PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The regular Session of the 99th General Assembly will please come to order. Will our Members please be at their desks? Will our guests in the galleries please rise? The invocation today will be given by Pastor Seth Ventress, Youth Pastor of Chatham Baptist Church.
(Prayer by Pastor Seth Ventress)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Please remain standing for the Pledge Allegiance. Senator Cunningham.
(Pledge of Allegiance, led by Senator Cunningham)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Wednesday, March 18th, 2015.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hunter.
Mr. 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 LINK) Senator Hunter moves to postpone the reading and the approval of the Journal, pending the arrival of the printed transcript. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 236, offered by Senator Tom Cullerton and 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 all Members. It is a death resolution, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Resolution Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 237, offered by Senator Tom Cullerton. And Senate Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 13, offered by Senator Clayborne. They are both substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Paul Ellers {sic} {Elders} of WICS-TV requests permission to video and audio. Seeing no objection, permission granted. Lisa Chess-Gustafson, Blueroomstream.com, seeks permission to videotape. Seeing no objection, permission granted. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Landek, Chairperson of the Committee on State Government and Veterans Affairs, reports Senate Bill 1808 Do Pass; Senate Bill 563 Do Pass, as Amended; and Senate Resolutions 161 and 176 Be Adopted. Senator Martinez, Chairperson of the Committee on Licensed Activities and Pensions, reports Senate Bills 1554 and 1932 Do Pass; and Senate Bills 42, 731, 749, 785, 838, 1407, and 1504 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Harmon, Chairperson of the Committee on Executive, reports Senate Bills 1238 and 1919 Do Pass; and Senate Bills 52, 1265, 1334, and 1665 Do Pass, as Amended; Senate Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 82 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Haine, Chairperson of the Committee on Insurance, 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 reports Senate Bill 1764 Do Pass; and Senate Bills 29, 54, and 94 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Hutchinson, Chairperson of the Committee on Revenue, reports Senate Bills 1222, 1426, 1714, and 1907 Do Pass; and Senate Bills 717, 1262, 1625, and 1906 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Sullivan, Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, reports Senate Bills 800, 813, and 1799 Do Pass; and Senate Bills 44, 1371 and 1422 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Holmes, Chairperson of the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development, reports Senate Bills 680, 1702, 1741, 1803, and 1921 Do Pass. Senator Muñoz, Chairperson of the Committee on Executive Appointments, reports Appointment Messages 4, 9, 15, 17, 18, 22, 27, 28, 30, 33, 34, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 67, 68, 69, 71, 77, 89, 91, 95, 100, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, and 112 Recommend Do Advise and Consent. Senator Koehler, Chairperson of the Committee on Environment and Conservation, reports Senate Bills 1673, 1707, 1739 Do Pass; Senate Bills 793, 1408, 1508, 1590 Do Pass, as Amended; and Senate Resolution 120 Be Adopted. Senator Hunter, Chairperson of the Committee on Energy and Public Utilities, reports Senate Bill 41, 1480, 1645, 1743, and 1908 Do Pass.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 House of Representatives has passed bills of the following titles, in the passage of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Bill 95. We have received like Messages on House Bills 299, 313, 1337, 1362, 1377, 1407, and 1496. Passed the House, March 18th, 2005 {sic}. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House. Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, 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 16. Offered by Senator Bennett. We have received like Message on House Joint Resolution 17, offered by Senator Bennett. Both adopted by the House, March 3rd, 2015. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House. They are both substantive, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, House Bills 1st Reading.
