Senate Joint Resolution 83 offered by Senator Berman, President Rock and al1 Members. ; It is congratulatory.
Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 672 offered by Senator Daley. It is congratulatory. ,
Consent Calendar.
Senate Joint Resolution 84 offered by Senator Philëp. < It is also congratulatory.
Consent Calendar.
And Senate Joint Resolution 85 offered by Senator Philip and Thomas Dunn . It is substantive .
Executlve .
Senate Resolution 673 offered by Senator Smith# President Rock and al1 Members. It is congratulatory.
Consent Calendar . Senator Topinka , for what purpose do you 2 STATE 0F ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 arise?
Yes, a point of personal privilege, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Today, you have probably found some bakery products on your desk, including some Italian ice and also a box lunch. And I want you to know that, first of all, the this comes -- with everything but the box lunch, from my district which is very concerned that we have been down here too long. And representing a very ethnic district as I do where food is love thks is a care package to make sure that we keep up our strength to solve the budget problem. And to that end, we owe our thanks to the Fingerhut Bakeries of Cicero for the kolaeky which is the little fruit tart. And contrary to what Senator Brookins says, lt is not a chinese fortune cookie. So if you break in half, you will not get your fortune. A1l rlght. Second of all, the Italian ice comes to us from Mazzone's Italian Ice in Cicero from Bob Mazzone. The Suburban Cook County Area Agency on Aging and a11 the areas on aging are responsible for the box lunch, but they do want-to make sure it is known that the Community Nutrition Network of Chicago, which is a suburban nutrition provider, put together and did pay for a11 the lunches. So it did not come at any taxpayers funds and this, too, is to help us get thraugh the crisis. so. thank you very much.
Thank you, Senator. Senator Geo-Karis, for what purpose do you arise?
On a point of personal privilege.
State your point, please.
To show the dedlcation and love that he has for the people of 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSTON SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0: 1991 Illinois, Senator George Ray Hudson celebrated his 49th Wedding Anniversary with us here yesterday, instead of being home.
Happy anniversary, Senator.
Congratulate him.
Senator Schaffer, for what purpose do you arise?
Just to congratulate Senator Hudson and his wife and to express the hope We won't be here to celebrate his 50th.
Senator Hudson, in your own defense.
Senator Schaffer stole my -- some of my comments. was just going to suggest that if we are still in Session -- in this Session next year - next year is the biggie; that's the 50th - and Wedre still in Session at that time, We will celebrate down here and youdre all invited.
Senator Vadalabene, for what purpose do you arise, sir?
Yes, thank you, Mr. President. There will be a Democratic Caucus immedlately in Room 212.
All right. Democratic Caucus immediately in 212. Senakor Geo-Karis.
Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, there kill be a Republican Caucus immediately in Senator James Pate Philip's Office accordinqly.
4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 A1l right. Republican Caucus immediately in Senator Philip 's Office. Democratic Caucus immediately in Room 212. The Senate will stand in recess. Given the fact that Leadership has a thee o 'clock meeting With the Governor, We will stand in recess till the hour of four o'clock. A Demoeratie Caucus immediately in Room 212. I'm sorryz Senator Philip.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senatê. I'd like the record to indicate that Senator Keats ts home from the hospital and doin: well, but in a little bit of pain.
The record will so reflect. A11 right. Republican Caucus immediately in Senator Philip's Office. Democratic Caucus immediately in 212, please. All Democrats to 212. (RECESS) (SENATE RECONVENES)
Senate will please come to order. Messages from the House, Madam Secretary.
A Message from the House by Mr. O'Brien, Clerk. Mr. President am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has adopted the following joint resolution, the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Joint Resolution 48. Adopted by the House, July 2, 1991. is substantive.
5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SZNATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0# 1991 Executive.
A Message from the House by Mr. O'Brien, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has refused to recede from their amendments -- Amendment No. l to a bill of the following title, to Wit: Senate Bill 302. I am further directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives requests a First Committee of Conference to consider the differences of the two Houses in regard to their amendment to the bill. Action take by the Housep July 9, 1991. And I have like Messages on -- with regard to: House Amendment No . 1 to Senate Bill 3037 House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 304: House Amendment No. l to Senate Bill 306: House Amendment No . 1 to Senate Bill 310: House Amendment No. l to Senate Bill 311: House Amendments. 1, 2 and 4 to Senate Bill 3347 House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 336: House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 337: House Amendment No. l to Senate Bill 338; House Amendments 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 3392 House Amendments and 4 to Senate Bill 3-4-0: House Amendmenes l and 2 to Senate Bill 3-4-1; House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3-4-4; House Amendment No. Senate Bill 3-4-6; House Amendments 2, 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 3-4-87 House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3-5-22 House Amendment No. l to Senate Bill 3-5-47 House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3-5-67 6 STATE 0F ILLINOTS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 3-5-7: House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 3-5-82 House Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 3-6-0: House Amendment No . 1 to Senate Bill 3-6-17 House Amendments 2, 5, 6 and 7 to Senate Bill 3-6-67 House Amendments 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 3-6-72 House Amendment 5 to Senate Bill 3-6-9: House Amendments 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7 to Senate Bill 3-7-17 House Amendments 4, 5, 7 and 8 to Senate Bill 3-7-27 House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 3-7-37 House Amendments 2, 3 and 5 to Senate Bill 3-7-4: And House Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 4-9-7. Action taken by the House, July 9, 1991.
Those are requests from the House for a conference committee? A1l right. Senator Carroll will move that the Senate accede to the request of the House for a conference committee. Resolutions. Or Messages from the House.
A Message fron the House by Mr. O'Brienz Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has refused to adopt the First Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 37 and requests a Second Committee of Conference to consider the differences between the two Houses in regards to Amendments 1, 2 and 3. Aetion taken by the House, July 1991, by a three-fifths vote.
Al1 right. Senator Dunn kill move that the Senate accede to the request of the House for a Second Conference Committee. All in favor, indicate by saying Aye. A1l opposed. The Ayes have it. Motion carries. It's so ordered. Resolutions.
7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGDLAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 Senate Resolution 674 offered by Senator Leghowicz. Senate Resolution 676 offered by Senator Geo-/aris. Senate Resolution 677 offered by Senator Topinka . Senake Resolution 678 offered by Senator Topinka. Senate Resolution 679 offered by Senator Mahar. And Senate Joint Resolution 86 offered by Senator Watson. They're al1 congratulatory and death resolutions.
Consent Calendar.
And Senate Resolution 675 offered by Senator Topinka . It is substantive.
Senator Topinka, is that the one you dre talking about?
It is.
Senator Topinka.
Yes, if I may have permission of the Senate, Mr. President, I would like to discharge the Executive Committee of any further responsibility of Senate Resolution 675 and have put on the Secretary 's Desk, Resolutions. And I have permission from Senators Marovitz and Donahue to do so.
A1l right. The Lady has moved to diseharge the Committee on Executive from further consideration of Senate Resolution 6-7-5 and asks that it be placed on the Order of Secretary's Desk, Resolutions. Al1 ln favor of that motion, indicate by saying Aye. A11 opposed. The Ayes have it. The motion carries, and it is so ordered. 675 will show on the Secretary's Desk, Resolutions. Ladies and Gentlemen, wedll begin aqain on Page 11 on the Order of 8 STATE OF TLLTNOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TNANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 Conference Committee Reports. any Member has a Conference Committee Report on Page l1. Page 12. A11 right. Middle of Page 12. On the Order of Conference Committee Reports is a report on House Bill 1970, Madam Secretary.
