PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The regular Session of the 94th General Assembly will please come to order. Will the Members please be at their desks? And will our guests in the galleries please rise? The invocation today will be given by Father Dennis Holtschneider, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois.
(Prayer by Father Dennis Holtschneider)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Maloney.
(Pledge of Allegiance, led by Senator Maloney)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hunter.
Madam President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal of Tuesday, March 14, 2006, pending arrival of the printed transcripts.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hunter moves to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Haine, Chairperson of the Committee on Insurance, reports House Bill 4125 Do Pass. Senator Crotty, Chairperson of the Committee on Local Government, reports House Bills 874, 2734, 4217 and 4286 Do Pass. Senator Lightford, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, reports House Bills 4832, 4986 and 5370 Do Pass. Senator Meeks, Chairperson of the Committee on Housing and Community Affairs, reports House Bills 4172 and 4719 Do Pass. Senator Munoz, Chairperson of the Committee on Transportation, reports House Bills 1463, 2497, 3126, 4314, 4657 and 4699 Do Pass. And Senators Cullerton and Dillard, Co-Chairpersons of the Committee on Judiciary, report House Bills 4193, 4688, 4785 and 5267 Do Pass; and House Bills 4121, 4298 and 4300 Do Pass, as Amended. 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 Senator Martinez, Chairperson of the Committee on Pensions and Investments, reports House Bill 4317 Do Pass. Senator Clayborne, Chairperson of the Committee on Environment and Energy, reports House Bills 4714 and 5578 Do Pass; and House Bill 1620 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Ronen, Chairperson of the Committee on Health and Human Services, reports House Bills 4202, 4242, 4302, 4306, 4676, 4999, 5245, 5300, 5301 and 5375 Do Pass.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Rules Committee will meet immediately in the President’s Antechamber. Rules immediately. Mr. Secretary, House Bills 1st Reading.
House Bill 4488 {sic} (448). (Secretary reads title of bill) Offered by Senator Emil Jones. House Bill 1261, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 1604, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 2708, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 4391, offered by Senator Peterson. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 4442, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 4453, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 4666, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 4729, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 4819, offered by Senator Peterson. (Secretary reads title of bill) And House Bill 4974, offered by Senator Lightford. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Raoul, for what purpose do you rise? 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006
Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
With me today as my Page for the Day is a constituent of Senator Cullerton’s, Michael Graf, a seventh grader at Mount Carmel Academy. He’s here with his younger brother, Ryan, who’s up in the gallery, and his mother, Ann.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Will our guests in the galleries rise and welcome to Springfield. Senator Axley, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I have a Page for today, I’d like to announce. She is from Des Plaines and she is on spring break from Northern University. Sara, if you could please stand up. This is Sara Franzen. Please welcome her to the Senate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Crotty, for what purpose do you rise?
I, too, have a Page here today and her name is Leah Selenger. She lives in Flossmoor and she’s a student at Kent Law School. So, I’d also like you to…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield.
…welcome her.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Clayborne, for what purpose do you rise?
I rise for a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
I have Pages here today, as well, from the Jackie Joyner- Kersee Boys and Girls Club. I have Redginal Aaron, who’s Youth of the Year at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Boys and Girls Club, Candy Thomas, Corey Hopson, Kristin Chism and Errica McCaleb. 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 They’re behind.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Will our guests rise? Welcome to Springfield. Senator Viverito, for what purpose do you rise?
Personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
I just wanted to say I have a very special guest and I’m really happy that she came to view all of you wonderful people, my daughter, Diane. Diane Viverito. Would you give her a warm welcome?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield, Diane. Senator Lauzen, for what purpose do you rise?
