PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The regular Session of the 96th General Assembly will please come to order. Will the Members please be at their desk? Will our guests in the galleries please rise? The invocation today will be given by Senator David Koehler, of Peoria. Senator Koehler.
(Prayer by Senator David Koehler)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney. Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. I’m sorry. Senator Jacobs.
(Pledge of Allegiance, led by Senator Jacobs)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journals of March 17, 2009.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 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 LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Hunter moves to approve the Journals just read by the Secretary. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Frerichs, Chairperson of the Committee on 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Agriculture and Conservation, reports Senate Resolution 127 Be Adopted; and Senate Joint Resolution 19 Be Adopted. Senator Maloney, Chairperson of the Committee on Higher Education, reports Senate Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 325 recommended Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 155, offered by Senator Cullerton. It is substantive, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
Message from the House by Mr. Mahoney, Clerk. Dear Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has passed a bill of the following title, in the passage of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill No. 9. We have like Messages, Madam President, on House Bills 146, 159, 194, 208, 253, 265, 470, 645, 665, 675, 682, 751, 760, 761, 799, 808, 813 and 820. All passed the House, March 17th, 2009. Mark Mahoney, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney, for what purpose do you rise?
Just a point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point. 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
Given the fact that many people weren’t here this morning for, I think, what was one of the most eloquent and relevant invocations given by Senator Koehler -- and that’s my suggestion, that he be our full-time guy from now on.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. Senator Koehler, thank you for such a beautiful prayer on this morning. Mr. Secretary, House Bills 1st Reading.
House Bill 9, offered by Senator Dahl. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 50, offered by Senator Brady. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 61, offered by Senator Clayborne. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 146, offered by Senator Trotter. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 159, offered by Senator Althoff. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 194, offered by Senator Murphy. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 265, offered by Senator Raoul. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 347, offered by Senator Clayborne. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 470, offered by Senator Martinez. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 548, offered by Senator Garrett. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 House Bill 682, offered by Senator Raoul. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 645, offered by Senator Martinez. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 751, offered by Senator Steans. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 760, offered by Senator Althoff. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 813, offered by Senator Delgado. (Secretary reads title of bill) And House Bill 820, offered by Senator Hutchinson. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Mahoney, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has adopted the following joint resolution, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Joint Resolution No. 34. Offered by Senator Clayborne. (Secretary reads HJR No. 34) Adopted by the House, March 10th, 2009. Mark Mahoney, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins, for what purpose do you rise?
4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Thank you, Madam President and Members of the Senate. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you. For the Members of the Senate, I would like for you to welcome to the Chambers this morning students from my parish, St. Sabina Academy, from Chicago. They’re in the President’s Gallery. They’re joined by their teachers, Reverend Sylvester Johnson and Danielle Drayton, I imagine with other parents as well. I’m sorry I don’t have their names. But they wanted to observe the democratic process. So please give them a warm welcome to the Senate -- Senate Chambers.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome students from Sabina. Thanks for being here and enjoying our process. Senator Cronin, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
Certainly. I’d like to introduce a couple of young ladies here today that will be serving as Pages for the Day. Pages. We have Abigayle Weiters and Kristen {sic} (Kirsten) Foley, from the Pleasant Plains Middle School. They are the mighty Redbirds here in Springfield {sic}. They’re taking a day off today to learn about the legislative process. Like to give ‘em a warm Senate welcome. 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome the young ladies here on today to Page and learn the process. Thank you for being here. Senator Hunter, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter, please state your point. May I have your attention in the Chamber, please? Senator Hunter has information to add to her comments on yesterday. May I have your attention, Members of the General Assembly? Thank you.
