BISHOP JACSON MOODY: (Invocation)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Halpin, would you please lead us in the Pledge?
SENATOR HALPIN: (Pledge of Allegiance)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Blueroomstream seeks leave of the Body to video stream. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Friday, May 30th, 2025.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 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.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Glowiak Hilton moves to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of the bill of the following title to wit: Senate Bill 328, together with the following amendment, which is attached in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 328, we have received Like Messages on Senate Bill 1331 with House Amendment 1, Senate Bill 1989 with House Amendment 4, Senate Bill 2319 with House Amendment 1, Senate Bill 2339 with House Amendment 2. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House. A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of the bill of the following title to wit: Senate Bill 2418, together with the following amendments were attached, the option of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate to wit: House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2418. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House. A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has adopted the following Joint Resolution in the adoption of which I'm instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate to wit: House Joint Resolution 38, offered by Senator McClure. Adopted by the House, May 31st, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House. It is substantive, Mr. President. A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has adopted the following Joint Resolution in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 concurrence of the Senate to wit: House Joint Resolution 6, offered by Senator Tracy. Adopted by the House, May 28th, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House. It is also substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) All Members will please come to the Senate Floor. All Members please come to the Senate Floor so we can finish our business. Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you very much, Mr. President. For the purpose of recognition.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please state your purpose.
The purpose of -- of the recognition is to recognize two people. And one of them is in the balcony and his name is Tony Jay Yuscius, and Tony if you can just stand. So, Tony -- Tony was employed by the Illinois Information Service when he was 16 years old, you all, from 1976 to 1990. As a teenager, he was trained as a brand-new tool of television broadcasting and a new site in the Senate/House Chambers, where he used his new piece called, it was a forty pound. mini camera that cost about $200,000, and he was a high school student. He found himself working alongside veteran TV legends such as Mike Flannery. If y'all remember some of these names, Dick Kay and Hugh Hill. And WHEREAS, in his early ages of TV camera were involved into several highly publicized criminal trials. And the problem from those trials led to an effective ban of televisions in the courtroom, photography for decades. In 1991, the Illinois Supreme Court Chandler versus Florida opened the door for state courts to allow live television cameras, and Tony was a 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 part of this important transition, in media, here in Illinois. Tony founded the Advanced Digital Media Incorporated in June 2008 for a full-time television production company that received many industry awards, including over 10 Telly and Axiem awards. Tony founded and created the service that we know today as Blueroomstream.com and that was in 2012, which is commonly considered as Illinois's version of C-SPAN, by many. Through this, through his service, every television station in the State of Illinois received live gavel to gavel coverage from both Chambers, as well as, committee meetings and press conferences. We're recognizing Tony, you all, because Tony retired and you may not have seen him around the Capitol, but you've seen his wife Lisa around the building, and she's running over things. But, you know, they sold Advanced Digital in August of 2023, which they will continue the establishment of traditional excellence in the news coverage and distribution. And so, Tony is a member of the Television Engineers, the Society of Motion Picture (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) and I can just go on and on and on. Someone sent me a television clip yesterday, and Channel 7, NBC Chicago did a one piece on Tony, you know, live. And so, I'm just so happy to have known Tony, and I just think it's very fitting that we recognize Tony from over forty, fifty years in the television business. Tony, I have a resolution for you that I will get you in your recognition. And then, the lady sitting next to Tony is his sister, come on and stand Susan. So, let's welcome them and congratulate Tony y'all, for all of his service.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Tony, congratulations from the Illinois Senate. Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you seek additional recognition? 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. For the purpose of another recognition.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please state your recognition.
Standing beside me is my former, she's looking real strange, my former legislative aide, Lucretia Newman. Lucretia Newman, now, she's married now, Rutherford. She now works for Gio and she's handling business in his office. But it was important that I recognized Lucretia because she worked for me for ten years. She's not going anywhere but Lucretia has been a loving wife, a very supportive wife, while working for Gio. And she was just -- she's been juggling a lot of balls, especially the last, eight or nine months. And Lucretia and her son, where -- is Charlie in the Chamber? Her son Charlie is a Page. Well, Lucretia and Charlie both graduated from college, Jackson State University, at the same time, three weeks ago, three weeks ago, and Lucretia has been working really hard. She's been burning the candle on both ends, you know, taking care of her husband, doing her homework late at night, working for Gio and God knows whatever else. She's been taking care of her husband because her husband, Eric. Eric is -- stand up, Eric. That's the husband. Eric had a serious injury, and he had surgery, and she had to take care of him also. And so, I have been -- Lucretia had attended Jackson State for several years until she got married and moved up here to Chicago, to Illinois and she always wanted to get her degree from Jackson State University. And I said, well, Lucretia, that's so far, you can't go back down there because you're working, you're established, you 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 know, this is your new home and everything. I said, "Why don't you go over to UIS and get your Bachelor's, you only need thirteen credits." That's all she needed was thirteen credits for her Bachelor's. She said, "But I want to go". I said, "Okay, go online, see what they're offering." And so, the Chicago Jackson State Association -- Alumni Association helped her make contact with the school. And Lucretia found out that she could take some classes. And she said, "It's going to take me so long." I said, "Honey, you take -- double them up." So, she doubled her classes up, and Lucretia called me and said, "Guess what?" I said, "What, Lucretia?" "I'm going to graduate with Charlie." And so, they did graduate with Charlie. And so, let's just congratulate Lucretia.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Lucretia, congratulations from the Illinois Senate.
So happy that they put together a resolution. So, I'd like to present with you a two-part resolution, Lucretia. Gio, why don't you come down here? Gio, we're going to take a break. Gio is the one that started this, and -- and he drafted -- he drafted the legislation, and he wanted me -- wanted me to present it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Thank you very much. Will all Members, please come to the Senate Floor. We were going to do Senate business. Senator Feigenholtz, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President, for purposes of an announcement. She -- the first few minutes of Session but I'd like to wish Leader Hunter, tomorrow, hopefully we won't be here. A very happy birthday, Leader Hunter. 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Happy Birthday to Senator Hunter. WCIA seeks leave of the Body to film the Senate proceedings. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. This is final action. Please come to the Senate Floor. We're going to start on page 8, towards the bottom of the page. We have House Bills 3rd Reading. House Bill 850, Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 850, an Act concerning safety. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is an initiative of the Illinois State Police. It improves the FOID card process, providing more due process, more access to records, and will assist with providing more public safety and individual rights. I am happy to answer any questions about the expedited appeal process that would be involved with this legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Anderson.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is the exact opposite of more due process. This is a lack of due process. This is giving State Police the ability to take a constitutional right away, and then 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 the gun owner having to petition the court to get his right back. This is the opposite of constitutionality, and I would urge a No vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Ellman.
A question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) She indicates she will yield.
Senator, under HB 850 do the Illinois State Police have additional duties regarding stolen firearm data?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison.
Yes. The Illinois State Police are required to analyze cumulative data on lost and stolen firearms or firearms with obliterated serial numbers, and published their findings on publicly accessible databases.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison, to close. I'm sorry, Senator Holmes.
Thank you so much, Mr. President. My question is for the purposes of legislative intent. Is the civil immunity provided to the Firearms Owner Identification Card Review Board within Section 15c meant to apply to pending cases?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison.
8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 No. The immunity provided by Section 15c is not meant to apply to pending cases. Its application is meant to be strictly limited to civil actions filed on or after the effective date of this Act.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Bryant.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
I just want to be sure that everyone understands before they vote on this. This prohibits ISP and the FOID Card Review Board from being held liable for damages in any civil action arising from the alleged wrongful or improper granting, denying, renewing, revoking, suspending or failing to grant, deny, renew, revoke or suspend a firearm owner's identification card. With this bill, we're taking away the ability to have civil litigation against the Review Board -- the FOID Review Board, and against ISP on all of these FOID issues. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no more discussion. Senator Morrison, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. This bill will assist in both maintaining public safety and individual rights. It's critical to preserve the ISP's ability to take immediate administrative action, including the revocation of FOID cards when necessary while ensuring a transparent process for reviewing and correcting erroneous determinations. I ask for an Aye vote. 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, shall House Bill 850 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 36 voting Yea, 17 voting Nay, None voting Present. And House Bill 850, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Turning the page to page 9, we're going to go to the top of the page we have House Bill 1224. Senator Preston seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 1224 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 1224. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Preston.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Preston, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and -- and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendments are adopted. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 House Bill 1224, an Act concerning government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Preston, to explain your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Colleagues, I rise today to urge your support for House Bill 1224, a bill that represents not only smart policy, but necessary reform to how our State treats the very contractors who literally build Illinois. Let me be clear, the problem this bill addresses is clear. The State of Illinois has developed a very bad habit, a habit of automatically withholding money from contractors on every job, every time, just in case something goes wrong. Even when the project goes perfectly, the State still retains funds. That practice might feel like protection on paper, but in reality, it leads to delayed payments, lost jobs, and pushes out the very small and minority owned business we claim we want at the table. Let's tell the truth. You can't build equity if you only pay those who can afford to wait. House Bill 1224 is the solution. It says that retention should only happen when there is actually a problem, when a contractor isn't making satisfactory progress. That's fair, that's transparent, that's how a responsible government should behave. And it's not just about primes. Under this bill, if the State doesn't retain money from the prime contractor, that prime can hold money from the subcontractors. No more punishing every subcontractor when one firm falls behind. Only the sub responsible for the delay can be withheld from innocent subs, get fully paid. This is a major cash flow boost to the private sector, especially to the contractors without deep pockets or lines of credit. It 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 levels the playing field, and it opens the door for more diverse and emerging firms to bid on State work not based on wealth, but skill and hustle. Let me also be clear by saying what this bill does not do. This bill does not touch local governments, this bill does not touch IDOT, it doesn't touch the Illinois Tollway, and it doesn't apply to Capital Grants from DCEO to third parties, it does not interfere with penalties for labor law violations, as well. We are giving the State time until June 2027 to make this happen. So, I urge everybody to support House Bill 1224. This is a pro-business reform, it's pro-equity. It ensures that our government works not just for the very, very wealthy and established, but for everybody. I urge my colleagues to support this measure.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 1224 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 voting Yea, None voting Nay, None voting Present. And House Bill 1224, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Further on down the page we have House Bill 1373, Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1373, an Act concerning criminal law. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 1373 is an initiative 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 of the Attorney General's Office. It will require law enforcement agencies to enter trace information on guns they recover -- recover in crimes and at crime scenes into the ATF database. And it also creates a task force to study the process and make recommendations to the General Assembly. I know of no opposition would appreciate the Chamber's support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 1373 pass. Those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On the question, there are 43 voting Yea, 11 voting Nay, None voting Present. And House Bill 1373, having received the required majority, is declared passed. Moving on down the page further we have House Bill 1505, Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1505, an Act concerning gaming. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 1505 makes a couple minor changes to (Video) Gaming Act and the Horse Racing Act. First of all, there's language here that does a lot of cleanup for the Racing Board regarding how they move funds between different accounts and also helps them reorganize the administration of the Board. And then there's also a provision regarding advertising outside of -- of video gaming terminal parlors. For the record, I want to state that the purpose of that portion of the bill is to 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 stop the proliferation of flags and other advertising on the parkways and areas adjacent to the physical location of the VGT Parlor. What we are not doing is prohibiting VGT locations from doing advertising, like mailers or fliers to the public. It is for exterior signage and advertising at the physical location of the VGT location. That's all. I know of no opposition, would appreciate your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 1505 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 53 voting Yea, None voting Nay, None voting Present. And House Bill 1505, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we'll go to page 12 towards the top of the page is House Bill 3078, Senator Hunter. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3078, an Act concerning mental health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hunter, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 3078 allows the Department of Human Services Office of the Inspector General to share unredacted investigative reports, raw data, or death reports with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulations under specific circumstances upon written request. In addition, the bill removes the witness requirement for a signature to access 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 one's record, for a witness to attest to the identity of a person giving consent to release one's mental health records, and lastly, the bill also dissolves the Autism Research Checkoff Fund. This is a -- an initiative of the Department of Human Services and the Illinois Association of Behavioral Health and Illinois Nurses Association. I know of no opposition, and I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator McClure.
Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she'll yield.
Thank you. Senator Hunter, so, I'm kind of confused here because I feel like the witness requirement when someone is requesting mental health records is a safeguard in place to ensure that the person requesting them is actually the person requesting them. What's the reason for wanting to remove this safeguard from our laws?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hunter.
Yeah. You know, the law already exists, and we're basically, I should have said earlier, that this is basically cleanup language. All we're doing -- all they're doing is exchanging information from one Department to the next, it's not being released to the public or anything like that. It's cleanup language. 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you. I'll speak to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. DHS is among the worst run State agencies we have right now. They've requested multiple bills. This included, that seemed to not do good things for our most vulnerable citizens. If you guys recall, a couple of Sessions ago, they championed the bill to make it so that people with mental health issues that are unfit for trial have to stay in county jails because DHS could not take care of them at their facilities, which they were required to do under our State's laws. But those have now changed. DHS has been mailing voter registration forms intentionally to noncitizens. Obviously, if they fill those forms out and turn them in, they are no longer eligible for citizenship, essentially. So, I don't know why DHS has this attack on people that are vulnerable but taking away a protection for people that are wanting their mental health records to ensure that they are doing so willingly and making sure that it's the right person requesting them that's a protection that should stay in our laws. So, for DHS again, to do something that's going to hurt vulnerable people in our State, in my view, is wrong. And so, and for that reason, which I think is a very significant reason, I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Tracy.
16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. I have questions of the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) She indicates she will yield.
Senator Hunter, looking at this, and I understand general cleanup, but one of the things that I noticed that struck me as unusual is that CILA'S group homes will no longer serve individuals solely with mental illness, and I'm asking about why that's in the cleanup? And if it was a request of the CILA community or just what prompted that change?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hunter.
I'm not really sure, Senator. I'll find out and get back with you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Tracy.
I would certainly appreciate that, because we're -- we're trying to move more people into independent living in CILA group homes, and I was concerned about that. It would exclude a population from living in CILA'S, and I don't know where they would live independently otherwise, so I am very concerned about that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Was that a question? Senator Tracy, was that a question?
Well, I think she's going to look into it, but for the time being, I'm very concerned. Thank you. 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hunter, to close.
I would ask for an Aye vote. This is basically cleanup language. This information has been on the books. It's on the books now, and I'll get back with you. I'll get an answer for you today. Thank you. I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 3078 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 42 voting Yea, 15 voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3078, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Moving on down the page we have House Bill 3140, Senator Harris, Napoleon Harris. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3140, an Act concerning State government. 3rd reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Harris, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I rise to present House Bill 3140, a measure that speaks to our shared values, respect, responsibility, and doing the -- doing right by those who serve. This bill establish -- establishes the Police Canine Care Program and fund, ensuring that the brave dogs who serve our police departments across the State of Illinois receive the veterinarian care they need once they retire from active duty. The canines just 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 aren't tools and equipment, their partners. They run towards danger, track down threats, detect drugs and explosives, and work every day to keep our communities safe. And they do so without hesitation, putting their own lives at risk. So, when their service ends, the obligation from us shouldn't. House Bill 3140 creates a stable dedicated funding source and for lifelong medical care for retired police dogs and the care that they deserve. The funding for this program comes from the Illinois Police Canine Memorial Specialty license plates. This is about recognizing their sacrifice and ensuring that they receive the dignity and comfort in retirement, just like any other public servant. So today, I ask that we stand in -- in unison to provide the canines that -- that's in the line of duty, the service and dignity they deserve. And ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Erica Harriss?
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to thank the sponsor, Senator Harris, for allowing this to be a Harris-Harriss Bill. I also filed a bill this -- earlier this year in support of our K-9 partners, our law enforcement officers and their partners dedicate their lives to protecting our communities and to keeping them safe. This bill ensures that our K-9s receive care after their service, recognizing their contributions even after their days of active duty have ended, and respectfully ask for everyone's vote on this Harris--Harriss bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Napoleon Harris, to close.
19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 3140 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, None voting Nay, None voting Present. And House Bill 3140, having received the required majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to page 13 towards the top of the page we have House Bill 3662, Senator Porfirio. Senator Porfirio seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 3662 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 3662. Mr. Secretary, any further amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Porfirio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, on your amendment.
I'd like to adopt and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The amendment is adopted. Any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 6 -- 3662, an Act concerning government. 3rd 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. HB 3006 -- 62 (3662), as amended, is the TIF Omnibus, which extends the TIF for 10 TIF Districts. City of Lewistown for the Lewistown TIF District 1, City of Elgin for the Central Avenue TIF Redevelopment Project Area, City of Carbondale for the Redevelopment Project area one, City of Pittsfield for TIF District 1. City of Fairview Heights for the Shoppes at Saint Clair Redevelopment Project Area, City of Fairview Heights for the Lincoln Trail Redevelopment Project Area, City of Vienna for TIF District 1, Village of Lyons for TIF District 1 Redevelopment Project Area, Village of Lyons for TIF District 2 Redevelopment Project Area, Village of Bridgeview for Harlem Avenue TIF District 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator DeWitte.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. I appreciate the sponsor bringing this legislation forward. As a former mayor, I can tell you just how important TIF'S remain to municipalities, in an effort to generate economic development within their communities. So, I applaud the sponsor's work and on our side of the aisle, I would urge and Aye vote. Thank you. 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I request an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 3662 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 51 voting Yea, 3 voting Nay, None voting Present. And House Bill 3662, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. CNI seeks leave of the Body to photo and audio the proceedings. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. With leave of the Body, will go back to page 11 towards the top we have House Bill 2682, Senator Edly-Allen. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2682, an Act concerning public aid. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Edly-Allen, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 2682 amends the Illinois Public Aid Code and requires DHS to implement the federal Family Violence Option when making determinations to an individual's compliance with the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or TANF program. In addition, the bill establishes the Good Cause Waiver and the Family Safety Notice form qualifications and overview within DHS, allowing an individual to apply for a waiver if domestic or sexual violence causes them to fail to comply with 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 TANF requirements. Put simply, this bill streamlines the process of the FVO. In practice, TANF applicants should be screened for family violence options eligibility. However, very few survivors of domestic violence actually access FVO waivers or Associated Crisis Assistance Funding. In 2023, only four percent of eligible recipients received FVO benefits. This shows a failure to uniformly screen TANF recipients for qualifying abuse and connect them to the tools and services essential for safety. I want to thank Niya Kelly from the Chicago Coalition to End Homelessness and Maralea Negron from the Network Advocating Against Domestic Violence for their work on this bill. And I ask for a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 2682 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 57 voting Yea, None voting Nay, None voting Present. And House Bill 2682, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Leave of the Body, we'll go back to page 10. We'll go to -- towards the top House Bill 1866, Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Cunningham seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 1680 -- 1866 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 1866. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Cunningham.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, on your amendment. 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. The amendment makes a couple of minor definitional changes. I move for its adoption.
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) Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Oh, 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1866, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 1866 is an initiative of the Illinois State Police. The bill -- bill simply extends the sunset on the Emergency Telephone System Act that all of our local 911 centers rely on. There are few, as I mentioned, technical changes, mostly just to update the Act regarding some of the technological advancements that have happened involving next generation 9-1-1 systems. I know of no opposition and would appreciate the Chamber's support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion? The question is, shall House Bill 1866 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 1866, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to page 15, we're going to do concurrencies. We'll start at the top of the page with Senate Bill 39. Senator Turner. Senator Sally Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House, in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 39. Signed by Senator Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to have the amendment approved and hear the bell {sic} (bill), please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 39. 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 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill -- Senate Bills {sic} (bill) 39, having received the required majority, the Senate does hereby concur with House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 39, and the bill is declared passed. Next one is Senate Bill 58, Senator Belt. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption -- adoption 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 of their Amendment No. 1, to Senate Bill 58. Signed by Senator Belt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall the House -- shall -- the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 58? 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 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received, the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur on House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 58, and the bill is declared passed. The next one, we'll go to House Bill -- Senate Bill 71, Senator Murphy. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 71. Signed by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I wish to adopt, and I would explain.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 2 to Senate Bill 71. All 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received, the required constitutional majority of the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 2 to Senate Bill 71, and the bill is declared passed. Moving on down the page to Senate Bill 103, Senator Feigenholtz. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 103. Signed by Senator Feigenholtz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This adds clarification that the person entitled to notice that an adoption petition was filed must be an individual who is adjudicated to be the parent of -- at the time of the filing of the adoption petition.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator McClure?
So, thank you. So why is this necessary, Senator?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz.
Why -- why is the bill necessary or why is the concurrence necessary?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
It's the same question. Why is the bill necessary?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz.
This is an initiative of the Chicago Bar Association Adoption Law Subcommittee. It corrects an oversight in court procedures in Section 7 of the Adoption Act that governs who receives notice of the filing of an adoption petition. There were…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you. So, just looking over the analysis here, is there any concern that this is going to slow down adoptions that are currently taking place?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz.
It's a great question. It actually is intended to do just the opposite.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you. Finally. Why does DCFS need to consent to the adoption?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz.
Because the child is in DCFS custody. 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz, to close.
I'd appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, does the Senate concur in Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 103. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed -- all those Opposed vote, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received, the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 103, and the bill is declared passed. We'll go to Senate Bill 189, Senator Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 189. Signed by Senator…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) It's Senator Halpin.
Senator Halpin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Representative Johnson. Senator Halpin, on your motion.
29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. So, Senate Bill 199{sic} (189), as amended, by the House -- requires the Department of Public Health to develop rules for therapeutic, fitness, and recreational obstacle courses and the like, within their facilities. I'm ready to dive into questions and ask for your Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House -- in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 189? 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 the question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 189 and the bill is declared passed. We'll go to Senate Bill 13 -- 314. Senator Belt. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House, in adoption of the Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 314. Signed by Senator Belt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, it requires a physical fitness center to clearly and conspicuously disclose any change in the cost of or reduction in benefits to a customer's gym membership and that they have to do it at least 60 days before the automatic renewal kick in. The bill also prohibits a physical fitness center from offering or advertising a lifetime gym membership that lasts longer than one year, in violation of the Act. I know of no 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 opposition to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator McClure.
Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
Thank you, Senator. I see there was a lot of opposition in the House on this bill. I do want to just get a couple of things out there. Does this restrict any private businesses ability to advertise these memberships?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt.
Senator, if it's not advertising a lifetime membership beyond a year -- as underscored by the Physical Fitness Act, then no, it doesn't restrict anything.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
So, what if there's a contract for one of these lifetime memberships that says within the contract that is being proposed that the customer is going to sign. That this can be changed under certain circumstances. Would that be allowed if this bill passes?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt.