…President, point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
I’d like to introduce my Page for a Day and her sister. Kathy Wass joins us from Oswego’s Women’s Club, and her sister, who’s up in the gallery above the President’s Podium, is Shirley Nelson, from Table Grove, Illinois. I’m delighted that they’re here and I’d like to welcome them to Springfield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. And will our guests in the galleries please rise? Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
I, too, have two wonderful Pages with me today. They are brothers. They’re Joe and David Ray of McHenry, Illinois, and they’re grandfather at one time was Mayor of McHenry. Might we welcome them to Springfield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 Will our guests rise? Welcome to Springfield. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Viverito, Chairperson of the Committee on Rules, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to the Education Committee - House Bills 2012, 4308, 4310, 4365, 4987, 5550, and Senate Joint Resolution 82; refer to the Environment and Energy Committee - House Bills 4977 and 5555; refer to the Executive Committee - House Bills {sic} 4829, Floor Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 2310, Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2654, Floor Amendment 4 to Senate Bill 2983; refer to the Financial Institutions Committee - House Bills 4345 and 4736; refer to the Health and Human Services Committee - House Bills 4186, 4223, 4544, 4853, -- excuse me, 5259, 5330, 5339, 5343, 5348, 5382, 5385 and 5386; refer to the Higher Education Committee - House Bills 4339 and 5429; refer to the Housing and Community Affairs Committee - House Bills 5284, 5299 and 5377; refer to the Insurance Committee - House Bills 4079 and 5337; refer to the Judiciary Committee - House Bills 4204, 4297, 4375, 4649, 4711, 4717, 5288, 5336 and 5376; refer to the Licensed Activities Committee - House Bills 4370 and 4726; refer to the Local Government Committee - House Bills 4173, 4192, 4951, 4960, 4971; refer to the Pensions and Investments Committee - House Bills 4541, 4737, 5331 and Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 789; refer to the Revenue Committee - House Bills 4362, 4369, 4789, 4793 and 5283; refer to the State Government Committee - House Bills 4559, 4703, 5356, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Resolution 514 and Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Resolution 578; refer to the Transportation Committee - House Bills 4521, 4561, 4727, 4768, 4782, 5220, 5274 and 5506. Signed by Senator Viverito, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Garrett, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. State Government will meet today at 1 o'clock in the Stratton Building, and at 1:35 we will also meet, State Government, to discuss amendments that have been referred to the Committee.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 Senator Silverstein, for what purpose do you rise? Senator Silverstein.
Purpose of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
The Senate Executive -- Committee will meet at 1 o'clock, in 212. And the amendments that were just posted, came out of Rules, those amendments will be heard at approximately 1:35.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, Madam Chair -- Madam President. I’m sorry.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
We have in the -- in the -- in the Chambers sitting right here -- standing right here next to me one of my Aldermen from the 16th Ward, City of Chicago, Alderman Shirley Coleman. Let’s welcome her to the Chambers, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to the Senate Chambers, Alderman. Senator Harmon, for what purpose do you rise?
On a point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Today I would like the Senate to welcome representatives of Illinois’ nineteen councils of the Boy Scouts of America, representing more than a quarter of a million scouts and adult scouters in Illinois. Scouting has been an important part of many of our lives and our children’s lives. Some of us, including our own President Jones, have been privileged to serve as scoutmasters or assistant scoutmasters, and in 2005, scouts in Illinois performed more than 1.5 million hours of service on behalf of others. Please join me in welcoming them today. 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 They’re up in the gallery behind us.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Will our guests in the galleries please rise? Welcome to Springfield. Senator Haine, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I’m privileged today to have on the Floor of the Senate two couples: One, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Schrumpf of the Highland/Grantfork area in Senator Watson’s district; and Gary Kreutszberg and his lovely wife, Jan. Jan has been my personal secretary for twenty-eight years and is one of the reasons why I’m here today as a Member of this august Body. Please give them a -- a -- a Senate welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you rise? Sorry. Your light was just on. Senator Hendon, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Just a point of an announcement. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, our annual Senate/House softball game has been scheduled for April the 4th. This is a very important announcement, Madam President, so hammer your little hammer for -- let me get some attention in here. Madam President, could you get some attention in the Body for me? Could you…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Absolutely, sir. Could everybody please give Senator Hendon his -- their attention?
Pound the gavel. I want you to pound the gavel. I want you to pound the gavel. Madam President, please pound the gavel. Now, there you go. This year we have the opportunity to defend our championship, to defend the President, defend -- defend the Minority Leader. Senators against the weaklings in the House. You see that trophy sitting next to Adeline Geo-Karis? We won that trophy the right way, between the lines. On the choke. 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 People like Wendell Jones got out there, sprung a hamstring running around the bases. Lightford and our MVP from last year, Senator Don Harmon. We fought those weaklings in the House. Fifteen to seven, we beat ‘em. Fifteen to seven. And still they talk mess. Talk about it was the umpire. They said things like, “AJ can’t play.” They said Mike Jacobs is a fluke and we may as well send Denny back. But I’m going to tell you, April the 4th, Ladies and Gentlemen, Adeline Geo-Karis is going to call the game and we will defeat the House one more time and retain our championship. Aren’t we going to do it? Aren’t we going to beat ‘em? And we need to practice now next week. Next week bring your cleats, bring your shorts. Remember, for this coach, you can’t play if you don’t practice. So, next Wednesday or Thursday afternoon or evening, we’re going to go out to the field, get those bones agoing, get those arms and legs a running, and we will prepare to defeat the House, April 4th, in Lincoln Park, for the championship of softball in the General Assembly.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator Hendon. I think we all got the message. Senator Sullivan, for what purpose do you rise?