I am asking for a moment of silence for the twenty-nine children who have been shot and killed in the streets of Chicago this year. Madam President, yesterday I read twenty-eight names to remember those young people. And today, Madam President, I am -- I sadly must read another name of a youth who was shot and killed yesterday on the streets of Chicago. His name is Lee Miller. Madam President, I will continue to read these names until the killing stops.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter, unfortunately just a day later, is requesting a moment of silence for another youth that we’ve lost in the City of Chicago. And I hope you take this to heart as we continue to seek legislation to help us in the urban areas where we’re losing youth on a daily basis. Please rise for a moment of silence. (Moment of silence observed) Thank you. Senator Harmon, for what purpose do you rise?
6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 For purposes of an introduction, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Please state your introduction.
Thank you, Madam President. I’d like to welcome to the Senate Chamber today Sandy Noel and a group of students and parents from Hatch School in Oak Park, who are down today as part of the physical fitness initiative here. They’re up in the President’s Gallery. And if you, as a fellow Oak Park Senator, would help encourage the rest of the Senate to join us in welcoming this group from Oak Park.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Will the students from Hatch School in Oak Park please rise and be welcomed by the General Assembly? Thank you for being here today. The Senate will stand at ease. (SENATE STANDS AT EASE/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, may I have your attention? We have special guests on today. May I have your attention? Thank you. Senator Clayborne in the Chair.
I guess it’s still morning. Good morning. With me I have the track team from East St. Louis Senior High School, boys and girls, who about a year ago both teams won State here in the State of Illinois, State champions. When I was in high school, I think we won State about ten to fourteen years in a row. So we -- we’re here to recognize the -- the best track team in the 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 State of Illinois. At this time, we’ll have the track coach say a few words and -- and participate in the process. Oh, A.D. Okay. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. We’ll let the -- the Athletic Director speak to you at this point in time. EAST ST. LOUIS HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DIRECTOR LEONARD MANLEY: (Remarks and introduction of boys’ track coach)
(Remarks by Coach Rosco Whitfield) EAST ST. LOUIS HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DIRECTOR LEONARD MANLEY: (Introduction of girls’ track coach)
(Remarks by Coach Nino Fennoy) EAST ST. LOUIS HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DIRECTOR LEONARD MANLEY: (Introduction of principal)
(Remarks by Principal Ethel Shanklin)
Back in the Chair is Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) On the Order of Resolutions is House Joint Resolution 34. Senator Clayborne moves to suspend the rules for the purpose of the -- Mr. Secretary, read the resolution.
House Joint Resolution No. 34. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Clayborne moves to suspend the rules for the purpose of the immediate consideration and adoption of House Joint Resolution 34. Those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Nay. The Ayes have it, and the rules are suspended. Senator Clayborne moves for the adoption of House Joint Resolution 34. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Announcements. The following Senators are appointed to the Committee of Escorts for Governor Quinn. Announcements. Senators Maloney, Delgado, Steans, Rutherford and McCarter. The following Senators have been appointed to the Committee of Escorts for Governor Quinn: Senators Maloney, Delgado, Steans, Rutherford and McCarter. The Chair recognizes Representative Will Burns, our former Deputy Chief of Staff. Please welcome Representative Will Burns to the Senate Floor. The Committee on Assignments will convene in the Anteroom at 11:40. The Committee on Assignments will convene in the Anteroom at 11:40. The Senate will stand at ease. (SENATE STANDS AT EASE/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
President Cullerton, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved for Consideration - Senate Resolution 155. Signed by President Cullerton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Announcement. As a reminder, the following Senators are appointed to the Committee of Escorts for Governor Quinn: Senators Maloney, Delgado, Steans, Rutherford and McCarter. 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate will stand in recess until the hour of noon when the Senate will reconvene in Joint Session with the House in the House Chamber. After the Joint Session, the Senate will stand adjourned as a Joint Session. The Senate will then reconvene in regular Session at 2 p.m. The Senate will reconvene in regular Session at 2 p.m. The Senate stands in -- at recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will come to order. On page 74 of the Calendar is the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading. This is final action. Senate Bills 3rd Reading. Okay. We need all Senators to please come to the Floor. We’re on the Order of 3rd Reading for final action. Will all Senators please come to the Senate Floor for 3rd Readings, final action? Senator Koehler, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
Thank you. I’ve got two guests with me here. A good friend of mine is the Chairman of the Peoria County Board, Tom O’Neill, and with him, the Assistant County Administrator, Scott Sorrel. So, if the Senate would please welcome them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Let’s welcome Senator Koehler’s guests. Thanks for being 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 here. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Mahoney, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has passed a bill of the following title, in the passage of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill 47. We’ve received like Messages, Madam President, on House Bills 281, 437, 587, 769, 2244, 2557, 3641, 3670 and 4122. All passed the House, March 18, 2009. Mark Mahoney, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, House Bills 1st Reading.