Senator ask me that again. I'm not following you. Let me -- 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 let me -- this -- this bill -- looks to clarify and make gym memberships forthright, forthcoming. Right. Nothing -- no fine print on the -- the -- the -- the memberships itself. Right. So, it looks -- it says no reduction in benefits for your membership. If that were to happen, you have to have 60 days' notice so that the consumer, the Jim Gore, would know what was coming, or if there's a price increase so that they'll know what's going on with their membership. Right. And then lastly, it says it prohibits gym membership from being advertised or -- or offered more than one year. That's the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Okay, so you got two -- you got a business, a gym, that wants to offer a lifetime membership to someone, and the contract that they're signing for that lifetime membership says that, you know, 60 days out I can change this agreement up a little bit and -- and cause you to pay some additional fees, or that can never be changed under any circumstances in the contract, no matter what the contract says. If this law gets passed.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt.
Senator as long as they do it, -- give any -- 60 days' notice to the consumer that a price they intend to go up in price or reduce benefits at the cost that the member joined. Then they can do that. It's -- It's, you know, really trying to make sure we have an informed consumer, as a -- as a Jim Gore.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator McClure.
Thank you. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
To the motion. Well, I thank -- I thank you for the clarification. I know I voted for this the first time that it was up. I do think there are things that are being done in some of the gyms that we have in our State that are not right. I think when it comes to some of these memberships where people don't get all the information. I'm a big fan of transparency. You do have a little bit of an imposition on private businesses, so I can see why some people might be against the bill, but I appreciate Senator Belt answering my questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion. Senator Plummer.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
Senator Belt, I completely agree with the transparency issues and the need for making sure consumers are -- or are informed on everything and this might just be a miscommunication, I want to clarify. During your comments you might have said or maybe I misheard, so a gym or another enterprise can they enter into an agreement for -- let's use a gym, can they enter into an agreement with a customer for longer than a year? 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt.
Not -- not under current law, Senator. You can only do a year, under the current Fitness -- Physical Fitness Service Act, as of right now, that's the law. But I know of gym -- gyms -- that are for lifetime memberships. I've seen them and that's a violation of the current law, as -- when they do that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
Okay. Thank you. Because I've -- I've seen the same thing you've seen. Probably, we might be talking about the same gyms that do it for longer than a year. So I guess my concern might be existing law, not with this legislation, but I appreciate the clarification.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt, to close.
Mr. President, I just ask for a favorable roll call. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1314. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted to wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 2 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senate Bill 314 and the bill is declared passed. We'll go to Senate Bill 405, Senator Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 405. Signed by Senator Johnson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 405, which ensures that any school counseling services that are provided to students shall address the needs of all students, regardless of citizenship status. And I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 405. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 35 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 405, and the bill is declared passed. Capitol News Illinois seeks leave of the Body to take photos and record audio. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. I'll go to page 16 at the top of the page we have Senate Bill 637, Senator Porfirio. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of the Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 637. Signed by Senator Porfirio. 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill Amendment 1 reinserts the provisions and -- provides that a sublease or license under provisions shall expire after 15 years rather than 40 years in the original bill, or upon the expiration of the contracts between the Forest Preserve District and the Zoological Society, including renewal terms whichever occurs first. So, basically a technical amendment and changing the -- the -- the terms until expiration. PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER)start here Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 637. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 637 and the bill is declared passed. The next one is Senate Bill 1181. Senator Stadelman. Mr. Secretary, please read.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1181. Signed by Senator Stadleman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Stadelman, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1181, again protects the media from frivolous lawsuits, but does not protect the lawsuit 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 from moving forward without merit. The amendment adds a reciprocal attorney's fees and cost provision. Happy to answer any questions, I ask for the motion to be supported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion? The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1181. 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 47 voting Yea, 10 voting Nay, none voting Present. And the Senate does hereby concur to House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1181, and the bill is declared passed. Next is Senate Bill 1261, Senator Guzmán. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1261. Signed by Senator Guzmán.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán, on your motion. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Yes, Mr. President, thank you. The amendment to Senate Bill 1261 would add a repeal date. As a quick reminder, this bill holds the Community Land Trust Task Force and again, as amended, this will now be dissolved within 14 months after the Task Force holds their first meeting. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in Amendment No. -- House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1261. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required majority, the Senate does hereby concur with House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1261, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1343, Senator Doris Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1343. Signed by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Committee Amendment No. 1 simply extends the Annual Real Property Utilization Report by one month from July 31st to August 31st of each year under the State Property Control Act.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion? The question is, shall the Senate concur in House -- House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1343. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1343, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1368, Senator Tracy. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. Out of the record. We have Senate Bill 1523, Senator Doris Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1523. Signed by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. The amendment to Senate Bill 1523 is simply a page and line amendment adding a state of mind requirement to the private right of action provision. It provides that any person who knowingly files a fraudulent deed intended to unlawfully cloud or transfer the title of any real property may be liable to the rightful property owner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So the question is, shall the Senate… I'm sorry. Is there any discussion? Senator Turner.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
Thank you. Senator Turner, does this alleviate the recorders from any kind of liability for not filing a certain deed if they believe it's fraudulent?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
There should be no liability on their recorder at all. It's very specific to the individual who prepares or prevent -- or 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 presents, I'm sorry, something to the recorder.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sally Turner.
Thank you, and I would have spoken to you about this before, but I didn't know anything about it. So, I just want to make sure because right now this statute, the way it reads, is that when they receive a document they have to file it, if it meets the criteria, like the -- the area on the top, three by five, things of that nature and all the things that are required. I just want to make sure that if that recorder receives it, they don't know it's fraudulent, so there's no repercussion to them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Doris. Turner.
No. But -- and actually, the underlying bill requires that county recorders establish a fraud referral and review process to review deeds and other instruments, and a fraud alert system to notify property owners when a deed or instrument has been found on their property.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sally Turner.
Thank you. And I think that's very helpful. So, thank you - - thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Doris Turner, to close.
Just ask for a favorable vote. 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, does the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1523. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate having received the required constitutional majority of the Senate, does hereby concur on House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1523, and the bill is declared passed. Next is Senate Bill 1548, Senator Faraci. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1548. Signed by Senator Faraci.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Faraci, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. The amendment to Senate Bill 1548 simply adds the Office of Homeland Security to the task force. I ask for Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1548. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And the Senate, having received the required majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1548, and the bill is declared passed. The 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 bottom of the page we have -- Senator Turner, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to -- the record to reflect that I surely meant to vote Yes on my colleague's motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will surely reflect your intention. The bottom of the page we have Senate Bill 1583, Senator Halpin. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1583. Signed by Senator Halpin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Halpin, on your amendments.
Thank you, Mr. President. The first amendment from the House actually put the original language into the bill, which would allow ISBE to unilaterally allow a regional office of education or immediate -- intermediate service center as a learning partner. The second part of the bill, is to allow an individual to seek short-term approval for personnel roles in a school, without having to pass the content test. At the beginning, they would still be required to pass that content test by the end of their stint as a short-term approval. I'd appreciate a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1583. 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 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1583, and the bill is declared passed. Turning the page to the top of page 17 we have Senate Bill 1602, Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1602. Signed by Senator Morrison.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This amendment changes the definition, adds language regarding unduly burdensome patient transfers, makes changes to time frames hospitals are allowed to submit a plan of correction. And know of no opposition, appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 6 -- 1602. 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 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1602, and the bill is declared passed. House Bill 6 -- Senate Bill 1605, Senator Doris Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1605. Signed by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1605, as amended, ensures that school districts that receive State grant funding pay agricultural teachers 100 percent of their regular pay rate for the extra hours teaching agriculture education, if the teacher works 400 hours or more beyond their regular teaching hours. The bill, as amended, also makes a technical change that replaces vocational education with career and technical education in high school graduation requirements.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1605. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present in the Senate. Having received the required constitute majority of the Senate is hereby concur on House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1605, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1672, Senator Belt. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1672. Signed by Senator Belt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Belt, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This motion adds that school districts shall report their use of literacy screeners in the annual assessment report form that is already sent to ISBE on a yearly basis. The date that school districts are to report to ISBE, and the date that ISBE shall make the data public or changed to align with the reporting dates already used for the annual assessment report form.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1672. All in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay -- Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1672, and the bill is declared passed. Next we have Senate Bill 1740, Senator Edly-Allen. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House, in the adoption of their Amendments 1, 2 and 4 to Senate Bill 1740. Signed by Senator Edly- Allen.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Edly-Allen, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, this will make 2 small changes to the School Code Mandate Reduction Council. First, for 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 every council meeting after January 1st, 2027, the number of General Assembly Members is reduced from a total of eight to a total of four. And second, three additional members that represent the teachers are added to the council. One additional member is added to the council that represent the Teacher Association representing health, physical education, recreation and dance teachers, and the number of members from the two statewide teacher organizations on the council is increased from two members to three members each. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, will the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 4 to Senate Bill 1740. 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 41 voting Yea, 14 voting Nay, none voting Present. And hereby having received the required constitutional majority of the Senators concur in House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 4 to Senate Bill 1740, and the bill is declared passed. I'm going to skip down to Senate Bill 17. Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you. I would like to be recorded as a Yes on the last vote, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention on Senate Bill 1790. Senator Villivalam. Mr… We'll go to Senate Bill 1814, Senator Anderson. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1814. Signed by Senator Anderson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Anderson, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This adds to the existing bill of the amniotic fluid embolism awareness. This also adds -- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, to that as well. So I know of no opposition, would ask for an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1814. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, and none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1814, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1827. Senator Porfirio. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1827. Signed by Senator Porfirio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. The House Amendment -- basically was to work with the American Institute of Architects -- to bring them to neutral. That brought them to neutral and I would ask for a Aye vote. 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, does the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1870 -- 27? All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1827, and the bill is declared passed. We'll go to the top of page 18 Senate Bill 1859, Senator Guzmán. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of the Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1859. Signed by Senator Guzmán.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán, on your motion. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1859 establishes the Climate Displacement Task Force. As amended, it changes the composition to remove the Governor as a member of the task force, and also to provide clarity that members on the task force shall serve without compensation. Happy to answer questions, and I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Plummer?
A question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicate she will yield. 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Thank you for -- for bringing this legislation, I guess. Why did the Governor's Office remove themselves from the task force?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Thank you for the question, Senator. I think that is a question that is best poised for the Governor's Office. My understanding, though, is that they are systematically looking at all of their participation on task forces.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
So this is a Senate Bill. Why -- Why is the House -- Chairing this -- this task force? Why is there, not at least, a co-chair from the House and the Senate?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: And this is how the suggestions came forth, originally from the negotiations that we did with the IEPA and the IEC. Those concerns did not come to us at the time that the bill had been amended, nor in the committee stage at either place.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
Well, you're a member of the Senate. I mean, should that not be a concern of yours? SENATOR GUZMÁN: 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Heard, and I think as a part of the negotiation process, I want to remind us that I actually had a much broader task force. So there's pieces of this that, including in the composition that I wished would have had more of and this is us actually meeting negotiation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
So when I go home to the 55th State Senate District and people ask me about property taxes, and they ask me about this budget, and they ask me about the tax increases and the fee increases, and they asked me about the things that they're really struggling with in life. They ask me about the highest unemployment rate in the Midwest. When they asked me why all 11 counties that I represent have shrunken population in the last two censuses. When they asked me about all these things that impact the lives of Illinois families, what do I tell them this does?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Thank you for the question, and I certainly share a lot of the realities that you bring to us, Senator. So the concerns that I also have in my district, in the 20th District. And I think there's a couple of realities that I want to remind us. One, climate change is here. It is a reality. Two, we have people in the State of Illinois and all across the country and other places 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 that are facing the impact of climate and climate displacement. And if I could share a personal story, since you made it personal, Senator. My family lives in Los Angeles. Most of the earlier part of the year, they were within three different wildfires that were occurring all around me. My dad has a heart condition, and we had to navigate as a family where we going to have to move. So families all across the country are having to navigate, where might they go? And guess what? We have a lot of resources in the State of Illinois that make us a poised home. And what this task force seeks to do is to allow our State the ability to plan. So, I urge an Aye vote, if there are no other questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
Thank you. So -- the reason why there's been this -- spike in wildfires in California that have tragically impacted your family and many other families is because of the mismanagement of State government where they're not properly maintaining their forests and clearing underbrush. I mean, this is I mean, the State of California has acknowledged this, right? The State of California has acknowledged this, so I don't know where the noise is coming from. And -- and I would argue that maybe their priorities were a little bit out of whack in California and -- and taking care instead of taking care of their environment. It led to these forest fires that have tragically impacted people's lives. I would argue 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 here in Illinois, we often have priorities that are out of whack as well. We're -- we're planning for an influx of people when we've had 1.6 million people flee this State in less than 20 years because of the way we're operating this State. I think we need to get serious about our priorities. I think we need to worry about those things that are truly impacting the families of your district and mine. And we need to take care of the needs of Illinoisans, not the needs of special interests and special interest groups and activists. This task force is a waste of time. It's a waste of attention. It's a waste of resources. I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán, to close. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Respectfully, Senator, I think one of the greatest strengths that we bring in Assembly is the ability to shift our orientation. Right. And so what I know is, again, climate displacement is here. We are saying we can proactively plan, and this task force not only intends to tackle the science of what is happening not just here in other places, but what are the assets that we need to move soil, water, infrastructure because that is proactive design. I urge and Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1859. 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 30 or 40 {sic} (40) voting Yea, 16 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Bill 1859, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1884, Senator Stadelman. Please, Mr. Secretary, read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1884. Signed by Senator Stadelman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Stadelman, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1884 allows CMS to consider relevant work experience in hiring decisions. The House amendment adds a provision that excludes job titles or positions that require a license, certificate or registration. Ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1884. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1884, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1899, Senator Sims. Senator… Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1899. Signed by Senator Sims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, on your motion. 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate -- I move to concur with the motion on House Bill -- on Senate Bill 1899. The motion that -- that -- was one change made by -- made to the introduced bill, to provide that the state -- the state's attorney, at his or her discretion, could -- may request that a defendant charged with unlawful possession of a weapon or weapons offense, or aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon offense be sentenced to appropriate diversionary program. Know of no opposition, will answer any questions and ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1899. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And the having received the required constitutional majority of the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1899, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1920, Senator Doris Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1920. Signed by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1920 amends the School 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Code requiring the State Board of Education to encourage school districts to compile educational material related to the benefits of American Sign Language and ways to incorporate and properly administer instruction of ASL into K through 8 curriculum. It also provides that ISBE shall develop statewide guidance for school districts and educators on the usage of AI in elementary and secondary education, and specifies what information should be included in ISBE guidance and establishes a July 1st, 2026 deadline for which -- this guidance must be published. It also provides for that the State Superintendent of Education may convene a statewide council of stakeholders to consult on further guidance relating to AI, and establishes requirements relating to membership of the council.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator McClure.
Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
Thank you, Mr. President. So I think there was a bit of discussion in the House about this bill concerning the ISBE recommendation that schools collect teaching materials on sign language, because many of the schools don't teach sign language - - are schools going to be able to comply with this, if this becomes law?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator McClure the -- the provision in the bill that speaks on American Sign Language does not require school districts to teach it. It just encourages school districts to compile educational materials and look at ways to incorporate it into their curriculum. It doesn't require anything.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
So, if this bill passes today, is the plan or the hope that -- that will be a requirement in the future? Or can you please address that, because I think that's where the concern was coming from in large part in the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
Again, Senator, this bill does not require school districts to do anything related to American Sign Language. It only asks them to compile education materials relating to the benefits of it, and seek ways to incorporate it into their curriculum.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
And I think that's a good thing. I think we should encourage that. I just wanted to make sure that it was not going to be a future mandate. I do have one final question is artificial intelligence, which I think is touched on in the legislation. Is that defined in the legislation?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner. 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Senator. It does not specifically define AI.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, to close.
Just ask for a favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1920. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted to wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And hereby having received the required constitutional majority of the Senate, does concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1920, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1941, Senator Murphy. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of the Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1941. Signed by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. As amended, in the House, this takes -- redefines and drills down in defining park zones and puts it on a bill that allows us to put beacons at a crossing by a park 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 district, ensures there's a 20 mile an hour speed limit enforced, people come to a complete stop before they turn on red. Things of that nature. We ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Collins? The question is, shall Senate Bill -- shall the House concur in Senate -- in Amendments -- in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1941. 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 the question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1941, and the bill is declared passed. Now, Senator Collins.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to record -- the record to reflect that I meant to vote Yes for Senate Bill 1859 with the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. Senate Bill 1947, Senator Loughran Cappel. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1947. Signed by Senator Loughran Cappel.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel, on your motion.
I move to concur with House Amendment No. 1 to this bill, 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 and this amendment keeps everything that we had passed in the Senate, but it clarifies that all institutions of higher education that offer an educator preparation program shall participate in the new edTPA pilot program between September 1st, 2026 and August 31st, 2029. The State Board of Education shall adopt rules to administer the new edTPA pilot program, and these were recommendations from the edTPA Task Force. And this motion to concur removes the opposition -- that we had.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Fowler.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question to the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicate she will yield.
Thank you, Mr. President. And -- Senator, thanks for bringing this forward. I just had a couple clarifying questions for you, if you don't mind. One is, does ISBE plan to charge prospective teachers for this test?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel.
That will be decided in Rules.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Fowler.
Okay. So, okay, so if -- and if there is and you don't know what that will be because then it will be decided through JCAR. Correct? 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel.
That is correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Fowler.
Thank you. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel, to close.
I ask for a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1947. 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 46 voting Yea, 10 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 1947, and the bill is declared passed. We'll go down to Senate Bill 1958, Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1958. Signed by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Castro, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 1958 amends the Student 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Transfer Achievement Reform Act to improve the transfer of academic credits between community colleges and State universities. The bill requires State universities and community colleges to enter into articulation agreements at either request, in an effort to facilitate credit transfers, define agreement requirements and mandates the transfer credit review process at both community colleges and State universities, with each higher education institution required to publish the rule review on their website. The bill requires universities to submit an annual report to IBHE starting October 1st, 2027, with IBHE compiling and publishing to their website the data relevant to the implementation of the Act, and an annual report to the General Assembly and Governor by March 1st, 2028, provides that ICCB and IBHE shall review these reports every three years to determine whether the reports are generating useful information, or if they need to be revised or discontinued. I know of no opposition. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1958. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1958, and the bill is declared passed. We're going to go to the top of page 19, Senate Bill 2039. Senator Villanueva. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2039. Signed by Senator Villanueva.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to adopt this motion. This amendment is basically a gut and replace amendment which retains the underlying intent of the original bill, and it adds additional student, faculty, staff and institutional data that must be included in the statewide data dashboard. It also specifies that the dashboard may not disaggregate data to a level that would allow the identification of individual students or disclose their personal identifiable information, and it also provides that the statewide data dashboard shall be made accessible on a publicly available website in a centralized format that includes downloadable data files.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Bryant?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the -- to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
Thank you, to the motion. Just want to make sure that everybody understands that -- this dashboard includes private colleges giving information for the dashboard, and also the cost of this is $450,000. Thank you. I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, to close.
62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 That cost is actually already included in the IBHE budget. And it's a good bill, vote Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2039. 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 38 voting Yea, 18 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2039, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2044, Senator Balkema. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2044. Signed by Senator Balkema.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Balkema, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Amendment 1 and 2. This amendment expands the use of the secure web-based platforms for electronic signatures to include park districts in addition to counties, townships, and municipalities. It also clarifies that these electronic signatures may not be used for nominating petitions, candidate petitions, or referendum petitions, thereby avoiding any unintended implications related to reelection -- to elections. So I urge -- ask for the Body's concurrence.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, does the Senate concur 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2044. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2044, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2057, Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2057. Signed by Senator Hastings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings, on your motion.
As amended, by the House, Mr. President, Senate Bill 2057 requires the State Board of Education, in consultation with the ISP, to provide school districts with guidance outlining specific steps to be included in a school district's threat assessment procedures. School districts shall incorporate any additional required information in their threat assessment procedure within one school year following the publication of the guidance, the State Board of Education in consultation with the ISP, shall be allowed to make emergency rules for the implementation of this Act for one year. I know of no opponents and I'll answer any questions. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2057. All those in 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted. who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 2057, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2075, Senator Lewis. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2075. Signed by Senator Lewis.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Amendment No. 1, which eliminates emergency rule making. I know of no opposition. The underlying bill and the amendment is supported by ABATE.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2075. 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 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 2075, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2108, Senator Porfirio. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 2108. Signed by Senator Porfirio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This was legislation that transferred the Illinois Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and the Illinois Motor Safety Law from IDOT to Illinois State Police. The amendments were technical in nature. I would request an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, will the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 3 to Senate Bill 2108. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority of the Senate, does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and No. 3 to Senate Bill 2108, the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 21. Sorry, Senator Faraci, what -- for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to be recorded as a Yes vote on Senate Bill 2039, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. We're on Senate Bill 2149, Senator Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2149. Signed by Senator Johnson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Committee Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2149, which further clarifies what is and is not included in the development of depreciation allowance specifically for the applicable school buildings, funds excluded from the depreciation allowance, that do not apply to expenses for maintenance and operations, or future capital improvements that are paid from State or local aid revenue or any other non-excluded funds for the benefit of those school buildings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2149. 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 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 2149, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2153, Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. We'll go to Senate Bill 2201, Senator Guzmán. Never mind. Let's go back up to the top. Senate Bill 2153, Senator Castro. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2153. Signed by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Castro, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2153, as amended, retains the majority of the introduced language regarding physical therapy telehealth, but makes technical corrections to include physical therapist assistants, at the request of the Illinois Physical Therapy Association. As amended, Senate Bill 2153 also addresses the Department of Human Services concerns by adding a clarification that nothing shall be construed to allow for noncompliance with the individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the Early Intervention Service System Act, the Department of Early Childhood Act, or any other State or federal or rule -- federal law rules. I know of no opposition. I asked for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 3 to Senate Bill 2153. 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 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority of the Senate, does hereby concur and House Amendments No. 3 to Senate Bill 2153 and the motion is… The bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2201, Senator Guzmán, Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendments 1, 3, and 4 to Senate Bill 2201. Signed by Senator Guzmán.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán, on your motion. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2201 requires DOC to collect and publish specified data concerning DOC'S facilities. The amendment sets an effective date of July 1 of 2026 and adds reporting requirements, including the number of contraband related incidents and referrals for prosecution involving staff and individuals in custody. I urge a Aye vote, and happy to open up for questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Bryant?
Thank you, Mr. Speaker {sic} (Mr. President), to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
To the motion. I really am grateful that the sponsor brought this bill. As many of you know, I've been really trying very hard to make sure that Department of Corrections has to turn over documentation in regard to the contraband that they've found. It's been a struggle to get them to turn anything over, including having to make them to make me FOIA information and then actually having to have the Attorney General's office order them to give me those things so that we could keep track of how much contraband is within the facility. So I want to thank the sponsor for bringing this piece of legislation. I strongly urge an Aye vote. 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Guzmán, to close our vote. SENATOR GUZMÁN: Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1, 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 2201. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendments No. 1, 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 2201, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2215 ,Senator Glowiak Hilton. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2215. Signed by Senator Glowiak Hilton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Glowiak Hilton, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Committee Amendment No. 1 on Senate Bill 2215. It removes any IDPH concerns. What it does, is require the Illinois Department of Public Health to provide the latest clinical, evidence-based information to health care professionals to help women regarding how to determine the number of healthy eggs in that woman's ovaries. I would appreciate the Body's support. 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2215. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted to wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2215, and the bill is declared passed. Go to the top of page 20, we have Senate Bill 2426, Senator Murphy. Mr. Secretary, please read -- please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2426. Signed by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This -- the motion made in the House just takes out some duplicate language on a bill that is really simplistic about timber, and having a receipt for timber that has been purchased and to prevent theft.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator McClure.
Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) She indicates she will yield.
Thank you. Senator, I think the issue in the House -- was an 71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 issue regarding ownership and who this is applicable to, or who this is not applicable to. So can you just let us know who this would be applicable to, because specific to this, I see discussions about -- transporting lumber from a store and whether that's subject to this Act or not. Can you just let us know who this would be applicable to?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy?
So, Senator, thank you for that question. It is anyone that is subject to the Timber Buyers Licensing Act. So if you bought it from commercial -- from a store, you're not eligible.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy, to close.
Ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment number one to Senate Bill 2426? 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 51 voting Yea, 5 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2426, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2431 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Doris Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment. No. 1 to Senate Bill 2431. Signed by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your motion.
Mr. President, I move to concur with House Committee Amendment No. 1, that actually clarifies when the Department of Natural Resources may enter upon, inspect and examine at reasonable times, and in a responsible manner, the records and properties of persons licensed or certified under the Illinois Explosive Act. The amendment addresses concerns that were raised by the Illinois State Rifle Association. By clarifying such inspections only apply to those that are licensed under the Act.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Plummer?
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
Senator, I -- I seem to recall in earlier iterations or conversations about this, there was something in the legislation that -- forced folks that might be transporting some of these materials to put some sort of placard or something on their vehicle. Can you -- can you speak to that, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Turner.
Senator, you're correct, and that's still in the bill. It wasn't changed in the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
So, you know, I think it's odd that we would force people who are not doing anything wrong to put a placard on -- on their vehicle. There's significant concerns within the community that this would affect that. That could -- I'm sure the intentions behind it are good, but that -- that could make them a target, right? So if they're traveling, if they're staying overnight somewhere, if they're at a truck stop or they're at a hotel -- you know, you're basically highlighting that you're transporting these materials and this isn't some, you know, big semi-trailer, this isn't some sort of secure vehicle. These are people in their passenger vehicle, driving their pickup truck. Whatever. Why have we not been able to address those obvious concerns from -- from the opponents?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
Senator. They're also required to comply with federal regulation rules, not just State rules.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
I'm -- I'm sorry, did you say that that matches federal 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 regulations?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
So required to comply with federal regulation -- regulation rules, not -- and not just State regulation rules.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
I -- I fully understand that as -- as well they should. My -- my question is specific to this language in the bill that they've asked to have removed or stricken -- because they're concerned about their welfare, they're concerned about the private property, they're concerned about their safety. I don't know why we haven't been able to address something very reasonable like that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
Specific language says that must comply with placard requirements as required by federal administrative rules.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
You know, once again -- you know, everybody wants -- wants 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 people to be safe -- you know, the opposition on this legislation, which is not insignificant. There's people that belong to these organizations that exist in all of our districts. They -- they -- they didn't have huge -- huge concerns with -- the goal behind this. They asked for very reasonable -- exemptions. They ask for very reasonable tweaks to this legislation. And once again -- largely because it -- it probably had something to do with Second Amendment issues. You know, we -- we couldn't -- work with the opposition in a way to remove -- they're very reasonable concerns, and I just find that very disappointing. So, on behalf of Second Amendment advocates, on behalf of people that use Tannerite and other material outside of Second Amendment issues -- this is just overly burdensome. And -- and I don't know why we couldn't work with the opposition on this. So -- I encourage a No vote and hopefully in the future -- we can sit down at the table with people and try to find common ground. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would respectfully -- say that we did work with the opposition on this and actually -- the first situation that the Senator was concerned about is actually federal standards and not State standards. And with respect to what he was saying about working with the opposition, we did do that. And the -- amendment that was in the House was at the request of the Illinois State Rifle Association.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2431. All in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The 76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 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 40 voting Yea, 17 voting Nay, none voting Present. And the Senate having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2431, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2455, Senator Ventura. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2455. Signed by Senator Ventura.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 2455, as amended, amends the Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Act to expand what grant funding can support, including projects that align with the Illinois Forest Action Plan, local forestry plans and efforts to increase tree canopy. It also amends the State Forest Act to add additional State forests. And I asked for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2455. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2455, and the bill is declared passed. House Bill -- Senate Bill 24 -- Senate Bill 2459, Senator 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Cervantes. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House, in the adoption of the Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2459. Signed by Senator Cervantes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cervantes, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This motion, Senate -- for Senate Bill 2459 amends the Meat and Poultry Inspection Act by providing that certain fish and fish products entering the establishment for wholesale distribution be inspected, handled and stored, prepared, packaged, marked and labeled. All it does is it's the certain fish of catfish, from catfish carcass to catfish products. It's just a technical amendment and makes no changes outlined to the bill other than just the word. So I ask for Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, does the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2459. 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 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2459, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2466, Senator Aquino. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2466. Signed by Senator Aquino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Aquino, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur on -- on House Committee Amendment 1, which provides that the latest American community survey from the United States Census Bureau be referred to determine poverty rate rather than the latest federal decennial census, and that any criteria named as means of determining distress community status, all right, there you go, that has not been published within the three years of the grant application may not be used by IDNR to determine said status. It also names the national school lunch program as the free lunch participation program, used to help judge distressed location status and removes all language granting DNR emergency rule making under this Act. I know of no opposition and ask for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2466. 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 the question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 2466, and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 2487, Senator Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2487. Signed by Senator Johnson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Johnson, on your amendment.
Thank you. Mr…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) On your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Committee No. -- Amendment No. 1 and 2, which adds a new penalty to the employment, financial credit, public accommodation and education articles of the Human Rights Act to provide consistency with the Real Estate Transaction Article of the Act. The new civil penalty provides that a hearing officer may recommend, and the Commission provide, for a respondent to pay a civil penalty per violation to vindicate the public interest. It also provides that if a complainant and respondent both submit a written request for a fact-finding conference within 90 days after the due date on which the charge was filed, the Department shall conduct a fact- finding conference unless the Department has already issued its report. I want to thank Marlén Mendoza from IDHR and ACLU for working on this legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Tracy?
Thank you. Mr. President. I'd like to speak to the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
In the original bill, it -- it did pass, unanimously, out of 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 the Senate. But when I first read it, I had a little pause, because it was making a fact-finding conference discretionary, rather than mandatory. However, both parties could agree to have a fact-finding -- conference. Let's face it, if you're kind of in an adversary situation, it's probably unusual that you'd have both parties agree to a fact-finding conference, when in fact, it's only discretionary in the first place. But what really alerts me, now, about this bill is the concurrence amendment. It adds some very hefty new fines. If a civil rights violation occurs, the hearing officer, may, and the commission or panel may impose civil penalties up to $16,000 for a first violation, $42,500 for a second violation within five years, and $70,000 for two or more within seven years. This isn't a good message to send to our employers in the State. I -- I don't know of any other hefty fines like this for similar situations. And for that reason, I definitely urge a No vote. These fines are a killer to this bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I encourage an Aye vote, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2487. 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 voting Yea, 18 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senate Bill 2487, and the bill is declared passed. Senator Bryant for what purpose do you seek recognition?.
Mr. -- Mr. President, please let the record reflect that I intended to vote No on 2487.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intentions. Senate Bill 2503, Senator Gloria Hilton. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2503. Signed by Senator Glowiak Hilton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Glowiak Hilton, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with the House on House Floor Amendments 2 and 3. It clarifies some definitions, does not prevent or limit the practice of professional engineering as defined in the Professional Engineering Practice Act of 1989 or Structural Engineering Act of 1989. This just discusses procurement under applicable law.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2503. All in favor will vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in House 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendments No. 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2503, and the bill is declared passed. Senator Hunter, in the Chair.
At the leave of the Body will go -- return back to page 15 and we will call Senate Bill 408, Koehler. Mr. Secretary, read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of the Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 408. Signed by Senator Koehler.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HUNTER) Senator Koehler, can you explain your -- your bill?
Thank you, Madam President. This adds a student summary performance to the list of materials that may be included in a student's permanent record. The form is a summary of the child's academic achievement and functional performance. It also says that the DHS may only access the student's permanent record solely for the purpose of assessing a student's qualifications for disability services, and a student or their parent/guardian may opt out of having a summary performance on their permanent record. I would ask for support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HUNTER) Is there any discussion? The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 408. 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. 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, on that. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendment 1, the Senate Bill 408, and the bill 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 is declared passed. On page 18, Senate Bill 1994, Koehler. Mr. Secretary, can you read the motion?
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1994. Signed by Senator Koehler.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HUNTER) Senator Koehler.
Thank you, Madam President. This amendment really states that the Gestational Surrogacy Act that a new requirement that any independent escrow agency involved in gestational surrogate medical procedures must be bonded in the amount of at least $1 million dollars. This is due to the fact that -- some of these groups have gone out -- out of business and there is no protection for the parents. So I ask for your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HUNTER) Is there any discussion? The question is, shall Senate concur in House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1994. All those in favor will vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 Ayes, and 0 Nays. Having received required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1994, and the bill is declared passed. Senator Koehler, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Leave of the Body, we're going to go to page 15 to Senate Bill 407. I have a letter on file here. Pursuant to Rule 5-1(b), I hereby give my consent for Senator Adrian Johnson to present House Bill 3772 on the Order of Third Reading and House Bill and 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 -- and Senate Bill 407 on the Order of Secretary's Desk Concurrences. If you have any questions, contact my staff. Kimberly Lightford. So we're going to go to House Bill 407, right now. So, Senator Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 407. Signed by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, on Senator Lightford's bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 4-0-7 -- which removes language pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on chronic absenteeism. It narrows the members of the task force, adds additional information to be reported to the GA and ISBE, changes the date of the task force to submit its findings, and it extends the dissolved date.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 407. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 407, and the bill is declared passed. Have another letter on file here. Pursuant to Rule 5-1(b), I hereby give my consent to Senator Julie Morrison to present the following bills in the Order of Secretary's Desk Concurrences 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senate Bill 73 and Senate Bill 1346. Signed by Laura Fine. We're going to go to page 15, Senate Bill 73. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 73. Signed by Senator Fine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Motion -- Morrison, on Senator Fine's motion.
The House Floor Amendment is a page and line amendment. It provides the Department of Public Health will implement -- implement rather than adopt rules to implement a system for consumer reporting of baby food products.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 73. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur in Senate -- House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 73, and the bill is declared passed. Also, on Senator Fines motion, we're going to go to Senate Bill 1346 with Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House, in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1346. Signed by Senator Fine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Morrison, on Senator Fine's motion.
This amendment changes the date of one provision of the bill at the request of the Department of Insurance, giving them an extra year to begin posting summaries.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1346. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority of the Senate, does hereby concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1346, and the bill is declared passed. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of the bill of the following entitled, to wit: Senate Bill 1344, together with the following amendment, which is attached in the adoption of which I am instruct to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1344. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Okay. We're going to go to page 13, we're going to go to House Bill 3772. This is a letter that Senator Lightford gave permission to Senator Johnson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Lightford seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 3772 to the Order of Second Reading. Leave is granted. Now, on the Order of Second Reading is House Bill 3772. Mr. Secretary, please read… Have there been any amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 4, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, on Senator Lightford's amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 3772 moves the previously…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We're just asking for a motion on the amendment.
I would like to adopt the amendment and explain it on third.
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. 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3772, an Act Concerning Education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, to explain Senator Lightford's bill.
88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 3772, as amended, prohibits the expulsion of students in kindergarten through grade two. Requires superintendents to provide verbal or written approval to suspend a student in kindergarten through grade two for longer than three days. Specifies that suspensions of longer than three days, the length of suspension for any student in preschool or kindergarten through grade two shall not be for -- for longer than required for the district to review and then develop or implement a behavior intervention plan or safety plan. It expands eligibility for alternative learning opportunity programs to include students in kindergarten through grade three. And it clarifies that school districts and State authorized Charter Schools are required to report discipline related data to ISBE each year. I want to note that the amendment moves opposition to neutral, and it passed the Senate, out of the Senate Education Committee, unanimously. I'm happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Arellano?
Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) She indicates she will yield. Senator Arellano.
My understanding is this bill eliminates or greatly limits the ability to expel K through 12, unless they bring a weapon into school or class. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 So, Senator, 44 percent of all out-of-school suspensions were for other reasons, meaning they do not involve any violence, weapons, drugs. More likely, involve subjective general offenses, such as defiance and disruption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Arellano.
My question? So the answer is Yes. Is that to my -- to my question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Do you mind repeating the question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Arellano.
Thank you. My question is, it would eliminate or greatly limit the ability -- of expulsion for kindergarten through second grade unless a weapon was brought to school or to the classroom.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Yes, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Arellano.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill. 90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
During COVID, all of us began noticing -- growth of a problem in classrooms. And that problem was classrooms were, I think, the word you used was unruly, I think that is a good beginning of it. And when I would talk to teachers, they would mention how they didn't have the ability to control their classrooms anymore, and how classrooms would become more about 1 or 2 students who sucked up all the time and energy and effort, and the other 20 give or take students were getting lost. And then that problem grew into teachers being afraid of going into the classroom and dreading the day and leaving the workforce. We've had conversations, this Body, over many different bills and many different dynamics about teachers leaving the workforce. I -- I can tell you from my family's personal experience, and I have a number of family members who are teachers. I have had some leave specifically for this reason. In fact, one case hit tenure, which I believe was six years, gave up their pension, gave up their tenure, left not because the pension was too little, not because the pay was too little, left because they did not enjoy or feel called to going in the classroom anymore, they didn't feel like they were accomplishing anything. And that was all up and down from very young ages all the way up. And so my concern with this bill, and I'll note, that I have gotten more direct teacher contacts and emails against this bill than -- than probably any other bill except Tier 2. This is -- this is up there for them. And it's the number one complaint I've gotten from my District that's not financially related. And so the concern here is I think folks look at this and they see an empathetic bill, a bill that takes care of young people. And I would say this is not an empathetic bill. It 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 does not take care of all of the other students. It does not take care of the teachers who are concerned for their students and concern for themselves and sending their own children to private schools to get away from this or leaving the workforce entirely. And I would even go as far, to say it's not empathetic for those children who teachers are telling us need to be removed from the classroom. I'm supportive of this elements of the bill that provide other pathways or other places, but when that's not available, the teachers and the other students and education, in general, shouldn't suffer. So I would go so far as to argue by removing them from that and giving them a chance to catch it. You prevent them from growing older and deepening in that culture of being allowed to do those unruly and even violent things. And one of the complaints of teachers is, you mentioned, subjectivity. Subjectivity, people are not reporting the degree to which some of these very young students can get violent because they're trying to protect the families or the student or the kids. But again, that is not empathy anywhere up and down the line. I urge a No vote. I think some of the parts of this bill that are good need to be split out, and the parts that are concern should be looked at separately in greater detail. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion. Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
You know, talking with my local teachers, the issue has been 92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 years ago, they said that the issue was that too many kids are getting expelled, and that was a problem. It was very minor things. People would get expelled or suspended. Now, the complaint, which I hear honestly every day that school's in session, is that no matter what the child does, the school can't do anything about it. And one horrible example of that is we had a teacher who this was not in my district, but this was some teacher told me this, where she was pregnant, she was pushed down the stairs by a student, she lost the baby. That student was not suspended for a single day. Okay. What -- What is happening in our schools? And the fact that our teachers, who we have a real shortage of right now, particularly downstate. It's -- it's tough to get those people to come to our State because there is no control of those students. And I had a big bill that was that hasn't moved this year regarding sexual assaults that are occurring in school. And the victim has to go back to school with the person who did it and the person who did it was not suspended a single day. It's pretty bad when you're allowed to murder a child. Okay. Or you're allowed to sexually assault a child and you're not suspended or -- a single day, or expelled. Like, what are we doing right now? Now, I get it that there are situations that have been in the past, and maybe still present day, where situations, you know, where kids should not be expelled or suspended, but we're talking about the worst of the worst, and you can't expel them? You can't suspend them? Like, how can anybody feel safe in a school, including kids? This is going in the wrong direction. I don't understand why -- any of you are not getting phone calls about these situations that are happening from our teachers, because they are happening every day, and it's about time we stick up for our students, our teachers and staff, 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 and for school safety. I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion. Senator Simmons.
Thank you, Mr. President. A question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
Thank you Mr. -- Thank you, Mr. President. To the Senator, would you not agree that a big problem that we have in our schools involves decades and decades and decades of public disinvestment in our schools.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Simmons.
Will the Senator also agree, that a number of the problems that we see in our schools with our young people is rooted in policy, violence and mental health that has not been treated and family households that have been forsaken by our governments. Would you agree with that, Senator?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson?
Well, I agree that there are some underlying issues that could be attributed to those issues. 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Simmons.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Mr. President, as, you know, I sat and listened to this discussion, there have been some arguments that have come from the other side of the aisle in recent days, and I've been really silent, but this is one that I cannot be silent on, because the arguments that previous Senator makes assumes that our young people are criminals. That is really the underlying premise of the arguments that I heard about these young people. And so, first of all, I reject premise that our young people are criminals, especially kids who are in first and second grade who are not even at the age of reason. But what I would offer and I would -- I would love to -- to sit down with some of my colleagues on the other side and really unpack these issues and have an actual look at the actual data and see what the research is telling us, is that these young people have been completely given up on our -- by our society. These are young people that need access to mental health. These are young people who need access to medications. These are young people that need special education so that they can actually have their needs be met by trained professionals who know how to address the issues that they're showing up in our schools and are -- are trying to deal with and are literally self-medicating. We shouldn't be penalizing and kicking them out of school for that. We shouldn't be making this into a debate about teachers and other 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 students in the schools who are -- who are somehow -- having their educations be cheapened because these kids are in -- in the classroom. If we don't take care of these kids, then who's going to take care of them? These young kids are going to end up, growing up, they're not going to have these needs met, they're going to continue to be isolated, and they're going to inflict the same violence on our societies that we have inflicted on them for generations and generations. I'm sick of this kind of discussion when it comes to our young people, and I couldn't help but raise today. Raise -- get up out of my seat today and make those points, Mr. President. And I would urge everybody in here to vote Yes on this legislation and to add their names as a co-sponsor. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Belt.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is -- to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Mr. President, this bill is an initiative of ISBE, ISBE brought the bill forward. My issue is, the bill prohibits kindergarten through second grade. Now most children learn from experience and observation. So you will take a kid or a student out of your school and send them back to the very place they learned, the more than likely that they learned the bad behavior. You're not fixing the problem by sending them home. If you want to -- if you want to fix it, keep the kids in school. Model the behavior that you want them to have instead of sending a 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 kindergarten, expelling a kindergarten or first grader or second grader, and all you're going to get is a more shrewd individual when they come back. It doesn't fix the issues. And what we know is, if these kids are being expelled there's no safe school for a kindergartener. There's no safe school for a second grader. Where will they be? So they served their expulsion, they come back, they're not reading the grade level. And we know studies show that if you're not reading proficiently by third grade, you have a greater probability of dropping out. We know that when you drop out, you have a greater probability of having police contacts. So we're just creating and perpetuating this cycle. If we don't step in with this legislation. This is a good bill. I urge Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Villa.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicate she will yield.
Senator, can you confirm that the State has made historic investments since COVID to support districts and teachers to include efforts that train teachers and school mental health professionals, as well as, setting social, emotional -- social, emotional learning hubs to provide tailored support -- to support -- to respond to trauma and crisis response strategies?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Yes, Senator. 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
So, I worked for 15 years in a school -- as a school social worker, and the students that I worked with, closely, were these kindergarten, first and second grade students, sending kids, expelling kids, sending them home, this is not the answer. This bill is not stopping a school from conducting an IEP, from figuring out, collecting data, putting supports in place, and figuring out if that child has some kind of emotional disability. This -- this bill does not stop the school district from doing that. Sending first graders home, kindergartners home, is not the answer. It's a good bill. Thank you for supporting. I'm going to get my name on as a chief-co, I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We have a number of lights lit up. I'm going to go in the order that I saw them. Senator Edly-Allen.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
I as a former classroom teacher as well of 15 years. I also want to just explain or educate on the two different terms we're using interchangeably. There is a huge difference between 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 expulsion and suspension. And to Senator Villas Point, there are many, many tools in the toolbox that teachers can use. And by suspending and expelling -- those do not address the actual issue at hand. So, I hope that those of you who are listening would take the advice from actual educators who have been in the actual classroom that support this bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Lewis.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
So -- Senator, I -- I understand the bill, but I do have some clarifying questions. What constitutes violence? And is violence a suspend -- or if someone is a student K through 2, very young, can they be -- what violent behaviors can they be suspended for?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Thank you Senator. So it is an injury that involves a substantial risk or death. And protracted and obvious disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis.
So if, -- K through 2 punches someone or violently attacks 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 them and there are broken bones or disfigurement, can that student be suspended or just to the teacher?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Well, it's -- it -- it's according to the definition that I read, and I would be happy to read it again, if you like. That if there is a substantial risk of death, protracted and obvious disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis.
Is that at the discretion of the superintendent?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Thank you, Senator. They can still be expelled if they put someone else at harm.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis.
Now to weapons or things of -- that can be used -- to perpetrate violence. Guns, brass knuckles, things that can harm someone, are those suspendible, not expelled, suspendible?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Earlier, when I talked about the 44 percent of the out-of- 100 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 school suspensions were for other reasons -- and -- other than weapons or violence, if a student brought a gun and used it school, which, by the way, we're talking about K through second graders. And, you know, I'm inclined to -- to -- for us to remember what our Senator Simmons amplified. What are we saying about our children? But in this case, if they use a gun, if they have a gun or a weapon, of course they will be able to be suspended.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis.
This bill does not prohibit suspension for bringing a weapon to school. Because, I agree, I'm -- I'm not assuming our children are criminals, but I have direct knowledge that children K through 2 do bring weapons to school.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Thank you, Senator. It does not prohibit -- suspension.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis.
Is the school still allowed to use traditional disciplinary methods, in these cases, where there is no weapons or violence committed, weapons -- brought -- weapons brought, or violence committed?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Thank you, Senator. A -- a lot of the disciplinary actions 101 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 are subject to the policies that the School Board put in place.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis.
