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 Pastor Eby. Pastor Eby, from Pastor -- Chatham Presbyterian.
(Prayer by the Reverend Joseph Eby)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Maloney.
(Pledge of Allegiance, led by Senator Maloney)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Thursday, May 27th {sic} (28), 2009.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Madam President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal just read by the Secretary, 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, Resolutions.
1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senate Resolution 307, offered by Senator Schoenberg and all Members. It’s a death resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, Resolutions Consent Calendar. Madam 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 5. Offered by Senator Delgado, and adopted by the House, May 28th, 2009. We have received like Messages on House Joint Resolution 6, offered by Senator Maloney; House Joint Resolution 19, offered by Senator McCarter; House Joint Resolution 46, offered by Senators Althoff and Steans; House Joint Resolution 48, offered by Senator Garrett; House Joint Resolution 50, offered by Senator Steans; and House Joint Resolution 53, offered by Senator Jacobs. All adopted by the House, May 28th, 2009. Mark Mahoney, Clerk of the House. They are substantive, Madam President. 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: 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senate Bill 1434, together with the following amendments which are attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 1 and 2. We have received a like Message on Senate Bill 1938, with House Amendments 1, 3 and 4. All passed the House, as amended, May 28th, 2009. Mark Mahoney, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will all Members please arrive to the Senate Floor? We will be going to Executive Session for appointments. Will all Members please come to the Senate Floor for approval of Executive Session for appointments? To fulfill our responsibilities under Article V, Section 9 of the Constitution, we will now proceed to the Order of Advise and Consent. Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on appointments set forth in the Message from the Governor dated February 10th, 2009, together with the appointments set forth in the Message from the Secretary of State dated February 26th, April 23rd and May 1, 2009.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz moves that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on the appointments set forth in the Message from the Governor dated February 10th, 2009, together with the appointments set forth in the Message from the Secretary of State dated February 26, April 23rd and 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 May 1st of 2009. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Muñoz, Chairman of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Governor’s Message of February 10th, 2009, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, with respect to the Governor’s Message of February 10th, 2009, I will read the salaried appointments of which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: To be the Director of the Department of Natural Resources for a term commencing February 6, 2009, and ending January 17th, 2011: Marc Miller. To be the Director of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs for a term commencing February 9th, 2009, and ending January 17th, 2011: Daniel Grant. Madam President, having read the salaried appointments from the Governor’s Message of February 10th, 2009, I now seek leave to consider the appointments on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointments just read from the Governor’s Message of February 10th. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointments just read. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Muñoz, Chairman of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Secretary of State’s Message of February 26, 2009, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, with respect to the Secretary of State’s Message of February 26, 2009, I will read the salaried appointments of which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: To be a Member of the Ethics -- Executive Ethics Commission for the Secretary of State for a term commencing February 26th, 2009, and ending June 30th, 2013: Maria Kuzas. Madam President, having read the salaried appointment from the Secretary of State’s Message of February 26, 2009, I now seek leave to consider the appointment on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 from the Secretary of State’s Message of February 26. 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. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Senator Viverito, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, I inadvertently pressed my button, but it didn’t go green. Would you please record me as a Yes?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Yes. Senator…
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) …Viverito will be recorded as voting Aye.
Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Alexandrea Davis, WICS Channel 20, requests permission to shoot video. Leave is granted. Senator Demuzio, for what purpose do you rise?
Yes, point of personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Good morning. Please state your point.
Thank you, Madam President. I have with me today Rachael 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Gorman. Rachael is the eleven-year-old daughter of John and Selena Gorman and you know that Selena works here in the Illinois Senate. She just completed her fifth grade at St. Isidore’s School in Farmersville and it has -- the school is going to be closing its doors effective May 27th after eighty- eight years of providing a Catholic education. Rachael is going into the sixth grade at Lincolnwood Junior High School in Raymond. She enjoys swimming and spending time with her cousins, and she will be going to her aunt’s house this summer and will be helping to take care of her little cousin, Rylan. Let’s give Rachael a great big guy’s hand here.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome, Rachael, to the Illinois General Assembly. For Members that are seeking personal privilege, we’re still in the middle of Executive Session. I will return to you in just one moment. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Muñoz, Chairman of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Secretary of State’s Message of April 23rd, 2009, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, with respect to the Secretary of State’s Message of April 23rd, 2009, I will read the salaried appointments of which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 To be a Commissioner of the Merit Commission for the Office of Secretary of State for a term commencing June 30th, 2009, and ending June 30th, 2015: Mike Masterson. Madam President, having read the salaried appointments from the Secretary of State’s Message of April 23rd, 2009, I now seek leave to consider the appointment on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read from the Secretary of State’s Message of April 23rd. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Muñoz, Chairman of the Committee on Executive Appointments, to which was referred the Secretary of State’s Message of May 1st, 2009, reported the same back with the recommendation that the Senate do advise and consent to the following appointment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, with respect to the Secretary of State’s Message of May 1, 2009, I will read the salaried appointment of 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 which the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate do advise and consent: To be the Inspector General for the Office of the Secretary of State for a term commencing May 1, 2009, and ending July 31st, 2014: Jim Burns. Madam President, having read the salaried appointment from the Secretary of State’s Message of May 1, 2009, I now seek leave to consider the appointment on a roll call. Madam President, will you put the question as required by our rules?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Absolutely, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read from the Secretary of State’s Message of May 1st. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Senate arise from Executive Session.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Muñoz moves that the Senate arise from Executive Session. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it and the motion carries. The Senate has arisen from Executive Session. The Chair recognizes our very own former Senator George Shadid to the Illinois 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 General Assembly. Would you please welcome George Shadid to the Illinois General Assembly? Senator Koehler, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. You -- you kind of stole my thunder. I was going to introduce my Page for the Day. But he is actually here. You know, all of you signed the birthday proclamation for his eightieth birthday, which was just a few weeks ago, and so he wanted to come and say “thanks a lot”. Now I’m not sure how he meant that. But he was very appreciative of us remembering his birthday. So, it’s great to have the former Senator here with me.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Well, happy belated birthday, Senator Shadid. It’s always a pleasure to see you. I enjoyed serving with you, Senator. 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, Senator.
I -- first of all, I want to say, I, too, am very glad to see Senator Shadid here. Senator Shadid’s wife’s niece is a babysitter and -- and actually may be the first crush of my nine-year-old son. But that’s not who’s standing next to me. Who’s -- standing next to me, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, is Haleigh Haffner. Haleigh is the second student that we’ve had this week from Glenbrook South. 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 So attendance is down at Glenbrook South this week. She is an excellent student and she’s an recognized athlete for running cross country and track. In fact, she was the Student Athlete of the Year. And she is highly competitive in track and is going to be an outstanding future leader in our community. She’s joined by her brothers, Harte and Hunter; her grandmother, Marion Serstad; and her parents, Kristin and Joe Haffner, who are up in the President’s Gallery directly behind the Chamber. Would we please give our Glenview guests a warm Senate greeting? Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome our Glenbrook guests, a warm welcome, and rise in the gallery. Senator Rutherford, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you -- thank you, Madam President. For the purpose of introduction, if I may, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Yes, you may, please.
I wanted -- thank you very much, Madam President. You look very nice and smiley today. I’d like to ask the Senate if they would please welcome a guest that I have today that’s going to spend the day. His name is Ted Mason. He’s actually from Elk Grove Village in Senator Millner’s district. But he has just graduated from Illinois State University, where he completed a term as president of the student body of that fine institution - a -- an office that I held, actually, a number of decades ago, a long time ago, Madam President. So if the Senate would please 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 welcome Ted Mason to the Illinois State Senate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Let’s welcome Ted Mason to the Illinois General Assembly. Thank you, Senator Rutherford, for your nice comments. Always making my day. Senator Jacobs, for what purpose do you rise, sir?
Thank you, Madam Chairwoman. I rise for a point of introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
I would like to have a warm Senate welcome for Mr. and Mrs. Kurt Henkel, who are in the mezzanine. I’d appreciate a warm Senate welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) If your guests in the gallery would please rise and be welcomed by the Illinois General Assembly. Welcome. On the page 60 -- on page 60 of the Calendar is the Order of Secretary’s Desk, Senate Bills, Concurrences. This is final action. Please go to page 60. On the Calendar is the Order of Secretary’s Desk, Senate Bills, Concurrences. This is final action. Senate Bill 138. Senator Link. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 138. Signed by Senator Link.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator Link.
Thank you, Madam President. As amended, this just puts qualified inspectors and took away all opposition to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 138. 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 Bill 138 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 138 and the bill is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we will skip Senate Bill 235. Senator Syverson, on Senate Bill 275. Senator Syverson. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 275. Signed by Senator Syverson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Syverson.
Thank you, Madam President. One change that was made in the House is they added dental hygienists to the repayment program. Know of no opposition to this.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the -- shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 275. 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 Bill 275 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Clayborne, on Senate Bill 450. Senator Clayborne. Out of the record. Senator Holmes, on Senate Bill 1285. She indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1285. Filed by Senator Holmes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Holmes.
Yeah. The amendment is a joint effort of the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, the Illinois Retail Merchants Association and the Illinois State Bar Association. And it modernizes the Illinois Franchise Law. There are no known opponents. I would appreciate an Aye vote. If you want full details, I can take the time and give you those.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1285. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 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 58 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1285 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Raoul, on Senate Bill 1289. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1, 2 and 5 to Senate Bill 1289. Signed by Senator Raoul.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Raoul.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1289, as amended by the House, creates an adult version of Redeploy Illinois with a focus on breaking the cycle of recidivism for adults convicted of crimes by providing direct services to defendants on probation and mandatory supervised release. This came out of the Criminal Law Committee unanimously.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 5 to Senate Bill 1289. 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? Please take the record. On that question, there are 58 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1289 having 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 5 to Senate Bill 1289 and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1293. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1296. Senator Althoff. She indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1296. Signed by Senator Althoff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Althoff.