House Bill 281, offered by Senator Althoff. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 437, offered by Senator Haine. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 587, offered by Senator Koehler. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 244 {sic} (2244), offered by Senator Cronin. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 2557, offered by Senator Silverstein. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 3641, offered by Senator Bomke. (Secretary reads title of bill) And House Bill 4122, offered by Senator Holmes. (Secretary reads title of bill) 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 1st Reading of the House bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) State your point.
I, too, have my County Board Chairman here with me today. I have Ken Koehler, from McHenry County, as well as our County Administrator Peter Austin, who is sitting directly behind me. May we give them a warm welcome to Springfield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. Welcome to our guests. Would all Senators under the sound of my voice please immediately come to the Senate Floor for 3rd Readings? This is final action. 3rd Readings. All Senators please come to the Senate Floor. Senator Delgado, for what purpose do you rise, sir?
Thank -- thank you, Madam President. Other than to compliment you up at the dais - you always look so wonderful up there, and a bright smile - just wanted to bring attention -- actually Senator Martinez has got here to the Floor, so I was -- I’m going to -- like to concede to Senator Martinez.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Delgado. A compliment is always well accepted. Senator Martinez, for what purpose do you rise?
For purpose of a -- of a point of privilege. 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
I, too, echo, you look beautiful up there. There’s nothing like having a woman to preside over the Senate. I am -- it’s with great pleasure and honor that today I want to welcome a great school in my district. I would like the Senators to please rise and give them a great -- they are a great school. It’s called Roosevelt High School and they’re here visiting in the State Senate. Please help me welcome them.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will our guests in the gallery please rise and be welcomed to the Illinois General Assembly? Senator Meeks, for what purpose do you rise?
For a point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Meeks. Please state your point.
They asked me to stall until all of our Members got here. How you doing, ma’am?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) I’m doing well. I like to hear a compliment. I see you have the lovely first lady sitting beside you. You have some news for the rest of us?
Yes. She is here, and that’s part of why I stood, but let me tell you that you look wonderful in the Chair today. And you’re doing a marvelous job. 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator.
I’d like everybody to be quiet. Quiet in the Senate Chambers. This is a very sacred moment. This is a very auspicious occasion. I have today my wife in the Senate Chamber, and today -- thirty-five years ago today I asked her to be my girlfriend and we’ve been together for thirty-five years. And we’ve never broken up one day.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Well, congratulations, Senator Meeks and First Lady Meeks, on thirty-five years of marital bliss. Congratulations and welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Kotowski, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, it’s great to see you in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Kotowski.
Point -- point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
It gives me great pleasure today to introduce a -- a fine group of young people who are here visiting our State Capitol from UCAN, Uhlich Children’s Advantage Network. They’re a group of young leaders that are going to make a great impact on our country and our society. Please stand up for a round of applause. 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please rise and be recognized by the Illinois General Assembly. Welcome. On page 74 of the Calendar, we’re going to the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading. Senator Maloney, with Senate Bill 325. Senator, do you wish to proceed? Senator Maloney seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 325 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 325. Madam Secretary, are there any -- Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Maloney.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney, is there any discussion?