House Bill 299, offered by Senator Althoff. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 313, offered by Senator Forby. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 1337, offered by Senator Raoul. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 1362, offered by Senator Tom Cullerton. (Secretary reads title of bill) 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 House Bill 1363, offered by Senator Holmes. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 1377, offered by Senator Morrison. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 1417, offered by Senator Cunningham. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 1498, offered by Senator Koehler. (Secretary reads title of bill) House Bill 2495, offered by Senator Morrison. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bills.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Will all Members at the sound of my voice please come to the Senate Floor? We will be doing Executive Appointments and other Floor action. All Members at the sound of my voice, please come to the Floor. We will be doing Executive Appointments and other Floor action. Senator Syverson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Just for a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Thank you. I have the honor today of introducing a -- a group of young people from Rockford, which really are standout young people. These are individuals that, on their own, decided to start a program called K Cancer (Baseball). And, every year, sixteen thousand families are -- are affected by children that get cancer, and what these young men and women are doing is setting up an -- 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 a program where they raise money to help these families -- get transportation to and from hospitals. It's something they've done on their own, which really tells us a lot about the kids, who are stepping up and thinking outside of themselves and thinking about others. So, I would like a welcome for the K Cancer group, along with Senator Stadelman's area, and then we also have some of the other members and family members, over here, as part of this great group, because we know kids don't turn out this great without a lot of help from parents. So, if we could welcome the K Cancer group from Rockford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield and thank you for what you're doing. Senator Anderson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Members of the Senate and Mr. President, I am truly honored today to have my son with me - he's on spring break. And I can't think of a better young man. I'd like to say that parenting is the reason for his good outcome and good attitude thus far, but I think that's just the way God made him. So, if we can give a warm Senate welcome to my son, Steel Anderson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield. We are -- on the Order of 2nd Readings, we're going to go to page 2. Beforehand, Senator Hastings, for what purpose do you rise?
6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Point of personal privilege, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
You know, can I have the attention of the Chamber, really quick? So, two years ago, I met this young man in -- in Joliet and he seemed like a pretty hard charger; he seemed like a very hard worker. And I asked him, I said, "What are you doing?" And he says, "Well, I really don't have a job. I really don't know what I'm going to be doing here in the next few months." So over the phone, I said, "Tim, if you can meet me at the Starbucks at 159th and LaGrange Road in a half hour, it's more than likely that we'll bring you on." Tim made it from Romeoville to Orland Park in less than a half an hour, he was dressed, he was ready to go. He told me that - his background - he was dedicated to serving the people of his country and dedicated to serving the people of his State. For those of you who don't know Tim Tackett, Tim's been my LA for the last two years. He's been there since day one. Tim has served in the United States Marine Corps, proudly for four years, and then after that he went on to Illinois State, where he obtained his bachelor's degree, and then he came on board the Senate Democratic Staff. And Tim didn't stop there. He's committed to personally developing himself and professionally developing himself. He's about three-quarters of the way through with his MBA program at the University of Illinois. And I can tell you that the people of the 19th District don't ask about Senator Hastings, they always ask how Tim is doing in Springfield. Tim is a great young man. I can tell you that I'm extremely proud to have met him, extremely proud to have worked with him, and I'm 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 extremely proud of the journey that he's about to embark on. Jim has -- or, Tim has taken a -- a job with an organization, State Universities Annuitants Association. I know that his willingness to learn, his willingness to work, will definitely suit them and do them proud. And generally in the military, we have a Hail and Farewell ceremony, where everyone gets together and has a few beers and tells stories about Tim that aren't true. So I won't do that today, but what I will do - and I just ask that anyone -- anyone who has not signed this yet - I just want to present Tim with a nice drawing of the Illinois Senate so that for the rest of his life he can always remember his tenure here and how he -- how he helped the people of the 19th District. And I just want to read something for Tim. One of our constituents he helped with and -- and she was very thankful to Tim and she told me that "Tim made the impossible things possible and for that I'm forever grateful." And, Tim, I'm forever grateful for your service. Thank you very much. Thank you, Tim.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Good luck in the future, Tim. Now on page 2, Senate Bill 26. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 26. (Secretary reads title of bill) The Committee on Local -- 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Local Government adopted Committee Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 No further amendments reported, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 31. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 31. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments adopted {sic}.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 47. Leader Clayborne. Leader Clayborne. Senate Bill 63. Senator Nybo. Senator Nybo. Out of the record. Senate Bill 87. Senator Althoff. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 87. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 100. Senator Lightford. Senator Lightford. Senate Bill 653. Senator Kotowski. Senate Bill 663. Senator Koehler. Senator Koehler. Senate Bill 674. Senator Sullivan. Senator Sullivan. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 674. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Transportation adopted Amendment No. 1. 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 679. Senator Steans. Senator Steans. Senate Bill 721. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 721. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Human Services adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. With leave of the Body, we'll go back to Senate Bill 679. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 679. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of -- of the bill. Committee on Public Health adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 730. Senator Lightford. Senator Lightford. Senate Bill 781. Senator Clayborne. Leader Clayborne. Senate Bill 788. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 788. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Human Services adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 805. Senator Harris. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 805. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 807. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill. 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
