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 Bishop G.E. Livingston, Life Changers Church of Decatur, Decatur, Illinois. Bishop Livingston.
(Prayer by Bishop G.E. Livingston)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Jacobs.
(Pledge of Allegiance, led by Senator Jacobs)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of April 28th, 2009.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Madam President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal of Tuesday, April 28th, 2009, pending arrival of the printed transcript.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter moves to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. There being no objection, so ordered. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Senator Frerichs, Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture and Conservation, reports House Bills 78, 229, 338, 680, 872, 1087, 2251, 2294, 2442, 2533, 2546 and 4245 Do Pass; and House Bill 3990 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Crotty, Chairperson of the Committee on Elections, reports House Bills 267, 704, 723, 1131, 4051 and 4077 Do Pass; and House Bills 268 and 567 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Delgado, Chairperson of the Committee on Public Health, reports House Bills 488, 546, 604, 658, 752, 1292, 2285, 2318 and 2481 Do Pass; and House Bills 926, 1327 and 3974 Do Pass, as Amended; and Senate Amendment No. 5 to Senate Bill 1381 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Maloney, Chairperson of the Committee on Higher Education, reports House Bills 336, 364, 382, 461, 862, 898, 899, 1079, 2235, 2686 and 3999 Do Pass. Senator Wilhelmi, Chairperson of the Committee on Judiciary, reports House Bills 59, 153, 361, 688, 756, 2246, 2266, 2283, 2351, 2845, 3690, 3691 and 3794 Do Pass; and House Bills 529, 2405 and 3776 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Sandoval, Chairperson of the Committee on Transportation, reports House Bills 71, 353, 2433, 2455, 2612, 2625, 2750, 3325, 3705, 3721, 3889, 3956 and 4327 Do Pass. Senator Hunter, Chairperson of the Committee on Human Services, reports House Bills 30, 39, 204, 366, 415, 520, 562, 726, 758, 760, 808, 976, 1132, 2365, 2383, 2653, 3844, 3925 and 3967 Do Pass; and House Bill 2388 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Meeks, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, reports House Bills 281, 325, 380, 392, 475, 548, 605, 645, 684, 740, 806, 999, 1107, 2321, 2871 and 3982 Do Pass; and House 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Bills 613 and 1108 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Garrett, Chairperson of the Committee on Environment, reports House Bills 266, 402, 1042, 2437, 2439, 2664, 3859 and 3987 Do Pass. Senator Koehler, Chairperson of the Committee on Local Government, reports House Bills 38, 61, 159, 211, 347, 466, 483, 585, 587, 606, 629, 666, 771, 849, 1089, 1597, 2295, 2409, 2410, 2425, 2451, 3112, 3630, 3746, 3986 and 4151 Do Pass; and House Bill 883 Do Pass, as Amended.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will stand at ease for a few minutes to allow the Committee on Assignments to meet. The members of the Committee on Assignments will come to the President’s Anteroom immediately. The Senate will stand at ease. Senator Bomke, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
I have with me today my Page of the Day, Reagen Tibbs. Also accompanying Reagen, behind the Democrats, is his grandfather, Bob Gordon, and his mother, Vanessa. I would appreciate it if you would help me to welcome ‘em here to the Illinois State Senate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will our guests in the galleries please rise? Will the Senate welcome our guests and our Page -- Senator Bomke’s Page for the Day? 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 (SENATE STANDS AT EASE/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will come to order. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator DeLeo, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Commerce Committee - Committee Amendment 2 to House Bill 442, Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 4186; refer to the Executive Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 80, Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 547, Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 1195, Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill -- 420 and Floor Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 932; refer to the Gaming Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 261; refer to the Insurance Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 927; refer to the Labor Committee - Floor Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 1715; refer to Licensed Activities Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 1119, Committee Amendment 2 to House Bill 1119, Committee Amendment 2 to House Bill 1329, Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 2331 and Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 3874; refer to the Pensions and Investments Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 1291; refer to the Revenue Committee - Floor Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 1739; refer to the State Government and Veterans Affair {sic} (Affairs) Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 22 and Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 372; re-referred from the Agriculture and Conservation Committee to the Licensed Activities Committee - 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Senate Joint Resolution 56. Signed by Senator James A. DeLeo, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) For the purpose of announcements. Labor and Pensions will begin at 1:35 to take up bills and amendments. Labor and Pensions will begin at 1:35. Executive, Revenue and Licensed Activity {sic} (Activities) will begin at 2:15. Exec, Revenue and Licensed Activity {sic} will begin at 2:15. Approp II, Insurance and State Government will begin at 4. Approp II, Insurance and State Government will begin at 4. And Criminal Law will reconvene at 5:30 in Room 400. Criminal Law will reconvene at 5:30 in Room 400. Senator Cronin, for what purpose do you rise?