Thank you, Madam President. Floor Amendment 1 simply puts additional requirements for the bonds issued under the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. It was a -- a concern that was addressed in committee and I think it will solidify its support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any Floor -- further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments approved, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 325. Senator Maloney, do you 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 wish to proceed? The Senator indicates that he wishes to do so. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
Senate Bill 325. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate -- Senate Bill 325 addresses the issue of students who have defaulted on their college loans. Now, in some cases, this has -- this has really been no fault of the individuals, but economic circumstances has put them in this situation. We have students who have worked hard, borrowed money, graduated from college, but because of the economy cannot find a job and are unable to pay their loans. We have other people who have dropped out because of family circumstances…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Excuse me, Senator Maloney. May I have order in the Chamber, please? We’re on the Order of 3rd Reading. Senator Maloney has a bill that is very important and I’d like for us to please focus on him. Thank you. Senator Maloney.
Thank you, Madam President. So we have some people who have defaulted on their loans because they were unable to get jobs or they were cut from their jobs. What this bill does, it will establish the rehabilitation loan program, which allows over three thousand Illinois residents to rehabilitate their 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 defaulted student loans. They are residents in every Senatorial District in this State. This will allow them the restoration of credit, because currently if they default on their loans, they are not allowed to get a credit card, they are not allowed to purchase a car or a home. This -- the loans would be paid by being rehabilitated. This is a normal course of action. The bonds would be -- the process would be -- to achieve this process or purpose, the ISAC, or the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, has the authority to issue these bonds backed by the full faith and credit of the State. ISAC would use the revenue to purchase the -- the loans from the U.S. Department of Education. And any default on these rehabilitated loans is ninety-seven percent insured by the Department of Education. I’d be -- I want to thank the cosponsors on this and especially those people on the Higher Education Committee who supported this and would be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Lauzen.
Thank you, Madam President. First of all, thank you very much to the sponsor for bringing forward the -- the problems that, you know, students trying to pay back these loans are having. It’s -- it’s a substantial problem. I appreciate your working on it. Can you -- can you describe how much of a negotiation is going to take place? So, I guess that it’s -- it’s -- what are going to be the parameters of a renegotiated student loan under the plan here?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney seeks to respond. Senator Maloney. 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
Thank you, Madam President. There -- there will be -- to qualify for the rehabilitated loan, a borrower must make nine on-time consecutive monthly payments on the defaulted loan. They must sign documents indicating that -- of the obligations of the loan. And there is even a prediction -- now they would renegotiate the loan. In other words - I asked that same question, Senator - that if an individual is having to pay five hundred dollars a month and couldn’t make that payment, they would be able to bring that payment down and extend the length of the loan. So, that’s -- that’s how this would work. How likely is it that students will default again? It’s estimated that only about fifteen percent are likely to re-default.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Lauzen.
Thank you. I hope that that -- those kinds of statistics are valid, but I appreciate that what you’re describing is an estimate of the renegotiated loans. You’re probably familiar that with residential loans that have been renegotiated under federal - and I’m not aware of any State programs - but -- but a number north of fifty percent re-default on the loans. So, is this maybe -- do you -- are you concerned about -- are you concerned about that -- those statistics - it hasn’t worked so much on the mortgages, why will it work on the student loans?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney.
Well, first of all, I think generally the student loans are 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 a much smaller obligation than mortgages. And the information we have, again, is that about fifteen percent are likely to default. And plus, ninety-seven percent of the loan is guaranteed by the federal loan program. And there is now a four-percent cushion that is built in by -- that ISAC will -- built into this. So there really is -- is no risk. What the program is doing is simply seeking the -- the backing of the State on these, which they really -- because of the ninety-seven percent guaranteed by the federal government and the four- percent cushion built in, there really is no risk for the State, is my understanding.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Lauzen.