Thank you very much, Madam President. The amendment actually reduces the legal description of the quick-take property in question. We actually were negotiating this land as we were going forward. Came to an agreement with one of the property owners, so we -- we had the necessity of reducing the legal description. It’s actually less property that we’re going to be asking for quick-take. Be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate -- 1296 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 50 voting Aye, 7 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1296 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senate Bill 1333. Out of the record. Senate Bill 1335. 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1335. Signed by Senator Trotter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter.
Thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 1335, House Amendment No. 1 creates the Bowling Center Act and requires the operator of a bowling center to post a notice warning bowlers about wearing their bowling shoes outside of the center and addresses the issues of civil liability for the operator of a bowling center and makes it clear that the provisions of this amendment applies only to causes of actions on or -- or after January 1st, 2010.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Trotter. Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, are you for discussion on this bill?
Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) He indicates he will. Senator Righter. 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
Senator Trotter, I want to make sure that I have accurate information here on my system. My system indicates that you are carrying a motion to concur on a bill that is entitled the Bowling Center Act. I want to make sure that’s the correct title. Is that right?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter.
That is correct.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator Trotter, what is the problem that we are trying to solve with your legislation?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter.
Thank you very much for asking that question. This is an issue that’s really been festering since 1983, something that the -- the bowling proprietors have been trying to get a handle on, that is, individuals who go -- leave the bowling alley wearing the bowling shoes - excuse me - wearing the bowling shoes and going in the rain, snow, and then coming back in the bowling alley, falling, and end up suing the bowling alley itself. The -- the situation has actually grown because of our nonsmoking laws, that they have to go out to smoke. But they’re wearing these shoes and, still, because of their habits, come back in and then make the bowling owners liable for paying for 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 their mishap.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator Trotter, let me ask you. Let’s take another scenario. Let’s say that a person who is a smoker goes to an indoor skating rink and so they put on their skates and they skate around for awhile and then they have a desire to have a smoke and so they walk outside with their ice skates still on and they light up. And while they’re puffing away, they slip and they fall because they’re standing on ice skates and not normal shoes. Is that the kind of immunity that you are seeking for bowling alleys in this? I mean, that’s the scenario you’re talking about. What about these ice skating rinks?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter.
If I get you correctly, you’re saying they’re standing outside and they fall. This is when they come back into the bowling alley and fall inside the bowling alley. The liability is there. And we’re -- this also has a notification -- or, a posting requirement as well, telling individuals that if they do go outside, to remove the shoes; if they do not, then don’t hold us liable when you come back in and -- and fall.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator Trotter, let me ask 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 you -- and I don’t know how often you bowl; I bowl sometimes, but not really often. I know there are some people in here who bowl quite frequently. Some people are so into it that they have their own shoes. I’m not one of those people. But what I have found with the rental bowling shoes is that they seem to be really slick on the alley itself. I mean, we’ve all seen that. Whether you did it or whether someone else did it, when they’re getting actually -- they get on the lane and they walk down and they let the ball go and then they -- because of the shoes or the floor is so slick, their feet go out from under them and they fall. Some people crack their tailbone, they injure their back, they go to the chiropractor, maybe they go get a lawyer and sue. Would this bill provide any liability protection for a bowling alley if the floor on which they’re bowling, the actual bowling alley, is too slick and they slipped and fell?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter.
No. From my understanding of how the bill has been written, that it has to address those individuals who have gone outside, who, under inclement weather, have walked back in to the site, not if they’re in the act of bowling and their shoes are dry or there is, in fact, some -- something that will make the operator liable. So this does not give them that indemnity of -- of immunity.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
One last question, Madam President. Thank you for your 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 indulgence. I think this is probably the most important question I’m going to ask on this bill. There is some buzz on this Floor already, Senator Trotter, that this bill is nothing other than a setup to require, maybe next year or maybe in the fall Veto Session, a mandatory helmet requirement for people who are wearing bowling shoes. I’d like you to be able to address that on the Floor to dispel that rumor, if you can. Thank you, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter.
Sir, that was my original intent, but Senator Forby has told me that that would violate his freedoms and he’s not going to let that happen. So, it’s dead in the water.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Trotter, to close.
I just ask for an Aye vote for this important piece of legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. The question is, shall Senate Bill 1335 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 51 voting Aye, 4 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1335 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Now on the order of Senate Bill 1477. Senator Noland. Senator Noland, on 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senate Bill 1477. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1477. Signed by Senator Noland.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Noland.
Thank you, Madam President. The amendment from the House simply restores the bill -- the bill to its original form. Under this bill, Senate Bill 1477 would simply provide a TIF extension for Hoffman Estates, effective immediately. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter.
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) He indicates he will.
Now, Senator Noland, we’ve seen this bill a few times, so when you say “in its original form”, do you mean its original, original form, or the original form that had some language in it about someone being allowed to buy some property in the district? We just want to make sure that that language appears nowhere in the bill. Can you assure us that?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator Noland.
Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter. Senator Noland, to close.
And I do appreciate the -- the Senator’s question. The original, original bill - the version that you liked most - that is the -- the version that we’re celebrating today. I urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Very good, Senator. Is there any discussion further? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1477 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, 1 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1477 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. With leave of the Body, we will return to Senate Bill 450. Senator Clayborne. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 450. Filed by Senator Clayborne.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Clayborne.
23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Thank you -- thank you, Madam President and Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 450 has come back and it -- it has several amendments. And the -- the changes that -- as before, I have a aviation company that refurbishes airplanes in the district. And the bill has come back. The amendments change it and only limit this to four other companies in Illinois and it also excludes parts for engines and power plants. It -- it’s limited to only five years. I would ask for your favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Lauzen, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill.
This bill passed Revenue Committee unanimously. Commend the sponsor for his work on protecting jobs in Illinois.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. The question is, shall Senate Bill 450 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 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 450 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bills {sic} 450 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Clayborne, on Senate Bill 1293. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1293. Signed by Senator Clayborne.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Clayborne.
Thank you, Madam President, Members of the Senate. This involves one of my school districts that’s had mine subsidence. At the last election, they passed a bond referendum to build a new school supported by the voters for 47.5 million dollars. And what we’re doing, we’re extending the bond maturity date for thirty years.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1293 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 58 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1293 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 and the bill is declared passed. On page 62, on the Order of Secretary’s Desk, Concurrences, Senate Bill 1479. Senator Raoul. Senator Raoul, on Senate Bill 1479. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1479. Filed by Senator Raoul.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Raoul.
Thank you -- thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1479 allows State employees to receive service credit for up to five furlough days taken between July 1 and June 30th. House Amendment 1 requires contributions to be paid for the five furlough days.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1479 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 58 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1479 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Now on the top of page 63, Secretary’s Desk, Concurrences, is Senate Bill 1553. Senator Rutherford. Senator Rutherford, on Senate Bill 1553. Out of the record. He -- just in time, Senator Rutherford. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman’s motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1553. Signed by Senator Rutherford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator Rutherford.
As I said earlier, you do look lovely and I appreciate the accommodation. This legislation would just concur with the motion to change the TIF for Downs, time period, moving it from twelve years to nine years.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Rutherford. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1553 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. And the voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 1 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1553 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Cronin. Senate Bill 1576. Senator Cronin indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read his motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1576. Filed by Senator Cronin.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cronin.
Yes, thank you very much, Madam President. This amendment deletes all and became the bill. It separates the Racing Board from the Department of Revenue, thereby making the Board autonomous from the Department of Revenue and a stand-alone 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 agency. And we know that that’s a good thing. I know of no opposition and I’d ask for your favorable consideration.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1576 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 58 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1576 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1576 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Demuzio, on the order of 1682. Senate Bill 1682. She indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1682. Signed by Senator Demuzio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Demuzio.
Yes, thank you, Madam President and Members of the Senate. Senate Bill 1682 and House Amendment No. 1 amends the Illinois Funeral or Burial Funds Act and the Illinois Cemetery Pre-Need {sic} (Pre-Need Cemetery) Sales Act. Right. That’s Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator John Jones, for what purpose do you rise? 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
Thank you, Madam President. A question of the sponsor and then a -- and then to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) She indicates she will yield. Senator John Jones.
Senator -- Senator Demuzio, I -- I noticed your arm this morning and I’m just curious, is the arm-twisting getting that serious over there this morning?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Demuzio.
Senator, it -- it’s getting very serious. This is only the first arm. There may be others, you know.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator John Jones.
…just curious of how many arms was going to look like that before the day was over. But, to the bill, Madam President: You know, I -- I rise in support of this piece of legislation. This is something that Senator Demuzio and many others have been working on this Session. And -- and we all have funeral directors all over the State of Illinois that -- that have been involved in these pre-need funerals, of -- of the -- of making those commitments, and the Fund is in -- in serious trouble. This will not affect what’s going on that happened up until this point. We’re just trying to work with the Comptroller’s Office in -- in correcting a problem from this point on. And so I rise in strong support of this legislation. And I appreciate you -- 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 your hard work on this, Senator Demuzio.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Althoff, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
I, too, rise in strong support of this legislation and would like to take the opportunity to thank Senators {sic} Demuzio, Senator Jones and Senator Sullivan for working so diligently on this effort that affected many funeral homes throughout the State of Illinois. There is also going to be legislation that you’ll see coming up that creates a task force to look at this issue, as well as several others in this arena. And I think we need to support those efforts as well. But I would urge a strong Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Demuzio, to close.