A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President. I just wanted to direct the attention of the Body to my guest here, seated at my desk. Allison Wilson is a student -- a student leader at College of DuPage. Let’s give her a warm Senate welcome, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome, Allison, to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Koehler, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator. 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009
Well, and I have joining me Senator Risinger. We’re very privileged to represent Peoria, which is the home of Bradley University. And I’d like the Senate to give a very warm welcome to Bradley University’s President, Joanne Glasser. And two other people from Bradley University: Shelley Epstein, who is a -- a good friend. He’s the Vice President of Communications. And Brad McMillan, who was formally Chief of Staff for Congressman Ray LaHood, is now the Director of the Institute for Principled Leadership. And I’d like to have the Senate give ‘em a very warm welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome the President of Bradley University and staff members. Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator John Jones, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you very much, Madam President. I really appreciate the opportunity. It’s truly an honor for me to rise up today and introduce a group from -- from the -- Kaskaskia College, along with Senator Kyle McCarter and Senator Dave Luechtefeld, who we -- all three of us Senators represent Kaskaskia College. But up in the gallery, right up here to my left, we’re honored today to have the Kaskaskia Blue Angels Basketball Team. They won the Great Rivers Athletic Conference in southern Illinois with an undefeated conference season. They went on to win the 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Region 24 Tournament for qualification to the national tournament; qualified and competed for the very first time in the school’s history at the National Junior College Athletic Association Division 1 Tournament in Salina, Kansas, where they finished fourth in the nation. Each student on the team is an excellent academic student. And joining them today is their coaches, along with Dr. Underwood, the President of Kaskaskia College, and several of the Board of Trustees. So if they would rise and the Illinois Senate would honor them today. We are deeply honored to have them here. And after you get through being honored, if you would go down to the third floor, we want to get a photo with you, along with Senator Luechtefeld and Senator McCarter. So, if the Illinois Senate could welcome them today, we’d appreciate it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Would our… Thank you for being here. We appreciate having you. Thank you, ladies and faculty. Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
If the Chamber will bear with me. I made an announcement yesterday and I thank all the Senators who made time out of their busy schedules to visit us this morning down in the Rathskeller. I have four very wonderful, important guests with me today. Sitting with Senator Dahl, I have - Tara, I’m going to blow if here - Tara Diedrich. Sitting behind me, between 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Senator Duffy and Senator Murphy, I have Matthew Heider. Sitting over with Senator Demuzio, I have Jason Schaeff. And sitting here directly to my right, I have John Hudacheck. Behind me, I have their teachers, their directors, their support staff and, more importantly, their parents. They are here as part of the Applied Learning Program, whose goal is to teach the academic, social, self-care, vocational, communication, recreational, leisure and daily living skills that are necessary for each of these students to participate independently to the greatest extent possible. They were here advocating on their needs today. May we please welcome them to Springfield?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome our guests to Springfield. And their families, if you’d like to rise in the gallery. Thanks for being here. Senator Cronin. Senator Cronin -- for purposes of introduction, Senator Cronin in the Chair.
Thank you very much. Colleagues, friends, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, as these young students gather up here, I wanted to ask your attention for a moment if I may, please. I just wanted to introduce to you some outstanding young men and women -- woman from Immaculate Conception High School, the home of the Knights. It’s an outstanding education institution, a high school in Elmhurst that has been a college prep school since 1936. It has a wonderful history and a tradition, the Sisters of St. Agnes, and today it stands proud right there on Cottage Hill Avenue in the City of Elmhurst. I’m here with the Class 2A State Champions. These young men and this young woman really did some remarkable things on the playing field. And why 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 it was so remarkable is because they achieved levels of greatness that nobody had thought they could, because of the teamwork, the disciple and the education. I want to introduce and commend the coaches that are here - Coach Kenneally, Coach O’Hara, Head Coach Bill Schmidt; Team Captains, Antonio Taylor - maybe you give a little wave, guys - Antonio Taylor, Paul Hornstra, Marco Medina and Will Cronin. Principal Pam Levar is with us in spirit here today. And we have a little side story that was sort of interesting for a lot of people as they followed the team along the season, was Miss Olivia Vatch, who’s on my right, is the first player in IHSA football history -- female player to put the shoulder pads on and score points in a State championship game. So with that, I’d like to ask Coach Kenneally if he could just offer a couple of quick remarks to my friends and colleagues. We’re so proud of these young men and woman from the community. It’s meant a lot to the town, to the community, to the parish, to the school, and just -- we’re very proud. I want to invite Jim -- Coach Kenneally, come up here, say a few words real quickly, please.