First Corrected Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1970.
Senator Jones.
Yeah, thank you, Mr. President. I move the Senate concur in -- I mean, adopt the Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1970. What it is is retained the bill which -- allowed for interior design qualification exam to be given by khe National Board. It required two years, instead of one year, experience for registration. Required an appllcant to complete the registration and restoration process within three years. And what was added in the conference committee was that it added an immediate effective date and also clarified the sixty-day period for a temporary license to be extended until the next Board meeting, if there is no action by the Board. And I move that we adopt the Conference Committee Report.
All right. Senator Jones has moved the adoptkon of the Eirst Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1970. Is there any diseussion? If not, the question is, shall the Senake adopt the Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1970. Those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, vote Nay. And the votkng is open. Have a1l voted who wish? Have a11 voted who Wish? All voted Who Wish? Take the record. On that questlon, there are 46 Ayes, 5 Nays, none voting Present. The Senate does adopt the Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1970, and the bill, having received 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATZ TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Any other Member on Page l2? Page 13? Senator Cullerton. Number is? I'm sorryy I didn't hear you.
446, on Page 12.
Okay. Bottom of Page l2, Ladies and Gentlemen, on the Order of Conference Committee Reports is a report With respect to Senate Bill 4-4-6. Madam Seeretary.
Second Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 4-4-6.
Senator Cullerton.
Yes, thank you, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. This Conference Committee Report is basically now just one relatively small change in the 1aw -- criminal law, with regard to expungements. It applies to al1 counties other than Cook, and it simply says that the trial judge may grant an expungement. Right now the current 1aw is to say that *he -- only the chief judge or a judqe designated by the chief judge may grant expungements. This was primarily requested by Representative Johnson Who put it on as an amendment over in the House. Some people in Cook County objected to it based on the fact that there's so much volume in Cook County. The wanted to keep a better record of it by having it with the chief of the criminal division. So they objected. So the bill simply says that in counties outside of Cook, the trial judge, as well as the chief judge, may grant an expungement.
Discussion? Senator Welch.
- - the sponsor. Senator Cullerton, in some of our laws, if 10 i STATE 0F ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 you -- if you have a conviction, you cannot do certain things; either get a job with the State or have a firearm. Is there anything in here that's a guideline for a judge when not to expunge a conviction?
Senator Cullerton.
No, it doesn't change any of the current 1aw with regard to how expungements are granted other than to just change the person that can actually grant ity and that is the trial judge as -- so it's simply procedural.
Further discussion? Senator Dunn.
Thank youp Mr. President. A question of the sponsor.
He indicates hedll yield, Senator Dunn.
Senator Cullerton, is there still notification to the police organizations: the arresting police body, on the expungement? Is that unchanged.
Senator Cullerton.
That part is not changed by this bill.
All right. Further discussion? If not, the question is r shall the Senate adopt the Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 4-4-6. Those in favor: vote Aye. Opposed, vote Nay . And the voting 's open. A1l voted who Wlsh? Have a11 voted Who wish? Have al1 voted Who Wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 46 Ayes, 5 Nays, 2 voting Present. Senate does adopt 11 STATZ OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 the Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 446. And the bill, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Any other Member on Page 13j Senator Luft? Page 12. 1838, Madam Secretary. Middle of Page l2. House Bill 1838.
Pirst Conference Committee Report on House Bkll 1838.
Senator Luft.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Bill 1838, the Conference Committee Report, deals with tax increment financing and is attempting to take eare of about four or five Members in the Body. First, it limtts the required ten percent municipal contribution from sources other than property taxes to actual amounts of revenues generated within the TIF district. Apparently, there ls a city in northern Illinois that does not levy a property tax, and they required an alternative revenue source and this limits it strictly to the revenues coming from the TIF district. We also call for cities with a population of over a hundred thousand - it allows a TIF redevelopment plan to conform to a strategic economic redevelopment plan, rather than a cityls comprehensive plan. Apparently, some cities do not have comprehensive plans, so we're allowing them to conform to the economic redevelopment plan. Also allows the cities to expand -- expand the boundaries of an established TIP district uithin an established redevelopment project area without hearings. For Senator Jaeobs, we have put language in here that allowed that a municipality that adopted a TIF prior to 1987 provided that the adoption of an ordinance kith the findings is sufficient to designate a redevelopment project area if adopted within ninety days of the effective date of this Act. We repeal a property tax abatement for Eagle Creek, which was done in error. And we authorize a property tax abatement for 12 STATE 0F ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 projects c6nsisting of a restaurant and overnight lodging facility on Department of Conservation's property that was constructed using at least fifty percent private, non-state funding and that first opened for business after January l of 1992.
All right. The Gentleman has moved the adoption of Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1838. Dïscussion? Senator Fawell.
Thank you very muchz Mr. President. Will the Sponsor yield for a question?
Indicates he will yield. Senator Fawell.
Senator Luft, there has been another bill that as been floating around, Senate Bill 616, about TkF districts. Does thls have any of the language in this conference bill that Senate Bill 6l6 did about the bonding?
Senator Luft.
This has no language concerning bonding.
Senator Fawell.
I also notice that you have something in here about the Eagle Ridge, you mentioned. senator Keats obviously is not here, and I know there was some -- some problems with this. Has this -- is this now agreed languaqe? mean, is everybody on board wieh this thing, that you know of?
Senator Luft.
13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 It's my understanding that that situation has been resolved and everyone is in agreement with the language in this Conference Committee Report.
Further discussion? Senator Rigney.
Well, Mr. President, I understand that the problem in the Moline case - that this Was created without so much as a hearing or a notification. Can you comment on that?
Senator Luft.
Senator Jacobs, pleasee Mr. President.
Senator Jacobs.
Thank you, Mr. Senator. No, I'm -- that is not correct. I talked to the mayor, in fact, two days ago to try to find out what did happen. It was-advertised properly. The only thing thty didnît do was put in legal descriptions. They put in leaps and bounds, rather than legal descriptions and that was the problem With their publicatlon.
Senator Rigney.
Did they have a hearing?
Senator Jacobs.
It's my understanding they did.
Further dkscussion? Senator Karptel. 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991
Thank you, Mr. Presëdent. Question to the sponsor.
He indicates he will yield, Senator Karpiel.
Senator Luft, I'm sorry that we've had a conversation over here, and I didn't hear the explanation of the bill. Is the oriqinal contents of House Bil1 1838 dealing with the TIE in Carol Stream still in the bill?
Senator Luft.
Yes.
Further discussion? Senator Schuneman.
Question of the sponsor, Mr. President.
Sponsor indicates he will yield, Senator Schuneman.
Senator, I too didn 't hear the entire explanation. I guess my question could best be phrased this way: Is the Tax Increment Financing Association on board With the changes in this bill?
Senator Luft.
T 'm fairly close to that organization, and ehis bill is floatin: around in one way or the other. This is a combination of about three or four different pieces of legislation that's passed through the Legislature. And as we speak, no one has ever offered any objections to any part of it that I know of.
