PASTOR CARY BECKWITH: (Invocation)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Thank you, Pastor. Please remain standing for the pledge. Senator Johnson, will lead us.
SENATOR JOHNSON: (Pledge of Allegiance)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Blueroomstream seeks leave to stream today's proceedings. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journals of April 23rd, 25th, 29th and 30th, 2025 and May 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th, 13th, 14th and 15th, 2025.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Glowiak Hilton.
Mr. President, I move that the Journals just read by the Secretary, be approved unless some Senator has additions or corrections.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Glowiak Hilton moves to approve the Journals just read by the Secretary. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Senate Journal of Tuesday, October 14th, 2025.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Glowiak.
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 CUNNINGHAM) Senator Glowiak Hilton moves to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolutions 457 and 458, offered by Senator Sims and all Members. They are celebration of life resolutions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Resolutions Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 459, offered by Senator Koehler. It is congratulatory. And Senate Resolution 460, offered by Senator Sally Turner. It is substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Loughran Cappel, Chair of the Committee on Education reports - Senate Bill 2683 Do Pass. And Senator Simmons, Chair of the Committee on Public Health reports - Senate Resolutions 377 and 396 Be Adopted.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Mr. Secretary, Introduction and Reading of Senate Bills for the first time.
Senate Bill 2714, offered by Senator Ventura, an Act concerning elections. 1st Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Cervantes, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of Personal Privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please state your point.
Today, I'm honored to recognize the outstanding HOPE Scholars from UIUC and ISU, Duchara, Eric, Kavarrion, Melanie and Melissa, if you could please rise. They're in the gallery today. These students embody the impact of HOPE Chicago, a not-for-profit supporting economic mobility for Illinois families, helping transform higher education outcomes for two generations of Illinois students. Our talented young people and their talented parents. Through its partnership with the State of Illinois, HOPE Chicago is reshaping experiences for students on public campuses from DeKalb, Champaign to Carbondale helping families and institutions address both near-term and long-term solutions for sustainability and success. As of this most recent fall term, more than two thousand six hundred HOPE scholars have enrolled in a university that call our Great State Home with HOPE Chicago. As a proud certified Hope Chicago champion, I am grateful for this organization's partnership and commitment to equity, opportunity, and generational change. Please join me in applauding HOPE Chicago 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 and these remarkable HOPE scholars for their leadership and promise.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Plummer, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Point of introduction, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please state your introduction.
Thank you. To everyone in the Body, today, I'd like to introduce two very important guests. I have, actually, from Senator Harriss's district, but Harrison here goes to school with my daughter. His parents, Matt and Allie Helfrich, are up in the gallery. Harrison's in second grade. He's a Page for the Day for me today. And I've got a couple of things about Harrison I think you'll enjoy. In school he loves STEM, art, and computer class. He plays for the Rascal's baseball team and YMCA flag football. He's not sure what he wants to do yet. He told me he's only in second grade, but he thinks he wants to be in the State Senate. And when he is in the State Senate, his first piece of legislation is Harrison believes there should be ice cream at the Capitol. And I told him, I thought, I -- I thought that was -- I thought that was an excellent piece of bipartisan legislation. In addition, to Harrison, we have Ledger, his five-year-old sister who's in kindergarten. And oh, and I forgot Harrison's favorite animal, he wanted me to tell you, is the salamander. And his sister, Ledger, her favorite animal is starfish. She's in kindergarten, she participates in soccer and cheerleading, and she also likes art, 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 STEM, and computers. So, they are here, today, because Harrison's my Page for the Day they want -- they came from Maryville Christian School down in Maryville, Illinois. And just would like to have a nice welcome to Harrison and Ledger and their parents, Matt and Allie. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Martwick, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I rise on a point of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please make your announcement.
Thank you, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I, too, am joined by some special guests from my district. In fact, they both are very near to my district office in that they work there. So, if you would please join me, I have Divyam Karuri, who has worked as an intern in my office for the last six months. Elizabeth Rincon, who is my Chief of Staff and Liz has brought her daughter, Zelda. And while I don't have as much information about Zelda as Senator Plummer had about his Pages, I will tell you that she is excellent at handing out snow cones to constituents. So, with that please join me in welcoming, Divyam, Liz and Zelda.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Welcome to the Illinois Senate. Senator Faraci, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President, for point of introductions. 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please make your introductions.