(Remarks by Coach Jim Kenneally)
Thank you very much, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Thank you for your attention. Congratulations, Immaculate Conception High School. God bless.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Senate. I rise for a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you. Today, Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce my Page for the Day. This is a gifted student from Franklin High School -- Franklin Grammar School in Springfield, Natasha, and she is the daughter of Jessica Handy, our policy and budget staffer. And her grandmother is sitting in the balcony, Lynn Handy. And so, would you please give her a warm welcome to the Springfield General Assembly?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome our gifted student and her grandmother to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Schoenberg, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I rise on a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, it’s my great honor today to introduce you to Jonah Kasallis. Jonah is my Page for the Day. He’s in fifth grade at the Walden Elementary School in Deerfield, in Senator Garrett’s district. He’s -- his interests include reptiles and fishing. And he wants to be a herpetologist. So if you see something in the State budget this year for herpetology study, you’ll know where it came from. And his grandparents are Burt and Sheila Handler. 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 They live in Glenview and they’re also relatives of mine. So please give them all a warm Senate welcome. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome Senator Schoenberg’s guest and family members to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Demuzio, for what purpose do you rise?
Yes. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Yes. I, too, have a Page for today. And I’d like to introduce Jason Schaeff, from Johnsburg, Illinois. And it’s my privilege to have him with me today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome Senator Demuzio’s Page to the Illinois General Assembly. Thank you for being here. Senator Kotowski, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. It gives me great pleasure today to introduce a -- an old friend of my wife Ann and I, Bob Grogan. He’s the DuPage County Auditor. He recently won election in his first, I think, elected office of this magnitude. He’s a -- he’s a great man, a great family man. And he came to Springfield to spend the day. And he’s -- he’s a -- I think he’s an important person to meet, for all Democrats out there. For all you Republicans, he’s a Republican. So, not only do I sit on this side of the aisle, I also have Republican friends who are good, decent people. So it 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 can happen. So, Ladies and Gentlemen, give Bob Grogan a great Springfield welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Let’s welcome Bob. If he would please rise and be welcomed by the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Sullivan, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
I, too, have some guests here today visiting. We have a number of students from the Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois, which is in my district. They are students in the American Politics class there at Monmouth College. They’re up in the gallery to my right. They -- I’d like to introduce them. And as I call out your name, if you would, please stand up. Shawn Betar from Monmouth, Betsy Carlson from Peoria, Matt Wright from Canton, Ryan Powers from Pekin, Renee Clark from Chicago, Ashley Tocha from Kewanee, Andy Frea {sic} (Drea) from Taylorville, Jonathan Peterson from Burlington, Iowa. And their teacher, Robin Johnson, has brought the class down here today to understand more about the political process and see what we do. I hope we don’t just make introductions all the time. I’m going to go up there and tell them that that’s not what we do all the time. But I’d like for everybody to welcome them to Springfield here today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome our guests in the gallery. If you will 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 please rise and be welcomed by the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Haine, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President. And Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I -- I also wish to introduce my guest for the day, Matthew Von Nida. Matthew is a second-year student, a sophomore, at Granite City High School. He’s an honor student. Very able young man. His mother, who’s also here, Deborah Von Nida is a deputy coroner and a distinguished forensic investigator. So if you’ve seen CIS, you’ll see someone like her collecting evidence at homicide scenes. And Matthew’s father, Debbie’s husband, is my distinguished county clerk, who’s busy back home counting ballots, hopefully in my favor. So, Madam President, if we could give them a warm welcome, I’d appreciate it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. Please welcome Senator Haine’s guests to the Illinois General Assembly. The Chair recognizes Representative Marlow Colvin to the Illinois Senate. Marlow. Senator Wilhelmi, for what purpose do you rise?
…President -- thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator. 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009
Thank you very much. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I’m very proud today to have a young lady named Nisha Albert with me as my Page. She lives in Senator Kirk Dillard’s district, but I know her because of her wonderful grandmother who’s up in the gallery. Her name is Arlene Albert, who’s on the Joliet High School Board. Want to welcome all of them. In addition to Arlene, we have Nisha’s mom and dad - we have Chris and Yen Albert - and her sister, Aleena. Nisha is a fifth grader at Whittier School in Downers Grove. And she likes to read and play the violin in her spare time. Please give her and her family a warm Springfield welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will our guests in the galleries please rise? And welcome Senator Wilhelmi’s guests to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Meeks, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank -- thank you, Madam Chairman {sic}. For a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) State your point, Senator.