Yes. I certainly ask for a Yes vote on this piece of legislation. As was mentioned, this is an initiative of the Comptroller’s Office and it’s a very important initiative that I feel that will set into motion some of the concerns that have been raised. It is a good consumer-advocate bill to protect our consumers when it comes to pre-need burial and I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1682. 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 58 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1682 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Raoul, on Senate Bill 1705. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman’s motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1705. Filed by Senator Raoul.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Raoul.
Thank -- thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 1705, as we passed it out, made changes to the Cook County Article of the Pension Code, giving the Fund authority to initiate proceeding against a third party for recovery of damages if a disabled firefighter had not instituted a proceeding. House Amendment 1 makes some clarifications concerning the -- the action, to allow the Fund to recover only the portion of the recovery to cover expenses, but not the portion allocated for pain, suffering and other certain purposes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate -- shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 to Senate Bill 1705. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1705 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Schoenberg, on Senate Bill 1729. Senator -- Senator Schoenberg is in the gallery. Hi, Senator Schoenberg. Please welcome Senator Schoenberg to the gallery. Please rise and be recognized by the General Assembly. Senator Schoenberg. Out of the record. Senator Schoenberg, on Senate Bill 1739. Out of the record. Senator Noland, on Senate Bill 1750. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 2 to Senate Bill 1750. Signed by Senator Noland.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Noland.
Thank you, Madam President. This amendment clarifies for the purposes of a front door referendum of the PTELL tax, clarifies that the tax to be, perhaps, increased by not more than .15 percent does not increase the levy, it just simply allows for the definition of what the referendum is for and specifying that it is for mental health services or to assist people with developmental disabilities or substance abuse disorder. Passed quite -- didn’t quite pass unanimously out of 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 committee. There was only one objection, which was Senator Lauzen. But other than that, passed unanimously, and of course passed unanimously out of the House as well. I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Are there any questions? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Yes, he indicates he will. Senator Righter.
Senator Noland, I see that the bill, over in the House, received 37 No votes. I mean, I don’t -- obviously I’m not sure that you were over in the House when -- when that vote was taken, but would you care to characterize, if you can, the opposition in the House to this -- this language?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Noland.
Thank you, Senator. My understanding was that it passed out of its -- its committee - I was told that - unanimously. And I do stand corrected regarding the No votes on the Floor in the House and I do apologize for the -- for the error.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
I appreciate that, Senator. The -- to my question about 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 why there was that substantial opposition in the House, would you care to characterize that for me, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Noland.
Thank you. I am told by the proponents of the bill that there was some confusion regarding whether or not this was actually going to increase the levy. It does not increase the tax levy. And that was the reason for some of the opposition in the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
Thank you, Madam President. Does -- does it -- does it allow for -- I mean, I see that you’re amending the PTELL statute that we have here in Illinois. Tell me what the effect of that amendment is, if you would.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Noland.
Thank you. Senator, the -- and thank you for the question. The effect is just merely definitional. When people go to vote on these types of measures -- or, these types of referendum, up until now, the language on the referendum has been more generalized and not particularized. And what this -- what -- what this bill does and what the amendment does is it provides that, in quotes, that the referendum -- referendum is for the purposes that the -- that the governmental unit shall tax -- create a tax imposed by the governmental unit, if you will - 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 please forgive me - for the purposes of providing community -- community mental health facilities and services, including facilities and services for persons with a developmental disability or substance abuse {sic} disorder to allow the tax to be increased to not more than 0.15 percent.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Clayborne in the Chair.
End quotes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CLAYBORNE) Senator Righter.
Thank you, Mr. President. So, Senator Noland, if I’m -- I want to make sure I’m correct on this. This bill moves upward that cap, but only allows that to happen if the voters approve the referendum. Is that a fair way to characterize the bill?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CLAYBORNE) Senator Noland.
I don’t believe so. I don’t believe that it increases the cap. Okay? It allows for the governmental unit to increase the levy within the cap up to .15, but not more than .15. What the bill does is it provides a -- a specification of what the purpose of the referendum is.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CLAYBORNE) Senator… Any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments {sic} No. 2 to -- No. 2 to Senate Bill 1750. Those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 40 voting Yea, 18 voting Nay. Senate Bill 1750 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does -- does concur in House Amendments {sic} No. 2 to Senate Bill 1750 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Dahl, for what purpose do you seek recognition?
Moment of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CLAYBORNE) Please state your point.
Thank you. I have with me today a - excuse me - very special person. Savanna -- Savanna Milasuski is a -- going to be a senior at the St. Bede Academy in Spring Valley -- in Peru. She’s a honor student and intends to go on to college after high school. But she also happens to be my granddaughter. And her mother is…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CLAYBORNE) Welcome to Springfield. Please stand. Thanks for coming to Springfield.
Her -- her mother is sitting up here in the -- in the balcony behind you, and welcome to Springfield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR CLAYBORNE) Senator Lightford, back in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Bomke, for what purpose do you rise?
36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Thank -- thank you, Madam President. Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
With me today is an honorary Page. It is Tommy Sagins. His mother, Anne Sagins, works for the Illinois Senate Republicans. And I’d like you to help me welcome Tommy here today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Hi, Tommy. Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Please stand and be recognized. Handsome little guy. Handsome. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we are following up on some paperwork to Senate Bill 1750, if you could be patient for a moment. Thank you. The Senate will now come to order. The Associated Press requests to take photos, Seth Perlman. Leave is granted. Now on the order of Senate Bill 1750. House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1750. He indicates he wishes to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1750. Signed by Senator Noland.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Noland.
Thank you, Madam President. I understand that I inadvertently overlooked Amendment No. 1. I just simply ask that it be -- that we concur with the -- the House amendment at 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 this time.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1750. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 42 voting Aye, 12 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1750 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1750 and the bill is declared passed. Now on the order of Senate Bill 1905. Senator Garrett. She indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments numbered 1, 2 and 5 to Senate Bill 1905. Signed by Senator Susan Garrett.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Garrett.
Yes, thank you very much, Madam President. House -- just briefly, House Amendment No. 1 deals with the appointment process of Board members. House Amendment No. 2 addresses the long-term care programs. And House Amendment No. 5 addresses the organization of the Comprehensive Health Planner, the Board members, and the appointment of the Board chairman from among the members, which will be made by the Governor. I’d be happy to answer any questions. 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 5 to Senate Bill 1905. 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 Bill 1905 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 5 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Lauzen, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. On Senate Bill 1750, it was my intention to vote No on that bill and unfortunately I pressed the Yes vote. So, if the record could reflect that my intention was to vote No, I -- I’d appreciate it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Noland -- I’m sorry, Senator Lauzen would like to request a No vote on Senate Bill 1750. So noted. Senate Bill 1926. Senator Martinez. She indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1926. Signed by Senator Martinez.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martinez.
Thank you, Madam President and Members of the Senate. 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 House Amendment No. 1 becomes the bill to 1926, Senate Bill 1926. The amendment seeks to include area vocational centers and facilities eligible for school construction dollars under the School Construction Law. It also requires State-designated facilities that are jointly owned and wish to be part of the school construction list to have an agreement including language specifying how the debt obligation is to be paid and also what will happen with any debt in the event the entity withdraws from the joint agreement. Type 4 {sic} (40) area vocational centers will not be awarded construction grants before any school district currently on a school construction waiting list. And lastly, it requires the average of the grant indexes of the districts that are part of the joint agreement to be used to calculate the amount of a school construction project grant. And I’ll be happy to answer any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Are there any questions? Senator Risinger, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield for a question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) She indicates she will. Senator Risinger.
Yes, I have to admit that I’m not fully up on this bill, but I notice, in -- in reading the analysis here, that there’s some Type 41s and -- and I have one of those vocational centers in my district and they’re -- they won’t be eligible for this. Can you explain to me what’s the rationale between not allowing 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 the Type 41s to join also?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martinez.
Type 41s are already eligible for this. There’s only fourteen -- I mean thirteen schools that qualify for this and they will always be put at the bottom of the list. But remember, they have to be signed off by all the other districts in order for them to even be put on the list. So I think it’s just an opportunity for them, who have not been able to get any help, to update facilities, to at least be on that list to just update material and the facility for these vocational centers that are there.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Risinger.
So, you’re telling me right now that my Galesburg area is eligible to partake of the funds that we -- the capital funds that we passed right now, where the Type 40 is not eligible. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martinez.
Yes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Risinger.
I’m -- I’m -- I’m not real sure where we are with the bonded indebtedness of our school district, so I’m not real sure 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 where I’m at on this vote. I may not be in favor of it because of just lack of understanding of it. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Rutherford, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Question, if I may please, of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Indicates she’ll yield. Senator Rutherford.
Thank you very much. Senator Martinez, would you help -- help walk me through, one more time, what you just explained, ‘cause I have the same question marks as Senator Risinger does, and I think a few of us, as to why certain districts are not eligible.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martinez.
Some of these school districts are owned by one and they’re -- that -- that’s a Type 41 and then there is -- there is other schools that are owned -- that are jointly owned by, you know, by -- there could be five that belong to -- to that school district. So it will be -- have to be signed off by all those districts before they’re able to qualify.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cronin.
No. I’m sorry. 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) I’m sorry. Senator Rutherford.
I -- I understand that part of it then, but that still doesn’t help me understand why those that may be owned by one singular district, why they’re not going to be included in that. I mean, I understand the provision of needing to have everybody sign off on the Type 40s, but why would you not want to also include the Type 41s?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martinez.
Senator Rutherford, they can. They can apply.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Cronin -- Rutherford. I don’t know why Cronin is on the brain. Rutherford.