Senate Bill 807. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 816. Senator Tom Cullerton. Senator Tom Cullerton. Senate Bill 818. Senator Nybo. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 818. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1271. Senator McGuire. Senator McGuire. Senate Bill 1298. Senator Rose. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1298. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1304. Senator Silverstein. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1304. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee amendments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes, Mr. President. Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Silverstein.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Silverstein, on your amendment.
I'll explain it more on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) All those -- is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment has been adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1308. Senator Silverstein. Senate Bill 1309. Senator Silverstein. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1309. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1312. Senator Harmon. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1312. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1314. Senator Harmon. Senator Harmon. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1314. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported. 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Hutchinson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
I would like everybody on the Floor of the Senate today to join me in wishing a very, very happy birthday to the best Sergeant-at-Arms that we could possibly have, Mr. Joe Dominguez. Standing right back there behind us. He keeps us all safe. Happy birthday, Joe.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Happy birthday, Joe. Senate Bill -- on Senate Bill 1314, 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1354. Senator Manar. Senate Bill 1360. Senator Trotter. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bills {sic} 1360. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1376. Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1376. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the committee -- 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported. 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1388. Senator McCann. Senator McCann. Senate Bill 1447. Senator Kotowski. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1447. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1458. Senator Luechtefeld. Senator Luechtefeld. Senate Bill 1483. Senator Anderson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1483. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1498. Senator Silverstein. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1498. (Secretary reads title of bill) 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1523. Senator McGuire. Senate Bill 1582. Senator Nybo. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1582. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1589. Senator Mulroe. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1589. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1603. Senator Anderson. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1603. (Secretary reads title of bill) 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Transportation adopted Amendments numbered 1 and 2.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1605. Leader Radogno. Leader Radogno. Senate Bill 1620. Senator McGuire. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1620. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1628. Senator Brady. Senate Bill 1641. Senator Emil Jones. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1641. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1657. Senator McConnaughay. Senate Bill 1688. Senator Haine. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1688. 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1717. Senator Rose. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1717. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1728. Senator Steans. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1728. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Human Services adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1734. Senator Althoff. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1734. 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1751. Senator Morrison. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1751. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Human Services adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1761. Senator Silverstein. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1761. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1793. Senator Hastings. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1793. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1866. Senator Lightford. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1866. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senator Sullivan, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
Ladies and Gentlemen, if I could have your attention. I was just informed that tomorrow is a colleague of ours birthday. The Presiding Officer in the Chair, his birthday is tomorrow, I was just told, and I think it would be appropriate for all of us to - - Senator Silverstein indicated what your age was, but I'm not going to repeat that. The -- I think it'd be very appropriate 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 that we welcome -- or, excuse me, tell Senator Link congratulations on his birthday tomorrow.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) I said last year I wasn't going to recognize you. I fell for it again. And it's twenty-nine, Senator Silverstein. Senate Bill 1877. Senator Silverstein. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1877. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. The Committee on Judiciary adopted Amendment No. 1.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Have there been any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Senate Bill 1885. Senator Manar. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1885. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now, with leave of the Body, we will be going to Executive Appointments. To fulfill our responsibility under Article V, Section 9 of the Constitution, we will now proceed to the Order of Advise and Consent. Senator Muñoz. 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on appointments set forth in Appointment Messages 98 through 0624 {sic} (98-0624), 99-0004 to 5, through {sic} 9, 15, 18, 22, 27, 28, 30, 33, 34, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 46 through 51, 53 to 65, 67, 68, 69, 71, 77, 89, 91, 95, 100, and 103 to 112.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz moves the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on Appointment Messages just read. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Senate resolves itself into Executive Session. Mr. Secretary, Motions in Writing on Appointment Messages.