Sir, I do appreciate it. So, I am blessed to have my interns and staff here from my Champaign District office. So, I'd like to make an introduction of Quinesha Bentley. Quinesha Bentley is a PhD student in sociology department at the University of Illinois. She's a policy fellow working in my district, examining how literacy in early education can contribute to a child's upward economic mobility. Quinesha. And we also have Kashmala Yousafzai is a senior at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, double majoring in political science and communication. In my office, she supports constituent's relations and conducts research on district priorities. Outside of the office, she serves as an act -- as active in U of I campus leadership. We also have Theodore Kemna. Theo is a legislative assistant in my office. We first met his senior year of high school, and we have been working together ever since. Theo has conducted policy research, handled casework and constituent outreach, and assists in managing the Champaign District office. He's a junior studying history at the University of Illinois. In the bleachers, we have Atha Winston who is my Chief of Staff, and of course, Ben Anderson. Now, as you all know, we are only as good as the people we surround ourselves with. And as a result, I am very lucky and very proud to have my team here today. Please welcome my team from the Champaign District office.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Welcome to Springfield, Team Faraci. And I see you got a two for one deal at the U of I bookstore on your ties. Well done. Senator Fowler, for what purpose do you seek recognition? 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of introduction, if I may please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Please make your introduction.
Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, It's always a special privilege to introduce bright young leaders who represent the future of Southern Illinois. But today, it's especially meaningful for me, to have the honor of introducing Cort Hooven, which is in the gallery with us this evening. The son of my Legislative Assistant, Dana Hooven, which is also with her son Cort in the gallery, who has been -- who's been my -- Dana has been on my team for some time. It's easy to see how the same values of service, leadership and integrity run strong in the family. Cort is a junior at New Hope Christian Academy in Harrisburg, we as -- he has been an active and respected member of student government throughout the high school years. He also serves on the School Scholar Bowl, a competitor who combines intelligence with teamwork. Most recently, Cort was selected as a member of the John A. Logan College Model Illinois Government team, an incredible opportunity that gives students hands-on experience in the working of our State government. That's an accomplishment worth celebrating, indeed. And I have no doubt Cort will represent his school and community with confidence and excellence. Cort's leadership extends beyond the classroom. He's a proud member of Dorrisville Baptist Church, where he is heavily involved in youth programs. He also volunteers at the food bank pantry operated by my 501c(3) not-for-profit foundation, giving his time and heart to 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 service -- servicing families in need throughout Southern Illinois. Cort is a young man of faith, compassion and promise. Someone who always embodies the qualities of a future leader. Please join me in welcoming Mr. Cort Hooven to the Senate, please. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Welcome to the Illinois Senate. The Senate will stand at ease for a few minutes to allow the Committee on Assignments to meet. The Members of the Committee on Assignments will meet immediately in the Senate -- President’s Anteroom. The Senate will stand at ease. (at ease) Senator Koehler, in the Chair. PRESIDING OFFICER (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Cunningham, Chair of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Executive Committee - Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 618 and Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 642. Signed, Senator -- Signed, Senator Bill Cunningham, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. In a couple of minutes, we're going to go to the Order of Resolutions on page 3 of your Calendar. If you have a resolution on page 3, we will be getting to it shortly. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, as promised we are now going to move to Secretary's Desk Resolutions on page 3 of your printed Calendar. We'll start right at the top of that order. Where Senator -- Senator Morrison brings Senate Resolution 30, 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Senator Morrison. Senate Resolution 31, Senator Morrison. Senate Resolution 83. Senator Bryant, on Senate Resolution No. 83. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read that resolution.
Senate Resolution 83, offered by Senator Bryant.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This is a coalition that we've had for several years. It is working with IDOT and the locals to have a highway that will go from basically St. Louis or the Metro East all the way through Southern Illinois down to Carbondale. It will allow both our hospital group and the university to be connected to the Metro East. And we're still doing some studies and still want to move this forward. So, I'd appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 83 pass. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Next, we have Senate Resolution 104 from Senator Murphy. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 104, offered by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Murphy.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 104 simply encourages all of library trustees, newly elected and those already 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 serving their terms to participate in ongoing programs offered by the Illinois Secretary of State.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 104 pass. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 124, Senator Balkema. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read that resolution.