Really -- really, Marlow Colvin is here today as my Page for today and that’s the reason that I’ve invited him over to the Illinois General -- to the Illinois Senate. And so he will be shadowing me today. And he will be learning the -- all of the works of a Senator. So I would like everybody to welcome my Page of the day, Marlow Colvin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Welcome, Representative Colvin -- Colvin to the Senate as a Page for Senator Meeks for the day. Senator Raoul, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Madam President, Senator Meeks’ Page for the day brought his posse with him. And the gentlemen of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, are in the gallery behind you. And -- and -- and their leader, Mr. Elgie Sims, is the -- in the gallery as well.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will the men of Alpha Phi Alpha please rise and be welcomed by the Illinois General Assembly? And we appreciate all the hard work you do in our communities. Thank you for being here. Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
Again, point of personal privilege, please, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
I, too, have another guest with me here today. I have Julie Mayer who represents the Advocate Health Systems Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington, Illinois. And if we might recognize and welcome her to Springfield as well.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Madam Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 245, offered by Senator Lauzen and all Members. Senate Resolution 246, offered by Senator Hunter and all Members. Senate Resolution -- 247, offered by Senator Koehler and all Members. They’re all death resolutions, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, Resolutions Consent Calendar.
Senate Joint Resolution 62, offered by Senator Bomke. And Senate Joint Resolution 63, offered by Senator Garrett. They are substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 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 concurred with the Senate in the passage of a bill of the following title, to wit: Senate Bill 269, together with the following amendment which is attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 269. We have received a like Message on Senate Bill 1341, with House Amendment 1. Passed the House, as amended, April 28th, 2009. Mark Mahoney, 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, if you would please turn your Calendars to the Order of 2nd Reading. On page 4 of the Calendar is the Order of Senate Bills 2nd Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are going to the order of business. If I could please have your attention. If you could quiet down just a little bit, please. Thank you. Senate Bill 2101. Senator Collins. Do you wish to proceed? She indicates that she does. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 2101. (Secretary reads title of bill) No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading.
2nd Reading of the bill. Sorry.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) On page 10 of the Calendar is the Order of Senate Bills 3rd Reading. This is final action. Senate Bills 3rd Reading, final action. Senate Bill 189. Senator Garrett. Do you wish to proceed? The Senator indicates that she does. Madam Secretary, read the bill.
Senate Bill 189. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Senator Garrett.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 189 does a multitude of things to reform the appointment of members to boards and commissions. We have done a lot of research in our office. We looked across the entire country and looked at what other states were doing. And we put this piece of legislation together which we think actually satisfies the needs that we have and some of the gaps that we haven’t addressed. We have formalized the process of making appointments to boards and commissions so there is a clear defined process, in that everything would be posted on a website. Information on all the positions would be included on the website. The website, we would also specify information that needs to be provided by those seeking an appointment, such as making sure that there is a resume and that all letters of recommendation are also included for the public to read. We also require that an economic interest statement would also be filed. We add the revolving-door prohibitions. We require ethics training. And we add an inspector general. I’d be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, this is final action. The question is, shall Senate Bill 189 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, and 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 189, having received the required constitutional majority, is 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 declared passed. Senate Bill 176. Senator Harmon, do you wish to proceed? He indicates that he does. Senator Harmon seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 176 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 176. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. The underlying bill, Senate Bill 176, is a -- a -- a controversial bill. It relates to the separation of the Cook County Forest Preserve District from the Cook County Board of Commissioners. The amendment changes the way we would elect the trustees and -- and provides for election from three separate districts. It is not my intention to call this bill on 3rd Reading, Madam President. But I would ask for the approval of the amendment so that it can be attached to the bill. And then I will continue to work with all stakeholders.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Rutherford.
Thank you, Madam President. If the sponsor would yield, I’d like to ask him a question.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) He indicates that he will, Senator.
19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Thank you very much. Senator Harmon, what’s -- what is yet to be discussed? What are -- what are still the -- what are still the dividing points?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Well, Senator, as we’ve discussed in committee, the -- the best way to represent the people of Cook County and -- and their wishes for the Forest Preserve District can be handled in any number of ways. And we’re still looking at different ways to ensure the broadest and best representation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Rutherford.