15 : 1 STATE OP ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLV REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 Further discussion? Senator Watson. SENATOR WATSON: Yes, thank you, Mr. President. This particular Conference Committee Report contains the language concerning Eagle Creek . And the other day we had quite a debate concernin: that. This language now in here is agreed to by myself, the Department of Conservation. And I talked with Senator Keats concerning this, and he too is in agreement. So rise in support of the Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1838 and urge the Members to vote in affirmative. Thank you. PRESIDENT ROCK: Further discussion? Further discussion? Senator Luft, do you Wish to close? If not, the question (s, shall the Senate adopt the Conference Committee Report on House Bill 1838 . Those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, vote Nay. And the voting is open. A11 voted who wish? Have a1l voted who wish? Have all voted Who Wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, no Nays, none votin: Present. Senate does adopt the Conference . Committee Report on House Bill 1838. And the bill, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Page l3z 872. Senator Lechowicz. Madam Secretary, middle of Page 13, on the Order of Conference Committee Reports, there's a repork with respect to Senate Bill 872. Madam Secretary. SECRETARY HAWKER: Second Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 8-7-2. PRESIDENT ROCK: Senator Lechowicz. SENATOR LECHOWICZ: Thank you. Mr. President: Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Second Conference Committee Report on 872 allows Cook County to use unexpended highway bond funds for highway eonstructionz reconstruction and maintenance purposes. Clarifies that 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0# 1991 delinquent unpaid property taxes bear interest at specified monthly interest rates on any portion thereof. Expands the category of property owners eligible for a two-and-a-half year redemption period from current class of priorities which are owner-occupied and contakn six or less units -- dwelling units -- to property units -- containing six dwellings or units or less. Also provides that it creates a fifth and sixth penalty period to correspond with periods of time between twenty-four and thirey-six months from date of sale, which is or may be part of a redemption period. These are all items that were adopted by either -- by the Cook County Recorder of Deeds, Eddie Rosewell's office, as well as the Cook County Board. And a third item provides that a item be provided where the separate undivided interest in delinquent tax sale property. It adds to the fees to be paid by a person redeeming his or her property sold at a tax sale a thirty-five dollar fee payable to a tax purchaser if a tax deed has been filed, a four dollar fee if notice has been served, and a11 costs the tax purchaser incurs in filing. Basically, a1l the other items as far as -- tbat this Body has rejected beforey as far as the Eagle tax Ridge benefits have been eliminated. I have no objection to the I know of no objection to -- 8-7-2 and ask for your adoption.
The Gentleman has moved the adoption of the -- Second Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 872. Discussion? If not, the question is, shall the Senate adopt the Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 8-7-2. Those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed, vote Nay. The voting is open. A11 voted who wish? Have a11 voted who wish? Have a1l voted who wish? Take the record. On that question there are 31 Ayes, 18 Nays. Takes 36 votes. On that questlon, there are 31 Ayes, 18 Nays: l voting Present. The Conference Committee Report is not adopted. Senator Lechowicz 17 STATE 0F ILLINOIS ' 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 moves that further consideration be postponed. 1030. Senator Daley. Madam Secretary, please. SECRETARY HAWKER: Second Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 1030. PRESIDENT ROCK: Senator Daley. SENATOR DALEY: Thank you, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. The Second Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 1030 would permit municipalities to apply for a court order to remove debris from buildings. The cost of the foreclosure of liens by a municipality, including court costs as a lien on the real estate, are recoverable by the municipality from the owner. It adds township members to watershed councils in Cook County for storm water. It would permit the transfer of fire protection district territory between districts in certain circumstances. I'd be happy to answer any questions. ' PRESIDENT ROCK: Gentleman has moved the adoption of the Second Conferênce Committee Report on Senate Bil1 1030. Discussion? Senator Fawell. SENATOR FAWELL: Thank you very much. The minority side has reviewed this bill, find nothing controversial about it# and I Would suggest We vote Aye. PRESIDENT ROCK; Question is, shall the Senate adopt the Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill 1030. Those in favor, vote Aye. Opposedz vote Nay. And the voting's open. Have a11 voted who wish? All voted Who Wish? Have all voted Who wish? Take the record. 0n that question, there are 46 Ayes, l Nay, none voting Present. Senate does accept -- adopt the Conference Committee Report on 18 STATE OF TLLINOTS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSTON SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0. 1991 Senate Bill 1030. And the bill, having received the required eonstitutional majority, is deciared passed. Senator Barkhausen, you want to go back to dump the first report? Is that the idea? Page 12, Ladies and Genelemen, riqht in the middle, is House Bill 2125. Madam Secretary.
First Conference Committee Report on House Bill 2125.
Senator Barkhausen.
Mr. President, I suggest that we vote Present on the Conferenee Committee Report on House Bill 2125. I think it's a good Report, but the House has already voted it down. So we need to go to a Second Conference Committee.
Question is, shall the Senate adopt the Conference Committee Report on House Bill 2125. Those in favor, vote Aye. Opposed: vote Nay. The voting's open. Have a11 voted who wish? Have a1l voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that queseion, the Ayes are 8, the Nays are 12, 26 voting Present. The Conference Committee Report is not adoptede and the Secretary sball so inform the House. And Senator Barkhausen requests the appointment of a Second Committee of Conference. Any other business on ll, 12, l3? Senator Marovitz.
I've qot a noncontroversial one, 1227.
None of yours are noncontroversial.
Let's try it and see.
Senator Schuneman. 19 STATE OP ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Leqislatkve Day July 10z 1991
Mr. President, think Senate Bill 1310 is noncontroversial . You can call that.
The Chair doesn't think so.
I beg your pardon?
The Chair doesnft think so. All right. Ladies and Gentlemen, any further business to come before the Senate? Senator Maitland , for what purpose do you arise, sir?
Thank you very much, Mr. President. Rising on -- for the purpose of making a motion, sir, to suspend the provisions of Senate Rule 5C with regard to deadline for passaqe, and move for the immediate consideration of House Bill 214, which resides on the Order of 2nd Reading. Would like to offer an amendment to that bill.
A11 right. The Gentleman seeks leave of the Body to suspend the rules and move to Page 8 on the Calendar on the Order of House Bills 2nd Reading for the purpose of offering an amendment to House Bill 214. Without objectiong leave is granted. On the Order of House Bills 2nd Reading, top of Page 8, is House Bill 214, Madam Secretary.
House Bill 214. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee amendments.
Are there amendments from the Floor?
20 STATE OP ILLINOIS 87th GENZRAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 Senator Maitland offers Amendment No.
Senator Maitland, on Amendment No. 1.