No. Thank you, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Wilhelmi, are you seeking to present on this bill? For what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
Thank you. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I rise in strong support of Senator Martinez’s efforts on Senate Bill 1926. I think it’s very important to understand the difference 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 between the Type 40 and the Type 41 career centers. Currently, Type 41 career centers are already allowed to apply for construction grants as long as they have the support of that one member, as Senator Martinez said. Type 40 career centers are treated much differently. Type 40 career centers have multiple members -- school districts as members. For example, the Wilco vocational center, in Romeoville, Illinois, has five high schools as members of their career center. Currently, for them to apply for school construction grants, each of those five high school districts would have to pass a referendum, which would allow for the matching dollars for that Wilco Career Center to be able to apply for construction grants - for school construction grants. That’s very important to understand. We’re bringing parity between the Type 40 and the Type 41 career centers. And number two, as already indicated, there will be no line jumping. Career centers will be treated in a separate category under the school construction grant application process. They will be after all K through 12 school districts - - they will be listed after all K through 12 school districts. For example, if there are fifty K through 12 school districts that apply in 2010 and there are five career centers, the five career centers will be fifty-one through fifty-five on the list. So that makes sure that our K through 12 school districts are not treated in a -- in a disproportionate manner or an unfair manner. I think it’s very important to understand this, that we’re bringing parity for the 40 and 41 career centers and we’re allowing these thirteen career centers a chance to apply for school construction grants that they haven’t had the opportunity to apply for. And it’s been forty years since these things were 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 built -- since these career centers were built. They are in dire need of capital. This brings parity to both groups of career centers and I ask for your support on this very meaningful piece of legislation.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Very good. Senator Cronin, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you very much, Madam President. To the bill: I -- I don’t think I can be any more persuasive than Senator Wilhelmi was moments ago. I rise in strong support of the bill. And two points, if I may: Number one, Senator Wilhelmi points out that these are unique, specially situated organizations, these career centers that have agreements with multiple school districts. They don’t fall into a category right now that allows them to participate in the school construction grant program. Other career centers that are solely within the purview of individual school districts, they can already, just, you know, these Type 41 career centers. So, we’re just enabling a new group, but albeit a group that’s committed to the same mission, to participate. Now, the only issue is that the school construction grant program is typically, woefully underfunded and so this does increase the pool of competitors. But that doesn’t mean that these organizations aren’t -- aren’t any less worthy. And so, for those of you who firmly believe in the value and the virtue of a career and technical and trade education - and I happen to think that it’s just as important as the education the kids get who want to go to college - I think you ought to be a Yes vote on this.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator Crotty, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the bill, Senator.
I happened to be in committee waiting for another committee that I serve on to start when I happened to hear the debate on this bill in -- in committee. And for many of us, we might remember - I think it was last year or the year before - we had talked about special ed cooperatives and putting them on the list in order for them to be able to make repairs and -- and adjustments to their buildings, whether it be for technology or whatever, because our -- our own school districts are members, they own that building, and just as they’re able to put in for the construction grants, they should be able to make sure that that building also, because they own it - the taxpayers own that - that they should be able to qualify to get help in those special ed buildings. I see this as the same. If we’re talking education, whether the student has special needs or whether they are not college-bound students - but we certainly need those persons that are going to get vocational training for a career - we need those services here in the State of Illinois also. So this allows, as far as I’m concerned, our school districts to give the best education, individually, to the students that they serve and we serve in the State of Illinois. And they should have that option to keep those buildings and those centers for those students up to par so that we can get the best work force that we can get. So I highly support this bill and the students 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 that go to those buildings and the school districts that didn’t forget those students. Thanks.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Well said, Senator. Senator Burzynski, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield for a question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Indicates she will. Senator Burzynski.
Thank you. Senator, first of all, I -- I like the concept of what you’re doing. I think cooperative schools are great. I think they do the right things. They give kids alternatives. They give them the ability to -- to maybe get out of a more formal setting into a setting that -- that’s more adaptable to their needs and what they want to do in their lives. I wanted to follow up, though, on a comment made by Senator Wilhelmi, and maybe this will clarify something for me. So I -- maybe it will. Senator Wilhelmi used the -- the example that if there were fifty schools that were -- that applied for the grant and there were five vocational centers that did, they would be fifty-one through fifty-five, for instance, in 2010. In 2011, where would they be? Would they be -- if -- if you had five schools that were qualified in 2010, would they be, you know, then forty-six through fifty the next year? Or would they continue to go to the back of the list?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martinez. 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
Thank you for that question. No, they will continue to move up and that’s -- that’s been advised to me by the State Board of Education.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Burzynski.
Thank -- thank you. Will that be something that would be written into the rules then, as I understand it, Senator? Because I’m not sure that it’s in the legislation, or at least I don’t remember us being able to -- to point to it yesterday.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Martinez.
I can check on that. But I do believe that, because that school district has applied for that -- that -- for that construction grant. I would say they will continue to be moved -- they will continue to move up the ladder as far as having that kind of relief brought to their school.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Burzynski.
Thank you, Madam President. To the bill then: I voted -- excuse me, I voted in opposition to the bill yesterday in committee simply because I think that we’re putting one more type of facility into the school construction program. However, I think I’m going to change my vote, because I do believe it’s the right thing to do as we move forward providing additional opportunities, alternative opportunities, to kids. And I just 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 think that we have to be very careful, maybe when the State Board of Education writes the rules, as -- as we move through this process. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, Senator Martinez, to close.
Thank you very much. I am so thankful to all the previous speakers and my colleagues on this important bill. I just think it gives the students an opportunity to be in a healthy and safe environment. I think that, like Senator Wilhelmi says, it does bring parity to all the -- all these different schools that right now are all waiting, and they should not be treated any different. So, I really want to see all the green lights go up, because it’s about the students that we are voting for. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1926. 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, 2 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1926 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Millner, for what purpose do you rise?
Hi, Madam President. Yes. Regarding Senate Bill 1750 on the motion to concur with Amendment 1, I wish to be recorded as 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 a No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Millner, good morning. Your intent will be so reflected. Stephen Bourque seeks leave, from WICS-TV ABC, to shoot video. Leave is granted. Now on the order of Senate Bill 1977. Senator Meeks. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1977. Signed by Senator Meeks.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Meeks.
Thank you so much, Madam President. You look lovely this morning.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Flattery gets you everywhere, Senator. Thank you.
I was hoping so. 1977 is just some technical changes. And I wish that we would concur with the House on these changes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur with Senate Bill 1977, House Amendment No. 1. 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 Bill 1977 having received the required 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments {sic} No. 1 to Senate Bill 1977 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Haine. Senator Lauzen. Senate Bill 2090. Out of the record. Senator Haine, on Senate Bill 2091. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments No. 1, 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2091. Signed by Senator Haine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. The House Amendment No. 3 is actually the gist of the bill. And this is a -- been a two-year effort. This piece of legislation prohibits STOLI, which is stranger-originated life insurance, and it regulates other forms of life insurance, such as viatical settlements. The practice of STOLI, a stranger- originated life insurance, are deals put together by investors, hedge funds, strangers, only for a profit. The stranger will finance the purchase of an insurance policy with a high interest loan that is paid off when the policy is sold. The senior citizen or someone who’s very ill - actuarial -- the actuarial tables indicate they have not long to live - those who become involved in these schemes will sell these policies -- sell their policies, typically receive twenty percent or thirty percent of the death benefit. They repay the loan and they only net about forty grand out of maybe a million dollars. The -- this is a 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 gambling scheme. It is bad for consumers. It exploits people in difficult circumstances. It is bad for the insurance industry since it makes insurance policies a gambling enterprise, which will, in -- in essence, destroy the insurance market for all of us and all of our citizens who do use and purchase life insurance. Viaticals are those settlement contracts that are legitimate and regulated under the Act, and that’s the sale of an insurance policy, but it is done late in life. The transfer for compensation of the value or ownership of a beneficial trust has to meet the guidelines of this Act, and there are other provisions in it. This is a two-year effort to satisfy all those who are concerned. A viatical settlement is also made by someone late in life who owns an insurance policy. It comes from the root word -- the Roman word for road. Viaticum is -- is a Roman idiom meaning the last journey. The last rites of the Catholic Church is still referred to as the viaticum. So, viaticals are authorized.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Lauzen. I’m -- I’m sorry, Senator Haine. Thank you. We have a question of the sponsor. Senator Lauzen.
Thank you -- thank you, Madam President. Question…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Lauzen, for what purpose do you rise?
…for the -- question…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) He indicates he’ll yield. Senator Lauzen. 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
So, Senator, what you’re saying, the shorter version is that this limits only strangers on these policies, not -- in -- in no way does this affect a person’s property right in their insurance policy or a family member’s or even a business associate’s. It affects none of those, only strangers. Is that right?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Do you want the long answer or the short answer? Short answer. Okay. Just testing, that’s all. The -- the answer is it prohibits STOLI.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Lauzen.
Well, that’s nice, but, you know, for some of us who are not as familiar as you are with STOLI, I ask just the question, in layman’s terms, does this only affect strangers taking out some kind of insurance policy on somebody who they don’t know? Does it in any way limit the property right that an individual has on either their own policy, a family member’s policy, a friend, or even a business associate? You know, in a protection of a business.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
No. The Act clarifies that the settlement of insurance policies that were originally purchased with a requisite 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 insurable interest and for the purposes of policy ownership are not to be considered illegal STOLI arrangements.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Lauzen.
Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine, to close, please.
