PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The regular Session of the Senate will please come to order. Madam Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of October 2nd, 2007.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hunter.
Madam President, I move that the Journal just read by the Secretary be approved, unless some Senators has additions or corrections to offer.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Hunter moves to approve the Journals just read by the Secretary. There being no objection, so ordered. Introduction of Bills.
Senate Bill 1867, offered by Senator Halvorson. (Secretary reads title of bill) And Senate Bill 1868, offered by -- offered by Senator Schoenberg. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) House Bills 1st Reading, Madam Secretary.
House Bill 656, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 921, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 House Bill 1334, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 2070, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 2353, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) And House Bill 2973, offered by Senator Emil Jones. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Silverstein, Chairperson of the Committee on Executive, reports Senate Amendment No. 2 to House Bill 315 recommend Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Madam Secretary, have we received any motions to override the Governor’s veto of legislation?
Yes, Madam President. The following motions have been -- have been filed with respect to the Governor’s action on the following Senate Bills to override total vetoes: Senate Bill 514, by Senator Link; Senate Bill 735, by Senator Cronin; Senate Bill 1011, by Senator Delgado; Senate Bill 1344, by Senator Munoz; and Senate Bill 1463, by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Let them be printed on the Calendar, Madam Secretary. Madam Secretary, have we received any motions to override the 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 Governor’s specific recommendations for change of legislation?
Yes, Madam President. The following motions have been made -- have been filed with respect to the Governor’s action on the following Senate Bills to override specific recommendations for change: Senate Bill 229, by Senator Silverstein; Senate Bill 314, by Senator Maloney; Senate Bill 544, by Senator Delgado; Senate Bill 774, by Senator Collins; and Senate Bill 1201, by Senator Halvorson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Let them be printed on the Calendar, Madam Secretary. Madam Secretary, have we received any motions to accept the Governor’s specific recommendations for change of legislation?
Yes. The following motions have been filed with respect to the Governor’s action on the following Senate Bill to accept specific recommendations for change: Senate Bill 38, by Senator Brady.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Good morning.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Hello. How are you today?
I’m fine. Thank you. The Senate Republicans would request -- request a caucus immediately in the Republican Leader’s Office for forty minutes, if I -- if we would, please. 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator Righter. That’s always in order. The Republican Caucus has announced a caucus for forty minutes in the Minority Leader’s Office. That means at twenty minutes to one you will be back on the Floor, correct? The Senate will stand in recess till the call of the Chair. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The Senate will come to order. All Members within the sound of my voice, please come to the Senate Chambers. Rules Committee will meet immediately in the President’s Anteroom. Rules Committee, immediately. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Halvorson, Chairman of the Committee on Rules, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Education Committee - Senate Joint Resolution 72; refer to Executive Committee - Senate Bill 1105, Senate Bill 1106, Senate Bill 1107, House Bill 656, House Bill 921, House Bill 1334, House Bill 2070, House Bill 2353 and House Bill 2973; refer to State Government and Veterans Affairs Committee - Senate Resolution 255; and Be Approved for Consideration - Motion to Accept Specific Recommendations for Change to Senate Bill 38 and Floor Amendment No. 3 to House Bill 315. I have another Committee Report. Senator Halvorson, Chairman of the Committee on Rules, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Executive Committee - Committee Amendment No. 1 to House 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 Bill 656, Committee Amendment No. 1 to House Bill 921, Committee -- Amendment No. 1 to House Bill 1334, Committee Amendment No. 1 to House Bill 2070, Committee Amendment No. 1 to House Bill 2353 and Committee Amendment No. 1 to House Bill 2973.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Ladies and Gentlemen, everybody should have a Supplemental Calendar No. 1. We will be going to the bottom. We’ll be starting with Motions in Writing, Override Total Vetoes. With leave of the Body, we will be returning to Senate Bill 514. I don’t see Senator Link. Senator Cronin. Top of page 2 of the Supplemental Calendar No. 1 is Motions in Writing, Override Total Vetoes. Senate Bill 1011. Senator Delgado. Madam Secretary, please read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 1011 do pass, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Filed by Senator William Delgado.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Delgado, to explain.
Thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 1011 passed the Senate 45 to 5. This bill adjusts the maximum prize for a crane or redemption game for the first time in twenty years. Currently, prizes are limited to seven times the charge to play or five dollars, whichever is less. This bill raises that limit to twenty-five dollars. The Governor’s veto message stated that he did not -- “I do not agree with the pricing standards in Senate Bill 1011.” Well, there are no pricing standards in this bill. We, therefore, do not know the 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 reason for the veto. And crane games are the games you see which have a bucket or claw that the player uses to lift an object and drop it into a shoot. They are likely best known for having stuffed animals. Redemption games are games like Skee-Ball where the player plays for tickets which they could redeem for prizes. And I would ask for the vote to override the Governor’s veto on Senate Bill 1011, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any discussion? Senator Hendon.