For the purpose of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
I wish I could match Senator Hendon with his comments, but I also have a very important announcement. Today is the day that we’ve all been waiting for. Of course, tonight is the fourth annual Sullivan Caucus Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration from 5 until 8 -- or, excuse me, 5 till 9 p.m. at Karma, just a block and a half south of the Capitol. I notice that Senator Terry Link and Senator Harmon have their green ties on. I appreciate that. Senator Maloney also has his green tie on. Folks, a great day. Lookie there. Refreshments, music, bands, food. Help yourself. 5 to 9, you and your staff. We hope to see you there. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator. Ladies and Gentlemen, we will be turning our Calendar to page 8 on the Order of House Bills 3rd -- 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 2nd Reading. At the bottom of page 8 is House Bill 4137. Senator Cullerton. 4134. Senator Cullerton. Top of page 9. Senator Harmon, on 4461. Senator Lightford, on 4788. Ladies and Gentlemen, please turn your Calendar to page 8. We’ll be doing House Bills 3rd Reading. Senator Sandoval, on House Bill 542. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
House Bill 542. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) I’m sorry, Mr. Secretary. Out of the record. Remember, Ladies and Gentlemen, this is final action. This is 3rd Reading. On House Bills 3rd Reading, Senator DeLeo, on House Bill 3183. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
House Bill 3183. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator DeLeo. SENATOR DeLEO: Thank you very much, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 3183 allows county boards to regulate the location of an AM broadcast station that is established outside the corporate limits. It defines what an AM broadcast station is. In the Metro counties, this legislation parallels a situation in Will County in which the county’s proposed -- legislation allows cell towers to be built in some of the unincorporated areas with minimal oversight. These changes were agreed by all interested parties. I ask for a favorable roll call on House Bill 3183.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 3183 pass. Those in favor will vote Aye. And opposed, vote Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 3183, having received the 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Haine, on 4222. Senator Sandoval, on 4313. Senator Demuzio, on 4349. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
House Bill 4349. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Demuzio.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President. House Bill 4349 amends the Illinois Municipal Code regarding the definition of municipalities regarding ownership or operation of a -- natural gas or system. And I ask for a favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 4349 pass. Those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And House Bill 4349, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Demuzio, on 4462. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
House Bill 4462. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Demuzio.
Yes. Thank you, Madam Secretary and Members of the Senate. House Bill 4462 amends the Illinois Pesticide Act regarding the sale of restricted pesticides over the Internet. I ask for a favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? Senator Risinger.
Yes, Madam President, to the bill: This bill came out of committee with a unanimous vote. I urge those on this side of 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 the aisle to vote Yes. I -- I stand corrected. We did have one -- one No vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Any further discussion? Senator Rauschenberger.
Thank you, Mr. {sic} President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I just rise to -- to warn the Body, when we pass legislation that has no practical effect in the State of Illinois, where we exert Illinois sovereign authority over transactions that don’t exist in the State of Illinois, regardless of whether the bill doesn’t harm anything, what it does do is harm Illinois’ reputation on a national level. This will hit the press and the Internet groups that -- that make decisions about where to locate things and about public policy advocacy. I urged the sponsor in committee not to move this bill. I understand it has a very, very influential House sponsor, but I -- I would hope that some Members would vote No. We have no jurisdiction to regulate sellers outside the State of Illinois. It’s well supported by federal court decisions. This bill asserts that authority when we have none. So, it -- it clutters the statute books. It sends the wrong message to people in -- in electronic commerce that it -- it redefines or reinforces in the minds of -- of people who are doing technology that Illinois is such a backwards State that the legislature passes bills they can’t enforce. So, I would urge people to think hard about not voting for this, voting a Present or a No vote, and at least send a message that some of us recognize we have no right to exert authority over sales that -- that are transacted outside of the borders of the State of Illinois.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 4462 pass. Those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 39 Yeas, 9 voting Nay, 5 voting Present. And House Bill 4462, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Dillard, on 5249. Senator Sieben, for what purpose do you rise?