I respectfully ask for an Aye vote on a very important piece of work by many people on the Insurance Committee and particularly by Representative Frank Mautino, Leader Mautino, in the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. The question is, shall Senate Bill 2091 pass -- shall the Senate concur, excuse me, on House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2091. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 Nay, and 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2091 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1, 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 2091 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Noland, for what purpose do you rise?
My apologies, Madam President. I wish to be recorded as an Aye vote on the last bill. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The record will reflect. Senator Hunter, on Senate Bill 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 2103. She indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2103. Signed by Senator Hunter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I wish to concur with House Amendment 1 which retains - - Senate Bill 2103, but it prohibits the Illinois -- IEPA from issuing administrative citations for tire violations for those used or waste -- waste -- waste tires located at a residential household with twelve or fewer used or waste tires. And I ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendments {sic} No. 1 to Senate Bill 2103. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 voting Aye, 1 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2103 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Harmon, on Senate Bill 2112. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
55 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2112. Signed by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
I’d like to come back to this one later, Madam President. May I take it out of the record?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Absolutely. Senate Bill 2112, out of the record. On page 66, Secretary’s Desk, Concurrences, Senate Bill 2217. Senator Radogno. Leader Radogno. She indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2217. Signed by Senator Radogno.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Leader Radogno.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Chamber. This House amendment retained the language in the underlying bill, which recognized, as an approved driver education course, any courses of drivers’ ed taught at a Department of Defense Education Activity school. This was to help out a constituent who had a child in an overseas school. And it added language suggested by the Secretary of State to also recognize enhanced skills driving schools as approved driver education courses. 56 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2217. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2217 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2217 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Wilhelmi, on Senate Bill 2256. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman’s motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2256. Signed by Senator Wilhelmi.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Wilhelmi.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2256 clarifies that a witness, who signs a voluntary do-not-resuscitate advance directive, certifies that the patient or his or her surrogate has had the opportunity to read the form and sign the form or acknowledge the signature on the form in the witness’s presence. This -- this bill will now bring the DNR form into consistency with the Power of Attorney for Health Care Act. One witness is needed for both. It’s the right thing to do and I ask for your 57 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2256. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2256 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2256 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Harmon in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HARMON) Mr. Secretary, would you please print on our Calendar Senator Holmes’ motion to reconsider the vote on Senate Joint Resolution 30 and Senator Haine’s motion to reconsider the vote on Senate Bill 1486? Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, on page 60 of your Calendar, on the Order of Secretary’s Desk, Concurrences, we are returning to Senate Bill 235. Senator Lightford. Mr. Secretary, please read the lady’s motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 235. Signed by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HARMON) Senator Lightford, to explain your motion.
Thank you, Mr. President. House Amendment No. 1 deletes the underlying language and becomes the bill. It would transfer any remaining assets in the CSFA, the Chicago School Finance 58 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Authority, to the Chicago Board of Ed, rather than to the State Board of Ed, which was in the original language. The City of Chicago feels that these funds came from property tax levies in Chicago, and therefore they’re -- the Authority financial and educational oversight powers were suspended in ‘94 and again in ‘98 and in 2003. And the Authority has focused on paying off the debt it issued before its activity was suspended. And so they’re wanting the funds to return to the Chicago Board of Ed, rather than the State. I’d be happy to answer questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HARMON) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 235. 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 58 voting Aye, none voting Nay, none voting Present. And the -- and having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 235 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Lightford, are you seeking recognition?
I am, Mr. President. On purpose of an inquiry. Purpose of personal privilege. Thank you. Mr. President, as I presided over the Chamber, there were two bills that were voted in -- as an Aye and I would prefer those bills to be voted as a Present. I generally vote Present votes on TIFs, and I’d like the record to reflect that on Senate Bill 1296 and 1553, I would have voted Present.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR HARMON) 59 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Thank you, Senator. The record will so reflect your intention. Senator Lightford back in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) On page 65, Senate Bill 2112. Senator Harmon. Senator Harmon indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendments numbered 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2112. Signed by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. The underlying bill, Senate Bill 2112, is a modernization of the Real Estate Timeshare Act. It passed out of the Senate without controversy. The House amended it first in Floor amendment -- or, in House Amendment No. 1 for a technical amendment and then in House Amendment 2 with a gut and replace with a series of additional technical amendments. I do not believe that this makes the bill controversial in any way. And I would ask you to support my motion to concur in the House’s amendments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 2112 pass -- shall the Senate concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2112. 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 60 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 2112 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendments No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2112 and the bill is declared passed. On page 63 -- on page 63, Senate Bill 1729. With leave of the Body, we’ll return to Senate Bill 1729. Senator Schoenberg. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman’s motion.
I move to concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1729. Signed by Senator Schoenberg.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Schoenberg.
Thank you -- thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I move that the House concur -- the Senate concur on House Amendment No. 1, which makes a slight modification in the language. It changes it from -- the word “Amtrak” to “intercity” rail. There’s no disagreement and I urge your favorable support.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Inquiry of the Chair if I might, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Absolutely. Senator Righter.
61 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 You know, I don’t know the rules of the Senate inside and out, but I wonder, is there some provision in our rules that calls for some kind of admonition or censure or smackdown of a Member who repeatedly refers to the Senate Chamber as the House of Representatives and refers to the Presiding Officer as Madam Speaker or Mr. Speaker. I mean, this has gone on time and time and time again. Now, if the sponsor had just shown up in the Senate, like last week or last month or even last year, I think we’d all be willing to give him a break, but he’s been here five or six years, Madam President - seven years. So I hope that -- I mean, we’ve got a lot of work to do here in the next couple days, but after that, Madam President, I hope that maybe you and I and some others can sit down and give some serious thought about how we’re going to deal with this situation. I appreciate it. Thank you, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter, your point is well-taken and I will refer you to Section 11-1 of Article XI, deals with disorderly behavior. In accordance with Article IX {sic} (IV), Section 6 of the Constitution, the Senate may punish any of its Members for disorderly behavior and, with the concurrence of two-thirds of the Members elected, expel a Senator, but not for a second time for the same cause. Senator Righter.
Well -- well, Madam President, it appears this issue’s got legs now. I appreciate that very much. You know, Madam President, in the name of bipartisanship and compassion, I don’t think that we’re going to ask for a roll call to expel Senator Schoenberg or send him back to the House, although - although - 62 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 I think, even on the first try and maybe with working the Membership a little bit, I think we could get close to that two- thirds. But I don’t think we should do that quite yet. I think that your admonition, as you just articulated, will be just fine. Thank you, Madam President, very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you very much, Senator Righter. And Senator Schoenberg just have the seven-year itch. He’s getting over it. Is there any further discussion on Senator -- this is not Senator Schoenberg’s first bill. Senator Schoenberg, to close.
Thank -- thank you, Madam President. First of all, it was my belief that, in this country, people get -- while I get to face my accused and look across the Chamber at them, that I should also be able to defend myself as well. To be -- I can tell you with absolute certainty that I know where I am at all times. It may -- and it may elude some Members; it may not seem like it. I may have my head somewhere else, like trying to help hospitals in Senator Righter’s district, for example, or trying to do something else as part of the do-gooder caucus here in this Chamber, but I can assure you I always know where I am. And I also wanted to say that I made this last slip-up -- I addressed the Presiding Officer correctly. I addressed the Body correctly. I just slipped up on whether it was a House or a Senate amendment. I don’t think that’s worth being expelled for, unless I’ve done something else to deserve it. And finally, I want to say that I just wish, Senator Righter, that all the Members on your side contributed to the same -- to the tip -- to the -- to pay for the refreshments in the back on your 63 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 side with the frequency that I do, because I don’t believe in a free lunch. Now, that’s my close. Please concur with the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall the Senate concur in House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1729. 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 58 voting Aye, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 1729 having received the required constitutional majority, the Senate does concur in House Amendment No. 1 and the bill is declared passed. Senator Schoenberg, on Senate Bill 1739. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the gentleman’s motion.
I move to non-concur with the House in the adoption of their Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1739. Signed by Senator Schoenberg.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) We will take Senate Bill 1739 out of the record. On the Order of Supplemental Calendar No. 1, Members are receiving that order. Supplemental Calendar No. 1, the Motions in Writing to Reconsider the Vote -- to Reconsider the Vote. Senate Bill 1486. Senator Haine. He indicates he wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
Pursuant to Rule 7-15(a), having voted on the prevailing side, I move to reconsider the vote by which Senate Bill 1486 passed. 64 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Signed by Senator Haine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Madam President, I wish to reconsider that vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) There is discussion. Senator Righter, for what purpose do you yield?
Thank you, Madam President. It’s my understanding that there’s a - for lack of a more articulate term - a paperwork snafu. We need to roll these items back and then pass them again. Is that correct, Madam President?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) That’s correct, Senator. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, you have heard the motion to reconsider. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is reconsidered. And now on the order of Senate Joint Resolution 30. Senator Holmes. Senator Holmes indicates she wish to proceed. Mr. Secretary, please read the motion.
Pursuant to Rule 7-15(a), having voted on the prevailing side, I move to reconsider the vote by which Senate Joint Resolution 30 passed. Signed by Senator Holmes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Holmes.