Agreed. Are they still allowed to use those? If this bill…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
They will be able to follow the policies that the School Board puts in place.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Lewis.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Many of you know that I'm married to a superintendent of a k through 8 school district, 75 percent free and reduced lunch, coming from poor neighborhoods. The issues of violence are real however, the traditional methods of discipline are also very effective. This may be a tough bill, but I encourage an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Preston?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill. 102 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
You know, originally - when this bill came before us in the Education Committee, as a parent of six children, I had issues with the bill. I communicated those issues. I want this Body to understand that this bill has went through a number of changes. There has been a -- a House Amendment and four Senate amendments, and the Senate sponsor has worked diligently with all of the school districts to try to bring this to the most favorable bill, a very balanced bill. I also want us to recognize what Senator Simmons said. As someone who stands here on this Floor, who was suspended from school for 68 days in eighth grade myself, I understand how difficult it may be for teachers to deal with problem children, but the realities are we also have to strike a balance and make sure that we have a redemption factor in all of this stuff. So no one is not is -- is irredeemable, is the message I'm going to continue to communicate. And we need to make sure -- that surely children at the age level, that this bill impacts, are not irredeemable. We need to figure out alternative measures to protect children, to protect the teachers and the staff. I think this bill does the best balance that -- it does that, in the best way that we possibly could do it. I hope we all vote Aye, on this bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The last speaker on the board is Senator Rezin.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
103 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you. Currently, in this bill Senator, if a student brings a firearm to school, then they're expelled. Are they offered an alternative program to attend?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson.
Thank you, Senator, I believe so, but I'm going to have to get back to you on that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. Again, I commend -- I commend the sponsor on her work on this bill. We still have concerns -- of course we want minors to stay or we want students to stay in school, of course we do. We have provided in the last several years by changing the education funding formula, tremendous resources for wraparound services in our school, for mental health, for all other kinds of wraparound services that are now required in schools that may be many -- many years ago when we were in school, did not require that or we just didn't see the need and we have done that. We have many -- When we talk to teachers in our districts, they will tell you that this is a problem. This is very real. Is what they're seeing the breakdown in their classroom. And this particular bill, only allows the threshold of -- if you bring a firearm into school, can you be expelled, but then you will be offered an alternative 104 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 program. It says that if you bring in a knife, brass knuckles or knuckle weapons and you can prove the intent to hurt someone, which I believe all of those weapons will seriously hurt someone, you still cannot be expelled under this bill. At some point, there has to be accountability, and I get it, they're young. We're putting more money in education and pre-K, which I support. Everything that we talk about, I've supported and support the funding to go with it because I understand we need to get them the resources and and the wraparound services that they need early. But at some point where do we draw the line? And right here we're drawing the line on, if I bring a weapon to school such as a knife or brass knuckles, and we can show the intent to hurt someone you cannot be expelled from school. Now, as a parent, if I heard that, I would be very concerned about sending my child to school with someone who's still there, who unfortunately -- needs more help because they're bringing -- because they're bringing the weapons to school. And also for the teachers, we at some point have to draw the line in the sand, because when you have this kind of behavior or conduct, which is not the same as, you know, other -- other reasons why students were expelled in the past, which I think we're - we're starting to get down those reasons. But right here with this line in the sand, it seems to me that the teachers would spend a tremendous amount of their time dealing with this issue. And then we'd have other students, in the classroom, who are just there to learn and that's the concern that I have. I think that the threshold on this particular bill is way too low. It's way too low. We still offer, if they're coming to school with a weapon, and it's proven that they intended to hurt someone, then we have other programs that they can go in and then ultimately come back 105 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 into mainstream school. So, because of that issue, I have concerns about the bill, and I appreciate the sponsor and I understand what you're trying to do. But this -- this bill, the threshold is so low and if I were a parent with students in a classroom, where their classmate was allowed to bring a weapon into the classroom, but yet not be expelled. I feel that I would have concerns and my student wouldn't be protected or safe in that classroom. For those reasons, I asked for a No vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank my colleagues from both sides of the aisle for your -- your -- feedback and the robust debate. Leader Lightford, as all of you know is an education champion. And, as our colleague, Senator Preston noted that she worked diligently to get this bill through a number of amendments. This bill even has the Principals Association to -- to neutral. And, I, understand your concerns, but let me tell you why this is important. But before I do that, Senator McClure, I just want to acknowledge I'm sorry to hear about the teacher, and I really hope that it wasn't anyone through K through 12, but this has nothing to do with this bill. What I want to share with you is that House Bill 3772, it expands eligibility for alternative learning opportunity programs to include students in kindergarten through third grade, and it still gives the administration the flexibility to address those pressing concerns. Also, it's important to -- to note that exclusionary discipline is ineffective in any grade level, but it is especially harmful for younger students since it can disrupt systemic implementation of social emotional learning 106 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 and leaves the student and their family vulnerable to trauma from being separated from their school and staff. Over the last several years, we have made significant progress to reduce the exclusionary disciplinary practices and ensure equal access to an education. We have also made historic investments in support for school districts to transition to restorative and trauma informed alternatives. ISBE has invested in efforts to train educators and mental health professionals, as well as setting up regional training hubs, as Senator Villa mentioned, across the State to provide tailored support to local school districts and need -- needs in the areas of trauma responsiveness, mental health, crisis response strategies and social emotional learning. So this bill has no opposition and I encourage an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 3772 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 30 voting Yea, 21 voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3772, having received the required majority, is declared passed. So, with leave of the Body, we're going to go to page 12. We're going to go to -- Senate bill. I'm sorry, House Bill 3363, Senator Peters. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3363, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Peters, on your bill.
107 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Good morning, Mr. President. This bill modernizes, yes, that's right. This bill modernizes -- our public defense system. I asked for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 3363 pass? All those in favor will say Aye -- 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 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3363, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Next one, is House Bill 33 -- 3247. Senator Villa -- Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3247, an Act concerning education. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 3247 affirms every child's right to an education under State law and prohibits any barriers to that right on the basis of immigration status. As a former school social worker, I worked with thousands of students over the course of 15 years where I saw a positive impact that public schools have on our youth. School is supposed to be a safe place where our kids can develop new learning skills, take on new academic goals, and establish new rapport with their classmates and teachers. Recently, all of this has been put into jeopardy for our children and families with immigrant background. This year, the current federal administration rescinded the United States 108 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Department of Homeland Security's Sensitive Locations Memo. The resentment of this memorandum opens up the possibility of immigration enforcement in public spaces during our public schools -- including our public schools. This comes at a time where our immigrant communities are living in fear and uncertainty, and are looking to us as elected officials to ensure that we are protecting their rights in Illinois. House Bill 3247 protects these rights by prohibiting schools from excluding students and their parents from schools and school programs based on immigration status.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Were you done, Senator?
I -- I don't know what happened, I just -- someone turned off my mic. Where was I? Either directly or through practices and procedures, it protects students and parent privacy and prohibits the use of reporting to immigration enforcement by a school as a means to intimidate or limit access to public education. The bill empowers parents to defend these rights for their children when a school willfully violates either of these three prohibitions. And finally, HB 3247 protects the integrity of the undisturbed classroom environment by requiring schools to craft procedures for nonemergency requests to enter a school by law enforcement, so that the school personnel and elected officials are provided with the tools to respond to these non-emergency situations and limit the disruption and disturbances of the classroom learning environment, so that teachers can teach and students can learn. With that, I'd be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We have several lights. I'll take them in order, that I saw 109 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 them. Senator Rezin.
Question for the sponsor, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she'll yield.
Thank you. Senator, how will this affect SROs?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
It does not impact SROs.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Will this affect members of our community who are police officers wanting to enter their children's schools?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
They will still be allowed to enter their children's schools. It will not have an impact on them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Can you define, what is an emergency?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
So, it's for a reason to prevent bodily harm or injury to -- 110 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 to a student or any other person, to apprehend an armed or fleeing suspect, or to prevent the destruction of evidence or to address an emergency or other dangerous situations.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. Actually, I think that my question should have been, please define a non-emergency.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
So anything that would be -- that wouldn't fall in that list that I just provided. So for example, if -- an officer wanted to come in and question a student.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
What if an officer is on duty but wanted to come in and see their child or talk to their children? But…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
If it's the child of the police officer, they can come in and follow the same exact procedure that any other parent has to follow, and they would not be stopped from seeing.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Please. To the bill, please. 111 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. All students are already afforded access to a public education under federal law. This bill is trying to solve a problem that doesn't exist, as exemplified a few months ago when leaders, including the Governor, falsely claimed that ICE was prevented from entering a school. These reports turned out to be misinformation that caused fear and anxiety for no reason. We're opposed to this legislation because it impedes law enforcement and can make our schools less safe. As tragic school shootings and other disasters have shown, we need to find ways to improve communication and coordination between law enforcement and our schools, not reduce it and prevent it. Our police are trained to protect our community and especially our children, and they're more qualified than -- the law enforcement are the most qualified to handle the public safety in the school. I stand with the police and the parents throughout Illinois who want to send their children to school, knowing that they have every protection available to them. Because of that, I ask for a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Tracy.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
Yes, Senator Villa. In your legislation, does it qualify law enforcement as between local law enforcement, State law 112 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 enforcement, and federal law enforcement?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
All law enforcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Tracy.
To the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
And -- and therein is the issue that I believe our State law enforcement, our local law enforcement have with this bill. They want -- they were hoping that the intent was only directed towards federal ICE officers and that type of thing. However, as Senator Rezin talked about, it seems that all law enforcement are being precluded from entering any school unless there is an emergency. Non-emergency situations are precluded. That's a very dangerous slope. We have officers going in to do DARE programs, which are very important. What if a knife is found? Not necessarily an emergency, but we would want our police to be called so that the school would have the proper people dealing with the situation within a school. This is very dangerous legislation. Let's -- if it's federal, let's quantify it, we have the Trust Act. Quantify it. But we're tying the hands of the people in our communities that are supposed to protect our children in the schools and provide public safety. So let's not preclude them from not being able to enter our schools when needed. Thank you. 113 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Bryant.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. My son is actually a part-time police officer, has twin boys that will be entering school soon. When I talk to him about this -- some of the things that he brought up to me in reference to this would be, what if one of the kids actually felt like they were in danger? What if one of the kids felt like they were sick? He's in uniform. He has to go to the school. I know, - - colleagues that the sponsor doesn't believe that the language says that they would be precluded from going into the school, but the language actually does preclude them. And then furthermore, it goes on to basically talk about the fact that this provides, if any of the provisions -- any of the provisions within the bill are not followed by an entity or person, then a civil lawsuit can be filed for such violations, and actual damages can apply to anyone found in violation of the language in this bill. I understand what the -- I understand what the -- the sponsor is trying to accomplish, but once again, words have meanings. And often we do things here that have unintended consequences. This could put a lot of our local law enforcement really in the crosshairs of civil lawsuits for nothing more than them trying to go and visit their children, or check up on their children, in their own personal schools. The language of this bill is not right. For that reason, I urge a No vote. 114 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Hastings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Someone please show Senator Hastings his desk. Senator Hastings.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
That's a result of ten years of being hit in the head, repetitively. So -- there's been a lot of discussion on both sides of the aisle, Mr. President. And I just want to ask the sponsor a few questions. Senator Villa, there's been some question about whether or not this bill prohibits or limits a law enforcement's ability to enter into the school. My question to you is, does this bill prohibit law enforcement's ability to enter into a school?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
Senator Villa. Does this bill require schools to adopt procedures for non-emergency situations when an immigration enforcement agent or any other law enforcement agent seeks to enter into a school location?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 115 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Villa.
Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
And this. This will provide school personnel and officials with tools to respond to these non-emergency situations and limit the disturbance and disruption of the classroom learning environment, so that students and teachers can learn in the event that a circumstance like this arises. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
That's right, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
Senator, in terms of an emergency circumstance, does this bill prohibit or limit law enforcement's ability to respond to emergency circumstances?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
No -- no.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
For the record, Senator Villa, can you make it clear in 116 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 explaining Section 2288 C, which explains emergency circumstance?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
This Section does not limit the authority of a law enforcement officer to make an arrest on school grounds. This Section does not apply to circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to believe that urgent and immediate action is necessary to do any of the following: One, prevent bodily harm or injury to the student or any other person. Two, to apprehend an armed or fleeing suspect. Three, prevent the destruction of evidence, or Four, address an emergency or other dangerous situation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
Senator Villa. So this bill would prohibit excluding students and their parents from schools and programs based on immigration status. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
That is correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
Senator, if you're LPR, F-1, M-1, H-1B, L-1 or O-1 Visa holder, and you maintain Visa conditions, this bill would prohibit excluding students and their parents from schools and school 117 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 programs based on their immigration status. Is that correct?
That's correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
And this also prohibits -- it prohibits school procedures that exclude or discourage students from attending schools and or school programs based on immigration status, including requesting a Social Security number. For example, if a student has an number, this would prohibit them from discriminating in the event that they have something alternate than a Social Security number. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
That is correct. Students or parents.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
And Senator Villa, can you explain under your bill whether -- whether or not a parent in those situations which are very expansive? And for those of you who don't know the immigration statuses that I listed off I suggest that you look them up because they're very special to our country. There are certain immigration visas that are afforded to residents that have specialty visas, whether it's through being an expert in science or technology or any other -- visa that I listed, that being a LPR, which is a fairly common immigration status here in our -- in our State. In 118 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 the event that they are discriminated against or excluded, this bill would allow for a civil action to commence against a party that -- that's in violation of that bill. Is that correct, Senator Villa?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa?
That's correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
And for legislative intent purposes, can you explain the legislative intent as to why you believe that it's the intent or it should be -- a civil action should be brought?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa.
Yes.
It is the intent of the bill that only the conduct of schools under Section C1, C2 and C3 are subject to civil action provision of the bill. These three sections govern only the conduct of schools as defined in the bill and no other person.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings.
To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill. 119 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
It's for the reasons and the answers, based on the questions that I asked today, that I urge an Aye vote. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there further discussion, Senator McClure?
Thank you, Mr. President, to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. So essentially a news story that turned out to be a not authentic news story that's been spread by the Governor. That's a flat out lie, is causing all of the kids in our schools to be less safe. And if you want to target ICE, if you want to target the federal government, you can do that. You're not doing that here. You're preventing local law enforcement from entering our schools. And sometimes non-emergency situations can turn into emergencies. We don't want that to happen. We want law enforcement to be in there to prevent these situations from escalating. And the whole premise behind the bill is false. I know the Governor has still not taken it off of his social media. He's still saying these things that are flat out untrue. Don't use that as an excuse to make the kids in our schools less safe. I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villa, to close.
I want to clarify if there's a DARE officer, the officer friendly who comes into the school to teach your children, they 120 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 can still come in. If there is a police officer who is a parent, they can still come in. We've been very clear of what can still happen under this law. You know, children are feeling anxious. They're feeling scared about coming to school. That's what this bill is about. That's exactly what this bill is about. It's about making sure that we have policies in place that also protect teachers so that they know what these policies are and that they don't misstep or make mistakes, that the front office knows what to do in these situations. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 3247 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, 20 voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3247, having received the required constitutional majority is declared passed. We're going to-- with leave of the Body, we'll go to page 11, in the middle of the page we have House Bill 2771, Senator Aquino. Senator Aquino seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 2771 to the Order of Second Reading. Leave is granted. Now, on the Order of Second Reading is House Bill 2171. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Aquino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Aquino, on your amendment.
I'd like to -- thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain it on 3rd. 121 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
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. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2771, an Act concerning health. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Aquino, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 2771 is the 2025 Hospital Assessment Update. It includes an increase of the hospital assessment tax to allow for increased payments to hospitals. The Hospital Assessment Program provides funding for hospitals by levying a tax on inpatient and outpatient volume, and using it to draw down federally matched funds, which are then returned to hospitals throughout the State for a net benefit of over $2 billion dollars. I -- this was also a work product between IHA and HFS, and -- I don't know of any opponents and ask for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Syverson.
Thank you very much. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 122 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 To the bill.
I appreciate the work that was done on this. This has been a long time in coming, and -- this is an important opportunity for us to capture a lot of federal dollars that are going to help a lot of our hospitals. Also, we appreciate in this language, in this bill, we're dealing with some of those hospitals that have been skirting their responsibilities. And this is going to require that those hospitals that -- that have not been following through as required will need to begin to pay their fair share. So we appreciate that that part's in there, as well. So, I would urge those on our side to support this -- much needed legislation that's going to help our struggling hospitals. So, thank you again for getting this bill over the finish line.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Aquino to… I'm sorry -- one late light. Senator Aquino, to close.
I thank my colleague on the other side of the aisle for those comments. Certainly, this is a -- a piece of legislation that I think that is bipartisan, it's going to be something that is going to impact all communities. We have hospitals from all parts of the State, from critical access to safety net and others. And so this is something that should benefit the entire State of Illinois and our patients and our residents. So I'd ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, should House Bill 2771 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? 123 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Take the record. On the question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 2771, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we're going to return to page 17, Motions to Concur. We have Senate Bill 1799, Senator Villivalam. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House, in the adoption of the Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1799. Signed by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is legislation that had bipartisan support when it left the Senate -- earlier this Session. It is legislation that was further amended in the -- in the House. It addressed some of the concerns that were brought forth by School Management Association. It establishes -- what the legislation does, it establishes a clear definition for emergency situation in which a school board may hire a third party non-instructional -- staff -- and it also requires any school board entering into an emergency contract to publicly post and advertise all vacancies, augmented by an emergency contract, hold a public hearing for all emergency contract renewals, and requires a school board and the effective collective bargaining units to create an agreed upon memorandum of understanding for any emergency contracts entered into three -- three or more times -- would ask for a Yes vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion?. The question is, shall the… I'm sorry, 124 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 is there a -- is there a light?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) I'm sorry. Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Senator, for this bill. I just want to talk about -- to the bill. Mr… To the motion.
So essentially what happened here was this bill is in response to a school district who had kept on 26 bus drivers under the emergency clause here within our laws, in perpetuity, continuously kept them on staff. And so they went around the normal rules and they went around the normal transparent process. And they were hiring these bus drivers for $400 per day, even though the normal rate was $180 per day. And so this bill is needed to ensure that people can't just claim, as we saw under COVID, an emergency constantly, constantly, constantly for the sole purpose of paying people more than double what -- what they would pay the person under the normal rules. And this bill doesn't just curb that, but it also makes it so that if somebody has to do another emergency, use the emergency provision again, they've got to do it -- in a public way and have a public hearing and let the public know what's happening. Because in this situation, these people are getting paid massive amounts of money in comparison to what the normal pay would be. No transparency, and the taxpayers are just out the money. I think we should be very wary of emergency decisions made in perpetuity without oversight. This bill allows for oversight, and if this bill were in effect, this would have saved the taxpayers quite a bit of money in the school district in which this happened in and for that -- for those reasons, I thank the 125 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 sponsor for the bill and I do encourage a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam, to close.
Mr. President, I can't believe I'm going to say this. I agree with Senator McClure in every comment he made. Thank you for your support. I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1799. 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 51 voting Yea, 3 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 2 to Senate Bill 1799 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Holmes, for what purpose do you seek recognition?.
I'm sorry, Mr. President. I missed my switch on that one. Can you please record me as an Aye vote on -- was it 1799?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. With leave the Body, we're going to go to page 20. We're going to go to the Secretary's Desk Resolutions Concurrence. We have Senator Halpin, on Senate Joint Resolution 13. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Joint Resolution 13. Signed by Senator Halpin. 126 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Halpin, to explain your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, this, when we sent this out of the Senate -- there was a missing additional member of the task force that the House added back in. It's a university library dean or director appointed by the governor. And since I was running out of -- witty things to say at the end of my presentation, I asked ChatGPT, I will say -- I will respond to questions, though I'd rather not.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in Amendment No. 2 to House -- to Senate Joint Resolution 13. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in Amendment No. 2 to Senate Joint Resolution Number 13, and the motion is declared adopted. Will the Committee on Assignments, please come to the President’s Anteroom. The Committee on Assignments will meet. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Cunningham, Chair of the Commission{sic}(Committee) on Assignments reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Executive Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 328, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1331, Motion to Concur with House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1344, Motion to Concur with House 127 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1922, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1784, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1797, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2319, Motion -- Motion to concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2339, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2418, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2493, Floor Amendment 2 to House Bill 1823, Floor Amendment 4 and 5 to House Bill 3564, Floor Amendments 2 and 3 to House Bill 3790. Be Approved For Consideration: Motion to Concur with House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2456, House Joint Resolution 27. Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-8(b-1), the following amendments will remain in the Committee on Assignments Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1928. Signed, Senator Bill Cunningham, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The Senate Executive Committee will meet at 7:00 in Room 212. The Executive Committee will meet at 7:00 in Room 212. The Senate will stand in recess to the call of the chair. After Executive Committee, the Senate will reconvene to the call of the Chair for further Floor action. The Senate stands in recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The Illinois Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Castro, Chair of the Committee on Executive, reports Motion to Concur House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 328. House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1331. House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1344. House Amendment 1 -- Senate Bill -- Excuse me. Excuse me. 128 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1784. House Amendment 2 {sic} (1) to Senate Bill 1797. House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1922, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2319, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2339, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2418, House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2418, House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2493, Senate amendment 2 to House Bill 1823. Senate bill. Senate Amendment 4 to House Bill 3564. Senate Amendment 5 to House Bill 3564, Senate Amendment 3 to House Bill 3790 Recommend Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) All Members of the Senate, please come to the Senate Floor for business. All Members of the Senate, please come to the Senate Floor. WBEZ seeks leave of the Body to record audio and still photos. Leave is granted. Daily Line photo and recording leave is granted. WGLT to take photos and record video -- leave is granted. Senator Hastings, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) State your point.
Born at 4:30 a.m. on May 30th. My dear friends and neighbors, -- family friends for a very long time, Grace and Gino Rodriguez welcomed Vida Donovan Rodriguez into the world. She came in at 7 pounds, one ounce. She's extremely healthy. She's 20in long, and she is an Irish -- she's going to be a great Irish Lassie with a little bit of spice, Mr. President. And we're extremely proud of Grace and Gino and the whole Donovan and Rodriguez family. Congratulations to them. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 129 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Congratulations. WBEZ seeks leave of the Body to record video and audio. Leave is granted. Chicago Sun-Times seeks leave of the Body to record audio and video. Leave is granted. Capitol News Illinois seeks leave of the Body to record video. Leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate, the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of the bill of the following title to wit: Senate Bill 243, together with the following amendment, which is attached in the adoption of which I instruct the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 243. We have received Like Messages on Senate Bill 634 with House Amendments 1, 4 and 5, Senate Bill 2008 with House Amendments 1 and 3, and Senate Bill 5 -- 2510 with House Amendment 3. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Will the Committee on Assignments, please meet in the President’s Anteroom. The Committee on Assignments. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Cunningham, Chair of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved For Consideration: Motion to Concur with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2510, Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 742, Floor Amendment 4 to House Bill 1075, Floor Amendments 2 and 3 to House Bill 2755, Floor Amendment 2 to House Bill 3374, Floor Amendment 3, 4, and 5 to House Bill 3438. Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-8(b-1), 130 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 the following amendments will remain in the Committee on Assignments: Floor Amendment 2 to House Bill 1928. Signed, Senator Bill Cunningham, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, just to let you know that we're going to be using a timer for all debate. So please be concise in your remarks. We've got a lot of work to do tonight. We're going to go to page 11, House Bill 2755. Sponsorship has been changed to Senator Villanueva. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Villanueva seeks leave of the Body to return -- Senator Villanueva seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 2755 to the Order of Second Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of Second Reading, is Senate Bill 2755. Mr. Secretary, any further amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Villanueva.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, on your amendment.