Senate Resolution 124, offered by Senator Balkema.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Balkema, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. I am here to present the -- offer the resolution for support of farmers, and I find myself in the super minority. With my super minority colleague, Senator Joyce since he is, as we think, the only other farmer in -- in or the only farmer in -- in district in the Senate side. So, oh - I got oh, I got Sally up, my apologies, I have Senator Turner, my apologies. So, with over 72,000 farms covering 27 million acres in marketing of agricultural products generating more than $51 billion annually, I would like to endorse what a critical role farmers play in feeding the nation by producing corn, soybeans, pork, beef, dairy and specialty products and the dedication and innovation and stewardship of Illinois farmers, sustain the rural communities, provide natural resources and promote agricultural advancements that drive economic growth and food security. So, WHEREAS, It's essential to recognize and promote the hard work, resilience, and ingenuity of Illinois farmers to enhance public 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 understanding and appreciation of their efforts; therefore, be it RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY that we affirm our commitment to supporting our farmers and promoting a positive perception of their essential work.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 124 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Leave of the Body, we're going to skip to Senate Resolution 128 from Senator Doris Turner. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 128, offered by Senator Doris Turner.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Turner.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 128 formally recognizes and honors the contributions of Eva Carroll Monroe, the founder of the Lincoln Colored Home of Springfield, Illinois, and a trailblazer in child welfare and protection. This acknowledges the historical significance of the Lincoln Colored Home because it was the first Black orphanage in Illinois, and actually only the second in the United States. Founded by Eva Carroll Monroe in 1898. It celebrates her efforts as a dedicated child advocate and her pioneering role in raising child welfare standards recognizes the building that housed the Lincoln Colored Home, which is the only surviving structure from the first two Black orphanages in the United States, as a historically significant site, and it's actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places. So, 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 August the 4th, 2026 will be known as Eva Carroll Monroe Day in Illinois to honor her legacy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 128 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. In the opinion of the Chair, the Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Next, we have Senate Resolution 193 from Senator Fine. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 193, offered by Senator Fine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Fine, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 193 declares October 12th through the 18th as OCD Awareness Week. It's very important that we recognize what OCD is because it impacts our friends, our family members, our loved ones, and it can show itself in many different fashions. And when people who suffer from OCD learn how to work with the proper treatments, it's really quite life changing. So, I encourage everybody to look at what OCD is, find out more about it, and be patient and be mindful and help our loved ones who are suffering. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 193 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Next, we have Senate Resolution 210 from Senator McClure. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 resolution.
Senate Resolution 210, offered by Senator McClure.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator McClure, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. This resolution declares November 9th, 2025, Justin Allgaier Day in the State of Illinois. We did have Justin here a few months ago, and we were able to read the full resolution on the Floor of the Senate. He is a tremendous NASCAR champion and he's having another great year. Last year, he was the NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion. So, it's also a friendly reminder to all of those listening that the voting is now open for the most popular driver award. The fan favorite Justin won that last year. We're hoping he wins it again this year. So, this is a great honor for a great NASCAR champion who does so much for the community and for our State. And so, I certainly appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 210 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 214, Senator Murphy. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 214, offered by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Murphy.
13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 214 would declare November Family Caregiver Month in the State of Illinois. We know as parents are aging and others are aging; it's a significant amount of effort that goes into maintaining these loved ones. So, Illinois Family Caregiver Coalition is led by the Illinois Area Agencies on Aging. It represents a network of State Caregiver Resource Centers that serve family caregivers throughout Illinois. And we hope that during this month of recognition, people would know they can reach out to these agencies for assistance. Family caregivers of all ages and direct-care workforce provide critical support and services that promote the well-being and enhance the quality of life for the State's older adults and those with chronic disabilities. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 214 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 230, Senator Ellman. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 230, Offered by Senator Ellman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ellman, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 230 encourages the creation of the U.S. Great Lakes Waterfront Trail through this -- through the State of Illinois and urges our agencies to continue coordinating with other states. The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is a great opportunity to connect through walking and biking along 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 the entire Great Lakes perimeter. In fact, Canada has got connected trails. We, as our states are working on cobbling together all of these segments to make a continuous trail. And, just, I had the chance over July 3rd and July 4th to actually ride my bike on portions of that trail. A 2019 study that performed for the Friends of the Chicago River found that this could create over $192 million dollars in total economic benefits annually over a 15-year timespan, and support over 1,614 full-time equivalent jobs annually. I urge your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 230 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 235, Senator Ventura. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 235, offered by Senator Ventura.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Ventura.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 235 declares April 23rd, 2026, as Animal Welfare Day in the State of Illinois to reflect on the importance of a just humane treatment of animals and to discourage the Act of bovine tailing. Bovine tailing is a specific rodeo event where a rider on horseback chases down a steer or bull and grabs the animal's tail. The rider then wraps the tail around their leg, slamming the animal to the ground. Acts of bovine tailing can cause significant injuries to the animals involved. Acts of bovine tailing in Illinois have been particularly 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 prevalent. The Senate discourages all Acts of bovine tailing and its associated harms. So, help our State educate others on the impact of bovine tailing to end this practice during our Animal Welfare Day. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 235 pass. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 267 is from Senator Murphy. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 267, offered by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Murphy, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 267 declares November 10th, 2025, through November 14th, 2025, as School Psychology Week in the State of Illinois. This is an initiative of the Illinois School Psychologists Association. According to the school psychologists, school psychologists serve as advocates for good mental health for safe and supportive learning environments. There is currently a nationwide shortage of school psychologists, meaning students have reduced access to academic, mental, and behavioral services. One in five students suffer from mental health disorder, but roughly 80 percent of youth who are in need of mental health services do not receive them. The majority of those who do receive services receive them in school, where they are more likely to seek out care, which is why we need to dedicate this week to the school psychologist. Thank you, Mr. President. 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 267 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 270 from Senator Fowler. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 270, offered by Senator Fowler.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Fowler, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Soil Health Week 2026 declares the first week of March of 2026 as Soil Health Week in the State of Illinois to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of soil health and to honor the essential role of Illinois families, farmers, and presenting our land and feeding our communities. Ask for its adoption. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 270 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 308 from Senator Belt. Senator Belt, on Senate Resolution 3-0-8. Senate Resolution 343, Senator Villivalam. Senator Villivalam, on Senate Resolution 348. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are now going to turn to page 4 of your printed Calendar at the very top of that page, where Senator Feigenholtz brings Senate Resolution 394. Senator Feigenholtz indicates she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Senate Resolution 394, Offered by Senator Feigenholtz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Feigenholtz.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 394 declares September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness in the State of Illinois. And the main goals of the Awareness Month is to raise public awareness and promote early detection, and to fund lifesaving research for this disease that is typically diagnosed in very advanced stages. I'm sure I am not the only person on the Floor of the Senate who has lost dear friends and family. So, I am focused on education, on the symptoms and risk factors, and the goal to educate the public about the very subtle signs of cancer that can easily be mistaken and encourage women to learn symptoms, understand the personal risk factors, and to always speak with a healthcare provider, if something feels wrong.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 394 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Next, we have Senate Resolution 395 from Senator Preston. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 395, offered by Senator Preston.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Preston, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Today I rise to recognize September 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 as Spoken Word Month in Illinois, a celebration of art form that has long given voice to the voiceless. Spoken word is where poetry meets power. It's how we tell our stories, speak our truth, and pass on the lessons that don't always make it into the history books. From church basements to classrooms, from Chicago's open mics to national stages, this movement has uplifted communities and inspired change. I want to especially thank Mr. De'Andre Black Ice Hawthorne, and Blaq Ice Productions for their leadership for making Illinois home of the National Spoken Word Awards. Their work helped make this resolution a reality by declaring September as Spoken Word Month. We affirm that art isn't a luxury, it's essential, it connects us, it heals us, and it reminds us that our voices matter to every poet and performer carrying this tradition forward. This recognition is for you. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 395 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senate Resolution 402, Senator Syverson. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 402, offered by Senator Syverson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Syverson, on your resolution.
Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 402 declares October 13th as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. This is a -- metastatic breast cancer is an aggressive form of breast cancer that unfortunately has a median life expectancy of 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 just three years. And the concern is that less than 10 percent of breast cancer research goes towards this. And so, we would encourage more research going into this -- this form of aggressive breast cancer. And so, with that I would ask for a favorable roll call. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 402 pass. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. Opinion of the Chair the Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Next, we have Senate Resolution 423 from Senator Koehler. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 423, offered by Senator Koehler.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Koehler, on your resolution. PRESIDING OFFICER (SENATOR KOEHLER) Thank you, Mr. President. For over 60 years, surgical technology has grown to meet an ever-increasing demand for well- educated, highly-skilled, and versatile surgical technologists. Surgical technologists are entrusted with the lives and the well- being of patients and provide a critical service during the surgical procedures. Over a 100,000 surgical technologists nationwide are an integral part of the surgical team committed to providing the highest quality of care -- of surgical care to patients. I had the pleasure last year of attending Illinois Central College Simulated Operation. I did an open-heart surgery. I was the physician doing the surgery, and all the surgical technologists were there to help me. Believe me, you don't want me 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 operating on your heart. But the skill of the surgical technologist that were there to assist was quite outstanding. This is, to celebrate and to honor them. And we declare that the week of September 21st through 27th be Surgical Technology Week in the State of Illinois.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 423 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Next, we have Senate Joint Resolution 34 from Senator Castro. Senator Castro on Senate Joint Resolution 34. With leave of the Body, we're going to go back in the batting order to pick up some resolutions we missed on the first pass. We're going to start at the bottom of page 3 where Senator Belt brings Senate Resolution 308. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 308, offered by Senator Belt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Belt, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 308 declares September 2nd, 2025 as National Board-Certified Teachers Recognition Day in celebration of the 25th anniversary of National Board Certification in Illinois, and in recognition of the contribution and accomplishments of the National Certified Teachers across the State of Illinois. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 308 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Next, we'll go to the very bottom of page 3 where Senator Villivalam brings Senate Resolution 348. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 343, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam, on your resolution.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 343 celebrates AAPI Heritage Month, the month of May. I am proud to represent a large Asian American community in our -- in my district. And on behalf of the Illinois State Senate, would like to thank the 800,000 or so Asian Americans across the State of Illinois for their contributions to our communities. And with that, I would ask for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 343 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senator Koehler, in the Chair. PRESIDING OFFICER (SENATOR KOEHLER) On page 3, we're going to go to Senate Resolution 125, Senator Cunningham. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 125, offered by Senator Cunningham. PRESIDING OFFICER (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, on your resolution.