11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 On a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I wanted to report on the success of the Sportsmen’s Caucus last night. We had a tremendous dinner, a tremendous turnout, and we raised almost thirteen thousand dollars for the Conservation Foundation, money that’s used for youth activities and handicapped activities. Special thank you to our auctioneer, Senator John Sullivan. If you ever need anything sold, John can squeeze out an extra dollar through his skills as a very accomplished auctioneer. So, thank you to all the Members who donated items for the caucus event last night. And thanks to those who bid on the items. We had a great success at the Sportsmen’s Caucus and we’ll do it again next year. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator Sieben. Senator Sandoval, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal -- Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Thank you, Madam President and Members of the Illinois Senate. I would like to -- like for you to help me welcome a Page for the Day from the West Suburban Recreational Association. Like to give a warm welcome to Guillermo Ley, who is serving as Page for a Day today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Will our guest rise? Welcome to Springfield. Senator Millner, for what purpose do you rise?
A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Today I’d like to welcome to the Senate Floor Amy Moriarty, 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 from Northwest Recreation and from Hoffman Estates. Warm welcome for Amy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Will our guest please rise? Welcome to Springfield. Senator Axley, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I have a helper on the Floor today. I’d ask all my fellow Senators to please welcome Susie Rateike. She is from Northwest Special -- Recreation and she lives in Arlington Heights.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Burzynski, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank -- thank you, Madam President. Like to -- purposes -- purposes of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your introduction.
Thank you. I have here with me today Ola Binski, who’s also with the Northwest Special Recreation Association. Like for the Chamber to welcome her here today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Jones, for what purpose do you rise?
A point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Thank you. Also a special guest from the Northwest Special Recreation is Katie Yamamoto and Hillary, from the Northwest Special Recreation. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
Also for a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 State your point.
I, too, have a guest from the Northwest Special Recreation Association. I have Ashley Jones with us. May we welcome her to Springfield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. Senator -- oh! Senator Hendon, for what purpose do you rise?
Purpose of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Sure.
I would like to invite all Members out to our Soul Food reception tonight at the Illinois Hospital Association, 700 South 2nd Street. We’re going to have soul food and being playing bid whist and dancing. Starts at 6 p.m. on the upper level.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator Hendon. Senator Peterson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. For personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Like to introduce our Page for the Day from my district, Stephanie Brandwein from Long Grove.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. Mr. Secretary, do you have any motions on file?
Have a motion filed, dated March 15th, 2006. Pursuant to Article X, Section 10-1, paragraph (c) of the Rules of the Senate, we the undersigned Members request a separate vote on the nomination of David D. Phelps to be Assistant Secretary of the Department of Transportation which is contained in the Governor’s Message of February 24th, 2006. Signed by Senators Dillard, Righter, Wendell Jones, Sieben and Burzynski. 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) To fulfill our responsibilities under Article V, Section 9 of the Constitution, we will now proceed to the Order of Advise and Consent. Senator Hendon.
Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purposes of acting on the appointments set forth in the Messages from the Governor dated January 12th, February 16th and February 24th, 2006.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon moves that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on the appointments set forth in the Messages from the Governor dated January 12th, February 16th and February 24th, 2006. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senators Hendon and Geo-Karis, Co-Chairmen of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Governor’s Message of January 12th, 2006, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon.
Madam President, with respect to the Governor’s Message of January 12th, 2006, I will read the salaried appointments of -- to which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: To be a member and Chair of the Illinois Commerce Commission for a term commencing January 10th, 2006, and ending January 9th, 2009: Charles Box. Madam President, having read the salaried appointment from the Governor’s Message of January 12th, 2006, I now seek leave to consider the appointment on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read from the Governor’s Message of January 12th. All those in favor will vote 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the question -- take the record. On that question, there are 56 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senators Hendon and Geo-Karis, Co-Chairmen of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Governor’s Message of February 24th, 2006, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon.