Mr. President, I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Villanueva.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, on your amendment. 131 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Mr. President, I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain 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. Any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Now, on 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 2755. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2755, an Act concerning government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. This bill, House Bill 2755, as amended, is our 2025 FY 26 Revenue Omnibus -- Omnibus. It contains revenue sources, technical changes and DCEO business development, tax credit and cleanup. I am here to answer questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator DeWitt.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
132 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. Madam Chair, I just had one quick question. Can you advise us of the status of the digital ad proposal that had been contained in this original legislation?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva?
Thank you, Senator. Amendment 3 removed the digital ad tax from this revenue package.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitt.
Thank you, Madam Chair. Mr. President, to the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. We've known since as far back as January of this year that this is going to be an extremely difficult budget year due to a decrease in available revenues. The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountable and Accountability warned us. The Governor's Office of Management and Budget confirmed it. Even Governor Pritzker himself, in his February budget address, made it crystal clear when he announced to the legislature and I quote, "If you want more spending, you tell me where to cut." Unquote. And yet, here we are, on the verge of passing another record breaking, unsustainable spending plan. You, on the other side of the aisle, are barreling ahead with blinders on as if this budget crisis didn't even exist. You're ignoring every warning, and worse, ignoring the financial pain that every one of our constituents is dealing with right now. 133 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Illinois families already shoulder the heaviest overall tax burden in the entire 50 states. Property taxes are some of the highest in this nation, punishing homeowners year after year with skyrocketing assessments and little to no improvement in services to show for it. Retirees, many of whom spent their lives working and paying into this system, are being driven out of their homes. Working families are watching their budgets implode under tax bills that now rival their mortgage payments. And our young people, they're leaving this State in droves, fleeing to states where they can afford to build a better life without being punished for trying. As I mentioned, Illinois has the highest combined tax burden in America. Higher than California, higher than New York, higher than New Jersey. We're No. 1 on a list no state wants to sit on top of. And now with this budget, we're going to make it worse. This budget offers zero relief to taxpayers. Not a single provision to help homeowners. Not one sentence to ease the burden on working families. Instead, Democrats continue to spend recklessly, as if taxpayer dollars are monopoly money. When will it be enough? If you vote for this budget, you are endorsing a staggering increase in State spending under Governor Pritzker, an increase of $15 billion dollars, 37 percent, since he took office just 6 years ago. That money doesn't grow on trees, folks. It comes from your constituents pockets. And they're not happy about it. Illinois families are begging for relief.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator, could you please bring your remarks to a close?
I'm wrapping up, Mr. President. Thank you. They're being taxed out of their homes, priced out of the market, and pushed out 134 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 of their communities. Instead of hearing their cries, this budget tells them they don't matter. That they can keep paying more and just get over it. I will not support this betrayal. This betrayal of hard working Illinoisans. And if you care about the people who sent you here, if you truly represent them, you'll vote No, too. Enough is enough. It's time for this Body to stand with taxpayers, not stand up against them. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Rezin.
To the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Year after year, we're told that this time will be different. That this year's budget will be responsible, balanced, grounded in fiscal reality. But when we -- but what we have before us tonight is yet another record breaking spending plan. I know this is just the revenue component, but I'm speaking about the revenue and the budget and what we have before us tonight is yet another record breaking spending plan that ignores the struggles of working families across Illinois. We're now looking at the budget that exceeds $55 billion dollars. This is the largest in State history. Let that number sink again. $55 billion dollars. And yet, in all that spending, where's the meaningful relief for the average American -- American Illinois family? Where's the support for small businesses still trying to recover? Where is the investment in our care workers, our infrastructure, or our energy reliability? Instead of tightening our belts and making the government more 135 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 efficient, this budget continues the same old pattern. More money for new programs, more pressure on taxpayers. This is not the direction Illinois needs. It's not what families have asked for and it's not a budget that I can support. I ask for a No vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion. Senator Balkema.
Yes, I'm very cognizant of my timer up there. So I've tried to speak very little this first time and I've tried to listen a lot. I have a huge respect and my respect is growing for everybody in this room. All of us were elected as Senators because we want to help people. We want to help people, all ends of the spectrum. So from all over perspective, that's a fantastic thing that we're doing. If we look at where we're at right now with this $880 million dollar increase, a $1 billion increase with all of the sweeps. We are helping people in one venue, but we are hurting people across so many others. So my challenge to our Body is to look beyond tonight, and to look what we can do to unify and to help people, all 13 million of us across the State. Right now, we've got a 1.65 percent tax increase on every cell phone for a great cause, suicide prevention. My family was directly impacted with a suicide. The cause is great. All of us want to do that. But we look at the cell phone tax 1.65 percent. The means to get there could be much better than what we're doing. If we look at across the board in -- in the revenue packet sports betting wage tax increases, tobacco tax increases, corporate franchise tax increases, legal challenges that can come to subchapter "S" Corporations is all baked into this package. We can do so much 136 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 better for the State of Illinois than increasing taxes by $1 billion. So I challenge our Body and the Body across the hall, in the revenue or in the House side, to look beyond tonight and we have to find a different way. We cannot continue to have the highest property taxes in the nation, which, by the way, after tonight will get worse because we're moving money out of the evidence-based funding formula which drives property taxes increases up. So if we look all the way down from the package of property taxes to every revenue stream that we're looking at, we're touching it in the negative format. Ladies and Gentlemen, we can't keep doing that. We're on an unsustainable path in Illinois that none of us want. None of us want the 13 million folks to continue to be taxed out of Illinois. So I beg you, I -- I plead with you that in a unified fashion, we have to come up with a different way than continuing the exponential increases that we've seen over the past six years. So I appreciate everybody in the Chamber. I think everybody has the best intentions of the heart. And I want to work with folks. We have to start sooner. Like it would be nice to start tomorrow or Monday on next year's budget instead of having it all done at the last minute. I can tell you that I have never been in an organization where we have a PDF file released the night before, as opposed to even an Excel file to show the budget. If this was 1997, that might be okay. It's not. That's not a criticism of any individual, but it's a criticism of the process. And there's a lot of smart folks in the room. We have a ton of incredibly smart staff. We can do better, ladies and gentlemen, and I implore us to work together. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Chesney. 137 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
This General Assembly is a broken record of disgusting, disgusting and shameless failures and the exploitation of the Illinois taxpayer. Here we are again, ramming through another broken, bloated, and backwards budget. This isn't governance. This is legislative malpractice. It's actually a slap in the face to everyone that you represent. Illinois already bleeds its citizens dry as one of the highest overall tax burdens in the entire nation. We rank near dead last in economic friendliness by rich state poor states. Property taxes worst in the country. The handling of our money is absolutely abhorrent. This body does celebrate one thing when you go from junk status to an upgrade in junk status. You guys are very, very proud of doing that. If this Chamber had a shred of decency, you would certainly want to change, but instead you're doubling down on the same dysfunction, making sure Illinois stays on the list that nobody wants to be on. A budget is not just a collection of numbers. It's a statement of priorities, of values. And it reveals what you believe in, who you protect, but also who you ignore and who you expect to pay for it. So let's talk about what the budget does do. It does spend $40 million dollars for Welcome Centers for illegal immigrants. At a time when working families are getting crushed by inflation, property tax and utility bills. You guys were kind enough to give yourselves another legislative pay increase. While the most vulnerable citizens that you represent are shortchanged at every turn. It imposes new 138 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 mandates on lawful gun owners while you bend over backwards to seal the records of criminals, keep criminals out of jail, and send repeat offenders back into our communities to commit more crime. It throws more political projects as political bribery in your Democrat districts to get you to vote for this complete nonsense. But you couldn't cap it off. You did want to make sure that you had abortion on demand pills available in every college campus. And oh, the taxpayers got to pay for that, as well. Meanwhile, here's what the budget does not do. Utility rates are skyrocketing. Democrats, as you know, you guys pushed this green agenda, this fantasy, and abandoned reliable sources like nuclear, coal and natural gas. All of you said you loved our family farms and our farmers. You show up to our adoptive farm legislative days and you take pictures around tractor trucks. $20 million dollars to give these farmers a little relief and bring them parity with the federal estate tax. Didn't want to do that. Wouldn't want to help them out. Our farmers totally got screwed. Doesn't make our community safer. You -- you -- you continue to support our criminals while they walk free. And you -- you really don't care too much about our police officers. This budget is -- protects your political interests, your special interests, and your ideological allies. And let's not forget, there's a very, very solid argument, it's also wants -- unconstitutional. There is no possible way that we could read this budget because it was dumped…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator, if you could please bring your remarks to a close.
It was brought to us with just a few minutes to read it. Thank you, Mr. President. I'll bring my remarks to a close. This 139 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 budget is why families are fleeing Illinois, why businesses are shutting down and packing up for good, why faith in government is collapsing. Because no matter how hard people work, no matter how much they sacrifice, Springfield Democrats always find a way to take more and give them less. The taxpayers are getting screwed tonight and it's just wrong. Vote No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I want to clarify a couple of things -- so that people are aware of what it is that we're doing in this revenue package. We are holding multinational corporations accountable and making sure that they pay their fair share. Let me repeat that. We are making sure that multinational corporations are paying their fair share. And why are we doing that? Because the things that we will be seeing, and I know our budget leader will explain in a bit. We're passing this revenue package in order to fund education, higher education, health care, violence prevention, support services for our community including 9-8-8 suicide prevention. We are expanding a child tax credit. And we're doing it by holding multinational corporations accountable and making sure that they're paying their fair share. In addition to doing cleanup and additional work to spurn business development in the State of Illinois. Because while some people think that people are fleeing the State of Illinois, there are people that are coming here in droves. Whether you believe it or not, because of whatever you want to believe, people are coming to this State seeking the protections and the rights that we fight for in this State. Vote Yes. 140 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 2755 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 31 voting Yea, 25 voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 2755, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to page 9, we're going to go to the top of the page, House Bill 1075. Senator Harmon seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 10 -- House Bill… Senator Sims seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 1075 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 1075. Mr. Secretary, any amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 4, offered by Senator Sims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and debate it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
141 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 House Bill 1075, An Act concerning government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, on your bill.
Thank you, Madam. Thank you, Mr. President, and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 1075 is the budget implementation bill. It is the substantive legislation that would implement the budget that we will be debating shortly. A few highlights about the budget implementation bill. Clarify -- it is broken up into several categories in terms of finance, health care and public health -- health care and general government. Clarifies that CMS has the authority to bill agencies for professional services previously provided by CMS, but now provided by the Executive Inspector General and the Commission on Equity and Inclusion. It authorizes the Department of Natural Resources to provide coupons for camping fee waivers during the 2025 Illinois State Fair and DuQuoin State Fair. It exempts the Illinois Affordable Housing Act from grants from DHS to -- from IDHA -- IHDA for the -- from the Illinois Grant Funds Recovery Act time limit on the expenditure of grant funds. It clarifies the Department of Military Affairs authority to utilize the Capital Development Fund for capital projects. It repeals or extends the sunset on the capital -- to the Capital Development Board's Revolving Fund. Authorizes the Illinois Department of Transportation to pay paratransit grants. RTA reduced fare subsidy grants and Amtrak subsidies from the Road Fund. It repeals obsolete language directing excess funds from the Long-Term Care Monitor Receiver Fund to GRF. It modifies the distribution of video gaming 142 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 tax proceeds to provide 2 percent to the State Gaming Fund to support Illinois Gaming Board administrative costs. It extends through fiscal 26, the authority for the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to -- to spend from the Used Tire Management Fund for a specified purpose. It authorizes the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to grant funds from the Energy Transition Assistance Fund to the Illinois Finance Authority. It creates the Budget Reserve for immediate disbursements and Government -- in Government Emergencies fund and directs transfers to the fund. It plans for the -- It provides for a rate increase to community-based providers and ID and DD and MCPs DD facilities in order to support an $0.80 per hour wage increase, provides a 5 percent increase in allowable service costs for DD clients, receiving home and community-based care allows DCFS to get approval for their State plan -- plan amendment that will permit them to pull down additional federal reimbursement for relative caregivers. Mr. President, I could go on and on, but the substantive bill -- the substantive bill implements the budget that we'll be -- we'll be debating shortly. With that, I will answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Rose?
Thank you, Mr. President. We'll go to the bill, but we're going to do most of our debate on the appropriations bill itself. But to this bill, I want to take a step back. Let's just frame where we've been for 6 years, under Governor J.B. Pritzker, you're up $15 billion dollars in spending almost a 40 percent increase in spending in 6 years -- 6 years. Has anybody at home, any of our 143 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 constituents had a 40 percent pay raise in the last 6 years? I'm guessing not. Pretty sure most of my constituents haven’t had a 40 percent pay raise in the last 6 years. But government has. Government keeps feeding upon itself, is insatiable. It just never ends. Look at last year to this year, another 2 billion -- another 2 billion. Now I keep hearing like, oh, this is all going to happen because of this or that or all these other things. But 6 years, the cumulative record is 15 billion. And every year you load up your grocery cart before you look in your wallet to figure out how much you have to spend. Is it any wonder that the revenue bill was the last bill to be filed today? Because you figured out how much money you were going to spend before you figured out how much you had to spend, and you backed into it with tax increases on the people of Illinois, again. Year after year after year, crushing, crushing. Now let's talk about how things really work, because we don't say tax increases, we say pause, we just paused property tax relief. How many people got their property tax bills in the last couple of weeks back home? I got mine. Mine was up over 10 percent -- 10 percent, actually. Virtually, all my neighbors were up over 10 percent. We just paused that property tax relief out of the EVF. What other pauses we got in here? Oh, we paused, the Rainy- Day Fund. Talk about responsible budgeting. Always good to have money for Rainy Day. Ope, pause that too. But let's get to the really cynical part. The really cynical part, in this BIMP, is this notion that there's actually an 80 cent per hour increase for DD frontline workers, for our friends and neighbors, our developmentally disabled friends and neighbors, the folks who by every moral ethic we owe it to these human beings. We owe it to them. You can't go from $0.50 cents and the Governor's introduced 144 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 to $0.80 unless you increase the appropriation. We've doubled backed and checked on the approp (appropriations), but hasn't increased. So what's going to happen instead, by default is hundreds of thousands of DSP hours will be lost. And by the way, that's not the cynical part. The cynical part is that Governor Pritzker and his administration is blaming our poor friends and family and neighbors who are developing disabled in the first place. He says, "Oh, the Guidehouse study compels us to do this." No way. The Guidehouse study was then suing us because we weren't doing our part to take care of them. In fact, the Guidehouse study is pretty darn clear that money is supposed to follow the individual. You have thousands of overtime, hours and system every year. You have all these people who have never even gotten a single hour of service. And yet Governor Pritzker has the unmitigated temerity, the gall to say they don't need it -- they don't need it, Guidehouse says, "They don't need it." Really? You're cutting hundreds of thousands out of the system. And by the way, I'm just getting started. We'll pick this up in the next couple of bills as we go. I would urge everybody to vote No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I think I will hold my comments for debate on the budget. Everyone vote Aye.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 1075 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, 23 145 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. And House Bill 1075, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Supplemental Calendar No. 2 has been printed and distributed. Going to Senate Bill 2510. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House, in the adoption of their Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 25 -- 2510. Signed by Senator Sims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 2510 is the fiscal year 2026 budget. This budget we've heard much of what you have heard here today has been around since February. Much of this is -- was included from the Governor's budget. But what you are -- what we are about to debate here today, is the changes that represents the priorities as identified by the by the General Assembly. Let's talk about where we are with the resources and revenues in front of us. This budget, this balanced, responsible budget is based on revenues of approximately $55,298,000,000. Carried against $55,048,000,000 in spending. That includes $13.8 billion in spending on education, which includes $11,177,000,000 in funding for pre-K through $12 education, $2.6 billion in higher education, $234 million in economic development activities, $2.7 billion in public safety. I know that there was a reference earlier to the fact that we are not investing in public safety, but there's $2.7 billion in public safety investments, $12 billion in human -- investments in human services. The list goes on and on. With that, Mr. President, I will answer questions and would ask for a Aye vote at the 146 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 appropriate time.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Rose.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
To the motion? Yeah, I've watched a lot of these clips and stuff. And I've seen various folks and the Governor everybody else -- blaming Washington D.C. and the all the, you know, all the horribles that are coming our way. And -- as a reason that this budget has to happen to somehow stem off all the terrible things that are heading our way. So I was thinking, let's play a game. Let's play. Donald Trump made me do it. Did Donald Trump make you put $270 million in Democratic pork projects in this budget? No. Did Donald Trump make you put $40 million for a single school in Speaker Welch's District in this budget. Well, I bet I know. What's that guy? Steven Miller -- Steven Miller must have been on the phone with Alexis at GOMB, demanding that we get all the free stuff for the illegals, right? The rest of the illegal healthcare that's still in here. You've got the $40 million for the immigrant integration services. You've got the $40 million for the administrative expenses associated with Illinois Welcoming Centers. Oh, I know he must have. He must have called up and said, sweep those funds. I bet I know. I know he was demanding you sleep on that and take away the parks from the suburbs. Or maybe. Maybe the sinister man. Orange man. Bad. Made you put the $20 million in for the South Side organizing project. Let's be clear. $15 billion 147 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 over six years. That's on you $2 billion increase over last year. That's on you. Billions in tax increases that are driving working families out of Illinois. That's on you. Nobody put a gun to your head. Nobody did. But here's what we didn't do. To get to 150 percent of minimum wage for those developmentally disabled workers, a bipartisan bill, Senate Bill 1690 Leader Koehler, only takes $2 an hour to get to 150 percent of minimum wage. Why do I say 150 percent? Because that's where we were when Governor Pritzker became Governor. We've gone backwards on funding the development disabled for 6 years. We're backwards. It takes $2 to get to 150 percent. You know what the raw dollar amount in that is? It's $80 million -- $80 million at GRF. Let's see. Oh yeah. $40 million immigrant integration services. Another $40 million for Welcome Centers right there. Eighty million to do what we should have been doing all along for our development. Disabled friends, family and neighbors. There's, you guys, have outdone yourself this time. I mean, the folks back home when they wake up and find out what happened to them. You can blame whoever you want to try to blame. You can blame whoever you want to try to blame. But there's no one to blame for $15 billion increased spending, 40 percent. Increased spending.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Could you bring your remarks to a close please.
Billions in new taxes over the years. And now we've taken a pause on property tax relief, are behind door number 2 is what our party has been arguing for, for working families. Look what just happened out in D.C. Gig workers, bartenders, the firemen, the policemen on overtime. No taxes on overtime. No taxes on tips. 148 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Property tax relief. Senior citizen tax relief. And yes, for families, the child tax credit for every American in every family in America is a tale of two -- I mean, my goodness, raise taxes, crush people to the point where they want to leave our State or support the working men and women of Illinois. People are going to go packing, and my guess is they're going to send you guys packing. Vote No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Arellano.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
The motion. Last November, before the change in administration. Our governor released a shockingly blunt reckoning of the financial situation of this state. A 3 billion potential deficit. And as someone not yet sworn in, I was actually appreciative of that recognition. Mind you, before we knew what happened at the national level, this recognition of where we were, we had come out of years of record federal input inputs that even liberal economists had said are going to drive up inflation, cause issues that were known, known to be coming. We had missed what actuaries recommended for a pension payment that year by $5 billion dollars, which we do again this year, by the way, in this budget, from what I've been able to tell in the unethically short period of time, I've had to look at it. But I did appreciate that moment from the Governor of the situation I was walking into that we were all walking into. Unfortunately, of course, things changed and 149 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 messaging changed, and we engaged in a process after that that was much less transparent, much less open. We have some of the highest taxes in the nation, overall highest tax burden by many records, whether that's property taxes. Lump it all together. It was said earlier, we're making sure in this budget that businesses and people pay their fair share. Said with no irony in the State with the highest overall tax burden. People are clearly paying their fair share, and then by the standard of any other state, more than that. And yes, businesses are getting driven out. Small business is especially. Which is why I often during discussion ask if we've looked at the number of employees that business has because they leave, they fail. The truth is, after these record revenues, the only things we're generally leading the nation in are those cost- of-living challenges, those revenues coming in and those taxes, I believe and I'm -- I'm not saying this out of any sort of cynicism. I believe that this State, absolutely, has the potential to leave the dregs of debt that predated this Governor massive pension, debt, borrowing debts, all those things dragging us down. I believe we have the possibility to make a budget that empowers people, empowers family, empowers small businesses, empower people anywhere along the socioeconomic chain to move up like my family did. I know how to do it. I've seen it done. It's possible in Illinois, it's not happening as often as it should. And part of that is because, we as a Body have chosen a belief that more spending on programs is better than empowering individuals with their own decision making, their own power of economy and money, their own opportunities. We have moved well past the safety net, which I believe in, which is critically important in this State, we have moved well past that into debt-fueled, tax-driven drags on 150 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 individuals trying to rise up and better their lives. We are failing. This budget is a failure on our part to seize the future that was possible and it was acknowledged. Well…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) You could please bring your remarks to a close. Senator Arellano: Well before the changes in the national headwind, the process that got here was unethical. It's impossible to make a good budget with that kind of process, but we're capable of that in the future. We need to look more at how to bring true relief to this State, to the people of the State, and not believe that we in the government are the solution. We have decades of proving we're not in this budget continues that proof. We are better than this in both process and result. So let's be that, vote No,
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sally Turner.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
Budgets. They're just not numbers on a piece of paper. They reflect our priorities, and they send a message about who we are and what we value. And unfortunately, this year's budget sends the wrong message to the people of the State of Illinois and the people who need us the most. This budget, like in many years before, ignores the financial realities facing working families, while 151 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 everyday Americans are struggling to put gas in our tanks and buy groceries and pay our utility bills, this Illinois budget adds more than $1 billion dollars in taxes and increases spending by nearly 40 percent, and does nothing to alleviate those concerns. And in fact, it makes our life even harder. We're looking at the largest budget in our State's history, and yet the families of our State are being left behind. Government spending is growing, but our family budgets are shrinking, and it's easy to get lost in the billions and forget about what this means for real people. For the single mom or dad deciding between daycare and rent, for the retired couple stretching every dollar to pay their prescriptions, for a rural family that's barely hanging on, and our farmers who are needing the necessary resources for soil and water to be good stewards of our farmland. People in my district are already worrying about how they're going to afford school when the school year, just ended. And this budget not only fails to ease their burden, it -- it increases it. And if there's one particular group that shows how harmful the impact of this budget is, it's the direct support professionals and the people that they serve. These frontline workers caring for our most vulnerable neighbors, adults with intellectual disabilities. Instead of properly investing in them, this budget cuts 630,000 service hours. That's potentially over 300 lost jobs in a system that is already overburdened. An 80 cent wage increase means very little when it comes with fewer hours, fewer staff and less care for those who need it most. And let's be honest. These cuts don't hit everyone equally. Downstate and rural communities are already struggling to recruit and retain staff. And for families in my district, these services are a lifeline and this cut is putting them in risk. So again, I ask, 152 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 how can we claim to be a proud of the record-breaking budget that leaves our citizens behind? When families are forced to choose between electricity and prescriptions, rent or groceries? How can anyone here defend asking them to pay more? As I said earlier, budgets are about priorities, and for those across the aisle I ask, are these truly the priorities you want to present to the people of our State? Now is the time for us to speak up for those who can't speak for themselves, for the direct support professionals who put in those long hours, for the families lying awake at night wondering what will happen to their loved one when they're gone. And for those young families struggling, struggling to keep the lights on and their food on their table, and we can't continue to keep a bloated government on the backs of our working families. And I know, I know, we can do much better. We can do much better than this, we all can together. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Leader Curran.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion.