Yes, thank you, Madam President. I wish to reconsider the 65 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Seeing no discussion on the motion to reconsider, all those in favor will vote {sic} Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. The Senate will stand at ease. The Senate will stand at ease for just a moment, so please stand by. Thank you. (SENATE STANDS AT EASE/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, it is the intention of the Chair to move to Committee on Assignments. We are finalizing paperwork. Could the members of the Committee on Assignments please stand by? Thank you. The Chair recognizes and welcome Glenn Poshard, former Senator. Once a Senator, always a Senator. Please welcome SIU President Glenn Poshard to the Senate Floor. Welcome, Mr. Poshard. (SENATE STANDS AT EASE/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will now come to order. Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President’s Anteroom immediately? The members of the Committee on Assignments will come to the President’s Anteroom immediately. The Senate will then stand at ease. (SENATE STANDS AT EASE/SENATE RECONVENES) 66 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 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 State Government and Veterans Affairs Committee - Senate Joint Resolution 30, House Joint Resolution 55 and Senate Resolution 249; Be Approved for Consideration - Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1486. Signed by Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman. Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to the Commerce Committee - Floor Amendment No. 2 to House Bill 852; refer to the Consumer Protection Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 and 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 1483; refer to the Education Committee - Floor Amendment 4 and Floor Amendment 5 to Senate Bill 750; refer to the Energy Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendments {sic} No. 3 to Senate Bill 1906 and a Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1, 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 1918; refer to the Gaming Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 1298 and Floor Amendment No. 9 to Senate Bill 744; refer to the Human Services Committee - Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 367 and a Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 807; refer to the Judiciary Committee - Motion to Concur with House 67 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1556 and a Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 1938; refer to the Licensed Activities Committee - a Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1925; refer to the Local Government Committee - a Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1511 and a Motion to Recede from Senate Amendment No. 1 to House Bill 793; refer to the Public Health Committee - a Motion to Concur with House Amendment No. 3 to Senate Bill -- 314 and a Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1919; refer to the Revenue Committee - a Motion to Concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2046 and a Motion to Concur with House Amendment No. 1 to Senate Bill 2115; refer to the State Government and Veterans Affairs Committee - Floor Amendment No. 3 to Senate Resolution 273 and Committee Amendment No. 1 to House Joint Resolution 55; refer to the Transportation Committee - a Motion to Concur with House Amendment No. 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1434; and Be Approved for Consideration - Floor Amendment No. 5 to House Bill 3923. Signed by Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Link. Senator Link, motion to waive -- suspend posting requirements. Senator Link, on a motion to waive or suspend posting requirements.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. I move to waive all posting requirements so that Senate Joint {sic} Resolution 244 can be heard in Senate Committee on Public Health today at 3 p.m.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 68 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator Link moves to waive all posting requirements so that Senate Resolution 244 can be heard in the Senate Committee on Public Health today at 3 p.m. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. Senator Steans, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I move to waive all posting requirements so that SJR 65 can be heard in the Senate Committee on Public Health today at 3 p.m.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Steans moves to waive all posting requirements so that SJR 65 can be heard in the Senate Committee on Public Health today at 3 p.m. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. Senator Haine. Senator Haine -- I’m sorry -- Steans.
Anytime, Senator Haine. I’m flattered. Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I move to waive all posting requirements so that SJR 30 can be heard in the Senate Committee on State Government today at 4 p.m.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Steans. Senator Steans move to waive all posting requirements so that Senate Joint Resolution 30 can be heard in the Senate Committee on State Government today at 4 p.m. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. I move to waive all posting 69 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 requirements so that Senate Resolution 249 can be heard in the State Government and Veteran {sic} (Veterans) Affairs Committee this afternoon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Bomke, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Just one moment, Senator Bomke. We have to finalize Senator Righter’s motion. Senator Righter moves to waive all posting requirements so that Senate Resolution 249 can be heard in the Senate Committee of State Government today at 4 p.m. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. Now, Senator Bomke, on personal privilege, please state your point.
Thank you, Madam President. Sitting beside me today is Lee Blocks. He’s here with his uncle, who is one of our many great doormen here. And I would ask you to help me welcome Lee. He’s visiting. He just got out of high school yesterday. He’s on summer break and looking forward to going back in the fall, I’m sure.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome Senator Bomke’s guest to the Illinois General Assembly. Okay, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we will have one more waiving of the post requirement to announce. Until we’re ready for that, I’d like to announce committee assignments for your attention, please. Committee assignments. At 2 o’clock, Appropriations I will meet in Room 212. At 2 70 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 o’clock, Transportation will meet in Room 400. And also, 2 o’clock, Education will meet in Room 409. At 3 o’clock, Public Health will meet in Room 212. 3:15, Human Services will meet in Room 212 and Judiciary will meet in Room 400. That’s 3:15. At 3:30, Local Government will meet in Room 409. 3:30, Local Government, Room 409. At 3:45, Revenue will meet in Room 400; Licensed Activities will meet in Room 409. That’s at 3:45. At 4 o’clock, State Government and Veterans Affairs will meet in Room 409. At 4:15, Energy will meet in Room 212; Consumer Protection will meet in Room 409. And at 4:30, Gaming will meet in Room 400 and Commerce will meet in Room 409. Commerce will meet in Room 409 at 4:30. Senator Clayborne, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of a motion, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) State your motion.
Thank you. Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I move to waive all posting requirements so that House Joint Resolution 55 can be heard in the Senate Committee on State and Local Government {sic} today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. Leader Clayborne moves to waive all posting requirements so that House Joint Resolution 55 can be heard in the Senate -- Senate Committee on State Government today - at 4 p.m.? - at 4 p.m. All in favor will say Aye. Opposed, say Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion is adopted. Senator Clayborne.
71 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 I apologize, Madam Secretary. That’s State Government and Veteran {sic} (Veterans) Affairs. I’m sorry.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Absolutely, Leader, State Government and Veterans Affairs. The Senate will stand in recess to the call of the Chair. The Senate will stand in recess. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will come to order. Madam Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Sandoval, Chairperson of the Committee on Transportation, reports Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1434 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Meeks, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, reports Senate Amendments 4 and 5 to Senate Bill 750 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Delgado, Chairperson of the Committee on Public Health, reports Senate Resolution 244 Be Adopted; Senate Joint Resolution 65 Be Adopted; and Motions to Concur with House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 314 and House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 1919 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Hunter, Chairperson of the Committee on Human Services, reports Motions to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 367 and House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 807 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Wilhelmi, Chairperson of the Committee on 72 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Judiciary, reports Motions to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1556, House Amendments 1, 3 and 4 to Senate Bill 1938 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Koehler, Chairperson of the Committee on Local Government, report Motion to Recede with Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 793 and Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1511 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Viverito, Chairperson of the Committee on Revenue, reports Motions to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2046 and House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 2115 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Martinez, Chairperson of the Committee on Licensed Activities, reports Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1925 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Demuzio, Chairperson of the Committee on State Government and Veterans Affairs, reports Senate Resolution 249 Be Adopted; Senate Joint Resolution 30 Be Adopted, as Amended; House Joint Resolution 55 Be Adopted, as amendment -- as Amended; and Senate Amendment 3 to Senate Resolution 273 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Jacobs, Chairperson of the Committee on Energy, reports Motions to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1140, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1357, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1448, House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1570, House Amendment 3 to Senate Bill 1906 and House Amendments 1, 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 1918 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Holmes, Chairperson of the Committee on Consumer Protection, reports Senate Amendment 2 to House Bill 4088 and Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1, 2, 3 and 4 to Senate 73 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Bill 1483 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Link, Chairperson of the Committee on Gaming, reports Senate Amendment 9 to Senate Bill 744 and Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1298 recommended Do Adopt. Senator Kotowski, Chairperson of the Committee on Commerce, reports Senate Amendment 2 to House Bill 852 recommended Do Adopt.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 309, offered by Senator Lauzen and all Members. Senate Resolution 308, offered by Senator Lauzen and all Members. Senate Resolution 310, offered by Senator Haine and all Members. Senate Resolution 311, offered by Senator Haine and all Members. Senate Resolution 312, offered by Senator Haine and all Members. They’re all death resolutions, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, Resolutions Consent Calendar. Madam 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 refused to concur with the 74 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senate in the adoption of their amendment to a bill of the following title, to wit: House Bill 699. Which amendment is as follows: Senate Amendment 1 and Senate Amendment 3. Non-concurred in by the House, May 28th, 2009. We have received a like Message on House Bill 797, with Senate Amendments 1 and 3. Non-concurred in by the House, May 29th, 2009. Mark Mahoney, Clerk of 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 39, together with the following amendments which are attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 1, House Amendment 3, House Amendment 4, House Amendment 5. We have received like Messages on Senate Bill 80, with House Amendments 1 and 2; Senate Bill 414, with House Amendments 1 and 2; Senate Bill 658, with House Amendments 1 and 3; Senate Bill 1030, with House Amendments 1 and 3; Senate Bill 1267, with House Amendments 1 and 3; Senate Bill 1342, with House Amendment 1; Senate Bill 1350, with House Amendment 1; Senate Bill 1579, with House Amendments 1 and 2; Senate Bill 1691, with House Amendments 1 and 3; and Senate Bill 1934, with House Amendment 1. All passed the House, as amended, May 29th, 2009. Mark Mahoney, 75 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Madam Secretary, Introduction of Bills.
Senate Bill 2457, offered by Senator Millner. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Will all Members please come to the Senate Floor for Floor action? Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, will you please immediately report to the Senate Floor for Floor action? It is approaching the hour of 6 p.m. and we would love to retire ourselves this evening at an adequate time. So please come to the Senate Floor. Thank you. Mike Majewski, State -- WFLD-TV, requests permission to videotape. Leave is granted. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, will you please come to the Senate Floor for further Floor action? It is now five minutes of the hour. Five minutes till 6. And just for a news flash, the House of General Assembly has retired for the evening. They’re not due back until noon tomorrow. I hope that we can pick up our pace. I will not be as fast as Senator Hendon, but I would love for us to go home for the evening. Ladies and Gentlemen, please come to the Senate Floor. House Bills 2nd Reading. We will go to the Order of House Bills 2nd Reading, page 57 of the Calendar. House Bills 2nd Reading, page 57 of the Calendar. Senator Trotter, on House Bill 13. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam President {sic}, please read the bill.