Madam President, with respect to the Governor’s Message of February 24th, 2006, I will read the salaried appointments of which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommend that the Senate do advise and consent: To be Director of the Department on Aging for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Charles Johnson. To be the Director of the Department of Agriculture for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Charles Hartke. To be Assistant Director of the Department of Central Management Services for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Keith Chambers. To be Director of the Department of Children and Family Services for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Bryan Samuels. To be Director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: John Lavin. To be Assistant Director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Roxanne Nava. To be the Director of the Department of Corrections for a 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Roger Walker. To be Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Information Authority for a term commencing February 21st, 2006: Lori Levin. To be Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: William Burke. To be Assistant Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Gary Wright. To be the Director of the Department of Employment Security for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Brenda Russell. To be a member of the Illinois International Port District Board for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January -- June 1, 2009: Cary Capparelli. To be the Director of the Department of Healthcare and Family Services for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Barry Maram. To be Director of the Department of Human Rights for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Rocco Claps. To be Director of the Department of Human Services for a term -- to be Secretary of the Department of Human Services for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Carol Adams. To be Assistant Secretaries of the Department of Human Services for terms commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Francisco DuPrey and Grace How. To be Inspector General of the Department of Human Services for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: William Davis. To be the Director of the Department of Labor, for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Arthur Ludwig. To be the Directors of the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation for terms commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Lorenzo Padron and Daniel Bluthardt. 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 To be the Director of the Department of Public Health for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Eric Whitaker. To be Assistant Director of the Department of Public Health for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Jonathan Dopkeen. To be Director of the Department of Revenue for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Brian Hamer. To be Director of the Illinois State Police for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Larry Trent. To be Assistant Secretary of the Department -- to be Assistant Secretary of Department of Transportation for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: David Phelps. To be the Director of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Roy Dolgos. To be Assistant Director of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for a term commencing February 21st, 2006 and ending January 15th, 2007: Rochelle Crump. Madam President, having read the salaried appointments from the Governor’s Message of February 24th, 2006, I now seek leave to consider the appointments on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) A motion has been filed requesting that a separate vote be taken on David Phelps to be Assistant Secretary of the Department of Transportation. Being supported by the required number of sponsors, the motion is in order and a separate vote will be taken on David Phelps. In the matter of the appointment of David Phelps, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Transportation, is there any discussion? Senator Dillard.
Just an inquiry, Madam President. Are we just on the David Phelps question now, or the bigger question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Just the David Phelps question. Senator Dillard. 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006
Thank you -- thank you, Madam President. Just to this particular divided motion and all of these February 24th, 2006, appointees of Governor Blagojevich: I mean, generally I have, barring corruption or a legal problem, voted for whomever any Governor of this State has wanted as his appointees. And I voted in committee for all of Governor Blagojevich’s appointees. And basically, his appointees are good people. I like them. They’ve always been helpful to me, and I’m going to vote for all of ‘em but former member of the Illinois House David Phelps. But I’d like to point out a couple of things or issues before we sit here and rubber-stamp the Governor’s Messages. And I come at this from a different perspective than some of you may have, having once been a chief of staff for a former Governor and once, for seven years, a liaison to a Governor to this particular Body. So I know a lot about the appointment processes from both the second and the third floor. You know, first, on this particular Message dated February 24th, these appointees, under the Constitution and the statutes of our State, should have been made fifteen months ago. They should have been made in January 2005. Fifteen months ago. And we’ve waited for fourteen or fifteen months for the Governor to appoint his cabinet. In the meantime, these people have drawn literally millions of dollars of salary without ever being talked to or quizzed by any of us in this Body who probably don’t sit on the Appropriations Committee. And it’s not like some of these appointees are not controversial. Ask the Democrat Auditor General of Illinois, Bill Holland, who used to be the Democrats’ Chief of Staff here. So, some of these people do bear quizzing in committee. And it’s very interesting to note, there are a couple of appointees - big appointees - who the Governor sent us on February 24th, who are not before this Body today. The first one happens to be the Secretary of Transportation, who was not held in committee by the Republicans, by the Majority Leader herself. I don’t know how we’re supposed to pass a major capital program when we don’t even know who the Secretary of Transportation might be a month or two ago. The major manager of State government, the Director of Central Management Services, whom I personally like, has also been held in committee. This is not necessarily an -- I guess, an uncontroversial particular 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 appointment. You know, it’s just seven months from the election, fifteen months from when we should have had these people before the State Senate, and I just think that the State Senate, under