PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The 99th -- the regular Session of the 99th 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 Major Kelly Collins, Divisional Commander, Heartland Division, Salvation Army, Peoria, Illinois. Major Collins.
(Prayer by Major Kelly Collins)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance. Senator Cunningham.
(Pledge of Allegiance, led by Senator Cunningham)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Tuesday, May 12th, 2015.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Thank you, 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) Thank you, Senator. Senator Hunter moves to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal, pending arrival of the printed transcripts. There being no objection, so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions. 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015
Senate Resolution 536, offered by Senator Brady and all Members. Senate Resolutions 537 through 539, offered by Senator Link and all Members. Senate Resolutions 540 and 541, offered by Senator McGuire and all Members. And Senate Resolution 542, offered by Senator Bennett and all Members. They are all death resolutions, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Resolution Consent Calendar. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Mulroe, Chairperson of the Committee on Public Health, reports Senate Resolution 415 Be Adopted; House Bills 3504, 3531, and 3841 Do Pass; House Bills 152, 184, 2462, and 2790 Do Pass, as Amended; and Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 2706 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator Delgado, Chairperson of the Committee on Education, reports Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 220 Recommend Do Adopt; Senate Joint Resolution 21 Be Adopted; House Bills 806, 3159, and 4025 Do Pass; House Bills 165, 2683, 2781, and 3197 Do Pass, as Amended; and House Joint Resolution 36 Be Adopted. Senator Biss, Chairperson of the Committee on Human Services, reports Senate Resolution 342 Be Adopted; House Bills 1876, 3270, 3304, 3311, 3507, 4096 Do Pass; and House Bill 2755 and 3684 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Raoul, Chairperson of the Committee on Judiciary, 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 reports House Bills 1531, 2556, 3445, 3493, 3552, 3620, 3704, and 3967 Do Pass; and House Bills 1485, 1588, 2635, 2641, 3332, 3464, and 3983 Do Pass, as Amended; and Senate Amendment 1 to House Bill 4090 Recommend Do Adopt. Senator McGuire, Chairperson of the Committee on Higher Education, reports Senate Amendment 2 to House -- Senate Bill 806 Recommend Do Adopt; House Bills 3428, 3476, and 3577 Do Pass. Senator Sandoval, Chairperson of the Committee on Transportation, reports Senate Bill 1441 Do Pass, as Amended; Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 626 Recommend Do Adopt; Senate Resolutions 412 -- Senate Resolution 412 and Senate Joint Resolution 24 Be Adopted; House Bills 198, 2503, 2685, 2811, 3812, and 3944 Do Pass; House Bill 3241 Do Pass, as Amended; House Joint Resolutions 13, 21, 42, and 51 Be Adopted. Senator Jones, Chairperson of the Committee on Local Government, reports Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 1745 Recommend Do Adopt; Senate Resolution 527 Be Adopted; House Bills 735, 3193, 3444, and 3672 Do Pass; and House Bills 245 and 417 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Collins, Chairperson of the Committee on Financial Institutions, reports Senate Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 155 Recommend Do Adopt; House Bills 2627 and 3429 Do Pass; and House Bill 3333 Do Pass, as Amended. Senator Noland, Chairperson of the Committee on Criminal Law, reports House Bills 242, 821, 1446, 1453, 2722, 3143, 3152, 3231, 3533, 3670, 3785, and 3988 Do Pass; and House Bills 1516 and 4044 Do Pass, as Amended; and House Joint Resolution 53 Be Adopted. Senator Forby, Chairperson of the Committee on Labor, reports House Bill 3619 Do Pass; House Bill 3323 Do Pass, as Amended; and 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 House Joint Resolution 28 Be Adopted.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Lisa Chess-Gustafson, Blueroomstream.com, requests permission to videotape. Leave is granted. Ladies and Gentlemen, at -- of the Senate, at the sound of my voice, please come to the Senate Floor. Will Legislative Assistants please have their Members come to the Senate Floor for Senate Bills 3rd Reading? Senate Bills 3rd Reading. We then will go on to Senate -- House Bills 2nd Reading. Senate Bills 3rd Readings, then House Bills 2nd Readings. Please come to the Senate Floor. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, for purposes of an announcement - House bills Floor amendment deadline is May 15th. That would be Friday, May 15th. Attention, Members of the Senate, the deadline, again, is, for filing Floor amendments to House bills, Friday, May 15th, at 12 noon - at 12 noon. If you plan to amend House bills with Floor amendments, please have them filed by 12 noon on Friday, May 15th. House bill Floor amendments deadline - 12 noon, Friday, May 15th. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we will change the order. Please come to the Senate Floor for Floor action. Members of the Illinois Senate, please come to the Senate Floor for Floor action. We will go -- turn to the attention of House Bills 2nd Reading. House Bills 2nd Reading. Please direct your Calendars to page 23 for House Bills 2nd Reading. Page -- page 23. Senator Connelly, on House Bills {sic} 1418. Senator Connelly, on House Bill 1418. Excuse me, Senator Hastings. Senator Hastings. Out of the record. Senator Harmon, on House Bill 1422. The gentleman indicates he wish to proceed. Please read the bill.