22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Resolution 125, is an initiative to encourage water safety, basically through swimming lessons, and it seeks to get park districts and school districts to work together to make sure our students at a young age have access to public pools and the ability to learn how to swim. I would appreciate the Chamber's support. PRESIDING OFFICER (SENATOR KOEHLER) Is there any discussion? The question is, shall Senate Resolution -- the question is, shall Senate Resolution 125 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senator Belt, for what -- Senator Halpin, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
For a brief announcement, Mr. President. PRESIDING OFFICER (SENATOR KOEHLER) Please state your announcement.
Thank you, Mr. President, and Members of the Senate, I just want to ask you to welcome a group of students from Monmouth College who are with us today as part of their campaigns and elections, politics and government class. They are our future staff, future legislators, future political operatives trying to experience a little bit of what we do here in the Senate, including one of Senator Koehler's interns. And we want to welcome them and hope they get a full experience of what we're trying to do for the people of Illinois here in the Illinois Senate. Thank you. PRESIDING OFFICER (SENATOR KOEHLER) Welcome to the Illinois Senate. Senator Cunningham, back in the Chair. 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Ladies and Gentlemen, of the Senate just putting a reminder out to Members of the Executive Committee that that hearing will commence at exactly 2 o' clock. We ask that Members of the committee be prompt and be in Room 212 at 2 o' clock. We plan to come back to the Floor for further action after Executive. The Senate will stand in recess to the call of the Chair. The Senate will stand in recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 462, offered by Senator Ventura. It's a celebration of life resolution, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Resolutions Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 461, offered by Senator Doris Turner. It is substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Castro, Chair of the Committee on Executive, reports - Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 618, Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 642, Motions to Concur House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 243 and House Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 1989, all Recommend Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, Introduction and Reading of Senate Bills for 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 the first time.
Senate Bill 2715, offered by Senator Porfirio, an Act concerning government. 1st Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, are there any 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 accepted the Governor's specific recommendations for change, which are attached to a bill of the following title in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill 2568. I'm further directed to transmit to the Senate the following copy of the Governor's specific recommendations for change to the House of Representatives, adopted by the House, October 15th, 2025, John W. Hollman, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Ladies and Gentlemen, the Senate, please proceed to the Senate Floor. We're about to take final action on bills. If you're within the sound of my voice, please come to the Senate Floor. Mike Miletich from WAND TV seeks leave to record video of today's proceedings. Seeing no objection. Leave is granted. Would the Members of the Committee on Assignments please assemble immediately in the President’s Anteroom? Members of the Committee on Assignments please meet immediately in the President’s Anteroom. Senator Koehler, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR KOEHLER) Senator Cunningham, in the Chair. 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Lightford, Chair of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved for Consideration - Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 618. Signed, Senator Kimberly A. Lightford, Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, Supplemental Calendar No. 1 has been printed and distributed. We're going to take up Senate Bills on 2nd Reading. Starting with Senate Bill 2683 from Senator Balkema, he indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2683, an Act concerning finance. 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are staying on Supplemental Calendar No. 1. We are now going to move to the Order of Concurrences. Where Senator Porfirio brings Senate Bill 243. He indicates that he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read Senate Bill 243.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 243. Signed by Senator Porfirio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Porfirio, on Senate Bill 243.
Thank you, Mr. President. On concurrence, the House Floor 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Amendment deletes all and becomes the bill. The amendment makes various changes to the Freedom of Information Act and the Open Meeting Act providing some provisions to the -- to both acts. I'll stand by for any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 243. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Senators voting Yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur. And House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 243 and the bill is declared passed. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we're going to go back to the regular calendar House Bills on 3rd Reading. We're going to start on page 2 of your printed Calendar near the bottom of that page, where Senator Loughran Cappel brings House Bill 2394. Senator indicates that she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2394, an Act concerning transportation. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel.
Thank you, Mr. President. This bill states that a vehicle or combination of vehicles that uses either natural gas or propane gas as a motor fuel, or one that is operated by an engine fueled wholly or partially by an electric battery or hydrogen fuel cell. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Electric fueling systems may exceed the weight limitations by up to 2,000 pounds. This two-thousand-pound weight allowance would bring the available weight for cargo closer to the weight that is available for a diesel vehicle, contributing to smoother traffic, less greenhouse gas emissions, and quieter travel. This is a district initiative, and I ask for your support and I'm willing to take questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Senator Bryant, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. Some questions of the sponsor, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she will yield. Senator Bryant.
Thank you. So, we're in the middle right now of harvest season. And it has been my experience so far that during harvest season, we often see Secretary of State, Department of Transportation, State Police. Anyone who has weights and measures is generally out on the road looking for farmers who are over the weight limit. In your bill, is there any consideration given to those farmers who are trying to get their grains to market?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel.