Just a final question. Can you share your thoughts on -- if I’m not mistaken, ISAC has just sold their -- I mean, over the last two years, year and a half, two years, they’ve sold their portfolio of the loans that they held. At first it was at a small profit, at a small surplus, and I think, in the eventual sales, it was at a loss. We’ve just gotten out of the business of having a portfolio and now we’re going to issue more bonds. Aren’t we getting back into the -- what’s the advantage of going back into this business again after having sold the portfolio?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney.
My understanding, Senator, is this -- this really is nothing new. It’s just a continuation of the prior program; that ISAC will use this revenue for the general obligation 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 bonds. And… Yeah, this -- this is a program that simply allows the State to back these current loans, the -- the ones that are in default. And there’s approximately three thousand in the pipeline right now.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Further discussion? Senator Maloney, to close.
Thank you, Madam President. I -- I think this is -- is sound legislation that will -- really has no obligation on the State and it will allow three thousand people who perhaps by no fault of their own -- to reestablish their credit and -- and they can’t -- and to also possibly continue with their education if it has been interrupted by a economic situation. I would urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, as the debt in question is secured by the full faith and credit of the State of Illinois, it is the ruling of the Chair that this action falls within the scope of Section 9(b) of Article X {sic} (IX) of the Illinois Constitution, and therefore the passage of this measure will require a three-fifths majority vote. The question is, shall -- shall Senate Bill 325 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there’s 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, and 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 325, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, a Supplemental 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Calendar has been delivered. Senator Harmon, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. For purposes of an introduction before we turn to this next order of business, if it’s all right with you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) That request is in order, Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Our Sergeant-at-Arms has informed me that we have two new full-time Pages joining the Senate staff today. With me at my desk are Mandy Wallner, from UIS, and Cass Leonard, from Lincoln Land Community College, here in Springfield. Please join me in welcoming them to the staff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. We look forward to having you on staff. Welcome. On the Supplemental Calendar, we have Senate Resolution 155. Mr. President, Senator Cullerton. On the Order of Resolution is Senate Joint {sic} Resolution 155. Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 155, offered by Senator Cullerton. (Secretary reads SR No. 155)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senate President Cullerton, to explain the resolution.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. Our rules call for the election of the Secretary of the Senate, and with the departure of Deb Shipley to the Governor’s Office, 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 we have a vacancy. We know that this is a very important position, that there are very few people in Illinois capable of performing these duties. And we have an excellent candidate, and by passing this resolution, we would be asking Jill Rock to be the new Secretary of the Senate. Jill has been here as long as I have. She respects the institution and the traditions. She’s even had experience being the Sergeant-at-Arms for a few months. So, another position that’s elected. So, I really think we have found the right person to fill this important task, and I look forward to passing this resolution and having Jill Rock join us as the new Secretary of the Senate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senate President Cullerton has moved the adoption of Senate Resolution 155. Is there any discussion? Senator Radogno.
Thank you, Madam President. We’ve had a long tradition in this Body of having very competent and wonderful Secretarys of the Senate and I know that Jill Rock will continue in that tradition. So, I’m sure that -- and hope that we will give her a unanimous vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Leader Radogno. Senator Forby, for what purpose do you rise?
To the -- the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Forby.
I just heard you say that Mrs. {sic} Rock’s been here as 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 long as you have. She must have started when she was five years old, ‘cause she -- she looks a lot younger than you do.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate adopt Senate Resolution 155. All those in favor will signify by voting Aye. Those opposed will vote Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Madam {sic} Secretary, please take the record. On that question, there’s 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Resolution 155, now having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Welcome, Madam Secretary, Jill Rock. Senator Viverito, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam Chairman, I don’t know who was playing with this little keyboard of mine, but I voted Yes unanimously. So, I want you to record me as Yes for Miss Jill Rock, who we’re all happy to see back. And she is a lot better looking than our President, I must admit. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Viverito. Your vote will be recorded as voting Aye. Senator Trotter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you very much, Madam President, Members of the Senate. I rise on a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter, please state your point.
