side of public safety. And for that reason alone, this is a bad bill. And we need to keep our roads and streets safe. Thank you. 203 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, to close.
Thank you. I want to be very clear that I encourage every driver to drive sober at all times. And that is not the purpose of this bill is to undermine that. Nor is it to have law enforcement disregard their senses. But this is directing law enforcement to take into the totality of the circumstances and I appreciate my colleague laying out the Supreme Court contradicting ruling. This is to make sure that we're not overly burdening our law enforcement where they cannot have their cases thrown out, which is happening today because of the different ruling here. So, I urge an Aye vote and thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Bill 42 pass. All those in favor of 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 33 voting Yea, 20 voting Nay, None voting Present. And Senate Bill 42, having received the required constitutes majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to page 3, in the middle, Senate Bill 8. Senator Ellman seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 8 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. And on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 8. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Ellman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman, to explain your amendment. 204 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
I wish to adopt the amendment and glad to 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 8. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 8, an Act concerning firearms. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 8 increases gun storage safety requirements and reporting requirements for lost and stolen firearms. By doing the following, I'm going to list a few of these. Creates the Safe Gun Storage Act to prohibit a firearm owner from storing or keeping any firearm in any premises where the firearm owner knows, or reasonably should know that a minor, an at-risk person, or a prohibited person is likely to gain access to that firearm. The Act does not apply in instances of self-defense or unlawful entry onto those premises. It amends the Criminal Code of 2012, similarly to provide that it is unlawful for any person to store or leave a firearm if the person knows or reasonably should know that a minor who does not have a FOID card is likely to gain 205 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 access, and in both of these cases, minor is now defined as "somebody under the age of eighteen," and the minor does not -- should know that a minor who does not have a FOID card is likely to gain access to the firearm, and that minor causes death or great bodily harm with the firearm unless the firearm is one, secured by a device or a mechanism other than that, firearm. Safety designed to render a firearm temporarily inoperable or placed in a securely locked box or container. Again, the bill increases the age of minor as used in the statute from age fourteen to eighteen. It also amends the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act to provide that; the Illinois State Police may revoke a firearm after a second or subsequent violation of failing to report a lost or stolen firearm. It also amends that Act to provide that the Internet Database of Firearm Owner Identification Card Owners must include a written notice of their obligation to report that within 48 hours of the loss, within 48 hours of the loss or theft. It requires the Illinois State Police to establish an electronic mechanism by which law enforcement must report individuals who have failed to report that loss or stolen loss or theft of a firearm. And new firearms shipped directly from the manufacturer are exempt from this requirement. Furthermore, it requires the court at the time of sentencing to make a finding of whether a firearm with the serial number reported as stolen was used in the commission of the offense for which the defendant is being sentenced, and then requires the court to forward a report of these convictions to the Illinois State Police. I welcome any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Villivalam.
206 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. Questions of the Sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) She indicates she will yield.
Senator Ellman, thank you for bringing this legislation forward. There are a few questions. Would a gun owner be held accountable under this bill, if a minor breaks into their home, steals their firearm, and then uses it to commit a crime?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you, Senator. No, the bill would only apply when a minor is likely to gain access to the firearm. A minor breaking into the owner's home and stealing the gun is not a likely event.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Senator. What is the bill? -- Why -- Sorry, why does the bill reduce the time to report a lost or stolen firearm from 72 hours to 48 hours?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you. The sooner a firearm is reported, lost or stolen the more likely it is that law enforcement can investigate and recover that firearm before it's used to commit a crime. In fact, an analysis of more than twenty-three thousand stolen firearms recovered by police between 2010 and 2016 found that the majority of these weapons were recovered in connection with crime, including 207 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 more than fifteen hundred violent acts such as murder, kidnaping, and armed robbery. The additional burden on the gun owner is minimal. The time runs from when the owner becomes aware the gun was lost or stolen. All they need to do is pick up the phone, call the police to report the theft or the loss.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Senator. If -- if the gun is not properly stored with them, with minor at risk or prohibited person in house and is stolen by someone else. Is there liability if that person commits a crime?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you. Liability is created if a minor at risk or prohibited person gets the gun and uses it. A third party stealing that gun wouldn't be picked up.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
Thank you, Senator. To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER:(SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
I want to thank the sponsor. I want to thank the Coalition that brought this legislation forward in -- in this this Body, in this General Assembly, we're often asked what problem we are trying to solve. Three weeks ago, there was a tragic accidental shooting 208 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 in the South Shore neighborhood that claimed the life of an eight year old boy named Josiah Hooker and injured his five year old brother. Police have reportedly confirmed the horrific shooting stemmed from the two boys accessing a loaded weapon left unattended in their home. This legislation would enhance what it means to safely store weapons and also strengthen reporting requirements for lost and stolen guns. This legislation is a specific solution to a specific problem. If this was in the law more than three weeks ago, Josiah Hooker would be with us, with us today. Thank you, Senator, for bringing this forward. I'd ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Anderson.