Thank you very much, Mr. President and Members of the Senate . The budgeteers and the summlteers are continuing to work through the disagreements that we have right now, and we are making, we believe, progress, and hopefully, in a few days, wedre going to be able to resolve this. But we are concerned about a number of State employees whoz on the two-week schedule, are going to be approaching their payroll time. And therefore, Amendment No. 2 -- Amendment No. would appropriate approximately three hundred million dollars in al1 funds. Also included is some eight hundred and sixty-four thousand dollars for workers who are on work comp leaves right now - their disability payments: and 18.5 million to the Lottery, because obviously, the Lottery is -- is a revenue producer for us. We're going to need this aoneyg and we believe - - to bridge this gap for a few days, we believe that this amendment is is necessary. I believe We are getting closer al1 the time. Thereforey Mr. President, I would move for the adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Al1 right. Senator Maitland has moved the adoption of Amendment No. to House Bill 214. Is there discussion? Senator Carroll.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. You know, June 30th We had sugqested that there were some areas of government that should not be subject to this type of a erisis khat we're now in. Why, I remember even in May we suggested that one of them -- that a federal court had said since, should not be at crisis because We are in disagreement. We offered to fund it. 21 STATE 0P ILLINOIS j 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLX REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT I 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 Passed it. Governor vetoed it. June 30th - no one from Republican side of the aisle thought it necessary to fund the essential services of State Government and brought government to a halt - an absolute halt. We had tried, Senator Maitland, as you dll recall, as budgeteers and conferees, to meet - end of June, early July. Most often in June the meetings were postponed from not hour to hour, like happens around here all the time, but multi-day to multi-day. Wedre told to be here on a Thursday at 3:00 to meet, then suddenly, no, let's do it Tuesday, and then how about next Fridayy and how about next month. We met as conferees. We asked questions - a week ago Saturday - and said we lre a11 working. We assume the Bureau is. We assume the Directors Who are still in town are working. Those Who are not in town, we understand, may be not -- be working, whether they're in Harvard or wherever. But at least those that are here can get us some answers by three o 'clock the next day. Six days later - six days later, some very simple questions still unansweredy maybe half the answers given. We are at an impasse because the Governor wants us to be at one, not because there's any real disagreement in the budget. I think everyone knows that we've trled to work in good faith, though sometimes some people say they're not at liberty to discuss things. Wefve made presentations; we lve made proposals that we believe can fund State Government, lncluding grants, including those most in need - not merely those employed by the State, but those who depend upon the State or those to whom the State says, ''Do this and we dll pay you.'' We've gotten it within a hundred million dollars of where the Governor thinks it ought to be# though he keeps changing the number. We present a balanced budget, and he moves the figure. I said before, itls like playing baseball and from home plate to first base is sixty feety and you hit the ball and Edgar runs out there and grabs for his base and keeps running with it. We had a balanced budget with hundreds of 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0: 1991 millions of dollars in the bank, and suddenly there's another shortfall. We cover almost all of that, and suddenly there's another shortfall. Be said June 30th, ''No piecemeal budget.'' He said this morning, ''No piecemeal budgetq'' I agree. No piecemeal budget. Vote No.
Further discussion? Senator Schaffer.
Mr. President and Members of the Senate, ten days ago, I think most of us here thought that . this impasse would be resolved, certainly by the 5th or 6th. I don't think any of us counted on this going on as long as it has. And despite, I would say, yeoman efforts by our appropriation people, particularly those in the Senate, to close the gap, it's still obvious to me that there are major issues; such as the surcharge, property tax caps, a bill our friends from Southern Illinois are interested in on coalz and some other major issues, that are still very much up in the air. happen to agree, if reasonable people could get together, one would think that. could be concluded quickly. Of course , I felt that way ten days ago. I see no reason why an employee of the Department of Mental Health emptying bedpans in Lincoln should be denied their pay because we can't get our act together down here. It's my understanding and, Senator Maitland, correct me if I'm wronq - that the culprits are not included in this bill. This does not include the Members of the General Assembly, the Governor, either for salary or expenses. But the innocent - those people that work in our hospitals and guard the prisoners and keep our highways safe - are included. That's what this roll call is a1l about. Why should the innocent suffer? And frankly, I think it's the responsible thing to do. This does not preclude us from finishing within the next twenty-four hours. We could still move forward. But if this impasse eontinues and certainlyy for 23 STATE OP ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 one, hope it doesnlt but if it does, I think we have an obligation to see that only those people involved in the process are cut off from their paychecks, not the men and women who work so hard to make State Government function. don't see how anybody can be against this amendment.
PRESIDING OFFTCER: (SENATOR DEMUZTO) A11 right. Further discussion? Senator D lArco.
Thank you, Mr. President. IIm very interested in what Senator Schaffer said about the innocent, because I don't know how you define who's innocent and who's not innocent. It seems to me that the Governor is getting some heat, and the reason he's getting the heat is obvious. State employees are hard working people. We all know that. They work hard for their money: and they should be paid. There's no question about that. And it's a terrible thing that they have to go without a paycheck, because they don't deserve that. They really don't deserve that. Now, what I don't understand about this appropriation is there's nothing in here about public aid. What are we saying.to the people on public aid? They don't count? That the poor in this State have no say? We care about State employees. We're concerned. We're so concerned that we want to pass an appropriation so they get their paychecky but we don't care about people on welfare. Pate Philip, the great Leader over there, said that his constituents are the most powerful in the Statee and they work for a living - the inferenee beins people on public aid are lazy, and they don't work, and they don't pay taxes, and they don't deserve any help from the State of Illinois. Thatls the mentality that is running this General Assembly, and that mentality is why we're at an impasse today and Why we can 't come to some agreement. We've got to respect every citizen in the State of Illinois, not just those that some people think deserve respect, because a11 our citizens deserve the right 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 to be respected and loved and needed and cared about. Vote this appropriation down.
PRESIDING OPPICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) A1l right. Further discussion? Senator Geo-Karis.
Well, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, this is a very responsible bill, because 1111 tell you why. Youdve got these State employees who are in the middle class -- middle-class people who work, trying to pay their mortgages and what have you, and they can't be paid. Why? Because of political games? That's what you're playing on the other side, and you know it as well as I do . Why has the Governor been hard-fast in his attitude? Because he knows we're a billion eight hundred and fifty millicn in the hole in the State Treasury. He knows we cannot spend money we don't have. And he also knows that there are certain needs that have to be met. And these people, our secretaries, the people who work the mental institutions for the State, the people who vote -- work in the jails and What have you - they don't count? What are you going to do? Let a11 the inmates out? I think that attitude you have, you probably will. Well, I donft want to let them out. I want them taken care of, and I want the decent, self-respecting citlzens to be taken care of, and the people who work in the State. You take the secretaries who have been working for manyz many hours just in this General Assembly. You don 't have any regard for them? Well, I do. They have to live from pay -- paycheck Eo paycheck. They have families to take care of. I care about that. And this bill does not include anything for the Legislators. So it's nothkng self-servkng for us. But I think When you talk about a balanced budget - you're willing to do this and that - last year, I heard the eminent Chairman of Appropriations say, ''We have a balanced budget.'' I thought We had the money to pay everything. Well, we don't, but ' 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislatkve Day July l0, 1991 there are certain needs that have to be met. And I think we should stop our politics and stop trying to make the Governor the goat, because he's not. He's very responsible. He knows we ean 't spend money we don 't have. And that's the whole trouble. And some of you have circulated little diatribes out blaming the suburbanites and the Collar Counties and everything. For what? Because we want some property tax relief? It's not in this bill. But you people don 't seem to be responsible on the other side. A11 you can think about is tax and spend, tax and spend. Well, 1'11 vote for your surtax, and I have. But, by golly, lqtls take care of the needs that have to be met, and we cannot 1et al1 these people who have held their jobs and are working and need their money to pay their bills, al1 because of your different philosophy. And much as I love you, John, I don't aqree With you. And I hope that you can pass this bill. want to see the people paid who work for the State.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) A1l right. Further discussion? Senator Cullerton.