Thank -- thank you, Madam President. You know, I’m going to stand in support of my colleague, Senator Delgado. You know, every now and then the Governor might get a little advice that’s not quite accurate. You know, I love my Governor and support him all the way on most things, but this time I think he’s just a little off kilter. You know, maybe he had a bad day or something there, Senator. But I -- I’d urge that we support our Senator in this motion and send a message to the Governor that we understand sometimes his staff screws it up for him.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Any further discussion? Senator Delgado moves that Senate Bill 1011 do pass, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. Senator Delgado, would you wish to close?
Thank -- thank you, Madam President. I want to ditto the comments of my colleague as to the -- working close with the Governor’s Office. However, I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The question is, shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 1011, 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. 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 48 Yeas, 2 voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 1011, having received the required three-fifths majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Senator Munoz, on Senate Bill 1344. Madam Secretary, read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 1344 do pass, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Filed by Senator Antonio Munoz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Munoz, to explain, if Senator Sandoval could move just a little bit. Senator Munoz.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 1344 simply narrows the definition of a dealer’s relevant marked -- market area to ten- or fifteen-mile radius around the dealer only. The bill is supported by the Illinois Automobile Dealers Association. It passed the Senate and the House unanimously last spring. And I would ask your support in overriding the Governor’s veto. I’d be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Munoz moves that Senate Bill 1344 do pass, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 1344, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 1344, having received the required three-fifths majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Senator -- Senator Lightford, on Senate Bill 1463. Madam Secretary, please read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 1463 do pass, notwithstanding -- notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Filed by Senator Kimberly Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Lightford, to explain.
Thank you, Madam President. This bill requires a teacher to observe a period of silence at the opening of every school day. I do understand the Governor’s rationale for his veto. However, I just want to bring attention to the Body that we already have current law that said “may”. This amendment just simply changed it to “shall”. I think it’s so important to have uniformity in our schools. It did pass out of our Chamber 58 to 1. And I just hope we will override the Governor’s veto.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Lightford moves that Senate Bill 1463 do pass, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. Is there any discussion? Senator Schoenberg.
Thank you, Madam President. I had voted for the original 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 bill and I have been trying to come to grips with that decision. And on that, I’ve decided that I -- I think that the -- the…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Excuse me, Senator Schoenberg, we cannot hear. Please if everybody could listen to our speaker so we can move forward. Senator Schoenberg.
Thank you, Madam President. Very briefly, this is an issue that has been gnawing at me since it was originally presented and I hope you’ll see my point of view on this. I think that we -- we certainly want to respect and encourage moments of reflection. And up -- up until this point, the law provides that this is permissive to have this moment of silence for reflection at the beginning of the school day. To me, there’s something disquieting, somewhat coercive, and -- and I think that this provides a bridge towards formalized prayer in public educational -- in public educational settings that crosses a threshold for me. So I just wanted to urge others to take a second look at this, realize that it’s already permissive if they wish to have a moment of silence, and that perhaps in the spirit of withholding the temptation to have yet one more mandate in our schools, that we support the Governor’s veto. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Any further discussion? Senator Rutherford.
I’m here appreciating so much Senator Schoenberg’s comments that he had come to that conclusion. I stand, Senator Lightford, unfortunately -- when we had one No vote before, I’m -- I’m hoping that we multiply here today, because I, too, believe that 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 the veto was correct. Our schools today have the ability, by law, to put into place a moment of silence and it is my -- it’s my contention that our local school boards, our principals, our superintendents, teachers have the best ability to determine if at that moment in time they should do that. I stand in support of the Governor’s veto.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Further discussion? Senator Hendon.
Thank you, Madam President. Well, it’s a rare moment that we would have Senator Rutherford agreeing with the Governor. So, that’s a wonderful thing to see that there’s bipartisan cooperation, especially when the Governor is wrong. And, you know, I’ll do my normal -- I’ll shorten my normal speech about my love for the Governor, ‘cause you all know that that’s part of what I do on the Senate Floor because it’s true. But he’s wrong on this occasion. He got some bad advice. This is not a moment of prayer. But guess what? We take a moment of prayer here in the Senate to calm some of you all down because you’re a little hyper when you’re coming from your district and just got off 55, off the highway. This is just a moment of silence and I’d urge all those of -- of like minds to support Senator Lightford in her effort and override our Governor -- our esteemed, loved -- beloved Governor on this occasion.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any further discussion? Senator Lightford, to close.