First, I'd like to thank my leadership and budget teams for helping guide our caucus through this budget process. Most of all, we all appreciate our lead Budgeteer, Senator Chapin Rose, who puts countless hours and his vast experience into guiding and leading our team. And he is supported, and he'd be the first one to tell you by our amazing staff, many of whom are with us here 153 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 tonight, or watching, for they have barely slept over the last few days, but over the last year have just put in thousands of hours working on behalf of the State of Illinois and the Senators in this caucus. So I want to thank them. I can't say the same about the bill before us, as I can say about the team that we have on this side and the work they've done. When you start, when a budget starts with $1 billion dollars in -- in tax increases, you're off to a bad start. This was the same -- same song last year balancing a budget $1 billion -- $1 billion in tax increases, we're at it yet again. As my colleague pointed out, Governor Pritzker, since he took office, his budget has grown $15 billion dollars, 37 percent increase. I don't know about you, but I can tell you, my constituents, the vast, vast majority, their household budgets have not grown by that -- at that same pace. That's not sustainable. And -- and we're going to need to pivot into living within our within the existing revenues and not turn the tax increases year in and year out. What this budget does lack is prior commitments. The Governor made a commitment three years ago on early childhood education, and he was going to grow that $75 million dollars a year for four years. That's hit a pause here, and the Governor's gone back on that commitment. Our commitment to the special education and what the State Board of Education told us they needed for special education this year. That's been set aside. And we've talked about adults with disabilities and how we continue to fail and come up short on meeting the needs of the disabled throughout this State. I know that -- I know there's a lot of interest on both sides of the aisle, in meeting that. Let's hope next year we actually take that final step and get there. What this budget also does not include is property tax relief. 154 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 What we see coming from the -- what we see coming from the federal government right now is a movement for tax relief. And this offered us an opportunity to double down on that tax relief, and add to that. We have tax relief for gig workers, our service industry, tipped workers, expanded child tax credit. And through the raising of the salt cap, property tax relief, much needed property tax relief for the people of Illinois. What this budget lacks is property tax relief and us taking a step in that direction. Energy costs, big problem in this State. This budget lacks any relief on energy costs, as -- as -- as -- that's going up in Ameren and ComEd territories, and we have more -- more coming this summer. I would just I think I'd like to just close by saying, I think the revenue bill today really highlighted what we need to fix in this process. We -- we -- we introduced a bill, $880 million dollars in tax increases, we were told nearly $1 billion dollars. In six short hours from introduction of what it was to passage in both the House and the Senate. That's not transparent. That's not being up front with the people of Illinois on what we're doing. That should be out there and debated much longer than a six-hour window to increase revenue by a billion dollars, and the people of Illinois. So, Mr. President, I look forward to once again, next year, engaging in this budget process. I do really hope we get an opportunity to be more included next year, because I believe when we put our common interests more collaboratively together, we're going to get a better product for the people of Illinois. With that, I thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, to close.
155 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. Our request from our Leader that I truncate my comments, I will only say this -- this budget is if there's one thing I do agree about, the other side of the aisle. It is that a budget is a statement of our priorities, and our priorities are being fiscally responsible, preparing for the future and facing -- facing the challenges that are coming in our -- coming our way, head on. Vote Aye.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2510. 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 34 voting Aye, 23 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received, the required constitutional majority of the Senate, does concur in House Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2510 and the bill is declared passed. We're on page 12, we're at the bottom of the page, we're on House Bill 3438. Mr. Secretary, Senator Villivalam seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 3438 to the Order of Second Reading. Leave is granted. Now the Order Second Reading is House Bill 3438. Mr. Secretary, Any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment. Explain it on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 156 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 4, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 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 KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 5, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 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 KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 157 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
House Bill 3438, an Act Concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, and Members of the Illinois Senate. I'm honored and proud to stand before you to present a comprehensive public transit Omnibus package. That is the largest overhaul of our public transit systems in four decades. This legislation is based off of three years of conversations -- a report that Chicago Metropolitan Agency on Planning has commissioned, two pieces of legislation that have been negotiated together -- to put before you the product that we have today. It will provide the world class, safe, reliable, accessible and integrated public transit system we need for our northeastern Illinois region. It will also -- through major reforms and robust transformational funding. It will also ensure that the 54 downstate transit agencies that operate in 95 counties see robust investment to ensure people also in those areas can get from point A to point B. I can't thank the Senate Transportation Committee enough for their input on this product, and I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Lewis?
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator, we -- we have been on this journey for well over a year. Countless hours spent in Committee -- overseas evaluating transportation systems. Great conversation about what the future should look like. I would call 158 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 very bipartisan spirit in what we are tried to do, but unfortunately, the -- the results that are surfacing in this bill caused me to stand up. And I'd like to speak to the bill, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
In July, I asked a very basic question in Committee, to all the transportation companies. What is your current budget? What does the fiscal deficit look like? What is your long-term debt and what are your pension obligations? Metra 360 or excuse me -- PACE $360,000,000 and $60 million projected shortfall, 0 debt 85 percent pension funded. Metra $1 billion debt, $200 million shortfall. Excuse me, Billion dollar budget, $200 million shortfall, 0 debt. 85 percent pension funded. CTA $2 billion budget, $500 million debt. 5 billion in debt. Less than 60 percent pension funded. And it became very clear to me what this process could possibly become, which I was promised that it was not, and that we were taking a regional approach. And we said, fine, understood. But do one thing. Don't take away the camaraderie and the participation of the four appointing authorities and give governance so that someone could lose out. And that is exactly what happened. One of these entities can be steamrolled. In our case, in speaking for the collars, they do not have to participate in any decision making. They can have an opposite opinion, and this new NIDA board does not have to listen to them. We are providing in this new structure a minimum of six appointees from the City of Chicago. It could be as high as 11. Over half the board could be from the City, with a transportation system that is $5 billion in debt, has a $500 159 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 million operating budget shortfall. And those of us who live in the collar counties, cannot do that. We are expanding representation to the City. The Mayor, current Mayor of Chicago, will be able to appoint a member to PACE, to Metra, and to CTA. He currently does not have appointing authority to PACE or Metra. What I see in this legislation…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator, can you please bring your remarks to a close?
I will, Mr. President, to close. This has become a bailout for Chicago CTA. We're giving the Mayor more control. We're giving him -- we didn't talk about revenue over $1 billion in revenue to deal with. If you are a collar county legislator, I do not believe you want to represent your constituents by giving the City of Chicago more control with less representation and costing your residents over $1 billion dollars. I asked for an…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) I'm sorry about that. Further discussion? Senator Chesney.
Thank you. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. You know, I can appreciate our colleagues on both sides of the aisle that have worked very hard on this transit bill, and I gave it some attention. But admittedly, the transit bill didn't impact me until you guys were negotiating who was going to be in power and how all that was going to work until it came to the money and -- and Senator, I couldn't help but to recognize 160 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 that -- that, you know, we've heard oftentimes how much the Chicago people contribute to us down here in downstate or in rural parts of Illinois. And then part of one of your amendments was a -- a very expensive hundreds of millions of dollars in this Amazon tax. And so it kind of struck me because I looked around my communities and I don't have transit, but I'm paying for your transit. And so we asked, did we take care of ourselves? But I don't think my people should be paying for your people's transit. And that's exactly what this bill is going to do. And then I start to dig in a little bit deeper into this bill and everything you guys say when it comes to food deserts and fighting for working families and fighting for minorities, you guys want to put a tax on prescription deliveries. You guys are going to put a tax on every Amazon package that delivers into -- into our communities. You're going to put a tax on Grub hub and Instacart and all these different taxes. Just tax, tax, tax. And you know, our people are going to wake up in our districts and they're going to be really, really upset because we're paying for your dysfunction. We're paying for your problems. It's bad enough that the people from Chicago come in, come and start creating problems in Chicago. Then they go to the suburbs, then they come to Rockford, then they come into my areas. Now I got to pay for the taxes too. And our people are going to be really, really upset. You know, when Governor Pritzker came out and he said, you know, we're not going to sign a gerrymandered map, he went ahead and went ahead and did it. Then he said, during COVID, you know, we're not going to you know, we're going to lock down and stay in place and keep everybody safe. And then he sent his family to Florida. Then he said, you know what? We got to invest in Illinois and we care about Illinois so, so much. We got 161 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 to invest in Illinois. Put Illinois first, and he parks all his money in the Grand Caymans. It'll be really, really interesting because the -- the Governor just a few days ago just said, I am not going to support a Broad tax. Is there anybody in this Chamber that hasn't done an online purchase? Anybody? You are all going to get nailed on this tax. And this is an unpopular Mayor that's got a 9 percent approval rating. And you're all going to bail out this idiot, every one of you. You're going to bail out an unpopular Mayor, on a dysfunctional system, and all of our people are going to pay the damn bill. Every one of them, every one we represent. There is nobody that's not going to get hit by this bill. Hundreds of millions of dollars. We all get hit. And now nobody's going to ride this thing where I live. Everybody else is. And we're bailing out Chicago and a terrible Mayor, a dysfunctional City. They need to fix their own crap and stay the hell out of ours. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Hills.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Today I rise in strong opposition to this legislation. As someone that was raised by a single mom who worked two jobs to put food on our table and a roof over our head, I can't help but think how devastating attacks like this would have been to our family. How are working families going to get by if we keep piling on taxes over and over on them. This is a shameless cash grab that's going to hurt those that can least afford it. I urge a resounding No 162 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Rose.
To the…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Or whatever it is. Yeah. Wow. This night just keeps getting more and more amazing. I can't -- I can't. Oh, wait. Hang on. I bet Donald Trump called the Mayor of Chicago and asked him to tax everybody in Illinois. Is that -- what is that? Can we get a confirmation? We'll call Steve Miller to say, yep, yep. You got to do this, Mr. Mayor. You got to do it. Think about what you are doing. Think about it! Every mom who is late at work with a newborn at home, taxed. Every senior citizen who can't go out of the house, taxed. Think about that. Think about what it adds up to, I just did a little bit of research here on the ole inter Google. A hundred and sixty diapers per month for a newborn. Okay, not a lot. It's about four, maybe six boxes. You got a, you know, 100 bucks in diaper tax alone for that mom. Okay. We haven't got to the seniors, about the college kids. How about the college kid? How about the kid who stayed up till 4 a.m. driving pizzas to pay his own way to college because his dad died when he was in eighth grade, and his mom was a single mom. And now you're saying he's going to have less deliveries to pay his way to college because people stop calling Grubhub or Uber or whatever? I mean, you guys are nuts. I mean, that's the end of the story. I -- you know, I said a minute ago, people are going to send you packing. I am even 163 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 more convinced that the people of Illinois will rise up in opposition to this. They will rise up as they should.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator DeWitte.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicate he will yield.
Thank you, Mr. President. Chairman Villivalam, first of all, let me say, as I said in Committee the other day, this has been a journey -- since we started a year and a half ago. And it's really disappointing because there were so many items that you and I actually agreed on through this reorganization process. And unfortunately, I'm just afraid -- just in the last few days that what I thought was great bipartisan engagement, great bipartisan participation. I don't know what the number is going to look like, but -- I wish it was turning out different. I just want to touch on one issue, it's new in the amendment that was filed, just today. The retail delivery fee that my colleagues have so passionately spoken about. First of all, in the previous amendment, this delivery fee only applied to the RTA region, the six-county region. Can you describe the boundaries of this new retail delivery tax?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
The funding mechanisms in this legislation is a shared -- shared sacrifice package, and as part of that, the environmental impact fee that you're referencing is a funding mechanism that 164 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 will fund public transit throughout our entire State. Because as part of this journey, that's what's been important about funding. Public transit has been a Statewide priority.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitte.
So what I'm hearing is this new delivery tax will be imposed upon not just the RTA six county region, but the entire State as a whole. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
The environmental impact fee that will help fund public transit through this legislation will make sure that we fund public transit in the other 95 counties outside northeastern Illinois region.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitte.
Thank you. Can you run me down a quick list of the exemptions contained in this delivery fee?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
The exemptions that exist in this legislation as it relates to the environmental impact fee include groceries and medication.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitte.
165 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 So if I order six bags of groceries from Walmart and they're dropped on my curb, am I charged that delivery fee?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitt.
Thank you, Mr. President. If I order those five bags of groceries from Walmart and I decide I need a new $15 clock radio. Am I then charged with the delivery fee?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam.
Way -- the way the legislation is structured is that it's based off of what's sales taxable. And that last item would qualify as that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitte. Please bring your remarks to a close.
Let's talk about pharmaceuticals. Same deal, I order my 2 or 3 prescriptions on a monthly basis. They're delivered at my doorstep, I'm not charged. If I order my three prescriptions from my pharmacy and I order a bottle of shampoo. Am I then charged the delivery tax?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator DeWitte. Your time is out. Senator Villivalam. Please answer the question. We'll move on to another speaker. 166 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
It's -- It is, whatever, is sales taxable that applies. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Sir, your time has run out. Senator McClure.
Thank you, to the motion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the motion, to the bill.
To the bill. Aside from the budget, the reforms to our public transit system for governance and funding are probably the most important issue of this session year for many who live in the six- county regional transportation area. Millions rely on Metro, PACE and the Chicago Transit Authority for trains and buses, and enacting reforms that shore up finances and provide a respectable governance structure are paramount to the system's future. Senate Republicans came to the negotiation table in good faith for 18 months to reform our public transit system in a way that is fair, accountable and equitable for all riders and taxpayers. And we have consistently pushed for a balanced approach that ensures no single region shoulders an unfair share of the costs or is marginalized in the decision-making process. Unfortunately, yesterday's and especially today's amendments are very concerning and do not reflect the bipartisanship that was part of the process up to this point. Most troubling is the proposed $1.50 Statewide delivery tax, a blanket charge on every Amazon package, every pizza, every online clothing purchase delivered to homes anywhere in our State. Make no mistake, this proposed delivery tax is a 167 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 broad based Statewide regressive tax on nearly everything purchased online. What about the mother at home with a sick child who has items delivered to the house. That's a tax. What about the family living in a rural area where shopping is not nearby? That's a tax. What about the individual living alone who doesn't feel safe going out after dark to the store? That's a tax. In fact, many of the items the sponsor says are exempt aren't, if they're part of a mixed online order. The moment that online. The moment that that online cart includes taxable items like shampoo, soap or school supplies. These are necessary things. The tax kicks in. The Statewide delivery tax puts residents from every corner of the State on the hook for a massive bailout. For Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the failures at the CTA, the CTA has been mismanaged for years, and now it's supposed to be propped up on the backs of people who may never even ride it. The delivery tax would hit families, seniors and small businesses alike. It's not shared sacrifice, as some would suggest, it's suburban and downstate taxpayers bailing out Chicago. We were still part of the discussion a while back, we offered many solutions and unfortunately, those were rejected. This speech was supposed to be given by Senator DeWitte. He just handed it to me because he ran out of time. This is a really important issue, and because of that, we would like to have a verified roll call vote here. And these things are going to be talked about long after these short snippets on this Floor, because this is outrageous and I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Jones.
Thank you, Mr. President. I rise to move the previous 168 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Previous question. We have two speakers, Senator Plummer.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
I'd like to correct some statements the sponsor made that this is shared sacrifice because this isn't shared sacrifice. If this was shared sacrifice, people across the State would be paying delivery tax. The revenue from this delivery tax goes you know, we talk about priorities. What's our priority here? It's a Brandon Johnson bailout. The worst Mayor in the country were bailing him out. Where's the revenue going? The revenue is going to Chicago. But Chicago deliveries aren't made the way the deliveries of the 55th State Senate District are made. They're not made the way deliveries across the rest of the State are made. Our deliveries are made by vehicles. Chicago's deliveries are largely made by bicycles, which are, of course, exempted. So the revenue goes to Chicago, but they don't actually pay. The rest of the State has to bail out Brandon Johnson. You want to talk about priorities? That's your priority. The Governor said no broad-based tax increases. If you buy a pizza, you're getting taxed. You buy anything from Amazon, you're getting taxed. You buy anything getting delivered to your house, you're getting taxed. I don't know if there's a more broad-based tax than this one. And I doubt there's more regressive tax than this one. You're showing your priorities with this one. Brandon Johnson over the people of Illinois. I urge a No 169 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The last speaker now is Senator Curran. Leader Curran. Senator Curran: Thank you, Mr. President. You know, when this idea first started, my fear was this was going to be a suburban bailout of the City of Chicago, specifically to CTA. Their massive unfunded pension liability. How would Chicago deal with that? Sure. Raid the suburbs. And through many months of discussion and dialog, that's exactly where we've ended up. Except, the only difference is we've now expanded that terrible idea Statewide, and we now have the entire State of Illinois bailing out the City of Chicago, Mayor Johnson CTA, with one of the most regressive taxes you could put in place. I challenge anyone in this Body progressive, conservative, libertarian, liberal, one good reason why a single mother ordering diapers for delivery should be paying the same tax as someone ordering an expensive purse to be delivered. This is as -- as regressive as it gets. There's nothing progressive about this tax, and it's going to hit everyone Statewide. At the same time, money being dedicated -- directed from the suburbs specifically to CTA's pension fund. That's what this was always about, that unfunded pension liability. And, we're going to double down on a bad idea, and we're going to give Brandon Johnson more control over mass transit in the suburbs, more control, more picks on Metro's board and on PACE'S board to expand mismanagement, expand dysfunction. There are some bad ideas that get brought forward every now and then. This is beyond that, this idea is terrible. And -- and I can only hope that if this does get out of this Chamber, this goes nowhere in the House. I strongly urge a No 170 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villivalam, to close.
This package means we care about everyone in the State. If I need you, I need you. Please vote -- please vote Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So the question is, shall House Bill 3438 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, not voting Present. And House Bill 3438, having received the required majority, is declared passed. Senator McClure has requested a verification of -- will all Members be -- be at their seats? Mr. Secretary, please read the affirmative votes.
Members voting in the affirmative. Aquino. Castro. Cervantes. Collins. Cunningham. Edly-Allen. Ellman. Faraci. Feigenholtz. Guzmán. Halpin. Napoleon Harris. Hastings. Holmes. Hunter. Johnson. Jones. Koehler. Martwick. Murphy. Peters. Porfirio. Preston. Simmons. Sims. Stadelman. Ventura. Villa. Villanueva. Villivalam. Walker. President Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure. Do you question the presence of any Member voting in the affirmative?
I suspect, as usual, he's hiding somewhere. But I first want to -- Senator Jones. 171 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator -- Senator Jones. Are there any further Members that you think are not here?
Thank you -- thank you. Senator Hastings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hastings. Are there any further Members that you question?
No, Mr. President, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) If not, Mr. Secretary, the verification roll call, the Ayes have it 32 to 22. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate, that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of the bill of the following entitled to wit: Senate Bill 2437, together with the following amendments which are attached in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2437. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We're going to continue on page 13, we're going to go to House Bill 3790. Senator Villanueva. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Villanueva seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 3790 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now, on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 3790. Mr. 172 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Villanueva.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Any further amendments -- Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3790, an Act concerning government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. For those interested in property taxes, this bill actually does several things of the following. It redefines the qualifying maximum income limitation for low-income senior citizen assessment freeze home exemption to be -- where it's at 65,000 for the tax years of 2018 to 2025, it will move it up to 75,000 for the tax year of 2026. It will move it up to 77,000 for the tax year of 2027, and it will move it up to 79,000 for the 173 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 tax years there and after. Additionally, this bill will pause all property tax sales, both annual and scavenger sales, until March 10th, 2026. And it will also for any tax certificates held by a county, the county clerk can create and administer a payment plan during the redemption period, and under this payment plan, the county clerk can waive interest fees. It does additional things in terms of defining qualified taxpayers and making sure that that's defined as an individual who will be under 65 years of age or older by June 1st of the year, for which a tax differential is claimed. This is a good bill. We are trying to do something in terms of property taxes and address the issues that so many of us care about. And I urge a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator DeWitte.
Thank you, to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. Senator, thanks for your engagement in the Committee this evening. I know there were some concerns expressed about property tax sales that will be suspended until some of the legislation can work through the process. But, based on your commitment to continue to work on those issues, the benefits of this legislation far outweigh the concerns that -- any of us have. So with that -- I would urge an Aye vote. Thank you for your legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Arellano. 174 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Just a quick question, for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
So for this exemption -- does it disperse the property taxes to the other -- property tax holders, or does it actually lower the overall tax levy and amount fixed.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva.
So, the exemption already exists. What we're increasing is basically -- the maximum income limitations for the exemption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Arellano.
Thank you. But my question is, I want to make sure I understand it. We're not reducing the overall amount of taxes, we're just dispersing who it's paid by and giving a greater exemption for those 65 and older. I just want to make sure I understand, we're not actually lowering the total amount taxed on the people, we're just dispersing it differently. I -- just is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva.
That is technically correct. But again, based off of, I think some numbers that have been run -- we don't think that there will be a huge burden on other property taxpayers. But again, what we're 175 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 trying to do is address -- what a lot of issues and concerns have come about to this Chamber about the need to increase the maximum income limitation for low-income senior citizens and the assessment in terms of the homestead exemption freeze.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Arellano.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
I support this bill. I urge an Aye vote. I agree completely with the fact that Illinois is a State and I get this complaint often where -- when you retire, you're on a fixed income. We have the highest or second highest, depending on who you want to believe, property tax in the nation. And as they go up, they eat up faster than many of our seniors can afford. I just wanted to clarify that point, though, because sometimes things like this get sold as a property tax cut, and we know we have a challenge for young homeowners. I bought my first home when I was 26. Cheap little $50,000 home. I wanted to grow my way up into it and start building my own equity. It's something those lower on the socioeconomic scale really need to be able to do to move up. We know the cost of housing is an incredible challenge. Getting young people like I was once -- into their own homes, building their own equity. That's very important. Out of the purposes of transparency, while I'm voting for this, I want to make sure they know, and the public knows this is not property tax relief. This is shifting the burden. And I want those going into that housing challenge at the 176 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 other end of the spectrum -- to be prepared for it, to understand how it works, and for us to acknowledge that we still need to work with the cost of initial housing low -- those trying to own their own homes. This is, as you mentioned, not a dramatic big increase on them. But if I recall correctly, we just raised their delivery taxes. We just raised a billion of other taxes on top of already being the number one tax State overall in the nation. So this isn’t happening in a vacuum. So I urge an Aye vote, but I also urge us to reconsider how we're doing business here.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Sally Turner.