Yes, would the sponsor yield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Sponsor indicates he wkll yield. Senator Cullerton.
Senator, see in our printout here that there is some money appropriated to Public Aid in thls budget. Could you tell me how much and for what purpose?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) senator Maitland.
To start kith, Senatory Public Aid in -- in GRF is -- is fifteen: six twenty-seven.
PRESIDING OFPICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 Senator Cullerton.
That's fifteen million, six twenty-seven? And then can you tell me what it's for? Who's going to get the money?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Senator Maitland.
Senator, that's personal services, and it goes to Public Aid Departnent of Public Aid employees.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Senator Cullerton.
But there's nothing in here that goes to the reeipients. So I guess my question 1s, why do we need to pay the employees? What are they going to be doing?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Senator Maitland.
Senator, think you know the answer to that question. The -- the employees of the Department of Public Aid still have duties, whether or not those other payments are going out and, indeed: indeed, some -- some public aid payments have already been made, as you well know, last week.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator Cullerton.
No further questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator Dudycz.
Thank you, Mr. President. Ladies and Gentlemen, lsn't lt ironic that we are here debating whether or not working people, I STATE OP ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 people Who work for the State of Illinois - people Who pay their taxes, people who are holding down jobs and the people who are actually making this government work - whether they should get paid for work that they have already performed? You know, we a re the General Assembly. We are the Legislators of the State, but these are the people Who make the State work, make it run. It's ironic, Mr. President, When a federal judge in Chicago - one man - can order the State to pay general assistance checks to able-bodied individuals - people who don't work. And Senator -- Senator D'Arco, the judge has ordered that those people get their money. It's kind of ironic that these people Who don't work, who don't pay taxes, are getting their moneyy and at the same time, the Members on the other side of the aisle are trying to block payments to people who work for the State, people who do pay their taxes. These are the people who make our government work . You know , we oWe these people their money. It's not our money - it's theirs. They're our secretaries. Theydre all the people Who work for us, the ones that do al1 the work that we get al1 the credit for. We ought to .pay them . ''But the other side of the aisle needs these people as hoseages. So they aren't going to get paid z because they're using them as a political football. Mr. President, I'm sorry, but I just cannot understand the prioritles of the other side.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator Welch.
Thank you, Mr. President. It's funny hoW much difference ten days make when we talk about holding people hostage. We had the chance to set those people free on June 30th, and We didn't get enough votes for that temporary budget back then. Now, suddenly it's become a major issue for the people on the right side of the aisle. think the question we have to ask on this amendment is 28 i STATE 0F ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 i does this amendment help us resolve the budget crisisy or does it I I prolong it? And I think that by passing a budget that lasts only one month, we are only going to prolong this crisis. What happens next month when we're still here and we haven 't adopted the budget? What happens to those State employees Who can only worry about getting paid for one month? Are they going to be able to go out and buy a car? Are they going to be able to go out and get a home equity loan? Are they going to be able to make any major purchases when we haven't resolved the budget? Noz theyfre not. I think that the proponents -- theyfve reiterated at two occasions that the General Assembly doesn't get anything out of this budget. Somehow that is to make everyone believe that Wedre being nagnanimous here - that we're not getting a dime - therefore, wedre doing this in the bes: interests of the people of the State of Illinois. The best interests of the people of the State of Illinois is to keep us in here and keep us negotiating on the budget. The only movement that has taken place has been in the last two days, since there was some pressure on because of the failure to come up with payments for State employees. To alleviate that pressure at this time Would, frankly, make our job much easier here on the Floor of the Senate and in the House, and I don 't think that is in the best interest of the people of the State of Illinois. I think that What we should do is reject this, and I think that if We do thatr we can come up with a budget coverin: everybody - not just State employees who are so deservinq, but everybody - in a very short period of time. I would urge a No vote. PRESIDING OFPICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator DeAngelis. SENATOR DeANGELIS: Thank you, Mr. President. If the public policy of the State of Illinois is going to be resolved by hostage-taklngy then vote 29 STATE 0F ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 No. But if it's going to be resolved in the forum that it ought to be, then it ought to be voted Yes. I have sat in this Body for far too long beyond the date that we ought to be here. And if you want to be here till September, then vote No on this bill. If you want to level the playing field to where it ought to be, then vote Yes. You know, it's amazinq to me that we ought to be concerned about those people who receive from us statutorily what they ought to and then be so negligent in our responsibility to those who administer those programs for those very same people. Because in the end: the ability of those people that everybody seems to be eoncerned about, that have been served by the court order, can only be served by those people who are noW saying, ''You can't be there after tomorrow because youbre not going to get paid.'' If we want to resolve the problems of State Governmenty let's quit taking hostages. This is not Vletnam . This is not Iran. This is not Iraq . This is the General Assembly of the State of Illinois. And if we ever want to get home, there's only one way to go. Release the hostages. And the only way you can do that is to vote Yes on this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator LeehoWicz.
Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I don't think any one of us wants to see one State employee not receive their salary that they're entitled to. But think the important question isy where was the Republican Party on June Khe 30th when we had the bill before us requesting a thirty-day extension in paying vital State services on that appropriation bill? There wasn't one Republican vote. Not one. Now, I1m not saying it's right or wrong, but that's the case. I personally thought it was wrong. I thought it was important that we continue State Government and its important vital functions in making sure that 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Leqislative Day July l0, 1991 the safety of the people of Illinois was foremost; that the people Who needed the help from the State of Illinois would receive their checks. And thank God for a federal court judge who ruled that public aid recipients that are entitled to their checks -- receive their checks. And today AFSCME kent to the court in Sangamon County and requested this same type of responsibility and personal human self-sacrifice and understanding for their employees. Unfortunately, that was not the case. Responsibility, yes. Everyone realizes everybody has a mortgage to meet, car payments to meet, cost of livin: to maintain your families on a monthly basis. It's unfortunate that this administration listens to PR people and says, Well, maybe part of the Republican Party National Committee states the fact that We should go to the wall, and Jim Edgar and this administration is going to get some political points of bein: hard-nosed about it. That's wrong. A11 of us know that. What's involved here right noW is a matter of face and understanding. And yes, for one, want to have these State employees paid. But you know, there is an important picture in this State Government, and that's responsibility . And the responsibility is to make sure We have this entire budget before us and passed. NoW we have been here for ten days - ten overtime days - and wefve been critical in the City of Chicago and in this county and in this State, as far as the amount of money that's bekng expended every day for our per diems. Dongt blame us. We're here to do the job. I'm blaming this administration in not bringin: forth the type of responsibility that we can vote upon. This amendment is not a responsible amendment. Where the hell Were you when We Were there June the 30th asking foE your help? You took people off our side of *he aisle on this amendmene -- on the bill. I would hope that al1 of us Would realize once and for all, we have a responsibility to this State and to the people of this State, and it is -- the budget behind us# whether it's going STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0: 1991 to be a temporary income tax for two years, and exactly where this money is goins. Every one of the people in the Democratic Caucus have been raising that question every day to the leadership of our side and your side as well. I would hope that this amendment is defeated, so once and for a1l the people of Illinols will realize there are people concerned in this Body that Want to get this behind us once and for all. We want the budget passed. We want to make sure that the revenue is coming, whether it's the City of Chicago or other municipalities in this State, on a continuing basis. In order to do that, please vote No on this amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator Marovitz.