Question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she’ll -- she'll yield.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator, as we went over in Committee, just wanted to revisit and thank you for the -- for the questions there, Senator, for clarification. So, in your Amendment 3, it takes out the automatic revocation of FOID card but still retains the ability for State Police to revoke a FOID card under Section 8 of the FOID Act. So, if someone doesn't report a -- a - - a stolen firearm, whether it's out of their house or their car or wherever - you still are giving State Police the ability to -- it's may, they may revoke it. So, my question is -- is how does that pass the Supreme Court precedent of the Bruen test?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman. 209 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, Senator. Anything under Section 8 is pretty much an automatic revocation -- mandatory revocation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
Thank you. So, with the Bruen test, which is a recent Supreme Court ruling. The Bruen test, in -- in this case, is that the government must demonstrate that the regulation is consistent with historical tradition of firearm regulation. Can you -- can you justify that, in your bill, with, -- with the Bruen test?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you, Senator. The Supreme Court has held that licensing regimes are constitutional.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
So, in the recent case, that was prior to Bruen -- so in the recent case, that is the test that the Supreme Court gave that whenever you're considering a firearm regulation, when government is considering regulation, does it fall within traditional regulation of the constitution?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you, Senator. Even within Bruen, the Supreme Court said that licensing regimes are constitutional. 210 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
Licensing, correct. Licensing is historical, yes. Is storage traditional?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
It was… I was answering your question in regard to the FOID question. Currently, so far, there has been no case law of safe - - safe storage laws like SB 8 being challenged on Second Amendment grounds.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
So, under -- move on from that. So, under the Rahimi case, which states when an individual has been found by a court to pose a credible threat to the public, to the physical safety of another, that individual may be temporarily disarmed, consistent with the Second Amendment. So, where is the finding of dangerousness under Rahimi with this? If State Police may revoke it and not a court.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Senator, it doesn't apply in this situation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
Can you explain? I don't understand why it wouldn't. 211 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Yeah. Thank you, Senator. There's -- the court is not -- making a finding of dangerousness in this -- in this situation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
And that's exactly my point. The Rahimi case says the court must find. But within this, it's giving State Police and not a court the ability to take that away.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
The court never stated that the determinations of dangerousness were the only permissible means of gun regulation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
Understood, but it still says that the -- that's the court's ability, not State Police.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you for your patience. I just don't want to make any mistakes. So, it's law enforcement or the courts that make the determination about the failure to report lost or stolen firearms.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson. 212 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Unfortunately, that's not what Rahimi says. As I read here, it says and this is quoted from the Supreme Court case, "When an -- when an individual has been found by a court to pose a credible threat to the physical safety of another that individual may be temporarily disarmed, consistent with the Second Amendment." Doesn't say anything about law enforcement, it says court. That's -- that's what the Supreme Court has said, that -- that is what I'm asking. How do you square that up with your bill? Because it -- it is contrary to what the Supreme Court has recently ruled.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you, Senator. Yeah, again, this -- it doesn't apply. And the Supreme Court said, that, determinations of dangerousness. They never stated that that was the only permissible means of gun regulation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
So, again, I understand you said that before, but it still says that's not the only, but it still is the courts that are doing it. Your bill is giving State Police the ability to take away somebody's constitutional right without due process. That is the problem here. And that's what I'm trying to point out. So, this 213 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 week, the Supreme Court said that violent gang members that are not citizens of this country are entitled to a hearing prior to their deportation. Non-citizens, living in our country, are getting more due process than citizens of Illinois. You're taking away a fundamental right given to us by our creator, and you're giving that ability to -- to police and not the court, as it's been ruled over and over again. This was talked about in Bruen, it's Rahimi, -- also Heller versus DC addressed some of these things. So, I just asked that people in this Body, take pause because this is not just, I -- I mean, I -- I understand the intent here, and we all want the same thing. And Senator in -- in -- in -- in Committee, I asked you to join me, in my bill, that I've been trying to get passed for ten years and -- and -- and allow some -- allow schools to be able to teach gun safety, because if we teach kids about guns, then they know not to mess with them. But again, I've been trying to do that for ten years and we can't get that done. And I understand again, I understand what you're trying to do, but we can't sacrifice Constitutionality and our Bill of Rights just for the sake of safety. So, I just ask that everybody consider that. Not that it'll make much difference. Thank you. PRESIDING OFFICER: SENATOR KOEHLER: Senator Ellman, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you for your comments. Thank you. I urge an Aye vote, and I look for your support. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Bill 8 pass. All those in favor 214 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 33 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 8, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We'll go to -- still on page 3 we're going to go to Senate Bill 19, President Harmon. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 19, an Act concerning criminal law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 19 is a modernization of the Prisoner Review Board authorizing law. It is similar to but improved upon the bill we passed in the Senate in the 103rd General Assembly that did not receive House concurrence. In particular, the bill expands the rights of victims to be heard and to be notified, it encourages experienced professionals to serve on the PRB, it clarifies the process for petitioners, and it offers procedural refinements to better implement the existing Medical Release Program, known as the Joe Coleman Act. I want to thank, Senator Ventura for her advocacy on that part, in particular. I would also highlight that we have included ingredients, suggested by Senate Republicans. So, I'm also confident, that this time, the House will take the bill up. I -- I want to thank Senator Peters for his work on -- on that -- as well. Happy to answer any questions, but I look forward to your Aye votes. 215 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Any discussion? Senator McClure.
Just a few quick questions, for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
Thank you, Mr. -- President Harmon. So, this makes it so that the term for a person serving on the Prison Review Board goes from six years to eight years. Why increase that term by two years?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. Senator, I -- I think it's -- it's a combination of factors that we believe will result in best practices. This is not necessarily a career, we are actively encouraging retired judges, for instance, to join the Prisoner Review Board. But most importantly, we want Members to make good decisions free of politics. I think with an eight year term, Members will be less concerned about being reappointed and will serve their term and do the best work that they can do.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
So, then I guess my next question would be, if you want these to be free of politics, do you think it was political when Republicans and Democrats joined together in a majority to get Members off the Prison Review Board who were releasing people that most of us, I think, were very upset that they were being released? 216 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President. I don't think that's related to this bill at all, but I appreciate your question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
I'd like to speak to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
And thank you, President Harmon, for answering my questions. So, here's one problem with this bill. President Harmon had a fantastic bill. He worked with us on the other side of the aisle that would have, in my view, made the Prisoner Review Board work a lot better and be much more conscious of public safety and ensuring that we've got Members that are able to do the right thing in a way that is -- that is overseen by the Senate because our job is unique in this Chamber. The House does not advise and consent appointments. The governor does not offer advice and consent on his own appointments. This is a unique duty to us. And that's why I was proud to join President Harmon and Democrats, Republicans, because we there was a bill that President Harmon put together by the Senate, from the Senate, because of our unique responsibilities. And unfortunately, here it looks as though the Governor has had too much influence on the end result, and the House has had too much influence on the end result. It is not their job to vet these appointments. It is solely our responsibility. 217 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 And so, I was proud of our Chamber when we rejected people that were not serving our State in a way that people would agree with who are concerned about public safety. Now, this brings me to another concern, because one of the people who is very critical of the Senate was the Governor. He was critical of Republicans and Democrats who voted their conscience on the Floor to get people that were making awful decisions out of this, off of this Board. And he said that he was going to immediately put into place Executive Orders that were going to solve this problem. He's going to work with them. He's put into place nothing. And I can assure you he has no problem signing Executive Orders. He's made that very clear. And so, my concern is that you've got these members who are now going to be in office for eight years, and they are going to have less accountability than they had before. And -- and that's not a good thing, and that's not even political. That's a public safety issue and this is all in light of the fact that we lost a brave hero in our State, Jayden Perkins, who is trying to defend his mother last year. I wonder if, his mom, would appreciate our response to that horrific event being -- allowing Prisoner Review Board Members to serve for even longer time without oversight from the Senate. To me, I disagree with that