76 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 House Bill 13. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any -- any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. House Bill 83. Senator Schoenberg. No. Just don’t do it again. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 83. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 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. House Bill 84. Senator Schoenberg. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 84. 77 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations II 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 Frerichs, on House Bill 152. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 152. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Insurance adopted Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Wilhelmi, on House Bill… Senator Trotter, on Senate Bill -- House Bill 609. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 609. (Secretary reads title of bill) 78 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 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. On the top of page 58, House Bills 2nd Reading. House Bill 612. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 612. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 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. House Bill 859. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 859. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 79 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 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. House Bill 962. Senator Sullivan. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 962. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations II 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. House Bill 991. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 991. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 80 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2270. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2270. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 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. House Bill 2314. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2314. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for 81 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. House Bill 2325. Senator Garrett. She indicates she wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2325. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Insurance adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 3, offered by Senator Garrett.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Garrett, to explain your amendment.
Yes, thank you very much, Madam President. Basically what this does, it’s an agreed-upon amendment that extends COBRA based on the Obama stimulus plan, with some of the funding being covered by the federal government.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Sandoval, are you seeking discussion on this issue? Just one moment. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. 82 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Sandoval, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam President, point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
You know, I haven’t been home in the last couple weeks and I’ve decided that I needed a little R & R, so I invited the -- what I call the “Sandoval Democratic Organization” from the southwest side. So I’d like to welcome to the Illinois Senate my lovely wife, Marina, and my children, Jenny, my twins, Angie and Marty, and a friend, Claudia, and my assistant from my office, Jerry Lopez. Like to give them a warm welcome to the Illinois Senate.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please welcome Senator Sandoval’s family to the Illinois General Assembly. Welcome. Enjoy your time here. On the order of House Bill 2469, Senator Trotter. Senator Trotter indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2469. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 83 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 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. Now on the top of page 59 - the top of page 59 - is House Bill 2640. Senator Trotter. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 2640. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 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. On the order of House Bill 2652 is Senator Muñoz. Senator Muñoz, on House Bill 2652. Out of the record. House Bill 3841. Senator Trotter. Madam Secretary, he indicates he wishes proceed. Please read the bill.
House Bill 3841. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Appropriations I 84 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 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. On the Order of House Bills 2nd Reading, House Bill 3923. Senator Steans. She indicates she wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3923. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Executive adopted Amendments 3 and 4.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 5, offered by Senator Steans.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Steans, to explain your amendment.
Yes, this amendment’s really a technical one. It had inadvertently been left out from -- in a drafting and it does not change the agreement to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill -- should Floor Amendment No. 1 be adopted. 85 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 All those -- 5. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Have there been any Floor -- further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. House Bill 4046. Senator Harmon. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 4046. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Revenue adopted Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon. Have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please turn to page 53. Page 53. House Bills 3rd Reading. Page 53. House Bill 3rd Reading. Senator Harmon. Senator Harmon seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 88 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 88. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
86 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Floor Amendment No. 1 becomes the bill and creates the much-awaited Lieutenant Governor Vacancy Act. I’d move for its adoption and I’m happy to debate the entire bill on 3rd Reading.
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?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Floor Amendment No. 2 eliminates some of the provisions that caused some concerns in committee and should eliminate any objections or concerns about the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Are there any discussion? 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. 87 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 174 -- 88. Sorry, Senator. You’re ready. I’m ready. Let’s do it. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 88. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 88, as amended, creates the Lieutenant Governor Vacancy Act, which provides for an orderly transition of the powers of the Lieutenant Governor to the Governor’s Office so that we may continue the fine work of our former Lieutenant Governor now that he is the Governor. It -- it expires on its own accord at the end of this term. I’m not aware of any opposition and I ask for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you rise?
Question of the sponsor, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Indicates he will yield. Senator Murphy.
Senator, would -- we’re all really focused on the budget right now. Couldn’t we just eliminate the Lieutenant Governor 88 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 line item of the budget for this year and next, being that we’re not going to have one, as a way to save money and maybe fund a program?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. If you were in committee, you’d know that, for instance, our colleague Senator Hendon would be adamantly defending the Lieutenant Governor’s Office and all of its duties and its import. So, this bill does not deal in any way, shape or form with the budget and I’d rather not tread on that ground today.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Murphy.
To the bill, and far be it for me to ever try and stir up trouble, and I wouldn’t want to encourage you down that road. But it would be an opportunity perhaps to save a little bit of money, Senator Hendon’s protestations notwithstanding. I appreciate your effort on the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any further discussion? Senator Harmon, to close.
I ask for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall House Bill 88 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 52 89 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 voting Aye, 1 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. House Bill 88, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. House Bill 174. Senator Bond. House Bill 174. Senator Bond. Out of the record. House Bill 277. Senator Harmon. House -- House Bill 277. Senator Harmon. Out of the record. House Bill 313. Senator Trotter. Out of the record. House Bill 402. Senator Garrett. House Bill 402. Senator Garrett indicates she wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, House Bill 402. Senator Garrett seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 402 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 402. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 1, offered by Senator Garrett.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Garrett.
Yes, thank you, Madam President. This was an agreed-upon amendment that basically has a location for all of the license fees and permits, fines to be deposited into a fund.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? All those in favor will vote {sic} Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is -- 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) 90 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 402. Senator Garrett. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 402. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Garrett.
Yes, thank you, again, Madam President. What House Bill 402 does is that it establishes the Private Sewage Disposal Program Fund in the State treasury and requires that fees collected by the Department of Public Health for exams, licenses, permits, and fines to be deposited into this Fund and appropriated by the General Assembly to the Department.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Risinger, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the bill: There’s been a lot of work done by the sponsor on this bill, and with the amendment that she has placed on it, we -- we think it’s a acceptable bill, very good. And I urge those on this side of the aisle to vote Aye.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall House Bill 402 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 52 91 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 voting Aye, 2 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. The amendment is adopted -- House Bill 402, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator John Jones, for what purpose do you rise? Senator John Jones, are you seeking recognition, sir? Your light was blinking.
Yes, Madam President. Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point.
If -- if I might, one of my State Representatives is standing back here at the back, David Reis. But the most important thing is his wife, Maria, is up in the gallery up here, along with his son and his daughter, Nick and Adriana. So, welcome to Springfield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Let’s welcome Representative Reis and his family to the Illinois General Assembly. If you could rise and be recognized. House Bill 542. Senator Sullivan. Out of the record. On page 54, the top of page 54, is House Bill 607. Senator Martinez. Out of the record. House Bill 656. Senator Noland. Out of the record. House Bill 806. Senator Harmon. Out of the record. House Bill 810. Senator Haine. 810. Senator Haine. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Haine seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 810 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 810. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
92 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Althoff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine, to explain. Let’s just pull House Bill 810 out of the record just for the moment. Out of the record. House Bill 821. Senator Cronin. Out of the record. House Bill 852. Senator Forby. Senator Hunter, on House Bill 852. She indicates she wish to proceed. Senator Hunter seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 852 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 852. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Hunter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
I wish to adopt the amendment. Floor Amendment 2 to House Bill 852 basically makes two technical changes and I’ll explain it further on 3rd Reading.
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 further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 852. Senator Hunter. Madam Secretary, please read the bill. 93 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
House Bill 852. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. This bill basically makes -- this amendment basically makes two technical changes to the -- where it creates the 21st Century Workforce Development Fund Act. And what it does is adds that DCEO shall be responsible for the administrative and staffing of the Workforce Advisory Committee and it also removes from membership of the committee a representative of the Illinois Community College Sustainability Network and replaces it with a representative of the Illinois Community Colleges {sic} (College) Board. And I ask -- and I’ll entertain any questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McCarter, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCARTER: Madam Chairman, I’d like to speak to the bill, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McCarter, you’re going to end up in the same situation as Senator Schoenberg. It’s Madam President. SENATOR McCARTER: President. Well, I -- I’m in good company. I’m in good company.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 94 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Okay, great. Senator Hunter indicates she will yield, Senator. SENATOR McCARTER: Senator, I -- I’d just like to say to the sponsor of this bill I think this is -- this is a good thing. She’s converted me. She’s explained to me the -- specifically what this is going to do for these folks with barriers. I’m -- I’m learning the language. And so for people with barriers, this is a good thing. And -- and I do support her bill and I recommend an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Any further discussion? Senator Hunter, to close.
I ask for a favorable vote. And thank you very much for those comments, Senator. It’s always good to -- to be able to explain to people what the situation is. So, thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall House Bill 852 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. House Bill 852, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Haine. With leave of the Body, we will return to Senate Bill 810. House Bill 810. Senator Haine seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 810 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 810. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments 95 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Althoff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Althoff.
Thank you, Madam President. I would just like to move to table Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Althoff moves to withdraw Amendment No. 2. The amendment is withdrawn. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 3, offered by Senator Haine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine, to explain your amendment.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the -- the Senate. This is an initiative of the Alzheimer’s Association. It was in another bill which we passed, but was hijacked - I guess is the term we use - by the House for another bill. And what this Floor Amendment No. 3 does is assure that the people that are in these care units that are marketed as Alzheimer’s units - and -- and they have people suffering from Alzheimer’s diseases and related dementia - are, in fact, going to provide that care and to disclose the related -- to disclose the availability of these special service units, pursuant to a previous bill, actually passed by Senator Trotter some years ago, to create this disclosure Act. And I’d like to thank 96 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator Rutherford and Senator Althoff for -- for pursuing this matter in the diligent fashion in which they did.
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) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 810. Senator Haine. I keep forgetting about you, Madam Secretary. Please read the gentleman’s bill.