Thank you, Mr. President. Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
Thank you, Senator. Appreciate your bill. I just want to make sure, like we talked in Committee, that we're going to continue to discuss this and continue to reach out to the county clerks so we can establish a good way to do the -- all the procedures that need to be done. And that's it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva.
Thank you, Senator Turner. Yes, my commitment is to come back and continue to work over the summer so that when we come back for Veto Session, that we have assemblance of a bill, in regards to property tax sales and that we're able to address the -- the situation, but also to make sure that we're getting input 177 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 from the people that are actually doing all of the work. So I -- I got some summer work for me.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
That's it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Wilcox.
Question to the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
You had mentioned that there had been some numbers run. And in the years that I've been here -- the rising of senior exemption has been bills filed by both sides of the aisle, but never completed. Did you get a number, of the number of seniors, who lost their frees, often just due to COLA increases in Social Security, just got over the 65,000 mark, have had their freeze assessments now redone to a much higher amount. Did we get any numbers on the number of seniors that lost -- that lost the freeze in the past 3, 4, or 5 years.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva.
No, Senator. But we can definitely look into that as again, I'll be continuing to do this work in regards to property taxes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox. 178 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
And this language does not make any of these exemption limit increases retroactive to the past 2, 3, 4, or 5 years.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva.
No, Senator. Not at the moment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Wilcox, to the bill.
So, yes. My colleague back here raised some big issues. My fear is that we are a few years too late on this exemption increase. It's absolutely needed. But the number of seniors who have likely lost their assessment will now requalify again, but at a much higher assessment level are likely more than making up for the new members who will qualify at this point. I encourage a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Villanueva, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a good bill. We're trying to deal with a larger -- a much, much larger issue in regards to property taxes, and we'll continue to do the work, vote Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 3790 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3790, having received the required constituted majority, is declared passed. I want to be 179 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 the first to -- to wish Senator Mattie Hunter a happy birthday. We're going to go to page 12, we're going to go to the bottom of the page, House Bill 3374. Senator Sims seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 3374 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 3374. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Sims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt the amendment and debate it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3374, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, on your bill.
180 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 3374, as amended -- as amended, increases the bond Authorization for General Obligation bonds and the Build Illinois bonds by 1.6 billion to implement the Capital Plan for the State for Fiscal Year -- for Fiscal Year 2026. I ask for -- I ask -- I know of no opposition -- ask for new roll call or ask for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Rose?
Yeah, I'm not going to belabor the point here, but the bottom line is this bonding bill allows you to backload your principal payments, which is just a really, really bad idea. It's exactly why Illinois got into fiscal trouble it's gotten into over many, many years because instead of making a normal amortization schedule, you're allowed to essentially just like Wimpy from Popeye, you know, get your hamburger today and pay you Tuesday for it -- later. I mean, you could just absolutely push all the payments off into the future. Terrible idea. Please vote No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I would -- I would remind my colleague, on the other side of the aisle, that the authority that he talks about is certainly not a permanent one, but it was -- it was created on a bipartisan basis in the 96th General Assembly. So this is not a new authority, but it's something that's -- that's certainly we have done before -- Done in the past, and it allows us to smooth out -- our debt service payments to make for a more 181 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 consistent reduction of our debt payments. So, Mr. President, thank you and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) This bill incurs State debt, and pursuant to Section 9, Article 9 of the Illinois Constitution will require 36 votes for Senate passage. So, the question is, shall House Bill 3374 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 37 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3374, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We'll go to page 8, we're going to go to House Bill 7042{sic} (742). Senator Walker seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 742 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading, is House Bill 742. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendment approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Walker.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Walker, on your amendment.
Please pass the amendment.
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) 182 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 742, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Walker, on your bill.
This amendment is about the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act, which is due to be enforced and begin on January 1st, 2025. We have moved that off to January -- Pardon me. We have moved it from July 1st, 2025 to July 1st, 2026. This Act is in litigation. We must move this on another year so that small banks are not -- charged differently than large banks in this State. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I rise just to emphasize that we passed this policy a year ago because we believed it was good public policy, and I still believe that to be true. The facts revealed over the last year of people -- credit card processors fighting over a fraction of -- a fraction so vociferously only confirms my opinion that there's more to this than meets the eye. So I encourage the litigants to resolve this quickly so that we may fully implement this policy. 183 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator McClure. So the question is shall… Senator Walker, to close.
I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Bill 742 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 52 voting Yea, 4 voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 742, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Committee on Assignments will please meet in the President’s Anteroom. Committee on Assignments. Senator Castro, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like the record to reflect, I intended to vote Aye on House Bill 3374.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. Senator Preston, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. My intention was to -- was to vote Aye on House Bill 3374, as well.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The record will reflect your intention. Senator Sims, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of personal privilege. 184 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please state your point.
You know -- we -- it is -- is necessary for us to recognize always the hard work of our hard-working staff. This year we had -- we have a new -- we have a new Director of our policy and budget team, Dillon Santoni. But, yeah, you can give him a round of applause. Dillon shepherded us through many, many tough nights, - - tough days. But he -- he didn't do it alone, he did it with his Deputy Director -- Andrew Hoffmann, who is also new to his role. Let's give him a round of applause. And our other Director of our -- Director of special programs and policy and -- and -- and all things -- legislative assistants and all things. That's right. He does it all, Miles Sodowski. So, if, there is anything else wrong in the -- in the draft, Miles did it. But to these -- these -- these amazing -- also to these amazing young people who are around -- who are back around the -- back of the room and around the -- around the -- around the room on both sides of the aisle. They are -- they -- they do so much work for us. We -- we -- we stand here and we debate the bills and we -- we talk about -- we talk about the policy, but the work is theirs. They have done the work. They've done the hard work to make us smarter, to make us look good, to inform -- to inform the work that we do on behalf of our constituents. So I want to thank all our -- all of our staff, on both sides of the of the aisle, for the tremendous work that they do on our behalf to make us look good and to represent the 13 -- the 13 -- more than 13 million people in the State of Illinois. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 185 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you seek recognition? Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
I would like recognition -- recognition to speak and thank our staff, as well.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please make your point.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. I too, on this side -- Thank you, Senator Sims, this is one thing that we agree on today is thanking our staff. You know, from -- and it's not just staff behind us. First of all, we do want to say thank you to the staff behind us, the budget staff, that have spent thousands of hours working on the budget, analyzing the budget, and also our com. staff and our policy staff, that are behind us. We are literally blessed to have these people who spend so much time researching, analyzing, and giving us the information that we need to be our very best. But also, I'd like to thank everybody -- in the Capitol. From the time we walk into the Capitol, to the people who are helping to maintain this beautiful building, to the security that make this building safe for us when we're working in it. To all of our staff here. Thank you. I'd also like to thank the staff that are watching us right here on TV from your desk back in our offices here, who make it so easy for us to do what we do. And it's not only staff on our side, but it's staff on both sides. I appreciate your staff, as well. They are here, everybody is here to do the absolute very best that they can do, so we can be our best. So I'd like to close and say it truly is an honor and a privilege to serve with such incredible staff. Thank you, Mr. President. 186 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Cunningham, Chair of the Committee on Assignments reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved for Consideration - Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2437. Signed, Senator Bill Cunningham, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Sims, for what purpose do you seek recognition?.
Another point of personal privilege, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please state your point.
I can't do what I do in the Capitol without, you know, somebody very special, my legislative assistant, Chelsea Stecz. Not only -- not only does she put up with me, she puts up with all of you. So, I -- I have to thank her on behalf of all of us, but also my District Office Staff, Earl Bell, our Chief of Staff, Matthew Pittman and Sharon Pincham. Thank you for all the work they're doing on our behalf. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Loughran Cappel, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
I -- thank you, Mr. President. I, too, have a point of recognition. I don't know if anyone knows this, but today is Liam Bower's last Session day. Because our education staffer, our lead 187 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 education staffer, because, surprise, surprise, Liam is going to law school. I don't know where he is. And I just -- I just want to -- just say briefly, it has been an honor and a privilege working with such a brilliant young man. And we have high hopes for you, Liam. And keep -- keep doing the good work. So thank you for blessing us with your abilities.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Let me just remind the Body, we do still have a lot of bills to do. Senator Villa, but for what purpose do you seek recognition?
I think it is the other Maddie's birthday, as well. So happy birthday, Maddie Dotson. And…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Happy Birthday.
I forgot -- I forgot to say a point of privilege, sorry. And also to all of the legislative assistants who are down there listening to this. All of you are amazing, F Section rocks. Sebastian, We love you and that's that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Now we're going to do business. We're going to move to Supplemental Calendar No. 3, it's been printed and distributed. We have Senate Bill 2437. Mr. Secretary, please… Senator Aquino. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2437. Signed by Senator Aquino.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Aquino, on your motion. 188 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. Motion to Concur on House Amendment No. 2. This is the 2025 Medicaid Omnibus bill, and I won't go through every provision in -- in this Omnibus bill, but I would - - what would I say is that in all my time in the legislature, I think this is the leanest Medicaid bill that has been offered up a total GRF expense of… Let me get this right. Approximately 359,000 net and 719,000 gross. Again, that is thousand. And there's a number of provisions of changes, whatnot, that do not have a -- that are -- budget neutral. And so I ask for a favorable roll call.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Any discussion? So, the question is, shall the Senate concur with -- with House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2437. All 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 36 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 24, and having received the required constitutional majority the Senate does concur with House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2437, and the bill is declared passed. Supplemental Calendar No. 1 has been printed and distributed. We're going to go to Senate Bill 1797, these are motions to concur. Senator Walker. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1797. Signed by Senator Walker.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Walker, on your motion.
189 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1797 is a set of improvements to the Crypto Registration bill. It is -- it moves many of the elements of the industry from opposition to proponents. I move that we agree with this.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Simmons? Is there any discussion? Senator McClure.
Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
Wait one second. Senator Walker. We still have some people within the industry that are currently opposed to this legislation. Are you supportive of working on a trailer bill, perhaps next year, to try to resolve some of those issues?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Walker.
Always willing to work on a trailer bill. This is, in fact, the trailer bill that I had committed to work on, and we got it fast enough to make it an amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you. So Coinbase is, as far as I know, still in opposition to this bill as far as at this moment, are they the only opponent and are they still opposed?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 190 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Walker?
No opponent. They are in favor of a federal solution, do not believe we should have a State level solution. They are a good actor in this industry, we're not going to move them relative to this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Walker, to close.
Let's pass it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, it's past midnight. So all votes now require 36 votes. So, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1797. 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 41 voting Yea, 15 voting Nay, none voting Present. And the Senate, having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1797, and the bill is declared passed. We're going to go to Senate Bill - Motion to Concur, Senate Bill 2319, Senator Ellman. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2319. Signed by Senator Ellman. 191 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. Concurring this -- concurring with this motion will just bring an Agreed bill into even greater agreement and I urge an Aye vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion… I'm sorry, Senator McClure.
Thank you. Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates she will yield.
So, Senator, it's my understanding that the House passed an amendment on this bill that -- should this bill take effect and the bill that we just vote on take effect, that it's going to repeal parts of the bill that we just voted on. So could you -- on the bill -- on this bill, so the bill before us would repeal parts of this bill. So I guess how are these two bills going to both become law at the same time? And what is your concern, if any, as to how each of these bills is going to affect each other?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman.
Thank you, Senator. Yeah, we had this planned, well not planned, but we had a contingency plan all along. So the consumer protections that are embedded in Senate Bill 2319 will hold the regulatory framework around which and for the regulations and enforcement those will now, once that bill is enacted, those will 192 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 be done through the greater crypto regulatory framework that was just passed with 1797.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ellman, to close.
I urge to concur.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur with the House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2319. 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 39 voting Yea, 18 voting Nay, none voting Present. And the Senate having -- having received the required majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 to Senate Bill 2319 and the motion -- the bill is declared passed. Senator Rose, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Permission to present from my Chair. I'd like the record to reflect Senate Bill 1797. I intended to vote No. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) It will reflect your intention. On the bottom of the Supplemental Calendar No. 1 we have Senate Bill 2456, Senator Glowiak Hilton. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of the 193 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2456. Signed by Senator Glowiak Hilton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Glowiak Hilton, on your amendment -- on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. I move to concur with House Floor Amendment No. 2, this is to Senate Bill 2456. It's the annual sunset Omnibus that extends the repeal date of various Acts. I don't want to read them all, but there are some that are extending a year, some three years, some five years. It's just the annual sunset Omnibus. I'm happy to take questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion?. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2456. 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 38 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, none voting Present. And the Senate does hereby concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2456, and the bill is declared passed. We'll go to the top of the page, we'll go to Senate Bill 328. President Harmon. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 328. Signed by President Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 328 got a very poor introduction to the Senate by the 194 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 House. They sent us a rough draft of this bill on another vehicle, only to discover a scrivener's error, one that, in fact, I believe led to an unfortunate misunderstanding of the bill at hand. This is an amendment to the Code of Civil Procedure, and I want to spell out the very narrow circumstance in which it applies. In an action brought under the Uniform Hazardous Substances Act, where a defendant is subject to the general jurisdiction of the State of Illinois, under current law. Then and only then, may a codefendant be subjected to general jurisdiction if they have registered to do business in the State of Illinois, or should have registered to do business. This is very narrow. It ensures that a case proceeding in Illinois can, in fact, bring in all of the co-defendants and be resolved here in our courts. Happy to try to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Arellano?
Question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
A little bit of confusion. I heard the intro. So this -- you mentioned it's very narrowly tailored. So this wouldn't apply -- this jurisdictional stuff to a retail shop or mom and pop shop. This is very narrow -- to chemical-based incidents. Is that right?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Yes. Unless the retail shop violated the Uniform Hazardous Substances Act, it would not apply to them. And I would also 195 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 emphasize that a retail store in Illinois is already subject to that jurisdiction. This is really to an out-of-state defendant.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Arellano.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Plummer.
Thank you, Mr. President. A question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
Mr. President, so if somebody lives in Miami, Florida has never stepped foot in Illinois, transacts business with a company in Miami, Florida that just so happens to be registered to do business in Illinois -- they could come to say, Madison County, Illinois and file a lawsuit. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senator, I'm -- I'm really not trying to be thick. I don't… Can you repeat that fact pattern that didn't -- I didn't follow. I wasn't expecting you to go where you went.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
Sure. So if a resident of Miami, Florida is doing business 196 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 with a company in Miami, Florida that just so happens to be registered to do business in Illinois, may not have a physical presence in Illinois, but may be registered to do business in Illinois. If they have some sort of problem with that company, they could file a lawsuit in say -- Peoria County, Illinois; Madison County, Illinois; Williamson County, Illinois. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Not exactly. No. If there is a claim under the Uniform Hazardous Substance Act, an Illinois law properly brought against an Illinois defendant and a codefendant is a foreign business corporation that has registered to do business in Illinois or should have -- then they can be brought in as a codefendant. But you can't initiate the suit against a defendant in this category.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
So, without a detailed fact pattern. Am I correct? My impression, our impression is someone in Miami, Florida can -- may -- may never have stepped foot in Illinois can participate in this legislation, helps them participate in a lawsuit in any number of Illinois counties.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
No, Senator. Not at all. This -- this applies to defendants, not to plaintiffs. If an injured plaintiff brings an action 197 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 properly against an Illinois defendant, codefendants who are registered in Illinois can be brought in properly, under this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Plummer.
My point, Mr. President, is this -- last year, a couple of years ago, we introduced legislation -- to make it harder for Illinois citizens to have their rights adjudicated in Illinois courts on matters regarding constitutional law. So, if you lived on the Kentucky border, the Wisconsin border, the Indiana border, the Iowa border, the Missouri border we made it harder for you to have your voice heard. We made it harder for Illinoisans to -- to to -- to have a court of law adjudicate their concerns. What we're doing now, is we're making it easier for out-of-state groups to utilize Illinois courts to adjudicate issues that may have very little to do with Illinois. You know, it's not just me, a Republican State Senator that has concerns about this legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Let me read to you what Kathy Hochul had to say about this -- this type of thing, the Governor of New York. "This will deter out-of-state companies from doing business in New York. This bill will cause uncertainty for businesses that will burden our judicial system. I will once again veto this bill". You know, I don't always outlier in a lot of things -- I'm always an outlier in a lot of things. And we've talked, whether it's the budget, all kinds of stuff we've talked about the last couple of weeks. One thing we're an outlier in, is job creation. We're an outlier for the wrong 198 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 reasons. We lose people, we lose businesses, we prioritize special interests over the people of this State. Even states like New York are saying this is a bad idea -- even states like New York say this is going to cost us jobs -- even states like New York say this is going to cost us business. Don't do this because it doesn't make any sense. But here in Illinois, we're going to charge forward, prioritizing special interests over the economic well- being of the people that live and work in this State. I wish we could reorient our priorities to the struggling families and struggling businesses of this State, and maybe for once, let the special interests take a back seat. I urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Tracy.
Thank you, Mr. President. Will the sponsor yield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
President Harmon, how do we define toxic under this bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President. It is the definition of toxic under the Uniform Hazardous Substances Act.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President -- Senator Tracy.
That is -- I'm wondering.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 199 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 President Harmon.
Apparently, that was a question. I don't have the definition in front of me, but I -- it really isn't relevant in that it is a limiting factor and not -- not one that is germane to the bill. If there is a claim, relating to a substance defined as toxic under the Uniform Hazardous Substances Act, then this applies. So it's self-contained in the Act. I'm -- I'm not sure where the question is going.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Tracy.
Okay. I will -- take a look at that. But -- also, I think there's concern that in this one Section of your bill referring to the Toxic and Hazardous Substances Act, we have another Section lower in the body of the bill. On page 7, and going down through lines 7 through 26. Basically implying that any corporation that is registered under the Business Corporation Act could be subject to the -- two general jurisdiction within the State of Illinois and not limited to the Hazardous Toxic Act.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President. Absolutely, incorrect. And one of the issues clarified in the scrivener's error correction that came over from the House in this second bill, that every single exercise in these other paragraphs below refer back to the paragraph that refers to the Hazardous Substance Act. So I had the same concern you did, and I wanted to make sure that the language was crystal 200 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 clear that this applies only to claims under the Uniform Hazardous Substance Act.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Tracy.
All right. I appreciate your answers. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator McClure.
Thank you, Mr. President. Questions for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
President Harmon. So we've now gone back and forth several people. I just want to get clarification, which I think you -- you're attempting to provide here. I think Senator Plummer talked about things that arise outside of the State of Illinois, and he expressed concerns that despite the fact that whatever activity that caused a lawsuit to be filed occurred outside of our State, they can still be -- the lawsuit itself can take place within our State. Specific on -- on Page 5, President Harmon, there is a area where it discusses that the action can allege injury or illness resulting from exposure to a substance defined as toxic. I'm going to skip over now. And then it says, "whether the cause of action arises within or without this State". So I guess, can I just get some clarification on that line? Because I think the statement was made that if it didn't take place in Illinois, I -- you couldn't come and -- and file a lawsuit based on something that happens elsewhere. That language seems to indicate if it happens elsewhere, 201 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 you can still file a lawsuit.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
I -- I -- I will try again. The action alleges an injury or illness under the Uniform Hazardous Substances Act of Illinois. So I'm -- I'm not sure -- where the gap is, but this is intended to be -- under our laws, it could very well be an Illinois plaintiff who has been injured, but we're trying to collect all of the defendants, and someone should not escape liability because they are simply eluding jurisdiction. And again, there needs to be one proper defendant before you get to the codefendants under existing law.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Okay. I think what might give some more clarity to this, and I appreciate the response. What's the -- what's the reason behind why this bill is necessary? Was there a -- was there a lawsuit? Was there a Supreme Court case that triggered this?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah. United States Supreme Court, Mallory against Norfolk -- created the -- the pathway to this. I would point out that -- one of the prior speakers, after discussing a bill or an Illinois law wholly unrelated to this mentioned the New York law. Again, the New York law is derivative of the same Supreme Court decision, but radically different in its scale. So, 202 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 yes, this is a response to a U.S. Supreme Court case, but very different than the one offered in New York.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator McClure.
Thank you, President Harmon. I'll speak to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
So I guess we just have a disagreement on the language here. And I appreciate President Harmon taking the time to look over this and provide his explanation for why this particular bill has been filed. But -- but the fact of the matter is, is that we believe this is more broad than what's being described and the business groups agree with our perspective. That's why they're almost I think all of them are opposed to this bill. And the reason why it's important for these lawsuits to make -- to happen, if they took place in the State of Illinois, is because all the witnesses would be in Illinois, and all the businesses affected would be in the State of Illinois. If you start bringing in cases that happened -- as this bill says, something that arises within or without this State, which is -- this is from the bill. If you've got something that took place in Alabama and you've got to have all these witnesses come from Alabama to the State of Illinois and maybe a business owner that lives in Florida that comes to the State of Illinois. That just puts the disadvantage to multiple parties and makes everything a lot more expensive and allows for venue shopping. That, I think, would hurt the business groups as a whole. So I appreciate the debate, but I respectfully ask for a 203 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon, to close. I'm sorry. There's a late light, Senator Rezin.
Thank you, Mr. President. I have two questions for the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
Thank you -- President Harmon. After reading this bill, a foreign corporation would consent to general jurisdiction in Illinois courts to allege toxic exposure injuries under the Uniform Hazardous Substance Act of Illinois. Whether or not the cause of action arises in Illinois. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
You have correctly read from the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Thank you. Am I correct that the legislation is arbitrarily, by only expanding general jurisdiction in Illinois courts over a foreign corporation for just claim under the Uniform Hazardous Substance Act, and not any other types of claims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
204 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. And the hour is late, Senator. I'm sorry, what was the first part of the question? What…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin?
Am I correct that the legislation is arbitrary by only expanding general jurisdiction in Illinois courts over a foreign corporation for just claim under the Uniform Hazardous Substances Act, and not any other types of claims.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Senator, for clarifying that. No, it is the opposite of arbitrary. It is very specific. It is limited in this case to -- to these sorts of claims, and I would emphasize that it only applies when a defendant has submitted properly to jurisdiction under current law. The change in law only applies to the extension of jurisdiction to codefendants. That would make it easier for an injured Illinoisan to seek redress.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Rezin.