I have a motion in writing from Senator Muñoz, Chairman of the Committee on Executive Appointments.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Mr. Secretary, print the motion on the Calendar. On page 11 of the regular Calendar is the Order of Executive Appointments - Appointment Messages. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Messages {sic} 990005.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Philip Nelson.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. On Supplemental Calendar 1, on the Order of Executive Appointments - Appointment Messages, Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990004.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be Director of the Illinois Department of Employment Security, Jeffrey Mays.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Messages {sic} just read. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 51 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990009.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following appointment: To be a member and Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education, James Meeks.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Steans, for what purpose?
To the appointment. To the appointment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the appointment.
Our education system teaches more than math, science, arts, language, and history - our schools are also charged with teaching students how to be socially and emotionally engaged. Despite our robust School Code, I'm aware that far too many children -- for - - for far too many children, school is a site of violence, harassment, and discrimination. I'm also aware that we are fortunate to live in a State whose government has taken an active 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 role in addressing this reality through legislative mandates, judicial review, and executive oversight. The role of Chairman of the Illinois State Board of Education is to oversee the enforcement of the laws of the State of Illinois. These laws include the Illinois Human Rights Act, which protects against discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, disability, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy status, and other marginalized identities, as well as laws mandating, for example, that schools that teach sex education do so using accurate information about birth control and sexually transmitted diseases, anti-bullying and violence prevention statutes. The nominee for the Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education has made statements that, at best, demonstrate an insensitivity to the pervasive discrimination faced by the LGBT community, some racial minorities, women, and people of non-Christian faiths. Based on these statements and grave concerns expressed by my constituents and organizations whose mission is to protect and support our young people, I cannot, in good conscience, support Reverend James Meeks to the Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Trotter, for what purpose do you rise?
To the appointment, if I may.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the appointment.
Thank you very much, Mr. President and Members of the Senate. You know, I served with Senator James Meeks here in this Chamber. 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 And in this Chamber, he served as the Chairman of the Education Committee. In that position, he objectively listened to all issues and -- and voted according to his district, the merits of what he felt that his district -- how they wanted him to vote. He also served in this -- in this institution as the Chairman of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, in which we've looked at issues surrounding all ethnicities and all different kinds of religions. And he, in that capacity, was also very fair in doing so. He is now being appointed by the Governor to serve -- over the -- as the Chairman over the Illinois State Board of Education. I believe that he can do that as well with an -- with an objective frame of mind. What we're hearing is that there is a group or maybe several groups out here that -- who - just the opposite of what they said, as far as being fair and looking at things equally - they are discriminating against his religious views, as how he saw things when he made a vote in this Chamber. And it just so happened to be the view of the community that he represented, because they reelected him from that same district. So, I think all of us come down here with our -- of course, wanting to do the -- the best and the good for the people that we serve, but that does not mean that, from time to time, we do not have to also look at our own morals and our own values and reflect those as well. For a gentleman who has served and as a minister of the Baptist faith, I believe certainly he has earned -- or at least demonstrated that he, in fact, can be a man who will look at issues objectively and certainly do them in a Christian manner. And I wholly support his efforts to be appointed to this position.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Delgado. 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
To the appointment, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the appointment.