response. (Ope, Back on now? Thank you.) So again, I commend, President Harmon for the original bill. I think this needs to come out of the Senate. But I disagree wholeheartedly with the way the Governor has handled all of this. And instead of taking care of it, he chimes in on a bill to -- to water down what was a great bill and now -- now make it to where it's going to be very hard to keep people in that are dangerous. And that's another concern. So, for that reason and for those reasons, I would urge a No vote. Thank 218 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Thank you to the prior speaker for your robust defense of the Senate's prerogatives. I share your view of -- of our role in this. I also recognize, with just a small degree of an irony, your discomfort with Executive Orders. I'll leave it at that. I also recognize the legislative process though. The Senate can't pass a law by itself. The bill before us, I believe, will be well received and passed by the House and signed by the Governor, and not wanting to let the perfect be the enemy of the good. I would advance this bill and ask you for your Aye votes. It is the best bill we are able to pass into law at the present time.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, shall Senate Bill 19 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 32 voting Yea, 22 voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 19, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Still on page 3, you're on Senate Bill 25, Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 25, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings, to explain your bill. 219 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 25, the genesis for this is I have a Lifetime Fitness, in my district and there's an increased use of "cold spas" for rehabilitating muscles. So, the bill itself, as amended, defines "cold spa" as the basin of water that maintains a temperature between 40 degrees Fahrenheit and 92 degrees Fahrenheit, and adds multiple safety provisions to the bill to address the risks of hypothermia. I do believe that this bill is to benefit the greater public. And I -- I urge an Aye vote, and I'll answer any questions non-related to the Country of Ireland. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 25 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 25, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Sally Turner, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Mr. President, I just would like the record to reflect that on your bill for 2466, I'd like to be indicated as a Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. Senator Belt, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Yes, sir. Mr. President, it was my intention to vote in the affirmative for Senate -- Senate Bill 25, the Cold Spa Bill. 220 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Yes. The record will reflect your intention. Leave of the Body, we'll go to page 37. We're going to go to -- towards the bottom, Senate Bill 1411. Senator Fine seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1411 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1411. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Fine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Fine, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. This legislation is an initiative of the public…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) This is on the amendment.
Oh, I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments supported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1411. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
221 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Senate Bill 1411, an Act concerning civil Law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Fine, to explain your bill.
Thank you. This time around, this is still an initiative of the Public Guardian. It ensures that a patient's living will is honored, in a timely manner, to prevent delays in treatment or the decision making process. I know of no opposition to the legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1411 pass. All those in favor of vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On the question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 1411, having received the required constituted majority, is declared passed. Senator Hastings, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of clarification.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) State your point.
I'd like the record to reflect that I intended to vote Aye on Senate Bill 8.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. Are you ready? There being no further business to come before the Senate. The Senate 222 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 stands adjourned until 9 a.m. on the 11th day of April, 2025. The Senate stands adjourned. PERFUNCTORY SESSION
Pursuant to the directive of the Senate President, the regular Session of the Senate is now in perfunctory Session. Communication from the President. A letter dated April 10th, 2025. Dear Mr. Secretary - pursuant to Senate Rule 2-10, I am scheduling a perfunctory Session to convene on April 10th, 2025. Signed, Don Harmon, Senate President. Pursuant to the directive of the Senate President, the regular Session in the Senate is now in perfunctory Session. Communication from the President. Letter dated April 10th, 2025. Dear Mr. Secretary - pursuant to Senate Rule 2-10, I am scheduling a perfunctory Session to convene on April 10th, 2025. Signed, Don Harmon, Senate President. Resolutions. Senate Resolution 223, 225 and 227, offered by Senator Ventura and all Members. They were all celebration of life resolutions and will be referred to the Consent Calendar. Senate Resolution 222, offered by Senator Feigenholtz, and Senate Resolutions 224 and 226, offered by Senator Ventura. They're all congratulatory and Senate Joint Resolution 29, offered by Senator Tracy. It is substantive. Messages from the House. A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has