Thank you, Madam President. I understand that’s the purpose of what this process is about. But what -- I mean, you’re amending it to have it provide for three districts. What is yet the dividing -- why is this not it? What is it that’s going to change? What is the -- I mean, what is it you’re looking for if this isn’t it? And I’m not suggesting this is the right thing to do. I’m just wondering what you’re going through to get to that end, ‘cause we did have pretty interesting discussions in committee on this.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator, to your question, I don’t know the answer. I don’t know what we’re going to come up 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 with or if we will come up with anything that will appease the various competing interests. But, obviously, we’re still going to have to work this through. I do not plan to call the bill in its current form as amended. I’d rather work with all the stakeholders and come back to committee with another amendment. I’d just like to -- the amendment is hanging out there. I’d like to adopt it, attach it to the bill, and move forward.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Rutherford.
Thank you, Madam President. One final question, Senator Harmon: Are the commissioners in Cook County engaged as a part of this discussion? And are they in support of setting up a separate forest preserve commission?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. It might surprise you to know, Senator, that some of the commissioners appear to be for it and some of the commissioners appear to be against it. Obviously, they are stakeholders in this. We’re working with the county board itself and the individual members. Again, I do not expect that this bill is going to be moving quickly. We’re going to have to work with all the interested stakeholders. And I hope to reach some consensus.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Murphy, for what purpose -- oh, I apologize. Just one moment. Senator Rutherford.
21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 And I’m sorry, Madam President. I said I had one last question. This is now it. Sorry. Senator Harmon, so it is your commitment or your statement that this bill, as amended, is not moving and that if there is an amendment that it will come back to our committee for review. Is that what I’m understanding your commitment here today, Senator Harmon?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
That is my commitment. I’m going to ask the Senate President for a deadline extension so that we can continue to work on this. I just would like to adopt the amendment before the April 30th deadline and keep all the legislation together.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you rise?
Question of the sponsor, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Sponsor indicates he’ll yield. Senator Murphy.
Senator Harmon, I appreciate you working with those who have concerns about this bill, myself included. One of the -- one of the issues -- one of the possibilities, it’s my understanding, that’s being considered, the amendment puts this into board of review districts with three members from each. Personally, I’d feel a lot more comfortable having single-member board districts that lay right on top of the county commissioner districts. And my question is, is that concept still viable? 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Certainly, Senator, that concept is still viable. The question is whether a seventeen- member board of commissioners for the Forest Preserve District, an unpaid board, is the best model. But your -- your question illustrates the concern that I discussed with Senator Rutherford. We don’t have a perfect model yet for how to best govern an independent board and it’s going to take some time to work through those issues. But single-member districts, multi- member districts, districts as a whole, some sort of proportion to representation, all of those are still viable options and I will consider them all.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, it is the Chair’s intention to go to the Order of Resolutions. The Order of Resolutions. Senator Bomke, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator. 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009
Behind you, Madam President, we have with us today Our Savior Lutheran School, a class from Our Savior Lutheran School. Mrs. Benning is the teacher of the fourth-grade class. Jackie Lindsay, who used to work for the Republican Senate, daughter is with them - Sarah Lindsay. And if they would please stand. Would appreciate us giving them a warm welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will our guests in the galleries please rise and be welcomed by the Illinois General Assembly? On the Order of Resolutions, page 86. On the Order of Resolutions, page 86. Senator Trotter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you very much, Madam President. On a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you very much, Madam President and our Members of the Senate. I just want to -- I understand that Senator Kwame Raoul has acknowledged my fraternity brothers who are here, the men of Alpha Phi Alpha. And for those who don’t know, we are the oldest fraternity -- black fraternity…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Excuse me, Senator Trotter. May we please have order? Senator Trotter is introducing his guests. It’s important that -- it’s important that we give him the Floor. Senator Trotter.
Yes. Just wanted -- just a little history, we are the 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 oldest African-American fraternity in the country. We’re over a hundred years old. We were organized first in 1906. We have always been men of purpose, men of service. Our motto is “First of All, Servants of All…” There you go. We are about service. We are about working in our communities, not only individually bettering ourselves. Unlike some other fraternities that are around, we have to have a grade point average, a good one, to be a member. And we give back as -- as much as we give -- can get. So, thank you very much. Men of Alpha Phi Alpha, welcome again to Springfield, Illinois. I know you’ve been down here on a mission, educating some of these lesser-minded individuals about what’s important to our community. So, thank you for coming.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Trotter. Will you please welcome the men of Alpha Phi Alpha to the Illinois General Assembly? On page 86 of the Calendar is the Order of Resolutions. This is final action. On the Order of Resolutions. This is final action. Senator Frerichs, on Senate Resolution 54. Senator, do you wish to proceed? Senator, do you wish to proceed? He indicates that he does. Madam Secretary, read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 54, offered by Senator Frerichs.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Frerichs.