Thank you, Madam President. I -- I want to thank Senator 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 Schoenberg and Rutherford for expressing their concern about this legislation. But I just want the Body to be reminded that this Act does not alter the portion that states that the silent period not be conducted as a religious exercise. I think it’s really important that we look across this country and see all the crimes that are taking place on all of our college campuses, as well as our grammar schools and high schools, and acknowledge that there’s bullying by far that leads to violence. And I believe that in these critical times, it’s important for the teacher to gather the students to focus on the day’s activities. Whatever that child deems necessary for them to think about and reflect on, I think it’s very important that we do it, and we do in a unity. If one classroom is doing it and the other class isn’t and these are the same children that are rotating classes, then they’re not all fully getting the impact on peace for the day and learning it in -- in an academic environment. And so anything above that is just taking this bill way out of proportion. I think it’s really important that we just take a look at the bill itself and just acknowledge the fact that these -- this is what’s really needed in our schools. And so I hope that you would vote Aye.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The question is, shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 1463, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. 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 42 Yeas, 9 voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 1463, having received the required three-fifths majority, is declared passed, 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. We will now be proceeding to Motions in Writing -- oh! With leave of the Body, we need to return to Senate Bill 514. Senator Link, do you wish to proceed on Senate Bill… Madam Secretary, read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 514 do pass, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Filed by Senator Terry Link.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Link, to explain.
Thank you, Madam President. This is -- bill is to raise the limitation -- weight limitation from fifty-six thousand pounds to sixty thousand pounds on a triple rear axle on a manufacture {sic} (manufactured) recovery unit. The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police are neutral. We have worked with them on this and I have no reason why the Governor would have vetoed this bill. Senator Risinger I think could speak as well, as a former IDOT supervisor, on this and knows that we worked on this bill to get everybody’s agreement. And I would ask for an override on this.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Link moves that Senate Bill 514 do pass, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate pass Senate Bill 514, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. All those will in -- 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 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 that question, there are 55 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 514, having received the required three- fifths majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Jonathan Kirshner of the Journal-Register seeks leave to photograph the proceedings. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Senator Forby, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Today I have a very special person here in my district. He is a sheriff and he’s one of the best sheriffs that I -- I can ever imagine. I think everybody in your district, if you got to know this sheriff, you’d want him in your district. His name is Tom Cundiff from Williamson County. Would you all give him a nice hand?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Will our guest in the gallery please rise? Welcome, Sheriff, to Springfield. Senator Sullivan, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
I have a young man here with me today. He’s an intern in my Macomb district office. Evan Crum. He’s from Arlington Heights. Not -- we’re trying to decide who -- who his Senator is, but a -- 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 a student at Western Illinois University, majoring in political science. I’d like everybody to welcome him here today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Welcome to Springfield. It’s good to have you with us. Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. On a point of personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your point.
Thank you. Madam -- Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Chamber, we have -- I think we all have some people here in the Capitol, in particularly up in the gallery, today that are constituents of ours. These are constituents who do some of the most dangerous work that has to be done in terms of public service here in Illinois and that is serving as guards and other personnel in our prisons. Many of these folks, who are members also of the AFSCME Union, are located in the galleries around here in the Senate Chamber. I think it would be appropriate for the Body to rise and give them a warm welcome to the State House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Will our guests in the galleries please rise? Welcome to Springfield. And, Senator Righter, again.
Thank you, Madam President. This time for an inquiry of the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) State your inquiry. 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007
Thank you. Madam President, yesterday the House acted on a number of line-item vetoes imposed on the 2008 budget that this General Assembly passed overwhelmingly, including much-needed funds for the Department of Corrections to protect the very people that we all stood up and applauded for. I wonder if the Chair has any feel for if we are going to be allowed to vote on those overrides as -- as well. And if so, when that might be.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Righter, I’ll get back to you on that. Our next order of business will be Motions in Writing to Accept the Specific Recommendations for Change. We’ll be going to Senate Bill 38. Senator Brady, do you wish to proceed? Madam Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to accept the specific recommendations of the Governor as to Senate Bill 38 in manner and form as follows: Amendment to Senate Bill 38 in Acceptance of Governor’s Recommendations Filed by Senator Bill Brady.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Brady, to explain.