Very difficult for me, but I have to speak my mind. I feel that at this point and in due respect to all of my colleagues in all the Chambers and all caucuses. I'm a former member of the local school councils {sic} in my community, at Kelvyn Park High School. Served eight years in the House. When I transferred to the Senate, I had to come here and battle one of my own Members. I have a great respect for the Reverend Meeks, and I respect his morals and beliefs. But I had to - he said there was no place for local school councils in our schools. He said to me that there was no place for parents, that they didn't know anything about education. He says to me, they had no place there. He said to me, he wanted to create vouchers, a voucher system. I showed him the Milwaukee system that was shut down, that it was closed, trying to discourage him. And I was concerned that it is-- also, to get into any of these schools, you should have a choice. But I was real concerned about what was happening to the educational system. When it comes to particular populations, I had to stand here and talk about a man, Manny Flores, once upon a time, in the Department of Professional Regulation. This is about credentials and -- and consistency, to have a precept, a concept, and an ideology that is conducive to all the State of Illinois, to the students. And when you let your personal morals come out - and the communities who are struggling to be part of this society, be it for bullying because of your glasses you're wearing or because of your gender 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 - it's a very delicate matter. But as a father of a deceased young man who had a gender issue that was very comfortable for him, it's very difficult for me to stand here as a father, and as a man of the faith of God that has been St. Michael the Archangel since I buried my boy, I do not stand here reluctantly. As the Chairman of Education and as a Member of Illinois -- in the General Assembly, it's imperative to me that we have liaisons in the Department that can be put there to assure - 'cause I've not spoken with Senator Meeks -- or former Senator Meeks, Reverend Meeks, the Chairman of ISBE. He has not called me. He has not discussed this with me. We have had no contact. And as much I have successes is to turn it all the way around and make -- and when life gives me lemons, to put it on lobster. But in this case, I feel it's lemonade. I reluctantly stand -- no, actually, I'm not reluctant. I would wish that the conditions could be different and that we could have meetings and make sure that the Department brings in liaisons far past this appointment. He will get appointed, and I pray that we are able to work together and that as I leave my biases at home to the best of my ability, that he can leave those at his church. But every day we start here with a prayer, and that's ok, but we cannot inject it into government and we cannot alienate other populations. And for that reason, I'll be voting No.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Raoul.
Thank you, Mr. President. I think it's important that we be fair here and, one, I think a certain deference is owed to a -- a former colleague. And -- and I think we all come to this Chamber 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 with differences of opinion and ideology. And I don't think we're scrutinizing every appointment to the State Board of Education the same way we are scrutinizing this one, and I think that's unfair. I too had differences of ideology with our former colleague. But, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, last November there was an election. I supported one candidate for a Governor; he did not win. The other candidate won and he had within his power as Governor to select who he would like to chair the State Board of Education. And to the extent that there's not a competency issue of being able to preside over a board with numerous people on that board - it's not the "Dictator" of the State Board of Education, but it's Chairman of the Board - I think we owe it to the integrity of the process not to politicize this and -- and -- and attach it to different issues. It ought to be an evaluation of competency to chair the Board of State Education, so I urge my colleagues to support this appointment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Murphy.
To the resolution {sic}, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the resolution {sic}.
I think some really good points were made by Senator Raoul and Senator Trotter about deference about James Meeks, I think, as a man. You know, when you do this job of -- in the Senate, of course, you cover the whole spectrum of issues and he had opinions like we all do and had positions like we all do on that broad spectrum of issues. But for the people who served with James Meeks 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 down here, there was never a doubt that the -- the whole reason he was here, the reason he went through everything you have to do to get into this Chamber as a Member, was 'cause of his concern for and deep caring for the concept of educating kids in Illinois. It absolutely thoroughly motivated him to be a Member of the Senate. And that's the specific issue that he's been chosen to lead on on the -- on the -- on this board. And so, out of deference, yes, but out of respect for his passion, out of respect for his knowledge and intellect, and his willingness to serve in this important role, I -- I would -- it's unfortunate that some feel they can't vote for him, but I sure hope everybody, at least on our side of the aisle, recognizes what a good man James Meeks is and what a true asset he is to Illinois education. And I strongly urge an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Any other discussion? Our final speaker, Senator Lightford.
Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution {sic}. I'd be remiss if I didn't rise to acknowledge our former colleague. I know that Senator Trotter and Senator Raoul and Senator Murphy just made some wonderful comments and -- and, actually, it's the summation of what I would like to talk about. But I think one of the things I really want to mention is that, you know, none of us will ever be one hundred percent on all issues for everyone. And if you try to minimize what we do here, I think we're only letting ourselves down. All of us have different passions, beliefs, morals, values, religions. And I think to Senator Trotter's point, in that, to me, if you decide not to support this man because of his religious beliefs, then I think that you're doing yourselves 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 an injustice. You have beliefs, you have morals, you have values - they're not going to all line up with each of us in this Chamber. But I do know that man served for ten years, and of those ten years here, we served on the Education Committee together, and I can tell you, without a doubt, that I don't think he had a racist bone in his body for any child. He fought like crazy to make sure education funding was adequate, equal, accessible to all children. No category was set to the side for one child more than others. Perhaps he didn't think local school councils was appropriate, but that was his belief. He also believed that there should be an elected school board. He also had beliefs on a whole host of other issues as related to education, and we all do. To suggest that we don't allow him the opportunity to chair the State Board of Education is -- is absolutely one of those things that I think I will leave here always remembering, that it -- it sounds good when it's individually for us, but for us to challenge a colleague who we personally know - even those who stood up and spoke personally know him. And you -- you have to know that you -- at some point, you have to separate politics from good public service, right from wrong, and what you personally believe in opposed to what you know is best for the State Board of Ed and for our schools and our children across the State. I don't believe that that man will ever vote anything negative for any child, period. He never carried that position here. He never carried that posture here. He chaired the committee that is the same policy that he'll be overseeing now in the same vein. How we -- how we mix those two really amazes me. I rise in support and I would hope that all of you would know that there may come a day when you're on the opposite end, and you want to be judged by your total experience in the 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Legislature, not for some votes you may have taken a No position on, not for some votes you may have taken a Yes and someone wanted you to do differently. But know that when you come here as a total human being trying to serve, that you're not going to always agree with everyone on everything. And I think the community that's coming out against him, I think they should rethink their opposition as well, because they're going to have some challenges in other ways and other means that I think he could be a good advocate and a friend for them. So I rise for his support. I didn't mean to baffle {sic} on, but it's so -- it's so troubling to me that we're having this discussion and that we actually pulled him from the list to have this discussion. And I encourage our Members to vote Aye.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read. 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 45 Ayes, 1 Nay, 1 voting Present. The majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990015.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Illinois Racing Board, Arlene Mulder.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. The majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990018.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be Director of the Illinois Department of Labor, Hugo Chaviano.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor, 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 49 Ayes, 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990022.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be the Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Revenue, Edward Buckles.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor, 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990039.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the following -- recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be the Director of the Illinois Power Agency, Anthony Star. 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of the Senate -- Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990041.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be the Illinois Department of -- to be -- to be the Director of the Illinois Department… To be the Secretary of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Bryan Schneider.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor, 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990071.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be the Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs, Erica Jeffries.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990095.
37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Civil Service Commission, Garrett Fitzgerald.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor, 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990100.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a Judge of the Court of Claims, Mary Patricia Burns.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read. 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990103.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Adam Monreal.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor will say {sic} 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. Mr. Secretary, 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Appointment Message 990104.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Vonetta Harris.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 44 Ayes, no Nays, 1 voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990105.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Gary Duncan.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990106.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Aurthur Mae Perkins.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor, 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990107.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Daryl Jones.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor will say {sic} 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990108.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Peter Fisher.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990109.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Prisoner Review Board, Donald Wayne Dunn.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 50 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990110.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Illinois Labor Relations Board, Michael Coli.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990111.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Illinois Labor 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Relations Board, Keith Snyder.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Mr. Secretary, Appointment Message 990112.