Thank you -- thank you, Mr. President. Words are very easy at this very difficult time, and wedve heard words like ''playinq politicse'' and ''political footballf' and I'holding hostage'' that great word - ''holding hostage.'' But if the press wants to know the truth, a1l they have to do is ask for the roll call, which I have in my hands, on House Bill 3-7-3 on June 30th. And that was to fund State Government for another month so nobody would be jeopardized and nobody Would be Without their checks. This is the roll call on House Bill 3-7-3 on June 30th. think was the very last item we did on June 30th. Not one Republican vote, as several have saidz on this particular roll call. Not one Republican vote. The press can get It's House Bill 3-7-3. so what's the hostaqe? What's the political football? In this very proposal, House Bill 214, 1et me tell you about a few of the things that aren't covered, and let's talk about sensitivity. In the Department of Revenue budget, grants and -- for tbe providerse for seniors for basic services and pharmaceuticals, are not provided in this bill. So seniors Who need those basic needs: the pharmaceuticals, will not receive them under thls proposal riqhe 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, /991 here. Under the Department of Revenue: Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund, 18.7 million dollars is requested from the Fund for grants, mortgages or loans to low-income, poor people who need this money to pay their mortgages to live. It's not in here. In the Department of Aging budget, let me tell you what's not in here. In the Community Care Program, funding to providers of basic needs services such as Meals on Wheelsy homemaker services, counseling, housekeeping services, case management services - not provided. In the Department of Rehabilitation Services budget: 1et me tell you what's not provided: help for people so that they can stay at home, home Eervices for severeky disabled persons, including patients on ventilators. The people who help those people stay at home wondt get paid under this proposal, so those people will have no alternatives but going to nursing homes. That's not in this proposal. So let's be honest about What we're doing and what we're not doing. We -- we tried to pay a11 of these services and fund -- fully fund State Government for another monkh while Ehe budget wen: on, under House Bill 3-7-3. Not one Republican vote. But-under this proposal, people in need are not even taken care of.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further dlscussion? Senator Jerome Joyce.
Thank you, Mr. President. This bill that we're on now, the amendment to continue this -- like a continuing resolution like they do in Congress, is -- this is a jokeg because we talk about being held hostage. There is no hostage situation. It's like Panmunjomy years ago - they'd debate about what the table -- hoW the size of the table should be. How it -- whether it should 'be round or square. That's what bappens to our budgeteers. They go to meet and they get this budget down to within a hundred million dollars, which they have now, and then something new comes up . I 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0# 1991 contend that it is the caps for the Dupaqe County, or Collar Counties you will, that we dre really debating about. And that 's What it's really a1l about. Well, T have a resolution here from my county board in Eankakee County: saying that they don't support property tax caps passed July 9thy this year. And that's hardly a bastion of Democratic liberal politicians. Those are Republicans, folks. have tax bills here on my place in 1990 and 1991, and those taxes have gone doWn. They've gone down, folks. Seems to me in Dupage County, where a1l of these good people, these hard working people are, the one mistake they make is they don't elect politicians that are goin: to watch out for their interests. They're -- they 're the spending Republicans. Theybre the ones that are causinq a11 you folks problemsz and you have the guts to blame the Democrats for that. That's preposterous, folks.
PRESIDING OFPICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator Eelly.
Well, I'm not going to attack my colleagues on the other side of the aisle. But think this is -- I agree With Senator Joyce. This is a silly proposal, because what Weire talking about is delaying. And Senator DeAngelisr When you said that wedll be here in September, you better believe We'll be in here September if we Were to adopt this amendment, because that Would guarantee this Legislature Would be back here August lst and we Wouldn't be out of here till at least September and a 1oE longer than that. So I'm going to oppose this, because I donlt think it offers any -- it's not even worth consideration.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Purther discusslon? Senator Severns.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. There's not 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 a one of us in this Chamber, I believez Who wants to see anyone receive a check a day late. And that's what really troubles me about this amendment, Senator Maitland. Because this amendment doesn't even beqin to address the medical providers of this State Who have been paid as much as a hundred and twenty days late and beyond, and who have been forced to go out and borrow eommercially to be able to pay their bills; to be able to pay their employees. Instead of having this short-term or seopgap solution that will take us a feW weeksw I think what we really need to do and I hope the Governor is listening to this, because he's the one that hasn't permitted it to continue I hope what we really do is allow a11 of the budget conferees to continue at the table the Republican side along With the Democrats to continue at the table to hammer out this budget that we're so close to solving. That's khat We need to doz not a sbort-term resolution that forgets the people who have provided service to this State, in good faith, and who has sat still three and four and five months late on getting bills paid. would urge a No vote.
PRESIDING OPFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZTO) Further discussion? Senator FaWell.
I've been listening now to the other side talking about how concerned they are about the poor and the needy and those who are in distress. Well, I happen to have a secretary kho is trying to raise three children who, Without this check, is going to be one of those very needy persons. All of us have people Ehat are on the payroll, on the State payroll, who have to depend on these checks. We don't pay them that much. We don't pay them so that they can put money in their -- in their banks for bad times. Most of these people that wedre talking about are living from one paycheck to another. And how in the world you people can sit there, like a bunch of hypocrites, and talk about the poor and the 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 8?th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10e 1991 needy, when you knou darn Well there is a court order that says that *he public aid checks are going out. Bu* the people who have been working in our offices, keeping this qovernment going, taking care of those needy that you seem to be so concerned about, emptying the bedpans, and taking care of the -- of the sick, and delivering those meals on wheels, and worrying about those people, are the very ones that you're saying shouldn't get paid. If you don't Want to vote for the bill, so be it. But remember, you're the guys that are making our employees not have a paycheck. We're willkng to do kt. Youdre not. And that's the bottom line.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator Jacobs.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen. wasnît going to speak on this issue, because I think wefve had too much pontificating already. But I just think that it's really a little bit absurd. J want to see our people get paid. T want to see our senior citizens get their pharmaceuticals. I want everyone to be taken care of. I don't think wedre that far apart. And I think What We're doing here today is Wrong, and it's Wrong not because of the intention of What welre tryin: to do; it's Wrong because We are so close. We are so close. You know, -- it bugs me a little bkt to sit here and think that wedre talkkng about thks well into July: whenever the Governor will build his log cabin and said he was prepared to be here a11 summer. think he laid down the gauntlet to us then. I think he wants us here. I don'E wanE to be here. I don't wane to be here. Senaeor Raica made a motion the other day - let's go home. But we can't go home, because We haven't done our job. But wedre this close from getting our job done. And I1m here to tell you, folks, extra innings are good in baseball; but in government, itls just purely bad government, and that's where we 're at right now. And I urge a No vote. 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Senator Holmberg.
A quick comment for Senator Fawell. 1'11 pit my seeretary against yours any day. listenbd to the secretaries in our complex discuss whether or not they would be paid. And they said that they had real estate taxes due next week; that they had ear payments to make, and their faces were very long. And yet, as they listened to the radio Eoday and heard Senator Rock say he would not accept a piecemeal plan, they a11 stood up and cheered. And I walked out and I said, HWhat are you cheering about?'' And they saidy ''This is the only way to solve the problem.'' They were willing to accept a payday that didn't come, if we could resolve the budget and make it permanent.