House Bill 810. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Thank you, Madam President. I would again ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. The question is, shall Senate Bill -- House -- House Bill 810 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. House Bill 810, having received the 97 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 required constitutional majority, is declared passed. House Bill 1105. Senator Murphy. Indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary, please read the bill. Senator Murphy seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 1105 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 1105. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Murphy.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Murphy, to explain your amendment.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Amendment 2 becomes the bill. It creates a separate prong in the disorderly conduct for transmitting or causing to be transmitted a threat of destruction of a school building or school property or a threat of violence, death, or bodily harm directed against persons at a school, school function or school event. The offense applies whether or not the school is in session and it is a Class 4 felony. The legislative intent here is to address threats being phoned in to schools, as opposed to any threat communicated from one student to another of a personal nature. That is the -- we tightened up the bill for that reason.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Raoul.
Yes, just a question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) He indicates he’ll yield. Senator Raoul. 98 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
Senator, as we’ve talked about and as you indicated, the legislative intent is not to punish -- not aimed at a student that might be threatening another student. The language itself talks about transmitting. The transmissions that you’re talking about are meant to cover transmissions -- calls to -- 9-1-1 or calls to the school and not a transmission such as a cell -- one student’s cell phone to anther student’s cell phone, saying, hey, I’m going to beat you up or something like that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Murphy, to close.
Thank you for the question. That is, in fact, the legislative intent, Senator. You correctly stated it. I would -- I appreciate the work in tightening up this bill to more reflect the -- the threat and would appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. On the amendment, 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. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 1105. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1105. (Secretary reads title of bill) 99 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Murphy.
The bill is as explained on -- on 2nd Reading with the amendment and I’d appreciate an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall House Bill 1105 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. House Bill 1105, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Collins, on House Bill 1195. She indicates she wish to proceed. Senator Collins seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 1195 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 1195. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Collins.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins, on your amendment.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Floor Amendment No. 2 deletes all and becomes the bill. And I’ll be glad to discuss it on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor 100 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 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. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 1195. Madam Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1195. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins.
Thank you, again, Madam President. House Bill 1195 allows municipalities to impose liens upon abandoned residential property for the cost of specific types of maintenance. This lien is superior to all other liens, except tax liens, and the amount of the lien is contestable. Now, there might be some -- well, it also requires that each municipality must receive notice of a foreclosure action and a notice of the order confirming the judicial sale. This problem -- the problem we’re trying to address here is that many times municipalities do not find that abandoned property is up in foreclosure before a problem develops in the community where it becomes a nuisance. This is to give some notice primarily to the municipalities that a property is abandoned or in foreclosure. And it allows them to do the repair and upkeep of the property and, on the sale of 101 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 the property, to recoup the money for the repair and the managing of the property. I would like to thank all the parties that came together and worked on the agreed-upon language: the Illinois Bankers Association, the Community Bankers Association, Illinois Mortgage Brokers, and the Business and Professional People for the Public Interest. But -- and in particular, I want to commend my staffer, Stephanie Vojas, for her hard work on this as well. And I would appreciate an affirmative vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Burzynski, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield for a question or two, please?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) She indicates she will. Senator Burzynski.
Thank you. Senator, in -- in committee, I indicated to you that I’d received some correspondence from some apartment and rental owners in -- in my district. And so I’ve got a couple of questions I want to ask in reference to that, because their indication was -- but I -- they said they’re still opposed to the bill, but I’m not sure whether you thought that -- that the apartment owners - the statewide association - was more neutral now or not. So, can -- can you tell me that much anyway?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins.
Yes. I found out today that a group by the name of the 102 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Illinois Housing Rental Association had confused the language of the bill in the sense that they were contesting language in the bill that was consistent with House Bill 2415 that we changed during the last Session - I think it was Senator Rutherford’s bill dealing with the priority of liens. And that’s what they were contesting. However, that bill passed both Chambers and now sits on the Governor’s Desk, and we wanted to make this language consistent with House Bill 2415.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Burzynski.
I think I heard most of that, but I’m not sure. Senator, I -- I think that -- and -- and maybe somebody else can help with this as well, but according to the information I have, one of the concerns that my folks had was the bill does not define what is “nuisance greenery” - you know, the vegetation, the plants. Is there a definition for reasonable notice in the bill? And does it provide for due process? Those were some of the questions and -- and there -- there are about nine or ten questions or -- or so that were asked, but -- you know, just to give you a flavor. Because if those are in the bill, then I’m going to assume that maybe some of these other things are -- are taken care of as well. And -- and that’s why I’ll just stop there for a minute.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins.
The language spelled out deals with the definitions of the various neglect that might be covered under the legislation: 103 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 cutting and removal of neglected weeds, grass, trees and bushes, pest extermination, removal of infected trees, removal of garbage, debris, and graffiti. What I find interesting is that the bill has been out there. I was not aware -- no one came to me with any objection. We would have been glad to have them at the table for clarification. But I had -- this is my first time hearing of that concern.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Burzynski.
Thank you, Madam President. Well, you know, and -- and I do understand that and I just got this yesterday, so that’s why I’m asking the questions and started to last night a little bit. And so, I mean, they had some concerns relative to those items - whether the pest control inside an occupied property, whether it included pests like spiders, centipedes, that, you know, often depending on where you are whether that’s covered or not. So, I -- I think there are some questions that are still out there. I don’t know if -- if the bill takes care of them or not, and I’ll try and scan through it here in the next couple of minutes. So, thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you rise?
Question of the sponsor, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) She indicates she’ll yield. Senator Murphy.
104 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 Senator, thanks for working on this. It appears the original opponents included the -- the Realtors, the Home Builders, the Bankers, Chicago Title, Community Bankers, Mortgage Bankers Association and the Credit Union League, in addition to the aforementioned Renters. Are those other opponents now neutral with your amendment?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins.
Based on the dialogue, discussions and compromises made, they’re all neutral on the legislation, except maybe the group that contacted Senator Burzynski. But everybody else was at the table.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Murphy.
I thank the sponsor for her work on the bill and for addressing the concerns of the original opponents.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Collins, to close.
I just ask for an affirmative vote. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall House Bill 1195 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? Please take the record. On that question, there are 47 voting Aye, 1 voting Nay, 2 voting Present. House Bill 1195, having received the required constitutional majority, is 105 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 declared passed. Senator Harmon, on House Bill 1306. Out of the record. On the top of page -- 55, House Bills 3rd Reading. Page 55. Senator Harmon, on House Bill 1345. He indicates he wish to proceed. Madam Secretary -- Senator Harmon seeks leave of the Body to return House Bill 1345 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is House Bill 1345. Madam Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment 2, offered by Senator Harmon.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. The amendment becomes the bill. I’d move for its adoption and look forward to the -- presenting it on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Seeing no discussion -- oh! Senator Pankau, for discussion. What purpose do you rise?
A question of the sponsor, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) He indicates he’ll yield. Senator Pankau.
When this was in committee, there were four TIF districts, I believe, in Chicago that were -- that make up this bill, TIF extensions. And one of our Members expressed the desire to have -- make it only three. Has that been done? Is this three or four TIF extensions? 106 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. Senator Pankau, thank you for that question. I’m eager to report to Senator Hendon that you are looking out for his interests. He’ll be thrilled to know you’re defending him when he’s not on the Floor. But we’ve worked through that issue. Senator Hendon is fine with us leaving that TIF in. We’re going to proceed with the four TIF extensions and he has given his authority and appreciates us having a chance to talk about it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Pankau.
Okay. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon, to close.
I just move for the adoption of the amendment, Madam President. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 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. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is House Bill 1345. Madam Secretary, please read the bill. 107 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
House Bill 1345. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. As -- as was discussed on 2nd Reading as we adopted the amendment, the bill now extends the maturity dates for four City of Chicago TIF districts and imposes new requirements on the City to post on its website certain materials relating to its -- its TIF districts created or extended after -- created or amended after 2004. I’d ask for your Aye votes.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Further discussion? Senator Burzynski, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Will the sponsor yield for a question?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) He indicates he will. Senator Burzynski.
Thank you. Senator, as you know, I don’t like TIF extensions anyway, but let me ask you a question. Have -- we always have letters of support from all of the affected taxing districts. Has that occurred in this case?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon. 108 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009
Thank you, Madam President. We have letters of support from the Chicago Public Schools, the Chicago Park District and the City Colleges of Chicago.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Burzynski.
So, in other words, they have not all been received, because you don’t have them from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, Cook County, or the Cook County Forest Preserve.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
Thank you, Madam President. I -- I believe, if I recall the testimony in committee correctly, this is the first time the City has extended a TIF. Is that consistent with your recollection of the testimony in committee? I -- I -- I think its -- the City is a slightly different entity, and I understand that, but here we have the letters of support from all the major City taxing bodies.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Burzynski.
Thank you, Madam President. Just one or two last questions, very quickly. Senator, the -- what will -- what is the intent of the extension of the TIF? I mean, what will the City use these for? Are -- are they going to redevelop these malls that are already established within the TIF districts or 109 STATE OF ILLINOIS 96th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 59th Legislative Day 5/29/2009 is it more of a ploy to capture that three billion dollars that they’ve already -- you know, to continue capturing the money that they have in the past?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Harmon.
I -- I’m not sure if I can load an answer as well as you loaded the question. But -- but as the City representatives explained in committee, these extensions are being sought for the purposes of long-term planning and to continue the development efforts therein.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The question is, shall House Bill 1345 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 46 voting Aye, 5 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. House Bill 1345, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. The Republicans would request a caucus.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) A caucus is always in order, Senator Syverson, but before you do that, I’ve got an announcement. There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until the hour of 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 30th, 2009. The Senate stands adjourned. 110