Well, the Farm Bureau and those trucks currently have an 8,000-pound weight limit exception and are allowed to use that during harvest season. It will not -- this bill would not interfere 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 with it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant.
Thank you. So, I believe that exception is for an emergency. So, if there is a drought or if there's been a flood, then they have to activate that. That's not every year.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel.
I -- it is my understanding, it's for harvest season.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant.
Thank you for that clarification. Okay, so under your bill, I'm going to -- I'm going to say some statements. You can tell me if these are right or wrong. So right now, diesel trucks pay into the road fund based on the use. The more they drive, and the heavier the loads, the more they pay.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel.
You're talking about the motor fuel tax? Is that what you're talking about?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant.
Yeah, yeah.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Senator Loughran Cappel.
Correct. That is correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant.
I have about four, so I'm going to read them all together and okay, and then I'll go back if you need me to. So, the equitable contribution system allows the State to continue to invest in our roads and assists local municipalities in ensuring that they have safe and efficient transportation systems. And then, conversely, electric and -- electric and hydrogen trucks only pay a flat $100 annual fee. So, the fee for that is based on the road usage. Wait mileage driven allows the extremely heavy trucks to they actually this would allow them to rip up our roads without contributing their fair share to the Road Fund that's used to repair and improve them. So, increasing the weight limit to 2,000 pounds allowance without adjusting the road fund contribution worsens that imbalance. I would say that allowing the heavier trucks to cause more roadway damage without equitably contributing to their repair is bad for our State's infrastructure and puts an unfair burden on downstate counties and who have a lot more roads. So, that does not really a question, but it's a kind of a statement. So, my question would be this, in your bill or in any part of what's going forward, then, is there any appropriation that is setting forth dollars to townships or any of the roads that will be used for these heavier trucks to make this equitable for them?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel. 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
Senator, you do bring up an issue that did come up during committee, and I think what we need to think about as we start to transition to electric vehicles and hydrogen trucks, and we're trying to have a lighter footprint in terms of green energy. These are things that we need to keep talking about. And I committed to doing that in committee, that we will look at those types of things and try to find some sort of bridge to counter and work through those issues.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Bryant.
Thank you. So, I'll just leave the last of this kind of brief, but we've had a whole summer. Right, and the conversations are supposed to move forward. I would submit like let me just use for an example, I probably have the most solar of anyone in the State right now. And part of that is, you know, 600-acre fields, 800-acre solar fields and so forth. What we see as solar fields are going in are township roads being torn up because they're detoured off of a State road, or where we do have road repairs being done, they're detoured. No compensation at all going to township roads to repair those. Again, in the part of the State that has the largest number of roads and bridges. So, it doesn't appear that and I take you at your word. I know that if you say you're going to do something, you're doing it. But we've had a whole summer to do this without any form of compensation before this moves forward. So, all due respect, I understand where you're trying to go with it. I understand the need to move hydrogen. I know the stuff is going to be heavier, but until we have a method 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 to compensate for all of these downstate roads, which tend to be oiled and chipped or gravel in a lot of cases, I don't think that it's good to move forward on this now, and I would recommend or ask that my side of the aisle vote No. But also, for those who have a lot of township roads, until we resolve this issue, this is not a good bill moving forward. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Further discussion? Senator Plummer, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Thank you, Mr. President. I guess a question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) She indicates she'll yield. Senator Plummer.
I -- I appreciate your work on the bill. I think everyone in the Chamber cares about infrastructure, and we care about, you know, what you're trying to accomplish here. I heard you say in your opening comments that this was a district initiative, and I -- I just would respectfully say, our districts are just very diverse in this State. There's your district and my district and Terri's district and whoever else's district is just very different. And I -- I think she outlined pretty well just the quantity of roads we have in our rural districts, my district's eleven counties. The number one complaint and my question would be this. But my number one top three calls I get to my office, or I get to my cell phone is from townships calling about culverts, calling about their roads and calling about how to keep these things safe. So, I guess, what is the purpose of weight limits on our township roads? What's the purpose of weight limits on bridges? 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 What's the purpose of weight limits?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel.
Well, I think weight limits are set through IDOT, Illinois Department of Transportation, and they have their various -- various measures for that. The purpose of this, just like we had talked about the Farm Bureau and we had talked about harvesting, is that it's leading an exception so that we have less trips with the weight capacity. I would also say that there has been an increase of truck traffic, regardless, that are bringing wear and tear to the road. We have a minimal amount of hydrogen trucks in the State of Illinois. And I -- I hear your concerns about roads. I think we have that in the county I am in, as well. But again, we're trying to balance infrastructure transportation with trying to use alternative methods that can lower carbon emissions. And so, this is one way that one of the manufacturing businesses in my district has decided to help and have a greener footprint. So, that's what we're doing, and that's -- there are exceptions. And again, this is bringing it up to the actual, I believe, the federal standard. So, that would be my answer.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
And I appreciate that, the difference between those trucks and these trucks is those trucks are running on diesel. So, they actually pay into the road fund. So, we actually get money to try to rehabilitate some of that damage. My question though is what's the purpose from a safety standpoint of weight limits on the roads 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 and bridges?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel.