the Constitution, and the people of Illinois really should have had more time to deliberate on these particular people. Finally, just a couple other points, Madam President. And I want to say, particularly, Senator Rickey Hendon is one of the finest Chairpersons of the Senate Executive Committee that I’ve ever seen. And I’ve been around here for twenty plus years and Rickey does an excellent job. He is not a rubber stamp for even his own Governor, whom I know he likes. And Rickey has done a tremendous job. But Senator Hendon and the Committee and the State Senate are put in a terrible position when fifteen months after these people should have been appointed, they’re quickly rushed through our committee. And I wish the Governor would do a little bit better job of screening his own people. You know, whether I’m a Republican and a member of his party or not, I get tired of being embarrassed as a member of State government by some of these appointees. This weekend I just read in the Chicago Sun-Times of an appointee, who was a paid salaried appointee, who has a -- a - - a website that, if interpreted like the Sun-Times interpreted it, spews racial separation and other issues. And to this gentleman’s credit, Mr. Munir Muhammad came and he saw me here in the Capitol Building today. He’s a nice gentleman. He runs the Coalition for the Remembrance of Elijah, and he tells me that those are not his personal views, but more of a historical one. I don’t know. I take him at face -- face value that he means that, but I wish we would have somehow been notified that perhaps we could have interviewed this man in front of the committee. I’ll talk to Representative Phelps -- or former Representative Phelps in a second. Today I get in the mail, and I bet you some of you got this too, from the Student Environmental Council of Illinois State University about one of Governor Blagojevich’s appointees who’s on our Message today. The students of Illinois State University say -- says that a man named Mr. Bergman’s appointment conflicts with ISU’s core values and the University Mission Statement. They’ve collected all of these student signatures and they believe Mr. Bergman’s behavior as a trustee and a business man is, quote, “an insult to Illinois State 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 University”. I don’t know whether this is true or not. I sure wish we could have had Mr. Bergman in front of the committee to interview him about that. And I guess, last but not least, and we’re on this separated motion of a gentleman whom I’ve always liked. I’ve worked with him. He’s a former Congressman. He’s a former member of the Illinois House of Representatives. And Dave Phelps has a very good singing voice. But our particular side of the aisle -- and I live about three hundred miles, in Downers Grove, from Golconda, Illinois, where these comments were made. But I read in the Chicago Tribune, some three hundred miles, on Saturday that this particular appointee as the Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Transportation - again, while we’re trying to pass a major capital program in Illinois, this is the Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Transportation - says, quote, the Golconda Herald-Enterprise newspaper noted a gathering of Pope County Democrats, where -- representing -- representing Governor Rod Blagojevich was David Phelps, a former Illinois Congressman for southern Illinois and now a top regional transportation aide in Governor Blagojevich’s administration. Phelps said, quote, “When he is elected, there will be a mass exodus of Republicans from the State payroll,” the newspaper quoted Phelps as saying of the second Blagojevich term. Now, Dave Phelps is a -- is a nice guy and I’ve always liked him, but the problem that I have and I think some of my colleagues have is, first of all, it is against federal law to do hiring and firing on the basis of one’s political party. And we didn’t have the opportunity to talk to Mr. Phelps about that quote, ‘cause, again, it happened after committee. So, I guess, Madam President, you know, I just want to warn Representative Phelps, former Representative Phelps, Assistant Director of Transportation Phelps, that he’ll be the first guy that’ll end up as a personally named person in a federal lawsuit if, in fact, they do not hire by the laws of the United States of America with respect to the Department of Transportation. And all I can say is that I hope we have better screening by the Second Floor of these appointments in the near future and I hope that we have a little more opportunity here in the State Senate, and I’m sure Senator Hendon would agree with me, as the Chairman of the Committee, that we ought to continue to take a real, real deep 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 look at some of these folks, especially since we know we have a Governor who does not screen his -- his applicants very well. So I would assume that Dave Phelps will get confirmed here, ‘cause I can count heads as Senator Rock, the former Senate President, taught me a long time ago, but if nothing else I think we need to send a message to the Assistant Director of Transportation, especially at a time when we’re trying to pass a major capital program in this State, that comments about the exodus and mass exodus of Republicans is against the federal law and we want to put him on notice that we will be watching the hiring practices at the Illinois Department of Transportation very, very closely.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any further discussion about the appointment of David Phelps? Senator Righter.
Thank you, Madam President. To the motion. Thank you. I want to echo some of the comments of my colleague, Senator Dillard. You know, I know David Phelps and consider him a personal friend. He used to represent me in the United States Congress. You know, it’s an election year and sometimes the rhetoric gets a little heated and I appreciate that. And as he is quoted in the Golconda paper, it’d be one thing if Mr. Phelps had been talking about they need to go out and work hard for Democrat candidates, or need to make sure and put yard signs in the yards for Democrat candidates, or need to make sure and vote on election day for Democrats. But that’s not what a high-level official in the State’s Department of Transportation was talking about. He was talking about people who have a certain political affiliation who work for the public. As Senator Dillard already pointed out, taking into account someone’s political views in public hiring is against federal law. I have never voted against one of the Governor’s suggested appointees either. And I’m very disappointed that that first vote is going to be against someone who, I said before, I consider to be a friend. But I think that through these comments and no explanation about them whatsoever that Mr. Phelps has deemed himself not fit to serve in this high- level position in the Department of Transportation. For that reason, Madam President, I will regretfully cast a No vote on the motion. Thank you. 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Watson.