Thank you very much. I’d like to introduce a young man 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 who’s with me today. His name is Dwayne Gulley. He’s a senior over at Chicago State University. He’s majoring in international relations and political science and French. His goal is to become an ambassador for the United States. He’s down here this week to learn what little part in this process that we do. And I would like for all of you, please, to join me in welcoming him to Springfield, Illinois.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Let’s welcome our guest to the Illinois General Assembly. Just on the order of business, Senator Viverito will be -- his intent will be recorded as voting Aye on Senate Resolution 155. On page 3 of the Calendar is the Order of Senate Bills 2nd Reading. On page 3 of the Calendar is the Order of Senate Bills 2nd Reading. Senate Bill 30. Senator Steans, do you wish to proceed? Out of the record. Senator Garrett, do you wish to proceed with Senate Bill 32? We’re on the Order of 2nd Readings. We’re moving bills from 2nd to 3rd. Senator Garrett wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, read the bill. That’s okay. We’re going to wait on an amendment for Senator Garrett. Out of the record. Senate Bill 40. Senator Garrett, do you wish to proceed? Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 40. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on State Government and Veterans Affairs adopted Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration? 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
No further amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Millner, on Senate Bill 42. Do you wish to proceed? Out of the record. Senator Pankau, on Senate Bill 47. Do you wish to proceed? Out of the record. Senator Raoul, on Senate Bill 48. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
Senate Bill 48. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Criminal Law adopted amendment -- Committee Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Althoff, on Senate Bill 49. Do you wish to proceed, Senator? Out of the record. Senator Garrett. On top of page 4. Senate Bills 2nd Reading. Senator Garrett, on Senate Bill 54. Do you wish to proceed? Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
Senate Bill 54. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 3rd Reading. Senator Silverstein, on Senate Bill 62. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
Senate Bill 62. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Criminal Law adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Silverstein, on Senate Bill 65. He wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, read the bill. Yes. 65, Senator. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
Senate Bill 65. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Mr. Secretary. 3rd Reading. Senator Silverstein, on Senate Bill 69. Do you wish to proceed? Mr. 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Secretary, he indicates that he does. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 69. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Licensed Activities adopted Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Has there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Haine, on Senate Bill 74. Senator Haine. Senator Haine indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 74. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Althoff, on Senate Bill 82. Senator Althoff, do you wish to proceed? She indicates that she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 82. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Energy adopted Amendment No. 1. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Silverstein, on Senate Bill 84. Please proceed with Senate Bill 84. Mr. Secretary, read the bill.
Senate Bill 84. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Dahl, on Senate Bill 88. Senator Dahl wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 88. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Revenue adopted Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) There been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Dahl, on Senate Bill 89. Out of the record. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 95. Mr. Secretary, he 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 95. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Steans, on Senate Bill 99. Senator Steans. Out of the record. Senator Radogno. Leader Radogno, on Senate Bill 105. Do you wish to proceed? Please read the bill, Mr. President {sic}.
Senate Bill 105. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Public Health adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 108. Do you wish to proceed? He indicate that he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 108. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. With leave of the Body, we will return to Senate Bill 62 at the top of page 4. Correction. Senate Bill 63. The top of page 4. Senate Bill 63. Senator Silverstein, do you wish to proceed? He indicates that he does. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 63. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon. On the top of page 5. Senate Bills 2nd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 109. 3rd Reading on Senate Bill 63.