The purpose? It sounds like you have the answer for that. So, why don't you just tell us?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Plummer.
I mean, I would think the purpose would be safety. I think the purpose would be keeping them maintained in a good condition, saving us money, but mainly keeping people safe. And so, when you say it's a district initiative, I respect that. But the impact on your district is wildly different than the impact on downstate districts. And those roads or those trucks that you were talking about are running on diesel. They're paying into the fund. These trucks aren't right. And the same damage is being done to our bridges. The same culverts are being crushed. The same -- the same asphalt roads are being destroyed and we're not getting the funding to fix them. And so, those weight limits someone that knows a lot about trucks and does a lot of trucking. Those weight limits are really important, especially when you get into the more rural areas with a lower quality roads, with less money, because it doesn't take much to tear those up. So, if we have these heavier trucks that aren't paying into the Road Fund getting exempted, that's really bad policy. It's bad policy for the folks maintaining the roads. It's bad policy for the people driving on the roads, the school busses, on the roads. So, is there a way, Senator, that we could try to rethink this? I know what you're trying to accomplish, 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 and that's great. We can debate whether or not this evolution of high hydrogen trucks and the EVs is happening as quickly as you think, but is there a way that we can revisit this to protect the downstate townships and roads that are really going to bear the burden of -- of -- of your legislation? The difference is, and I'd be curious, your opinion on this is it's a district initiative because you manufacture the trucks, but it's tearing up our roads and bridges and it's endangering our constituents. How can we address that?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Loughran Cappel.
Senator, I just want to I -- I feel you're belaboring the point that I've already heard about the wear and tear on the roads, which I think I've already answered. But I will reiterate, and I, I share your concerns. Again, I spoke about this in committee. We have got to come to a place where we can find some sort of bridge between moving towards EVs, hydrogen vehicles and our regular trucks. I am willing to continue those conversations because it is an issue, I'm not disagreeing with you. However, here, what we're asking for, is that if we require these trucks and don't do this weight increase, they're going to make more trips anyway to complete their deliveries. This will, in turn, result again, in more trips on the road, which will cause more wear and tear over time than the 2,000 pounds distributed among the trucks axles. So, I've stated that, and I've also stated that I'm willing to work on this as we move forward. So, I don't know what else you want to ask me about that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Senator Plummer.
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) To the bill.
I appreciate the Senator's work on this. I just think this is a good example of maybe legislation that shows a disconnect between just the diverse geography and the diverse economies we have in the State. The Senator said she wants to find a bridge to a solution. I'm trying to make sure that downstate bridges stay standing. Okay, and if -- if folks got the phone calls from the township road commissioners that we receive, if you drove a lot of our districts, you would see that we're in disrepair, they're lacking for money, these trucks are not contributing to the Road Fund. There's pros and cons with everything. There's pros and cons with the diesel trucks. There's pros and cons with these new trucks, too. One of -- one of the issues is they're a little bit heavier because of the battery. Well, as part of that, maybe you just have to haul a little bit less stuff. If that results in more trips. That's not the way the roads and bridges work. You would take a 100 trips over a bridge, underweight way before you would take 10 trips over bridge overweight, because that's where the bridges is stress, that's where the road stress, that's where we have collapses, that's where we have degradation in our transportation system. And most importantly, that's where we cause safety concerns for our constituents. So, with that being said, I appreciate the work, but this is a commonsense vote, and I urge a No vote. Thank you. 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) No other Senators are seeking recognition. Senator Loughran Cappel, do you wish to close?
Yes. Thank you. I do appreciate the dialog on this bill. And I just do want to reiterate that it's just not my district that has hydrogen trucks. They are all across the State, and I do think we need to have these conversations, but this is a step forward in trying to move toward greener energy and continue these conversations. And so, that's what this bill does. It helps those manufacturers that have hydrogen trucks. We're going to continue those conversations. And I, simply just, ask for a Yes vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) The question is, shall House Bill 2394 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 44 Senators voting in the Affirmative, 8 voting No, 0 voting Present. House Bill 2394, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. We are now going to proceed to Senate Bills on 3rd Reading. Staying on page 2, we're going to go to the top of the page, this time, where Senator Castro brings Senate Bill 618. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Senator Castro seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 618 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 618. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Castro. 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Castro, on your amendment.
I ask for its adoption. I'll explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 3, offered by Senator Castro.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Castro, on Floor Amendment No. 3.