Well, thank you very much, Madam President. And also to the motion, and that was well said by Senator Righter. Those of us who -- and many of us in this Body and -- and those in the House that served with David Phelps know of his character and know of his -- his service to the people of our area, and we have a high regard for him. He obviously went to Congress and represented a good portion of southern Illinois in Washington, D.C., and did a -- did an outstanding job there also. And I -- and -- and it is very unfortunate. And I guess this would -- we’d have to say this -- this is alleged comments, but it is quotes in the paper that we read by which David made these -- these statements, and - - and I just think it’s totally inappropriate. We have reached out to him. I know some people have talked to him. There is some concern about the accuracy of these statements. But still, again, for -- for those types of statements to be even alleged is -- is one that totally, as I say, is inappropriate. So I think at this point in time, reluctantly, I, too, am going to cast a -- a No vote in regard to his appointment. And appreciate the opportunity to express our concerns and thank you for dividing the question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon.
Thank you, Madam President. I -- I want to respond to some things that Senator Dillard said. You know, it -- I’ve -- it’s not often that you get called a rubber stamp and then a great chairman in the same paragraph, but somehow, Senator Dillard, you were able to do that. I want to clear the record. I am not a rubber stamp for anybody - never have been. And the fact that we held up four appointees should, you know, be -- make that very plain and clear to everybody. In addition, this is not the first time that we’ve had this situation. I agree with you, someone should not be acting for a long time. But we want to vet these people out, so we held up certain people so we’d have more time to talk to them. So you can’t have it both ways. Either you want to have enough time to talk to ‘em or you don’t. Also, you 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 mentioned Tim Martin. Well, if we let Tim Martin out of the committee next week, are you going to vote for the capital program then? Because if -- if that’s the price, I’ll let him out right away if we can get some Republican votes for a much needed capital program. You -- you brought that up several times, so that’s a question to you, Senator Dillard. If -- if you will do that, then we’ll let Tim Martin out quick as possible. But I believe we’ll let him out and you’ll still vote -- will not put any votes on the capital program because it is a political year. Governor Blagojevich hasn’t done anything any different than I saw Ryan do or Edgar do. When they did it, you didn’t say nothing. I believe Governor Blagojevich does look over his appointees and most of the people he sends us are good people, and that’s why we passed most of them, but we do hold up some. But it’s no different than I saw when Senator Petka was Chairman of Executive Appointments under Governor Edgar or Governor Ryan. So what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. On the David Phelps question, I don’t know what he said. I didn’t hear the -- comments, but you most certainly have the right to separate the question if you wish.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Emil Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. Two points. And first, I'd like to recognize that in the gallery, several of the aldermen from the City of Chicago. They are down, along with several from the Rogers Park community. They are here in Springfield watching State government. Alderman Beavers. Will the aldermen kindly stand, be recognized? Yeah. Yeah. Thank you. And -- and to the question at hand, just a brief -- just a brief comment. I think David Phelps is a fine young man and I think he would do a outstanding -- is doing an outstanding job with the Department of Transportation. But listening to some of the remarks from the Members of the other side of the aisle, evidently then you didn’t say anything during the previous administration if all those Republicans is in there and they should not be hired on political basis, then there would be no reason for him, if he did, make that statement. So evidently, they did not follow the rules as relate to the U.S. Department of Transportation for our 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 hiring practices. The previous administration be it Edgar, be it Ryan, be it Thompson, otherwise they would not all be there. If they are all Republicans that are there, then they were not following the rules, so perhaps you could go back and look what happened in the past. But aside from that and the remarks, the only -- if he made the remarks, all he -- all he did was probably state what had happened in the past. I think it’s a fine appointment. I think we should approve the appointment. And even though he -- he did tell the truth that they were all Republicans that were hired. But -- but you were silent when they were hiring them; you said it was okay. So you cannot have it both ways.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon, do you wish to close?
I -- I just would like for a -- an Aye vote for David Phelps to be Assistant Secretary of Department of Transportation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointment of David Phelps. 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 32 Yeas, 25 Nays, none voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment of David Phelps as Assistant Secretary of Department of Transportation. In the matter of the appointment of the other salaried appointments named in the Message of February 24th, is there any discussion? The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointments just read from the Governor’s Message of February 24th. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And a majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointments just read. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senators Hendon and Geo-Karis, Co-Chairmen of the Committee 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Governor’s Message of January 12, 2006, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon.