PRESIDING OPFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further discussion? Let me just tell youy folks, I take them as the lights come on. Senator Topinka.
Yes, I call the question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Well, there are Senator DeAngelis for a second time, the two Leaders, and Senator Maitland, to close. Senator DeAngelis. for a second time. SENATOR DeANGELIS: Wellz you know, cannot be left unanswered, because there are people who think that the intention of this bill is to do something beyond which it is not. Senator -- Severns, you voted for the bill that took care of the providers Who are not bein: paid. Maybe youfve forqotten. They've been taken care of. They have not been pald the overdue billsy but they have *he opportunity, on a cash-flow basis, to recover their money. And for those who are welfare recipients, this Body was not so august 37 STATE 0F ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 to -- to take care of their problem . Theydve been taken care of by the courts. But in the end - in the end - the people that have been forgotten are the people who administer those programs to -- to take care of both of those parts. And the fact of the matter is, What we lre voting on tonight is to make it work, so that in the endz what Wedre going to argue about here on this Ploor is not who the hostaqes are - is on what the budget ought to be and how We ought to take care of the problems from a publie-policy standpotnt that exists in this Body. This vote is not whether public employees should be paid or not. This vote is how to embarrass the Governor. You vote No, you make Jim Edgar look like a yahoo, because the people that don't :et paid are goinq to get upset. And the people Who receive What they ought to receive through programs won't qet because there's nobody there to do And you know what? You are messing with the politics of seventy thousand people in this State. That's not fair, and that's what I said before - we could be here till September, because as long as We don't have the responsibilkty of dealing with their lives and the lives .of the people that We are trusted to take care of# there are no issues to resolve. We could be here till December, because the pressure is gone. You pass this bill, the playing field becomes level. And we will deal with the issues of the budget, of taxation, the extension of the surcharge, the caps, and that's what the issue ought to be all about. Let us not hold those people there who have no dog in this fight. We have put them there because we want them to be there; because, by being there, ke don't have to do what we have to do. Let us not absolve ourselves from our responsibility.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) All rigbt. Further diseussion? Senator Philip.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen cf the 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 Senate. In regards to Senator Joyce's comments about high real estate taxes, he's absolutely right. The Collar Counties have the highest real estate taxes in the State of Illinois, and the reason, Senator Joyce, in case you haven't figured it out, is the unfair, unconstitutional School Aid Formula. And as you know, the City of Chicago approximately gets fifty-seven percent of their maney from the Gtate of Illknois for their school kids. My average school district in Dupage County gets 14.3 percent. You gek three times as much as T do. How ds we make up that extra money? By taxing ourselves and raising it locally. And they are high. The average tax bill in Dupage County? About seven thousand dollars a year. We have people -- and what disturbs me the most is people who were born and raised in my county retire on a fixed income and they can't live there anymore, because they can't pay the taxes. Their mortgage is paid off. Theydre on a fixed income and they can't afford to stay in the place where their children live, Where their relatives live. Why? They can't afford their real estate taxes. NoW we from Chicago, what do we care, right? You have one of the lowest real estate taxes in the State of Illinois in the City of Chicago. And youdre one of the biggest benefactors. I'd like to have somebody one time show me anything that the City of Chicago doesn't get iEs unfair share. One time. There isn't anything. You always get more than your share. Welre willing to help you, but once in a while you ought to turn around and try to help us. Now, you know, this State is in pretty bad shape - and it all depends on who you listen about a billion nine short. And our confereesg quite frankly, have been working very hard and lon: on trying to cut that down. But 1'11 tell you one thing it isn't easy to cut around here, because a lot of us have some pet programs. Nobody wants to cut Public Aid, general assistance. Nobody wants to cut Mental Health. It's a difficult, difficult thing to do, and 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 that's why wedre here. That's what this argument's about. I think in the Senate we've been very responsible. We have cut some of the stuff and sent it over to the House. And quite frankly, don't think the other Body has been as responsible as we have. Now, I don't think we're that close. There are some people whofve got up on the Floor of the Senate and said, ''Oh, we're a couple of hundred million dollars off.'' My conferees tell me maybe three hundred, four hundred, five hundred million dollars off. So we're going to be here. Whether you like it or not, wedre going to be here till this budget is balanced. And the Governor gave us a balanced budget, but it was turned down in the House. And I'm goins to say, think about those employees - hard working, pay their taxes, are good guys, as far as I'm concerned, Who maybe have a car payment or real estate taxes they have to pay, or something else they're paying on. Half of these employees make under twenty thousand dollars a year. Those are the llttle quys. But you know what youbre going to say? ''Wedre not going to give you your check. You don't deserve You can wait.'' Now wedre going to be negotiating this budqet so there's no reason we shouldn't give those employees their checky and you know it. Because we're going to probably -- be here over the Weekend. I1m not going to be too happy about that. My family isn't. But I'm willing to sit here and cut and do the right thing, but let's 1et these State employees have their -- what they have Worked for, What they have earned, and we ought to vote -- Aye.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Further diseussion? Senator Rock.