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to adopt it, and I'll explain on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, is there -- are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 618. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 618, an Act concerning liquor. 3rd Reading of the bill. 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Castro, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill 618, as amended, establishes a class 3 Craft Distillers license for the manufacture of up to 100,000 gallons of spirits annually. "Class 3 craft distillers" would be eligible to apply to the ILCC for self- distribute -- self-distribution authority for up to 2500 gallons annually. Established as a "Spirits showcase permit" for licensed craft distillers. Clarifies alcohol delivery provisions pursuant to ILCC interpretation, so that a cocktail or mixed drink in the manufacturer's original package is still eligible for delivery. Amends the "Cocktails to Go" law to exclude products delivered in sealed manufacturer's original -- got cut off - case. Makes permanent cocktails to go and provides that third party retailer delivery licensees are not permitted to deliver cocktails to go. Creates a -- we eliminated this part, which I'll explain in the next amendment. Eliminates the tax bond requirement for businesses with less than 50,000 in tax liabilities, the condition to renew a manufacturer importing distributors license expands a special event retailer to include on or off premises if specified in the license and creates and defines loyalty programs for craft brewer licensees. There was conversation in Executive that the third Amendment removes provisions creating a decoy statute, which sets forth parameters for how law enforcement may employ minors for undercover liquor compliance checks. Retains the current statutory language prohibiting individual associated with licensee from delivering alcoholic liquor to any intoxicated person, rather than visibly intoxicated person, and in the provisions on beer and 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 liquor showcase permits. Clarifies that only class 3 brewers or distillers may transfer a portion of its spirits or beer inventory from its licensed premises to the premises specified in the showcase permit, rather than any Illinois licensed distributors. I know of no opposition. I asked for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. The question is, shall Senate Bill 618 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 Senators voting in the Affirmative, 0 voting No. I'm sorry, yes, 0 voting No, 0 voting Present. Having received the constitutionally required majority, Senate Bill 618 is declared passed. Next, we'll move to Senate Bill 642, we have paper on file changing sponsorship to Senator Collins. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Senator Collins seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 642 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 642. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Collins.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Collins, on your amendment.
This is a TIF omnibus bill. To my understanding, all letters have been filed, and I asked for an Aye vote for -- I'm sorry, I move to adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 Is there any discussion? Seeing none. All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 642. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 642, an Act concerning local government. 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Collins, on your bill.
Thank you. Sorry about that, so this is the TIF omnibus bill, and all letters to my understanding have been filed, and I just ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? Seeing none. I just want to remind all Members that this bill will require 36 votes for passage. The question is, shall Senate Bill 642 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Senators voting Yes, 5 vote -- 45 Senators voting Yes, 5 voting No, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 642, having received the constitutionally required majority, is declared passed. Mr. Secretary, Reading of Senate Bills for the first time. 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025
Senate Bill 2716, offered by Senator Arellano, an Act concerning revenue. 1st Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) President Harmon, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I want to thank everyone for an efficient and productive week. We have concluded our work for the day, and we have cleared the deck for the work we can do this week. There are several members who have obligations to work in district. Some of us will be working here tomorrow, but we will not be gaveling into session tomorrow, so that those of you who need to work in district can do so. We'll be back at our regularly scheduled return the week from the following Tuesday. So, again, thank you for a very productive week. We look forward to a busy week when we return.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Joint Resolution 45, offered by Senator Villivalam.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) On the Order of resolution, is Senate Joint Resolution 45. Mr. Secretary, read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 45 Resolved by the Senate of the 104th General Assembly of the State of Illinois. The House of Representatives concurring herein that when the Senate adjourns on Wednesday, October 15th, 2025, it stands adjourned until Tuesday, October 28th, 2025, or until the call of the President when the 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 104th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 58th Legislative Day 10/15/2025 House of Representatives adjourns on Thursday, October 16th, 2025. It stands adjourned until Tuesday, October 28th, 2025, or until the call the Speaker.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Senator Villivalam moves to suspend the rules for the purpose of immediate consideration and adoption of Senate Joint Resolution 45. Those in favor say, Aye -- will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the rules are suspended. Senator Villivalam. moves for the adoption of Senate Joint Resolution 45. All in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. We will now proceed to the Order of Consent Calendar celebration of life resolutions. With leave of the Body, all those resolutions read in today will be added to the Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, have there been any objections filed to any resolution on the Consent Calendar?
No objections filed, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CUNNINGHAM) Is there any discussion? If not, the question is, shall the resolutions on the Consent Calendar be adopted? All those in favor say, Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, the motion carries and the resolutions are adopted. There being no further business to come before the Senate pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 45, the Senate stands adjourned until the hour of noon on the 28th day of October 2025, or the call of the Senate President. The Senate stands adjourned. 43