Senate Bill 109. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon, let’s try that again on Senate Bill 109. Do you wish to proceed? He indicates that he does. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 109. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 111. Indicates she {sic} wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 111. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 112. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 112. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 120. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 120. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Haine, on Senate Bill 122. Senator Haine, on Senate Bill 122. Senator Haine. He wishes to 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 122. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Licensed Activities adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 133. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 133. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 134. He wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 134. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 3rd Reading. Senator Link. Senator Link. Out of the record. Senator Silverstein, on Senate Bill 146. He wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 146. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 149. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 149. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Haine, on Senate Bill 171. Senator Haine, do you wish to proceed? Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 171. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 175. He wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009
Senate Bill 175. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Hunter, on Senate Bill 177. Senator Hunter, on Senate Bill 177. She wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 177. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Leader Radogno, on Senate Bill 181. Leader Radogno, on Senate Bill 181. Do you wish to proceed? Out of the record. Mr. President, on Senate Bill 185. President Cullerton, on Senate Bill 185? Out of the record. At the top of page 6 on the Order of 2nd Reading. The top of page 6 on the Order of -- Senate Bills 2nd Reading. Senator Garrett. She wishes to proceed with Senate Bill 190. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 190. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Senator Demuzio, on Senate Bill… 3rd Reading. Senator Garrett. Senate Bill 190, 3rd Reading. Senator Demuzio, on Senate Bill 204. Senator Demuzio. Out of the record. Senator Bond, on Senate Bill 206. Senator Bond. Senator Bond, on -- on the Order of 2nd Reading, Senate Bill 206. Out of the record. Senator Bond, on Senate Bill 207. Senator Bond, on the Order of 2nd Reading. Out of the record. Senator Collins. Senate Bill 211. Senator -- she wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 211. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Criminal Law adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Koehler, on Senate Bill 212. He wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 212. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Forby, on Senate Bill 218. Out of the record. Senator Forby, on Senate Bill 219. Out of the 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 record. Senator Forby, on Senate Bill 223. Out of the record. Senator Bomke, on the order of Senate Bill 227. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 227. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Steans, on Senate Bill 236. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, she wishes to proceed. Please read the bill.
Senate Bill 236. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Transportation adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Raoul, on Senate Bill 241. Senator Raoul, on Senate Bill 241. Do you wish to proceed, sir? He indicates he does. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 241. (Secretary reads title of bill) 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. …Munoz, on the order of Senate Bill 243. Senator Munoz indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 243. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Clayborne, for what purpose do you rise?
For point of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement.
There will be a Senate Democratic Caucus immediately in the President’s Office.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) There will be a Senate Democrat Caucus immediately in Senate President Cullerton’s Office. A Democrat Caucus immediately. Senator Wilhelmi, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Before we go to caucus, I’d like to welcome two people that are in the gallery behind me. They happen to be my mom and dad, Art and Mary Beth Wilhelmi, 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 from Joliet, Illinois, who are very happy to be with us on this big day in Springfield. Thank you for a warm Springfield welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome parents of A.J. Wilhelmi to the General Assembly. Welcome. Committee on Assignments will meet in the Anteroom at 6 p.m. this evening. The Committee on Assignments will meet in the Anteroom at 6 p.m. May I have your attention for a moment, Ladies and Gentlemen of the General Assembly? I have some announcements to make. May I have your attention, please? Thank you. Thank you. Tomorrow morning, Thursday, at 8:30, Public Health will meet in Room 212; Elections will meet in Room 400; and Agriculture and Conservation will meet in Room 409. All at 8:30. At 9:15, Human Services will meet in Room 212; Judiciary will meet in 400; and Higher Education will meet in 409. That’s at 9:15. At 10:30 -- Transportation will meet in Room 400 and Education will meet in Room 409. No Appropriations. Just Transportation and Education at 10:30. And at 11:15, Criminal Law will meet in Room 212; Environment will meet in Room 400; and Local Government will meet in Room 409. Environment in 400 and Local Government in 409. Senator Burzynski, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. An inquiry of the Chair, or of the Chairman of the Senate Executive Committee, if I might.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) I’m sorry. State your inquiry.
An inquiry of the Chair. Thank you. Madam President, I 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 know that there were subcommittees that were scheduled for today for the Senate Executive Committee. I know there was one at 3, another one later on. And it’s my understanding those have been taken off of the Calendar at this point. And I was curious if that’s accurate, and if it is, if they’ve been rescheduled for further hearing.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Silverstein.