Thank you, Mr. Presidentz Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. My friend, Genakor Philip, I Ehough: you were going to, for onceg come to the right conclusion. We should vote No on this proposed amendmentr and we should reject it out-of-hand, because it has to 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRTPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 be put in the proper perspective. And unfortunately, the proper perspective has nothing whatever to do with the ten thousand State employees that Senator Netsch said would reeeive their check a day or two late if she didn't have the authorization by noon tomorrow; that they would receive their check probably a day or two late we didn't have the budget authorization by tomorrow. And the point we're trying to make is that we ought to address the budget. And the fact is the impasse is not that great. When you stop to think that we have, at least from the Senate side, subscribed onto, signed onto, agreed to in excess of a billion five hundred million dollars in cuts and/or revenue enhancers - a billian fkve and we are literally down, my friends, contrary to al1 the protestations, we are literally down within a striking distance of a eouple of hundred million dollars. And the fact is that the sheet I work off of shows that wefre under a hundred, but my sheet makes some assumptions. And the Republican Leader from the other Chamber is not willing to make any assumptions or any concessions; because: unfortunatelyr the name of the game is caps. That's what this is a11 about. I was as surprised as anyone, I can tell you when, at ten o 'clock this morning, as we were preparing to again meet with the Governor, I was advised that he was scheduling a press conference. And someone, after the press conference, came running to my office and gave me a copy of what the Governor had said. No advance warning to any of us Who have been meeting in good faith. And that's doesn't bother me, except when I read the head note. Now, I don't like newspaper headlines; but when you write your own headline, that seems to me to be a little presumptuous. And the headllne on his press release says, ''Governor seeks funds to avert shutdown of State Government.'' Armageddon has arrived. We're goin: to prevent the shutdown of State Government. And I'm goin: to ask the same question that I have been asking every day since the first of July to many of you 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th CENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0, 1991 individually, to some of you collectively, to my caucus a1l the time - why are ue here? What are we We doing? What's the hangup? We ought not be here on July 10th or July 11th or July 13th. A day or two - a11 right. Concern about the reapportionment , the remap - all right. Keep us here till July 1, so the Governor can veto it - that's fine, understand that. But why now? What are We doing? Doesn 't make a 1ot of sense. And noW we fre providing a piecemeal budget. And We're not averting a shutdown of State Government. We are saying to State employees, ''Sorry, we don't want you to wait a day or two.'' Because, my friends, in my judgment, I thought we were going to be able to settle this thing this afternoon. And I think it can be settled With some reasonable effort and good faith. And might quote a distinguished statesman from the date of May 9, 1991, Who said, ''To even suggest, to even suggest we do piecemeal budgeting with the recognition that Wedre going to be here a11 the month of Julyz is unconscionable.' Quote, unquote - John Maitland, May 9, 1991. We have a bigger responsibility than to assure the fact that our very loyal and competent and beloved State employees would get their cheek on time, as opposed to a day or two late. There is too much that government is responsible for that by Amendment No. l we are simply not addressing. The Governor saidy ''We can resolve in the next couple of weeks.'' I don't want to be here the next couple of Weeks. There's no reason We canlt resolve it tonight, or tomorrow, when we meet again if the question is the budget. But I sugsest to you very strongly: and to a11 the State employees who are out there who think somehow because their check is a day or two late that they are being held hostage, believe me, you are not. But if indeed you feel you are, know the reason. And the reason is caps on real estate taxes, and that's awful, and we ough: to vote No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) 42 STATE 0F ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLX REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July 10, 1991 Further dkscusskon? If not, Senator Maitland may close. END OF TAPE TAPE 2 SENATOR MAITLAND) Thank you very much: Mr. President and Members of the Senate. These, kndeed: ''are the times that try ments souls.'' And, Senator Rock, I don't want to be here any longer either. Iêve got a granddaughter just a few days older than your neW granddaughter and I want to see her very badly, as Well. Itês not pleasant to be here. But even in a good year, when we have the revenues to support the needs, is difficult in conferenee to meet that final decision. And we go through it every year. But in a year like this year, when this Governor - Jim Edgar - Was presented with the numbers that he was presented and put together a balanced budget, we absolutely had an obligation. And now on July 10th we still, as Republicans and Democrats, Seoators and House Members , have an obligation - have an obligation - to leave here with a balanced budget. Even we go by your numbers of one hundred million dollars - we are that close you make that sound as though it's so minuscule. That's a hundred million dollars. We can't leave bere With that kind of a deficit. We don't agree With your figures. We absolutely do not. And Welve told *he press that this afternoon as a result of news conferences that you had. We want to get close together, but we are not there yet. And keep in mind; in a good year When we bring conference committee reports to the Ploor, frequently it ls dkfficult to pass some of them because they are conkroversial. Even once we narroW the gap to zero, as I hope we can do, ehere are a number of things khat have 43 I STATE OP ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislative Day July l0: 1991 to happen. The surcharge and the distribution has to be passed. Hospital assessment, long-term health care have to pass, beeause they critically impact upon the Public Aid budget. Senate Bill 45, with the components that will be contained in it, must pass, or a1l will be for naught. But even Nith those hanging out there yet and assuming that they pass, we are substantially further apart. Each and every one of us have a constitutional responsibility to serve our constituents and to serve the people of this State. And for the speaker who admonished us for being here collecting our per diem : saying it is a waste of money, seems to me if it takes longer to bring this gap together, then we have to do that. That's our responsibility. House Bill 373. And how many speakers over there had -- have spoken about that - what a marvelous and wonderful bill that was? You know how many agencies or parts and pieces of agencies were served in that bill? Seven. Seven agencies out of nearly ninety State agencies. That wasn't a panacea. It simply was not. I am as concerned at the hospktals and nursing homes and and others who aren't beinq paid yet as any of you are. But this amendment - this amendment - addresses those dedicated: hard-working State employees. And hopefully by the time the next check is due, we will have resolved our differences. We are Republicans and Democrats - brothers and sisters. We have an obligation as State Legislators to bring this to a hasty resolution. The Governor is committed to I'm committed to it. I think both sides of the aisle are committed to Letfs continue to Work hard, as we've done the lasb few days: narrow this gap, and please, pleaseg vote Aye on this amendment. And Mr. President, I would request a roll call. PRESIDING OPFICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) Senator Maitland has moved the adoption of Amendment No . l to Eouse Bkkl 214. Those kn Eavor will vote Aye. Those opposed Will vote Nay. The voting is open. Have a11 voted who wish? Have a11 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 87th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 65th Legislatkve Day July l0, 1991 vote; who wish? Have a11 voted Who Wish? Take the record. On that question, the Ayes are 27, the Nays aïe 29, none voting Present. Amendment No. fails. Further amendments?
No further amendments.
PRESIDING OPEICER: (SESATOR DEMUZIO) 3rd Reading. Senator Rock.
Thank you, Mr. President. thànk wedve concluded our business. I Would move that we adjourn until ken o'elock tomorrow morning. Ten o'clock. And I Would point out to Senator Philip, ik's only forty-two percent of the Chicago sehool budget that's funded. Forty-two, not fifty-seven. Forty-two. Ten o'clock tomorrow morning.
PRESIDING OPPICER: (SENATOR DEMUZIO) A11 right. Senator Rock has moved that the Senate skand adjourned till tomorrow morning at the hour of ten o'clock. Senate stands adjourned. 45 REPORT: TIFLDAY STATE ZF ILLINOIS 92/03/:0 PAGEI 0ût 8;TH GENERAL ASSEHBLY 11:13:49 SENATE DAILY TRANSCRIPTION OF DEBATE INDEX dULY 10v :991 HB-B2k# SEEOND READING PAGE HB-02t# MOTION PAGE H8-1838 CONFERENEE PAGE HB-l970 CONFER6NCE PAGE H8-2125 CONFERENCf PAGE SB-0#ç6 EONFEQENCE PAGE 58-0872 CONFERENCE PAGE SB-1û30 CONFERENCE PAGE 5R-0672 REZOLUTION OFFèREO PAGE SR-OST3 RESQLUTION OFFERED PAGE . $R-067# RESOLUTION OFFERED PAGE SR-O6T5 MOTION PAGE 5R-0675 RFSOLUTION OFFEREO PAGE SR-06T& RESOLUTION OFFERED PAGE Sk-087T RESOLUTION OFFERED PAGE SR-06T8 RESOLUYION OFFERED PAGE SR-0679 RESOLUTION OFFEREO PAGE HJR- 00#8 RESOLUTION OFFERE: PAGE SJR-0083 RESOLUTION OFFERED PAGE SJR-OO8# RESOLUTION OFFERED PAGE SJR-0085 RESOLUTION OFFERED PAGE SJR-0086 RESOLUTION OFFEREO PAGE 3UBJEET MATTER SENATE TO ORDER - PRESIOEKT ROCK PAG6 1 PRAYER - REVEREND IVAN JOHNSON PAGE t JOURNAL - APPROVED PAGE t JGURNALS - POSTPONED PAGE 1 RECESS PAGE 5 SENATZ RECON#ENES PAGE 5 MESSAGES FROM THE HOUSE PAGE 5 MESSAGE FROX THE HOUSE PAGE '; AOJOURNMENT PAGE #5