Thank you very much, Madam President. Senate Resolution 54 is in response to a proposal by the State Treasurer, which -- it instructs the Commission on Government Forecasting and 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Accountability to study the economic impact on central Illinois of the number of jobs that would be eliminated due to the consolidation of investment authority in the State University {sic} (Universities) Retirement System and the Teachers’ Retirement System of the State of Illinois. The resolution also determines that COGFA is to submit a report of its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly and each statewide elected official on or before October 1st, 2009.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Rutherford, for what purpose do you rise?
For a question, Madam President, if I may please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state…
Thank…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The sponsor indicates he’ll yield. Please state your question.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator Frerichs, why is it just central Illinois?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Frerichs.
Well, it’s -- as -- as someone who represents central Illinois, we have -- State University {sic} Retirement System pension located in central Illinois. The fear is that the 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 consolidation would take place in the Chicago area.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Rutherford. Further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Joint {sic} Resolution 54 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 1 voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution -- Senate Resolution 54, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. On the Order of Senate Resolution 75. Senator Bond. Senator Harmon, for what purpose do you rise?
For a point of personal privilege, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
On the last resolution that was voted on, it was my intention to vote Present. And I would like the record to reflect my intention.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The record will reflect your intention of voting Aye {sic} on Senate Resolution 54. Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. For a point of personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009
Thank you very much. Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Chamber, the National Association for the Education of Young Children designated last week as “Week of the Young Child”. Here in Illinois, the Illinois Association for the Education of Young People has designated this month as the “Month of the Young Child”. As part of that designation, Madam President, they have designated what they call “Children’s Champions”. These are individuals throughout the State who have done magnificent work serving young people, young -- young people sometimes not in the best of circumstances, whether it’s in their home, in their community. Those twelve individuals for 2009 are here today in our gallery. If I’d like -- if you -- if -- if I might, Madam President, I’d like to read their names and ask them to stand as I read those names. And at the end, if we could give them a nice round of applause. The 2009 Children’s Champions are Cynthia Wall of Springfield, Marta Moya Leang of Chicago, Angela Reinhart of Villa Grove, Agnes Kovacs of Winfield, Brian Michalski of Chicago, Jan Deissler of Peoria, Kerri Nolan of Joliet, Christine Brady of Sycamore, Cynthia Mahr of East Moline, Vita Bates of Palos Hills, Linda Chittick of Paris, and Dr. Sara Starbuck of Carterville. I wonder if the Senate could thank these people for the work they do on behalf of our young people.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will our guests in the gallery please rise and be recognized by the Illinois General Assembly? And thank you so much for all the hard work you do on behalf of the children of Illinois. Senate President John Cullerton, for what purpose do 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I rise for the purposes of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please -- please state your announcement, Senator.
This is really important, so I want to take my time.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Can we please have the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate please recognize our President? He has an announcement. Thank you.
I’d like to announce that I need five more minutes before I make another announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) That’s always in order, Mr. President. Senator Bond, on Senate Resolution 75. Senator Bond. Out of the record. Senate Resolution 80. Senator Demuzio. Do you wish to proceed? She indicates she does. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 80, offered by Senator Demuzio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Demuzio.
Yes. Thank you, Madam President and Members of the Senate. Senate Resolution 80 encourages all citizens to be cognizant of the wisdom, the experience, and the talent of persons fifty 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 years of age and older, and to celebrate their lifetime achievements and continued contributions to the economic vitality and the cultural heritage of Illinois, and to establish public and private partnerships that will promote opportunities for civic engagement for persons fifty years of age or older in the areas of lifelong learning, employment, and volunteer community service, in order to make Illinois a great place to grow old.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Resolution 80 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, and 0 voting Present. Senate Resolution 80, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Resolution 81. Senator Sullivan. Senator Sullivan indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 81, offered by Senator Sullivan.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Sullivan.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Resolution 81 encourages the Illinois congressional delegation to support efforts to undertake modernization projects to improve the waterway systems in order to support the State’s economic growth, reduce highway congestion, and reduce pollution. The 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 resolution also pledges -- says that the Senate pledges to work with the Illinois delegation to further share -- to further the shared goal of -- of waterway modernization.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Resolution 81 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, and 0 voting Present. Senate Resolution 81, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Resolution 93. Senator Wilhelmi. Senator Wilhelmi, on Senate Resolution 93. Out of the record. Senator Link, on Senate Resolution 99. Senator Link, on Senate Resolution 99. Out of the record. Senator Viverito, on Senate Resolution 105. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 105, offered by Senator Viverito.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Viverito.
Thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. Calls for a report on planning and development of livable communities for all ages in the State of Illinois. And it’s recommended by the Illinois Department on Aging. It’s a statewide membership organization that advocates for the needs of senior citizens. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Resolution 105 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, and 0 voting Present. Senate Resolution, having -- Senate Resolution 105, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. On the Order of Senate Resolution 127. Senator Luechtefeld. Senator Luechtefeld. Out of the record. Senate Resolution 129. Senator Hendon. Out of the record. Senate Joint Resolution 3. Senator Haine. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 3, offered by Senator Haine. The Committee on Human Services adopted Committee Amendment 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) There any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Haine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine, please explain your resolution.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Floor Amendment 2 makes a grammatical change. There was a grammatical error that -- when it came out of LRB. Floor Amendment 2 {sic} is the substance of the bill, which merely asks that the Congress of the United States address concerns, through proper legislation, about the two-year waiting period 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 for certain diseases causing one to be disabled. It was an initiative of the Alzheimer’s Association. And I believe Senator Syverson in committee suggested it be applicable generally, and it was a great idea. So that’s the genesis of Floor Amendment No. 2 {sic}.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. 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 further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine, on Senate Resolution {sic} 3.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, thank you again. This is, as I indicated a few moments ago -- a few seconds ago, this -- asks Congress to phase out the two-year waiting period for persons under the age of sixty-five who are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance so they may immediately receive that assistance after determination of their disability.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 3 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting President. Senate Joint Resolution 3, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. On the 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Order of Senate Joint Resolution 4. Senator Bond. Senator Bond, on Senate Joint Resolution 4. Out of the record. Senator John Jones, on Senate Joint Resolution 19. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam President, please read the resolution -- Madam Secretary.
Senate Joint Resolution 19, offered by Senator John Jones.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Jones.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Joint Resolution 19 designates the month of May of 2009 as the Illinois High School Bass Fishing Month in the State of Illinois. This is the first year the Illinois High School Association has had a sanctioned bass fishing tournament. It’s going to be held in Carlisle Lake in the month of May, in my district. And I would appreciate the adoption. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 19 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, and 0 voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 19, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. On the Order of Senate Joint Resolution 29. Senator Maloney. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Senate Joint Resolution 29, offered by Senator Maloney.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, please read the Floor resolution {sic}.
Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Maloney.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney, on the amendment.
Thank you, Madam President. The amendment simply changes the number of management representatives on the task force -- changes the -- changes the management representatives on the task force.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading, Senate Joint Resolution 29. Senator Maloney.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Joint Resolution 29 creates the Unemployment Insurance for Contingent Academic Workers Task Force. What the task force will be charged to do is to examine the cost of -- to higher education institutions if they would allow part-time faculty to apply and receive unemployment benefits. This -- the 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 examined growth of this class of faculty over the past ten years has been increasing. The task force and the members are detailed. And I’d be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no question -- seeing no further discussion, the question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 29 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 29, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate President Cullerton, for what purpose do you rise?
Yes. For the purposes of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement.
This was the announcement that I was going to make a few minutes ago, but I had to delay. I’d just like to welcome my district office manager, Justine Miele, who’s joining us in Springfield - maybe even for the first time since her eighth- grade trip. But she works in the district office up in the Thompson Center as well. And she’s here. I’d like the whole Senate to welcome Justine Miele.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome Senate -- Senate President Cullerton’s guest, his district office manager, to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Schoenberg, on Senate Joint Resolution 31. 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Senator Schoenberg indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 31, offered by Senator Schoenberg.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Schoenberg.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Joint Resolution 31 encourages the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget to utilize available funds to maintain appropriate {sic} levels supporting current community care provided by mental health and substance abuse disorder treatment community providers and to increase funding to pay for the State’s obligations in a timely fashion. Specifically, the resolution points towards the Health and Human Services Medicaid Trust Fund, the Community Mental Health Medicaid Trust Fund, and increasing the Federal Medicaid Assistance Percentage. This is an initiative of the Community Behavioral Healthcare Association of Illinois. And I urge its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 31 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 31, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senator Steans, on Senate Joint Resolution 36. Senator Steans indicates she wishes to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 36, offered by Senator Steans. No committee amendments, but Floor Amendment 1 has been offered by Senator Steans.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Steans, on Floor Amendment No. 1.