Hello. Thank you, Madam President. If I may address Senator Burzynski’s good concerns. Due to our caucus, we are -- that we are canceling the subcommittees. We’re trying to schedule new dates for them. So, I think if our staff and your staff, and I can talk to management here to see it get done within the next week or so. So, I -- I just want to let you know. I was -- unbeknownst to me and I will make sure that we get those hearings as soon as possible.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Burzynski.
Thank you, Madam President. Well, just as a follow-up to that, Senator Silverstein, I would just like -- Senator Silverstein. Just as a follow-up to that, and I don’t know if - - if this was the situation today or not, but oftentimes when we have bills that come before the General Assembly in committees or subcommittees, we have people coming to present testimony relative to those pieces of legislation, and if they’re going to be driving three hours or four hours, it would be nice if we’re going to cancel those if we know that the day ahead. So, just 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 keep that in mind for future reference. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Silverstein.
Senator Burzynski, I never argue with my wife and I’m not going to argue on that point. You’re a hundred percent right. It’s our fault on this side of the aisle. I hope I didn’t inconvenience anybody. If I did, please let me know. But I will try to see if we can work this out in the next week or so.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will now stand in recess to the call of the Chair. When the Senate reconvenes, the Committee on Assignments will meet in the Anteroom at 6 p.m. The Senate stands in recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HARMON) The -- the Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to the Agriculture and Conservation Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1538; refer to the Consumer Protection Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1408; refer to the Criminal Law Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 42, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 933 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1012 and Floor 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1030; refer to the Criminal Law Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 42, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 933, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill -- Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 152, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 153, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 613, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2051 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2214; refer to the Elections Committee -- those were referred to the Education Committee; refer to the Elections Committee - Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 80, Floor Amendment No. 4 to Senate Bill 80, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 146 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1662; refer to the Environment Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1269, Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1291, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2184 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Joint Resolution 36; refer to the Executive Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 44; Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 324, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1265 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2101; refer to the Financial Institutions Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 229, Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 229; refer to the Higher Education Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 37; refer to the Human Services Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 807, Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1330, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1907 and Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Joint Resolution 3; refer to the Insurance Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1809; refer to the Judiciary Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 154, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 177, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 239, 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 243, Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 243, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 266, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 291, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 292, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1053, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1066, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1390, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1487, Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1579 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2230; refer to the Labor Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 43, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 218, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 219 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to -- Senate Bill 1770; refer to the Licensed Activities Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 53, Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 289, Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 318, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1339, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1486, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1488 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1925; refer to the Local Government Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 337, Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1995, Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill 2057; refer to the Pensions and Investments Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2212; refer to the Public Health Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 133, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 134, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 212, Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 270, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1736 and Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2155; refer to the Revenue Committee - Floor Amendment No. 4 to Senate Bill 89, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 450, Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1723; refer to the State Government and Veterans 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 27th Legislative Day 3/18/2009 Affairs Committee - Floor Amendment No. 1 to Senate Joint Resolution 29; refer to the Transportation Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 148 and Floor Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1833. Signed by Senator James Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HARMON) Thank you, Mr. Secretary. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, with leave of the Body, I’d like to make the announcements for tomorrow’s committees from the Podium. Tomorrow morning at 8:30, there are three committees meeting: Public Health will meet in Room 212, Elections will meet in Room 400, and Agriculture and Conservation will meet in Room 409. That’s tomorrow morning at 8:30. Tomorrow morning at 9:15 a.m., Human Services will meet in Room 212 and Judiciary will meet in Room 400. The Higher Education Committee tomorrow morning has been canceled. Tomorrow morning at 10:30 a.m., Appropriations I will meet - no, I apologize - Transportation will meet at 10:30 a.m. in Room 400 and Education will meet in Room 409. That’s tomorrow morning at 10:30 a.m. Tomorrow morning at 11:15, Criminal Law will meet in Room 212, Environment will meet in Room 400, and Local Government will meet in Room 409. That’s tomorrow at 11:15 a.m. There being no further business to come before the -- there being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until the hour of 12 p.m. noon, on Thursday, March 19th. The Senate stands adjourned. 43