Please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
Thank you. The questions obviously that I asked are from the business groups since I'm not an attorney. But, if you look at the bill, there are many business groups concerned about this bill. I 205 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 know, and I take you at your word, Mr. President, that you believe it's narrowly defined. But when you have the businesses that actually work in this world and who it potentially could affect, and they have concerns because they feel that the bill was written very general. It -- it creates -- concern for the businesses and more importantly, it creates an uncertainty for businesses in the State of Illinois. And it's just one more reason not to be in the State of Illinois. I ask for a No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Not to belabor the point at this late hour, but as I said in my opening -- the -- the first draft of this bill that came over is vulnerable to many of the complaints that you offered. But at our insistence, the House redrafted it to make it much more specific and limit it to the cases that I have described. So I ask you for -- for your Aye votes. I'm looking forward to sending it to the Governor of Illinois and not to the Governor of New York.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall the Senate concur with House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 328. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 37 voting Yea, 19 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur with House Amendments No. 2 to Senate Bill 328, and the bill is declared passed. We will go to Senate Bill 1344, Senator Halpin. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion. 206 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
I move to concur with the House, in the adoption of their Amendments No. 2 to Senate Bill 1344. Signed by Senator Halpin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Halpin, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a bill does a couple of simple things. First, it codifies, under the Prevailing Wage Act that a sewer inspection with a closed-circuit television to identify issues in a sewer system is properly a public work, under the Prevailing Wage Act. The second thing it does, is make sure that contractors or subcontractors that fail to file their certified payroll are subject to civil penalties for that failure. This is again, the first part is again a clarification. There's a third technical issue to correct a scrivener's error in the Workplace Transparency Act. And I would answer any questions at this late hour and would ask for your Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Any discussion, Senator Tracy?
Yes. Thank you, Mr. President. I'll just speak to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Bill.
I have concerns that we're broadening the scope of prevailing wage to an item that is not construction such, usually prevailing wage are limited to construction jobs. But more importantly, the second part of this imposes fines and penalties on an employer who fails to properly certify his payroll, now this could be done by 207 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 -- inadvertently. The current law is that you have to intentionally and willfully not certify correctly, and why it's important that we not change this bill, is that, if an employer fails to properly certify his payroll, and that happens on two occasions, that employer is banned from bidding on State prevailing wage jobs for a period of 5 years. So we're putting an employer in a more difficult place for bidding on State jobs with this new change of -- of taking away the willful and intentional, not certifying correctly. Because if you talk to any employer in this State who deals with prevailing wage certifications, it is very complex. It is not an easy thing to comply with, and some do fail to do so correctly and then the Department of Labor brings it to their attention. But most importantly, if it's done twice under this bill, that employer is going to be banned from bidding on State projects for 5 years. It's should be intentional or willfully not complying, not an inadvertent mistake. So let's not burden Illinois employers who are only trying to comply, that may have failed to comply with this complex certification. Let's not force them into a situation where they are going to be banned from State projects for 5 years. So with that, I'd urge definitely a No vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion, Senator Arellano.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the bill.
It's late, so I'll keep this very, very quick. For rural 208 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 communities, rural mayors, what my colleague just mentioned is a challenge is a very real challenge trying to convince smaller employers, which is why NFIB is opposed to this, to get involved in the process, get involved in the State building process was hard. There were many who tell me, no, it's not worth the red tape, it's not worth the headaches. If you make a mistake, you get penalized, causes a lot of conflict. We would have to bid out, and there were times we would get one bidder in response. Now, you can imagine, as a local community already, you know, rural community already challenged -- dealing with rising costs, construction costs, all these other things. When these companies start to know they're only going to be the only bidder on it, or there's only going to be two bidders, they definitely increase prices. It's a very good position for them to be in, a very bad position for the taxpayers, very bad position for competition, very bad position for the small employers. So, I encourage a No vote, as long as, those kind of provisions are in it. It is already a very challenging environment to get in and to stop getting the benefit of the doubt. Most damages, the small employers in the rural communities that are already struggling to get the right amount of bids. And I'm not being dramatic when I say that. There are times you get no bidders and you have to go again. And when that happens, the people who bid next know what they're walking into and they can corner you. I -- I encourage a No vote, until that's solved.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Halpin, to close.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just -- you know, I respect the opinions of my colleagues across the way, but I do want to correct 209 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 a couple of inaccuracies. First, again, this is codifying law, it is not expanding anything new. This is already something that the Department of Labor considers and pursues as a public work. Second, thing, I want to clarify is that these -- the fines involved are discretionary. The Department of Labor is -- has a track record of trying to work with employers that, inadvertently, or otherwise, by mistake fail to file their certified payroll documents and that will continue even after this law is passed. And then lastly, it is not correct to say that the contractor is at risk of not being able to do business with the State. Under Illinois law, the contractor -- a contractor can be debarred or prevented from bidding on projects if they actually fail to pay the prevailing wage payroll, under Illinois law. The mere failure to file the certified payroll documents is not subject to -- does not subject the contract --contractor to debarment or inability to bid on projects. So, hopefully, with those points corrected, I would respectfully ask for a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) So, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1344. 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 the question, there are 45 voting Yea, 11 voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does hereby concur with House Amendments No. 2 to Senate Bill 1344, and the bill is declared passed. We'll go to Senate Bill 1922, Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 210 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1922. Signed by Senator Morrison.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Morrison, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This outlines 52 specific circumstances under which the Secretary of State may take administrative action for drivers who fail to yield right-of-way to emergency vehicles, workers, or pedestrians at emergency scenes. This is Scotts law. Happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1922. The voting… -- 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's 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received, the required constitutional majority of the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1922, and the bill is declared passed. To the bottom of the page, we're going to do Senate Bill 2493, Senator Belt. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
To concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2493. Signed by Senator Belt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt, on your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. This legislation seeks to deliver a much-needed broadband to underserved or unserved communities. It seeks to do this by authorizing electric co-ops who are broadband 211 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 grant recipients to deploy broadband infrastructure within the area noted in the broadband -- broadband grant, in Illinois. The amendment permits the co-ops to use, in the grant service area, their own existing electrical easement, for the purpose of broadband, existing electrical easement contingent upon an agreement with the easement holder, and highway right-of-way's contingent upon proper permitting. Also, Senate Bill 2493, as amended, prohibits landlords from blocking deployment and mandates just compensation for property demolition. Mr. President, I know of no opposition, and I will take any questions, now.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Senator Sally Turner.
Thank you, Mr. President. A question for the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Indicates he will yield.
In this bill, Senator, if an electric easement is located upon railroad property, is it the intention of broadband grant recipient to abide by the current law, as well as, the railroad requirements, including permitting, engineering, and safety to access the railroad property.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt.
Senator. Thank you for that question. It is the intent of the legislation for broadband -- broadband grant recipient to abide by current law and railroad requirements to access railroad property. 212 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner.
Thank you, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Bryant.
Thank you, Mr. President. I know it's late, but I do want to thank Senator Belt for bringing this bill. In rural areas, broadband is something we need desperately. Support this bill and encourage everyone on our side to support it, as well.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Further discussion? Senator Joyce.
Thank you, Mr. President. Echoes what Senator Bryant just said -- and I had the same question, Senator Turner, so thank you for asking that. I've been involved in this bill, in the negotiations, there's been a lot of people in the room -- there were amendments made that brought Farm Bureau to neutral on it. I do want to encourage that this deals mainly with co-op areas and the areas that are northern into ComEd territories, we want to continue working so that we can get this bill to encompass more of the areas across all of our State -- in the rural areas. So thank you for bringing this forward.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt, to close.
Mr. President, just want a favorable roll call. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 213 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 So, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2493. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And having received -- received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 2493, and the bill is declared passed. So we're going to go back on the Regular Calendar to page 9, to Senate -- to House Bill 1607, Senator Hunter. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1607, an Act concerning State government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Hunter, on your bill.
House Bill 1607 creates the elimination of food deserts. It's creating a Commission. And -- and I would ask for Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall House Bill 1607 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 1607, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Top of page 10, we have House Bill 1823. Senator Doris Turner seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 1823 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the 214 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 1823. Mr. Secretary, any Floor amendment approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your amendment.
I'd like to pass the amendment and explain it on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the amendment is adopted. Any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 3rd Reading. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1823, an Act concerning courts. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. The -- House Bill 1823, as amended, actually does two things. It assigns "two at large judges" to Macon County and "three at large judges" to Champaign County, and it also amends the Associate Judges Act to require one additional associate judge to be appointed in the Seventh Circuit and assigned to Sangamon County.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 215 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 1823 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 1823, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. At the bottom of page 11 we have House Bill 2978, Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2978, an Act concerning employment. 3rd Reading the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 2978 creates the Neonatal Intensive Care Leave Act. It extends unpaid leave for 10 to 20 days for parents who have a baby who is receiving neonatal intensive care. Any of us who have had young members of our family, who have had to spend the first several weeks or even months of their lives in the NICU, know what a tremendous burden that can be on parents. We also know that stays in the NICU can take a long time, particularly with dramatically premature births. The bonding that occurs between the child and parents is a vital part of that recovery process, and we want to make sure parents can take some extra time off from work to be with their baby. The House sponsor did a really good job with employers and business groups to make sure there were compromises made in this bill, and there is no opposition due to that work. I ask for your votes -- votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 216 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 2978 pass. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 2978, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Simmons, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
For an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please state your announcement.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. This is June 1st -- and it is now Pride Month. This is the second time that I've been able to be on the Floor of the Illinois Senate during June. And so when this first happened, it was June of 2021, I was in my first year. You were actually in the Presiding Officer's Chair at that moment, -- and I got up as a -- as a nervous freshman to wish everybody Happy Pride Month. I'm not quite as nervous, but definitely more tired than I was in June of 2021. And I just want to wish everybody a Happy Pride Month. As an LGBTQ member, of this august body. I think it's really important for me to -- to, you know, just ask everybody to go back to their districts and find ways to celebrate LGBTQ people right now because our communities are being swallowed alive. We're become the punching bag of public policy efforts out of our federal government and State governments, like it's going out of style. But I can tell you as your -- as your friend and colleague, I am not going out of style. I will be celebrating Pride 217 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Month robustly for the entire month. I'm going be doing all the parades. I'm going to be hanging out with LGBTQ youth so that they can see themselves represented in their Senator. I am going to be visiting LGBTQ veterans. That's right. A lot of our veterans are, themselves, LGBTQ people. LGBTQ seniors, moms and dads, and all of those that comprise the extended LGBTQ community across our State. And so, Mr. President, I just ask everybody else here to do the same and once again, wish everybody a Happy Pride Month. Thank you for your attention.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We're going to go to page 12, in the middle of the page we have House Bill 3345 with a letter on file -- that has Senator Feigenholtz carrying this bill for Senator Fine. So -- Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3345, an Act concerning regulation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 3345 is a sunset extension, and it also updates the Hearing Instrument Consumer Protection Act. This language has -- had been agreed by the Illinois Hearing Society, the Illinois Academy of Audiology, and the Department of Public Health. I'm happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall House Bill 3345 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 218 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3345, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. We're going to go to page 13 on the Calendar, we're going to Secretary's Desk Resolutions. Senate Resolution No. 11, Senator Porfirio. Senator Porfirio, on Senate Resolution No. 11. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 11, offered by Senator Porfirio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 11 establishes June 4th as the Battle of Midway Day. Not only am I a proud Navy veteran, I also represent the 11th Senate District, home of Midway Airport. Chicago has two airports; O'Hare is also named after a Navy veteran and Medal of Honor recipient. We've Navy Pier in Chicago. We've Soldier Field. But Midway Airport is not only the world's greatest airport, but the Midway area and the Battle of Midway -- You know, we -- I always think it's reflective of the grit and resilience of the working families I represent. And -- I think it's just important that we reflect on the namesake of Midway Airport. The -- the Battle of Midway obviously played an important role in the -- US-led post-World War II International Order. You know, just six months after we were attacked at Pearl Harbor, we turned the tide of -- of the war, in which we would be victorious. And -- I think it's important to recognize that and always -- appreciate the fact that -- the Battle of Midway and Midway Airport -- kind of lead a connection to -- two of the things I hold most 219 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 dear in my life. Thank you very much, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion, Senator Arellano.
To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) To the resolution.
"Who ya"!
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Porfirio, to close.
Go Navy beat Army.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Resolution 11 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 35. We have a letter on file that says -- it gives Senator Johnson permission to carry Senator Lightford's resolution. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 35, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Johnson, on Senator Lightford's resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 35 declares January 1st, 2026, as Black Diaspora Freedom Day in the State of Illinois to educate, showcase, discuss, and mend fences between the Black and Diaspora communities. 220 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 35 pass. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. From the bottom of the page we have Senate Resolution 118, Senator Ventura. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 118, offered by Senator Ventura.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Ventura, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Race Amity Day encourages people to come together with different diversities without -- within our communities. It is a time where hate and violence is often too persistent. And, so, this resolution calls for the attention -- for interracial friendships that can make our community stronger. And it declares June 8th as Race Amity Day. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 118 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Turning the page to page 14 we have Senate Resolution 257, Senator Faraci. Mr. Secretary -- Senator Faraci, on Senate Resolution 257. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 257, offered by Senator Faraci.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Faraci, on your resolution.
221 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 257 declares August, 14th, 2025 as Illinois ABLE Savings Day. For those of you who will remember, Senator Scott Bennett was a champion of ABLE, achieving a better life experience. I think he'd be very proud that on this day we are making August 14th, 2025 Illinois ABLE Savings Day. Thank you for your time.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Seeing no discussion. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 257 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate -- going down the page Senate Resolution 237 -- 273, Senator Belt. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 273, offered by Senator Belt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Belt, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 273 just declares June 10th, 2025 is Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis Day or FSGS Disease Awareness Day, in Illinois.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Could you repeat that, please? The question is, shall Senate Resolution 273 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Joint Resolution 13, Senator Hunter. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution. It's House Joint Resolution 13.
House Joint Resolution 13, offered by Senator Hunter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 222 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Senator Hunter, on your resolution.
Thank you very much, Mr. President. House Joint Resolution 13 occurred two weeks ago in acknowledgment of Alpha Kappa Alpha Day, where my sorority sisters were all over this building and Capital campus -- in their pink and green. And I asked for Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 13 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. We're going to go back to the Supplemental Calendar No. 1 to House Joint Resolution 27, Senator Preston. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
House Joint Resolution 27, offered by Senator Preston.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Preston, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Joint Resolution 27 recognizes the importance of local food, sustainable, accessible, fair and healthy food systems, and the healthy food choices these systems provide and therefore creates the Illinois Good Food Purchasing Policy Task Force to study current food procurement practices within the State and explore how good food purchasing can be implemented to maximize the current procurement of healthy foods. This will support local farmers in the State of Illinois. I asked for this Body's support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) The question is, shall House Joint Resolution 27 pass. This 223 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 resolution requires expenditure of State funds, so a roll call vote will be will be required. So the question is, shall House Joint Resolution 27 pass. All those in favor will vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Joint Resolution 27, have received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. We are almost there. To fulfill our responsibilities under Article V, Section 9 of the Constitution, we will now proceed to the Order of Advice and Consent. Senator Murphy.
Well, thank you, Mr. President. I move the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on the Appointment set forth, we have many. No, there's just 4 -- Appointment Message 182 and 206 to 208 of the 104th General Assembly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy moves that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on the Appointment Message just -- just read. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is -- carries. The Senate resolves itself into Executive Session. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message No. 1040208.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends the Senate do consent to the following salaried appointment, To be a member of the State Board of Elections, Casandra Watson. 224 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President -- Senator Murphy.
Mr. President, I move the Senate consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy moves that the -- that the Senate consent to the nomination just made. Is there any discussion? Pursuant to Section 1A-4 of the Election Code of a two-thirds vote is required for confirmation. The question is, does the Senate consent to the nomination just made. 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 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. A two-thirds majority of the Senate concurring but record vote, the Senate does consent to the nomination. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message No. 1040207.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends the Senate do consent to the following salaried appointment, To be a member of the State Board of Elections, Ricky S. Terven.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy.
Mr. President, I move the Senate consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. Pursuant to Section 1A-4 of the Election Code, a two-thirds vote is required for this confirmation. The question is, does the Senate consent to the 225 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 nomination just made. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And a two-thirds majority of the Senate concurring by record vote, the Senate does consent to this nomination. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message No. 1040206.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends the Senate do consent to the following appointment, To be a member of the State Board of Elections, Catherine McCrory Rossmiller.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy.
Mr. President, I move the Senate consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. Pursuant to Section 1A-4 of the Election Code, a two-thirds vote is required for confirmation. The question is, does the Senate consent to the nomination just made. 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 57 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And a two-thirds majority of the Senate concurring by record vote, the Senate does consent to the nomination. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message No. 1040182.
Mr. President, Committee on Executive Appointments 226 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 recommends the Senate to consent to the following salaried appointment, To be a member of the State Board of Elections, Christina D. Cray.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy.
Mr. President, I move the Senate consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion. Pursuant to Section 1A-4 of the Election Code, a two-thirds vote is required for the confirmation. The question is, does the Senate consent to the nomination just made. All those in favor vote, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Yea, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And a two-thirds majority of the Senate concurring on the record vote, the Senate does consent to the nomination. Senator Murphy.
Mr. President, I move -- Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you. I move the Senate arise from Executive Session.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Murphy -- Murphy moves that the Senate arise from Executive Session. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Senate has arisen from the Executive Session.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Really, we're just about there. We're going to go back to page 13, on the Calendar. Senate Resolution 112, Senator Erica Harriss. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution. 227 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
Senate Resolution 112, offered by Senator Erica Harriss.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Harriss, on your resolution.
Thank you. Senate Resolution 112 seeks to declare June 13th, 2025, as SURS (Retiree) Appreciation Day in Illinois. On this day, we honor our more than 63,000 retirees who dedicated their careers to shaping minds, building institutions, and strengthening our communities. Their hard work has laid the foundation for the future of Illinois, both in education and beyond. And by passing this resolution today, we say thank you. So I ask for your support as we celebrate this very special group of people. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 112 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. We're on page 14, we're on Senate Resolution 253, Senator Sally Turner. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 253, offered by Senator Sally Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Turner, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I just would like to pass the resolution declaring May of 2025 as Celiac Disease -- Celiac Disease Awareness Month in the State of Illinois, to raise public awareness for this serious condition. Thank you, I appreciate an Aye. 228 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 253 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Joint Resolution 43, offered by Senator Feigenholtz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) On the order of resolutions is now Senate Joint Resolution 43. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 43, Resolved by the Senate of the 104th General Assembly of the State of Illinois, the House of Representatives concurring herein, that when the two Houses adjourned on Sunday, June 1st, 2025, the Senate stands adjourned till the call of the President. The House of Representatives stands adjourned until the call of the Speaker.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Feigenholtz moves to suspend the rules for the purpose of immediate consideration of adoption of Senate Resolution -- Joint Resolution 43. Those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. The Ayes have it, and the rules are suspended. Senator Feigenholtz now moves the adoption of Senate Joint Resolution 43. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senator Villivalam, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. For purposes of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 229 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Please state your announcement.
Members of -- Mr. President, thank you. Members of the Illinois Senate, I just wanted to take the moment I didn't have before, to acknowledge the -- all of the work that went into the package that was presented. I -- I would be remiss if I didn't thank all of our staff -- from - the House staff, the Governor's staff, both coalitions, and of course our staff -- my district staff -- including my Chief of Staff, Veton. But our legal staff, Gio and Ted, who came in, and then most of all our Transportation staffer, Maddie Wilkins, if we can give her a round of applause. She -- she did not know this is why she was coming to the Floor. But, thank you. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
Messages from the House by Mr. Hollman, Clerk. Mr. President, I am directed to inform the Senate, the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in passage of the bill of the following entitled to Senate Bill 2156 together with the following amendment, which is attached in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2156. Passed the House, as amended, May 31st, 2025. John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Leader Curran, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
For an announcement or…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) 230 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 Please state your announcement.
Mr. President, I just wanted to take a moment, as we finish here, one I would like to say to the Democratic Senate staff, thank you for your professionalism -- your hard work and diligence you show. And I -- and most importantly, the collaboration -- you bring to your job and working with our staff. It is greatly appreciated, staff to staff. You keep politics out of it. And, you know, everyone here works very professionally and that is so incredibly important, and you leave the politics to the amateurs. So thank you. To our -- to my -- my colleagues on this side of the aisle, incredible staff and many of you on the Floor tonight, but also many of you back in offices listening. Thank you, thank you, thank you, I can't thank you enough. You wow me on a week in -- week out, day-in and day-out basis. Your dedication -- your dedication to making myself and my 18 colleagues look good, be well prepared, sounding intelligent, but just your tireless work, weekends, evenings. I cannot thank you enough. I am very proud of the work you do, and we are all very fortunate that we are the beneficiaries, along with the people of the State of Illinois, for your incredible work and dedication to your job. So thank you very much and I'd ask for a round of applause.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) President Harmon.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, it is just with a little bit of pride, I point out that the Senate completed its work on the budget and budget related items, just a hair before the House did. For better or worse, though, the House 231 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 is wrapping up the rest of its work now, and so the work will be able to accomplish, this spring Session is coming to an end. We've passed a good budget in a bad year, and I'm proud of the work we've done, despite the appropriate partisanship tonight and this week. It really is true that we get along much better than folks might, -- let on at home. And Leader Curran to you, to your members and I ratify your -- endorsement of both your staff and ours. The work that they do together when no one is looking really powers this place. This was a most challenging year for our caucus. One that was a test of our values, and I hope that when we are judged on this time will prove us right. So -- from the most senior Member of our leadership team to the newest Member, I thank you. We are a family and we stand together more strongly. I will also acknowledge our remarkable staff. Senator Sims pointed out the budget and policy staff and I fully ratify that. There are some familiar figures on this Floor, Giovanni in the President's Rostrum. Ashley Jenkins Jordan, my Chief of Staff and Mike Hoffman who are -- making sure this place runs. But there are folks you see scurrying around the Floor that don't get the accolades. And I want to call out our Floor team -- among the Leaders, Jake Handley, Celeste Holmes, Nancy Bravo Garcia, and Andy McPike. And I want to pay particular attention this year to someone who took on a new role, Reena Tandon, who's running our Floor and in charge of the unruly Assignments Committee. This place wouldn't function without all of our staff. To our com staff listening in, to our LAs listening, -- we are better for your work, and we are eternally grateful. So we wrap up our work for this spring, but we're not going out of business. We'll be back when the world requires us to be back. But for the next weeks or months, the world is safe 232 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 56th Legislative Day 5/31/2025 because the General Assembly is not in Session. God bless you all. Be safe getting home and we'll see you all soon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) We will now proceed to the Order of Consent Calendar celebrations of life resolutions. With leave the Body, all those resolutions read in today will be added to the Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, have there been any objections to any resolution on the Consent Calendar?
No objections filed, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? If not, the question is, shall the resolutions on the Consent Calendar be adopted. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries and the resolutions are adopted. There being no further business to come before the Senate pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 43, the Senate stands adjourned to the call of the President. The Senate stands adjourned. 233