Floor Amendment No. 1, I believe, was just making sure that it wasn’t just -- it included Green Globes and other aspects into the way we were defining green programs in a sustainable -- for the sustainable comprehensive capital construction plan.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question -- Senator Steans.
This Senate Joint Resolution 36 determines that the General Assembly, along with the Governor, should make passage of a green and sustainable comprehensive capital construction plan a top priority. It thus denotes that the principles of environmental health and environmental protection and energy efficiency should guide allocation of funds in a capital construction plan. It also provides funding for construction of 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 new buildings or renovations of existing buildings to adhere to the LEED standards. And in determining the allocation of transportation funding, we should give consideration to public transportation and rail in the -- you know, in the interest of sustainable planning. And provides that the construction and improvement of roads should prioritize the laying of fiber-optic lines in rural areas and other regions of the State that have been lacking in technological infrastructure. And finally, that the State should consider and privatize {sic] each project in light of its potential to create jobs, its environmental impact, and its long-term energy savings.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 36 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 36, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. The Chair recognizes Will County President and former colleague, Larry Walsh, to the Illinois General Assembly. Thanks for being here today, Senator Walsh. Senator Demuzio, on Senate Joint Resolution 42. She indicates she wishes to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 42, offered by Senator Demuzio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Demuzio.
39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Yes. Thank you, Madam Chair {sic} and Members of the Senate. Senate Joint Resolution 42 determines that the Senate and the House support the “25x’25 Vision” and its goal of having agricultural products provide renewable energy, safe and affordable food and fiber. 25x’25 is an agriculturally led initiative that envisions America’s farms and ranches producing twenty-five percent of America’s energy demand by the year 2025, while producing a sustainable and abundant supply of safe and affordable food and fiber. In Illinois, the 25x’25 Vision is being promoted by the 25x’25 Illinois Renewable Energy Alliance.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 42 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 42, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senate Joint Resolution 54 {sic} (44). Senator Frerichs. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Joint Resolution 44, offered by Senator Frerichs.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Frerichs.
Thank you very much, Madam President. Senate Joint Resolution 44 designates the month of June as “Leave No Child Inside Month” in the State of Illinois in furtherance of our 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 support of the Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights. The Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights states that every child shall have the opportunity to discover the wilderness, which includes the State’s prairies, dunes, forests, savannas, and wetlands; camp under the stars; follow a trail; catch and release fish, frogs, insects; climb a tree; explore nature in the neighborhoods and cities; celebrate their heritage; plant a flower; play in the mud or a stream; and learn to swim.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall Senate Joint Resolution 44 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Joint Resolution 44, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. On the Order of House Joint Resolution No. 1. Senator Cronin. House Joint Resolution 1. Senator Cronin. Out of the record. House Joint Resolution 4. Senator Maloney. Senator Maloney indicates he wishes to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the resolution.
House Joint Resolution 4, offered by Senator Maloney.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Maloney.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Joint Resolution 4 simply urges the State Board of Education to rename the Illinois Teacher of the Award -- 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009 Teacher of the Year Award the Willard Carl Widerberg Illinois Teacher of the Year Award in honor of Mr. Widerberg who was Illinois’ first Teacher of the Year in 1954 and went on be -- to become the -- recognized as the National Teacher of the Year in that same year. He had an extensive and productive career in the State of Illinois. And I’d be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall House Joint Resolution 4 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 56 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. House Joint Resolution 4, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared adopted. Senator Delgado, for an announcement.
Thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. If I could have your attention momentarily. The Public Health Committee will have a subject matter hearing at 5:30 in Room 409. The subject is the H1N1 flu virus. And we’ll be getting an update from the Department of Public Health here for the State of Illinois. Once again, at 5:30, subject matter only, in Room 409. Thank you, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Lauzen, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Point of personal privilege. 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 41st Legislative Day 4/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, today we have with us many people from the PACE School District 308 Oswego group. There’s fifty parents and students. They’re students and families from Oswego school district asking all of us to support gifted funding. And among all the schools, there are over five hundred people here in Springfield today. And we’re kind of surrounded by ‘em, because they’re in the yellow T-shirts here and the yellow T-shirts back here. So I would just ask the Senate to welcome them to Springfield and acknowledge their good work.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Our guests in the galleries please rise. Please rise and be welcomed by the Illinois General Assembly. And keep up the great work. The Senate stands adjourned to the hour of 12 p.m. on Thursday, April 30th, 2009. The Senate stands adjourned. 43