Madam President, with respect to the Governor’s Message of January 12, 2006, I will read the non-salaried appointments of which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: To be a member of the Department of Labor Advisory Board for a term commencing December 19th, 2005, and ending January 16th, 2006, and for a term commencing January 17th, 2006, and ending January 21st, 2008: Dennis Gannon. To be a member of the Illinois Student Assistance Commission for a term commencing November 17, 2005, and ending June 30, 2011: Warren Daniels. Madam President, having read the non-salaried appointments from the Governor’s Message of January 12, 2006, I now seek leave to consider the appointments on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointments just read from the Governor’s Message of January 12th. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointments just read. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senators Hendon and Geo-Karis, Co-Chairmen of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Governor’s Message of February 16th, 2006, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 Senator Hendon.
Madam President, with respect to the Governor’s Message of February 16th, 2006, I will read the non-salaried appointment of which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: To be a member of the Illinois Community College Board for a term commencing December 13th, 2005, and ending January {sic} (June) 30th, 2011: Jacob Rendleman. Madam President, having read the non-salaried appointment from the Governor’s Message of February 16th, 2006, I now seek leave to consider the appointment on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read from the Governor’s Message of February 16th. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointments just read. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senators Hendon and Geo-Karis, Co-Chairmen of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Governor’s Message of February 24th, 2006, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon.
Madam President, with respect to the Governor’s Message of February 24th, 2006, I will read the non-salaried appointments of which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: To be a member of the Illinois State University Board of Trustees, for a term commencing February 21st, 2006, and ending January 1st, 2011: Jay Bergman. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 To be the Public Administrator and Public Guardian of Vermilion County, for a term commencing February 21st, 2006, and ending December 7th, 2009: Danny Dunavan. Madam President, having read the non-salaried appointments from the Governor’s Message of February 24th, 2006, I now seek leave to consider the appointments on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointments just read from the Governor’s Message of February 24th. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 Yeas, none voting Nay, 1 voting Present. And a majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointments just read. Senator Hendon.
Thank you, Madam President. Thank you, Aldermen. Good to see you, Alderman Coleman, Alderman Smith, Alderman Burke, Alderman Hules, Alderman Levar, Alderman Flores, and all the Aldermen. Madam President, I move the Senate rise from Executive -- Session.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hendon moves that the Senate arise from Executive Session. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Senate has arisen from Executive Session. Senator Cullerton, for what purpose do you rise?
For the purposes of announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
The -- the Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to have a joint session with the House Judiciary Committee today. It’s posted for 4:30. The House members would like to start at 4. I think there’s a little bit of a conflict with one of our members, but I think we’re going to ask the members of the Judiciary 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 Committee to come to Room 118, the House committee room, for a joint committee and let’s come at 4 o'clock. And we’ll -- we’re going to have a -- have a joint hearing with the House, Room 118, at 4 o'clock. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Trotter, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam Secretary, point of announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
At 4:15 this afternoon, in Room 212, Appropriation I will be meeting. Again, that’s at 4:15 in 212.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator. Senator Cullerton, for what purpose do you rise?
Just a correction. It’s Room 114, not Room 118. So, Room 114, 4 o'clock. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator Cullerton, for the correction. Senator Sandoval, for what purpose do you rise?
For purpose of announcement, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
The Commerce and Economic Development Committee will meet tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock in Room A-1. 9 o'clock, A-1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Harmon, for what purpose do you rise?
For purposes of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
The Senate Revenue Committee was posted to meet at 1 p.m. in Room 400. We will meet immediately upon adjournment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006 Senator Schoenberg, for what purpose do you rise?
For purposes of an announcement, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your…
The Senate Appropriations II Committee will meet at 2:30 today in Room 212.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Collins, for what purpose do you rise?
For the purpose of an announcement, Madam…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State -- state your announcement.
The Financial Institutions Committee will meet tomorrow morning at 9, in Room 400.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Lightford, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
Thank you, Madam President. Education will meet on Friday morning at 10:30 in Room 212.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Do you mean Friday, Senator, or Thursday?
It’s written on here Friday, but…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Okay. So, but possibly Thursday?
Okay. Thursday. I guess someone else was thinking about happy Friday. I don’t know. But Thursday.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Okay. So, Thursday.
Thank you. 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 94th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 88th Legislative Day 3/15/2006
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of an announcement, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your announcement.
The Senate Appropriations III Committee will meet Thursday, tomorrow, at 10 o'clock in Room 212.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you. Senator Geo-Karis.
Madam Chairman, I’d like to withdraw the motion on 2369.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The motion to reconsider is withdrawn. There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until the hour of 11 a.m., tomorrow, March 16th, 2006. The Senate stands adjourned. 31