Thank you, Madam President. This bill originally expanded the membership of the Bloomington-Normal or Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority. It -- later a request was asked that we do the same for Springfield. Due to a -- a technical nature, they then reversed their request. They’ve asked for it to be withdrawn. The Governor has amendatorily vetoed them out. 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 Simply allows the Central Illinois Regional Airport Authority to be expanded. Ask for your favorable support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Brady moves to accept the specific recommendations of the Governor as to Senate Bill 38. Is there any discussion? Senator Hendon.
Well, I just wanted to point out that it is a wonderful moment when Senator Brady and Governor Blagojevich are on the same page. I mean, this is absolutely tremendous for the State of Illinois. And I hope this bipartisan work keeps -- keeps continuing these, Senator Brady. You are a great guy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any further discussion? Senator Brady, do you wish to close.
Simply to apologize for my behavior.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Question is, shall the Senate accept the specific recommendations of the Governor as to Senate Bill 38 in the manner and form just stated by the Senator. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. The specific recommendations of the Governor as to Senate Bill 38, having received the required constitutional majority, are declared accepted. Next we will be going to Motions in Writing, Override Specific Recommendations and our first one will be Senate Bill 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 229. Senator Silverstein. Senator Maloney, on Senate Bill 314. Senator Maloney, on Senate Bill 314. Senator Delgado, on Senate Bill 544. Madam Secretary, read -- oh! Wait a minute. Senator Delgado, Senator Maloney has appeared. So, Senator Maloney, you wish to proceed on Senate Bill 314? Madam Secretary, read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 229 do pass, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. Filed by -- pardon me. I move that Senate Bill 314 do pass, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. Filed by Senator Edward Maloney.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Maloney, to explain.
Thank you, Madam President. The -- the bill, as passed, this was a bill that would have IDOT take into consideration -- shall take into consideration construction of pedestrian ways and bikeways in urban areas only. There were a couple exemptions, one of which, when the -- approved by the Secretary of Transportation based on documented safety issues, excessive costs or absence of need. So clearly the cost issue is not a factor here. IDOT was neutral on this bill when we passed it the first time. So, quite frankly, I don’t understand the veto. So it -- it basically puts it to where it was before.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) There any discussion? Senator Risinger.
17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 Yes -- yes, Madam Secretary. I stand in -- in support of the Senator. He worked very hard on this bill to get everybody in agreement, and so far we have not had a satisfactory reason why IDOT has changed its position. But money is not an issue, because if money becomes too great, why then they don’t have to do the improvement. So I stand in support of the override.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Is there any other discussion? Seeing none, Senator Maloney, to close.
Just appreciate an affirmative vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) The question is, shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 314, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. Senate Bill 314, having received the required three-fifths majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Senator Link, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Just an announcement. Senator Silverstein is absent today due to religious reasons and he’s in his district. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Thank you, Senator. We will now be going to Senate Bill 544. Senator Delgado. Madam Secretary, read the motion.
18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 I move that Senate Bill 544 do pass, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. Filed by Senator William Delgado.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Delgado moves that Senate Bill 544 do pass, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. Senator Delgado, to explain.
Thank -- thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 544 was an initiative led by the Racial and Ethnic Healthcare {sic} (Health) Disparities Action Council. And as passed, Senate Bill 544 strengthens the requirements which health facilities must follow in order to ensure that patients - excuse me - with limited English, non-English-speaking and deaf persons will have access to health care information. House -- or Senate Bill 544 passed the Senate and House unanimously. The Governor recommended veto language which would require that only an adult family member or friend can translate at the request of the patient. As passed, there is no age restriction. I make my motion to override the Governor’s amendatory veto because I feel that a teenage family member, for example, could adequately provide language assistance. The assistance should be about ability and not age. At this point, I would ask for questions and a support of an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) There any discussion? The question is, shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 544, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Yeas, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And Senate Bill 544, having received the required three-fifths majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Senator Collins, on Senate Bill 774. Madam Secretary, read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 774 do pass, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. Filed by Senator Jacqueline Collins.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HALVORSON) Senator Collins, to explain.
Thank you, Madam President and Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 774, as passed by this Chamber, as well as the House, created the Quality of Life scratch-off lottery game, where the funds or the revenues would go to provide or fund programs for HIV/AIDS prevention and education. The amendatory veto would have a deleterious effect on the revenue stream, based that this legislation or this program was due to sunset in five years. Not only does it negatively impact this particular scratch-off, it would also have a negative impact on the Ticket for the Cure, the Illinois veterans scratch-off, as well as the Multiple Sclerosis. So I ask that you stand with me in overriding the amendatory veto.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) Is -- is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 744, notwithstanding the specific -- 774, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 the Governor. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed will vote Nay. And 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 voting Aye, 8 voting Nay, none voting Present. The bill, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Senate Bill 1201. Senator Halvorson. Madam Secretary, read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 1201 do pass, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. Filed by Senator Debbie Halvorson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) Senator Halvorson.