Mr. President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following salaried appointment: To be a member of the Illinois Labor Relations Board, John Samolis.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the appointment just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the Appointment Message just read. All those 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the appointment just read. Supplemental Calendar 2 has been printed and distributed. On Supplemental Calendar 2, Mr. Secretary, Motions in Writing – Appointment Messages.
I have a motion in writing from Senator Muñoz, Chairman of the Committee on Executive Appointments. Motion to Compile Appointment Messages. Pursuant to Senate Rule 10-1(c), as Chairman of the Executive Appointments Committee, I move to compile the following Appointment Messages to be acted on together by a single vote of the Senate: Appointment Messages 990027, 990028, 990030, and 990089 - Illinois State Board of Education; Appointment Messages 990033, 990034, 990035 - Illinois State Board of Investment; Appointment Messages 990037, 990038, 990046, 990077, and 990091 - Illinois State Medical Disciplinary Board; Appointment Message 990040 - State Universities Retirement System Board of Trustees; Appointment Messages 990047 and 990048 - Illinois Medical Licensing Board; Appointment Messages 980624 and 990049 - Capital Development Board; Appointment Messages {sic} 990050 - Public Administrator for 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Cook County; Appointment Message 990051 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Winnebago County; Appointment Message 990053 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Clay County; Appointment Message 990054 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Logan County; Appointment Message 990055 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Champaign County; Appointment Message 990056 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Marshall County; Appointment Message 990057 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Vermilion County; Appointment Message 990058 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Crawford County; Appointment Message 990059 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Montgomery County; Appointment Message 990060 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Fayette County; Appointment Message 990061 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for DeKalb County; Appointment Message 990062 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Livingston County; Appointment Message 990063 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Kankakee County; Appointment Message 990064 - Public Administrator of DuPage County; Appointment Message 990065 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for McDonough County; 47 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Appointment Message 990067 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for LaSalle County; Appointment Message 990068 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for Madison County; And Appointment Message 990069 - Public Administrator and Public Guardian for McLean County. Dated, March 19th, 2015, and signed by Assistant Majority Leader Antonio Muñoz, Chairman, Executive Appointments Committee.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Silverstein.
Thank you, Mr. President. Due to a conflict of interest with one of the appointments just read, I will abstain from voting - just for the record.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz moves to comply {sic} (compile) the Appointment Messages to be acted on today by a single vote of the Senate. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The -- the Ayes have it. The motion carries. Mr. Secretary, read the complied -- complete appointments -- compiled appointments. Sorry, Mr. Secretary.
To be members of the Illinois State Board of Education: Lula Ford, Craig Lindvahl, Eligio Pimental, and John Sanders. To be members of the Illinois State Board of Investment: Mark Cozzi, Marc Levine, and Shari Reiches. To be members of the Illinois State Medical Disciplinary Board: Dr. Richard Fay, Dr. Joseph Szokol, Karen O'Mara, Dr. Ronald Johnson, and Dr. Frank Nicolosi. 48 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 To be a trustee of the State Universities Retirement System Board of Trustees: Dennis Cullen. To be members of the Illinois Medical Licensing Board: Craig Niederberger and Phillip Dray. To be a member of the Capital Development Board: William A. Lowry, Sr. To be the Public Administrator of Cook County: David Epstein. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Winnebago County: Sharon R. Rudy. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Clay County: Diane Frye. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Logan County: Thomas L. Van Hook. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Champaign County: John P. Brown. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Marshall County: Jane Johnson. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Vermilion County: Matthew Myrick. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Crawford County: James Lane. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Montgomery County: Frederick D. Floreth. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Fayette County: Frederick D. Floreth. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for DeKalb County: John R. Corneille. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Livingston County: Lawrence H. Necheles. 49 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Kankakee County: Wynne' Crosby. To be the Public Administrator for DuPage County: Donald E. Puchalski. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for McDonough County: Rita O’Donnell. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for LaSalle County: Alan Howarter. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for Madison County: Rene M. Bassett Butler. To be the Public Guardian and Public Administrator for McLean County: Daniel Deneen.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Mr. President, I move that the Senate do advise and consent to the appointments just read.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is… The -- the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the compiled Appointment Message {sic}. 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 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. A majority of Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the compiled Appointment Message {sic}. Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Senate arise from 50 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Executive Session.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz moves that the Senate arise from Executive Session. All those in favor, say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Senate -- Senate has arised {sic} from Executive Session. Senator Jones, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. Purpose of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your announcement.