passed bills of the following titles in the passage of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill 35. We have received Like Messages on House Bills 663, 1168, 1224, 1302, 1305, 1316, 1332, 1341, 1352 13 -- 1362, 1628, 1699, 1824 - I'm sorry, 1864, 1910, 2179, 2196, 2335, 2336, 2338, 2340, 2351, 2359, 2371, 2435, 2488, 2548, 2551, 223 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 2562, 2631, 2676, 2688, 2747, 2751, 2771, 2772, 2777, 2801, 2849, 2857, 2874, 2955, 2966, 2977, 2983, 3037, 3050, 3098, 3141, 3178, 3248, 3290, 3300, 3339, 3343, 3360, 3363, 3428, 3435, 3439, 3444, 3492, 3503, 3511, 3662, 3663, 3677, 3710, 3739, 3743, 3751, and 3851. Passed the House, April 9th, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House. House Bills 1st Reading. House Bill 25 {sic} (28), offered by Senator Martwick, an Act concerning receivership; House Bill 35, offered by Senator Fine, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 57, offered by Senator Erica Harriss, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 663, offered by President Harmon, an Act concerning local government; House Bill 1168, offered by Senator Ellman, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 1224, offered by Senator Preston, an Act concerning government; House Bill 1302, offered by Senator Holmes, an Act concerning victims' rights; House Bill 1316, offered by Senator Tracy, an Act concerning education. House Bill 1352, offered by Senator Tracy, an Act concerning military service; House Bill 1362, offered by Senator Wilcox, an Act concerning veterans; House Bill 1576, offered by Senator Halpin, an Act --Act concerning government. House Bill 1628, offered by Senator Aquino, an Act concerning government; House Bill 1699, offered by Senator Loughran Cappel, an Act concerning safety; House Bill 1861, offered by Senator Loughran Cappel, an Act concerning education; House Bill 1864, offered by Senator Cervantes, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 1910, offered by Senator Fine, an Act concerning local government; House Bill 2179, offered by Senator Curran, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 2196, offered by Senator Sally Turner, an Act concerning regulation. House Bill 2335, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning transportation House Bill 2336, offered by Senator 224 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 Joyce, an Act concerning local government; House Bill 2340, offered by Senator Joyce, an Act concerning wildlife; House Bill 2351, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning education; House Bill 2371, offered by Senator Walker, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 2435, offered by Senator Sims, an Act concerning business. House Bill 2488, offered by Senator Peters, an Act concerning employment. House Bill 2551, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning government; House Bill 2562, offered by Senator Fine, an Act concerning civil law; House Bill 2688, offered by Senator Collins, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 2747, offered by Senator Murphy, an Act concerning local government; House Bill 2751, offered by Senator Murphy, an Act concerning transportation House Bill 2772, offered by Senator Villanueva, an Act concerning local government. House Bill 2805, offered by Senator Curran, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 2849, offered by Senator Stadelman, an Act concerning civil law; House Bill 2857, offered by Senator Murphy, an Act concerning transportation; House Bill 2949, offered by Senator Johnson, an Act concerning government; House Bills 2952, offered by Senator Cervantes, an Act concerning Health; House Bill 2955, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning safety; House Bill 2966, offered by Senator Morrison, an Act concerning education; House Bill 2977, offered by Senator Cunningham, an Act concerning local government; House Bill 2983, offered by Senator Stadelman, an Act concerning transportation; House Bill 3037, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning education; House Bill 3098, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning safety; House Bill 3125, offered by Senator Villa, an Act concerning transportation; House Bill 3178, offered by Senator Edly-Allen, an Act concerning 225 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 34th Legislative Day 4/10/2025 business; House Bill 3300, offered by Senator Castro, an Act concerning education; House Bill 3339, offered by Senator Belt, an Act concerning transportation; House Bill 3343, offered by Senator Villivalam, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 3363, offered by Senator Peters, an Act concerning State government; House Bill 3428, offered by Senator Syverson, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 3439, offered by Senator Johnson, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 3444, offered by Senator Cervantes, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 3503, offered by Senator Collins, an Act concerning education; House Bill 3511, offered by Senator Villa, an Act concerning regulation; House Bill 3527, offered by Senator Villa, an Act concerning education; House Bill 3638, offered by Senator Fine, an Act concerning employment; House Bill 3662, offered by Senator Villa, an Act concerning government; House Bill 3677, offered by Senator Fine, an Act concerning business; House Bill 3710, offered by Senator Villanueva, an Act concerning criminal law; House Bill 3751, offered by Senator Villanueva, an Act concerning State government; House Bill 3851, offered by Senator Loughran Cappel, an Act concerning education. First Reading of the bills. There being no further business to come before this perfunctory Session pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution. There being no further business to come before this perfunctory Session, the Senate stands adjourned until Friday, April 11th, 2025, or until the call of the President. The Senate stands adjourned. 226