Thank you, Mr. President, Members of the Senate. The Senate and the House worked very hard to negotiate Senate Bill 1201, which creates the Wastewater Committee to review the facility planning areas, and the Governor has taken part of that out. We think that it’s a very important part of the bill and we want to restore the bill to what was negotiated. I would appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) Is there any discussion? Senator Risinger.
Thank -- thank you, Mr. President. I stand in support of the Senator’s bill. I think the Wastewater Committee is important. It should not be with IEPA and so I stand in support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 Is there further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 1201, notwithstanding the specific recommendations of the Governor. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 voting Aye, 1 voting Nay, none voting Present. And the bill, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. While we’re at ease, I just wanted to say, Senator Sieben, you are wearing a Rickey Hendon-type tie today. It’s absolutely wonderful. Is that -- a baseball tie, President Jones. It might be celebrating the Cubs victory. Is that it? Cubs win. Cubs win. Senator Sieben, all right. Excellent tie there, Senator Sieben. And you know the Cubs play their first game tonight. So let’s root for the right team, everybody. Go Cubs. While we’re at ease, I also would like to say Senator Lightford is looking rather radiant these days. We don’t know what she’s doing, but she looks absolutely magnificent here lately. Senator Lightford, you should spread the word around the Chamber so some us can, you know, get like you’re looking these days. We’re going to play this for President Jones. (Plays recording of broadcast of a Cubs’ victory) Thank you, Senator DeLeo. With leave of the Body, we’re going to go to page 39 of the regular Calendar. On your -- regular Calendar on page 39 is -- bottom of page 39 is Senate Bill 247. Look on your regular Calendar, bottom of page 39. Senate Bill 247. Certainly. We’re going to go to the bottom of page 39 on the regular Calendar. Senate Bill 237 -- 247 is in the Order of Motions in Writing to Override the Total 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 Veto of the Governor. Senator Watson, on Senate Bill 247, do you wish to proceed? Madam Secretary, please read the motion.
I move that Senate Bill 247 do pass, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Filed by Senator Frank Watson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) Leader Watson.
Thank you very much, Mr. President, and I appreciate you going to this order of business. I missed it yesterday. And this deals with a tax increment financing district that’s located in my -- in my Senate district, Mt. Zion. And, of course, the Governor, as we know and can see, totally vetoed the legislation and we’re -- I’m disappointed in that fact, because he signed others that did similar extensions as this particular bill. I have no reason why the Governor would have vetoed a bill of mine. I’m -- but I’m very disappointed. This passed unanimously out of this Chamber. All the units of local government have signed off on -- on this bill. You all got a letter from myself. You got a letter from Mayor Robinson of Mt. Zion, espousing the benefits of the TIF district for Mt. Zion and what it means for economic development in the area. I would hope that you would join me in supporting a -- a community who wants to move ahead and get things done and -- and prosper economically. And that can be done by extending this TIF district. And I’d appreciate your support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 shall the Senate pass Senate Bill 247, notwithstanding the total veto of the Governor. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed will vote Nay. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Aye, none voting Nay, none voting Present. The bill, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed, notwithstanding the veto of the Governor. Senator Brady, do you seek recognition, sir? Senator Brady.
A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) State your point, Senator.
I just wanted to extend my congratulations to you, Mr. President, Senator Hendon, for once again realizing the Governor was wrong.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) Absolutely. Senator Holmes, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
For some reason, my button didn’t work. I’d like to be an Aye vote on that last vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) The record will reflect your intentions. The Senate will stand at ease for just a few moments. Senator Righter, for what purpose do you seek recognition, sir?
Thank you, Mr. President. I would rise to request an 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 95th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 100th Legislative Day 10/3/2007 immediate caucus on behalf of the Senate Republicans in Senator Watson’s Office. We need about twenty minutes, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) Senator Righter requests a Republican Caucus immediately. The Senate will return at ten minutes after two. That will be about fifteen minutes. If you run a little longer, we won’t -- we won’t mind. Quarter after. 2:15. The Senate stands in recess till call of the Chair, which will be at 2:15. Senate stands in recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HENDON) The Senate will come to order. There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until the hour of 9 a.m., tomorrow, October the 4th, 2007. The Senate stands adjourned. 25