I have some guests with me in the gallery over on the Republican side - Amore Smith and Antwanique Campbell. Both of 'em are sixteen years old. They're from the west side of Chicago. They came down here to Springfield to testify in our Appropriations Committee this morning on the importance of advocating for anti- violence dollars and community service. They are down here under the director {sic} of Gwen Baxter, who is the director of the youth program in Roseland -- in the Roseland community. So please join me in giving them a warm Springfield welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield. Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? The Committee on Assignments, please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately. Senator Kotowski, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 51 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 State your point.
I don't know if this occurred yet today, but if I'm doing it again, it's for a good cause. I just wanted to wish our Sergeant- at-Arms, Joe, a happy birthday. Am I late? Did we do that already? Okay. Well, I just thinks it's important we do it again. Joe, happy birthday. You do a wonderful job here. God Bless you. Have a great day. Happy birthday, Joe!
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to the Senate Floor, Senator Kotowski. Will the Committee on Assignments please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately? The Committee on Assignments, please meet in the President's Anteroom immediately. Just to remind all Members of the Senate: The deadline for filing committee amendments to the Senate bills is Friday, March 20th, at 12 noon. Let me repeat that again. The deadline for filing committee amendments to Senate bills is Friday, March 20th, at 12 noon. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, Clerk. Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has passed bills of the following titles, in the passage of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate to wit: House Bill 1566. We have received like Messages on House Bills 2483, 2628, 2640, 2641, 2642, 2643, 2644, 2797, and 2824. Passed the House, March 19th, 2015. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 52 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Executive Committee - House Bill 373; refer to Insurance Committee - Senate Bill 1318; refer to Labor Committee - Senate Bill 670; refer to Licensed Activities and Pensions Committee - Senate Bill 1464; refer to Revenue Committee - Senate Bill 83; re- refer from Labor Committee to Executive Committee - Senate Bill 1225; re-refer from Executive Committee to Agriculture Committee - Senate Bill 543; re-refer from Executive Committee to Public Health Committee - Senate Bill 1410. Signed, Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman. Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Re-refer from Executive Committee to Assignments Committee - House Bill 373. Signed, Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman. Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Be Approved for Consideration - House Bill 373. Signed, Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Supplemental Calendar No. 3 is distributed to all Members. House Bill 373. Senator Biss. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 373. (Secretary reads title of the bill) 53 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. We will now proceed to the Order of Resolution Consent Calendar. With leave of the Body, all resolutions read today will be added to the Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, have there been any objections filed on any resolution on the Consent Calendar?
No objections filed, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? If not, the question is, shall the resolutions on the Consent Calendar be adopted. All those in favor, say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The motion carries, and the resolutions are adopted. Mr. Secretary, Messages from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, 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 57. Offered by Senator Clayborne. (Secretary reads HJR 57) Adopted by the House, March 18th, 2015. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) On the Order of Resolutions is House Joint Resolution 57. 54 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 22nd Legislative Day 3/19/2015 Mr. Secretary, read the resolution. Senator Clayborne moves to suspend the rules for the purposes of immediate consideration and adoption of House Joint Resolution 57. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. And the rules have been suspended. Senator Clayborne moves the adoption of House Joint Resolution 57. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. There being no further business to come before the Senate, pursuant to House Joint Resolution 57, the Senate stands adjourned to the hour of 12 noon on the 24th day of March, 2015. The Senate stands adjourned. 55