House Bill 1422. 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Ladies and Gentlemen, please take your seats. Please take your seats. And will all our staff return to the back of the gallery? The President has a special guest. Please welcome President Cullerton to the podium.
Ladies and Gentlemen, today I'm pleased to introduce to the Illinois Senate the Chinese Consul General, Zhao Weiping. He became Consul General in Chicago in 2013. Prior to this post, he was the Chinese Ambassador to the Independent State of Samoa. That followed a four-year stint as the Counsellor, then Deputy Director- General, at the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. So he's had substantial appointments throughout Asia, Australia, and North America in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was born in Zhejiang Province, China. Mr. Weiping holds a degree from China Foreign Affairs University. So, Ladies and Gentlemen, would you please welcome the Consul General Zhoa Weiping to the Illinois Senate?
(Remarks by Chinese Consul General Zhao Weiping)
Thank you, Mr. Consul General. I'm sorry that -- I'm glad that Senator Oberweis was able to be here today. Unfortunately, Senator Haine couldn't make it. So thank you for coming.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, I'm extremely excited to 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 introduce to you our 2015 State Champions, the St. Joseph Chargers, from Westchester, Illinois, my district, under the leadership of a wonderful man - I'm sure many of you have heard his name mentioned - Coach Pingatore. He is a legend. Please welcome the St. Joseph 2015 Basketball Champions for our NCEA high school. So Senator Connelly, of course, is a St. Joe's kind of guy and he played for the team in 1981-82. So he's also very proud and he would like to say a few words.
Thank you, Leader, Members of the Senate. I stand before you as a proud graduate of St. Joseph High School in Westchester. I want to say a few words, though, about a guy who's meant a lot to me and to these guys and to countless others, and that's Coach Gene Pingatore. Coach Pingatore's with us today. He is the winningest coach in the history of the State of Illinois, and, frankly, he doesn't care. What he cares about is taking young men, taking them as ninth graders and -- and working with them so that they mature into great young men and young adults. I grew up in LaGrange and it's hard to describe what it means to play basketball for St. Joseph and Coach Pingatore, but I'll put it this way, I really never thought growing up in LaGrange that my best friends in high school and beyond in my life would be from Madison and Pulaski and 21st and Christiana on the west side of Chicago, but that's what St. Joseph means to me. Last night I had an opportunity to speak to a friend, someone you may have heard of, a hall of famer, Isiah Thomas. And I said, "Junior, I'm going to have a few minutes to say a few words about Coach. What do you want me to say?" And he said, "Well, tell 'em the truth. Tell him I love him. Tell him that he believed in me before I believed 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 in me and that I wouldn't be anything without his love and kindness." So I said -- I think he's watching. I texted him a few minutes ago. Junior, I hope I did well. But, Coach, let me -- let me address these young men here. I know you hated running stairs and I know, Nick, you hated being called a jamoke. I was at the Hinsdale Central game. I really didn't appreciate it, but you've certainly matured beyond your years in the last few months and I'm proud of you. But you guys will appreciate when you're older what it meant to play for Coach Pingatore, and as you guys have probably seen, I've been at the school many times, even recently, and I talk to him all the time. Last fall, I talked to him. He said, "Michael, are you going to win? How does it look?" And I said, "It looks pretty good. I'm unopposed, so I think I can win this one." But it is, it's one of the great privileges in my life to have played for him. Please, please, a warm welcome for one of the great Illinoisans, Coach Gene Pingatore.
(Remarks and Introductions by Coach Gene Pingatore)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please be patient with us. We have an exciting day today. After every guy good group, we have the girls. We have the Girls State Championship team that Senator Connelly would also like to introduce to the Chamber. Senator Connelly.
Thank you, Madam President and Members of the Senate. It is a big day for basketball without question, certainly in the 21st District. This year has been an incredibly big year for Benet Academy basketball. And, no, I'm not talking about Frank Kaminsky 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 being the Player of the Year. I'm talking about the Class 4A State Girls' Champion Lady Redwings, who are with me today. They're coached by Joe Kilbride, Kelsey Stone, and John Corrigan. Here's some of the stats: their overall record, 34 and 3. All but three of their wins were by double digits. This year's team features three one-thousand-point scorers: Emily Eshoo, Emily Schramek - and if I got the name wrong, I'm sorry - and Kathleen Doyle, the pride of St. Francis in LaGrange, by the way. Benet Academy -- Benet Academy, as -- many of you know, is a nationally ranked scholastic powerhouse. It is known for its rigorous academic standards. This team's collective grade point average is 3.85. They should all be commended for that. And as a -- as a parent of two Benet Academy graduates, we expect a 3.85 grade point average. So… I want to give a special shout out to team MVP Kathleen Doyle. She was the Chicago Tribune Prep Athlete of the Month of March. I only have one question. Is it true, did you really miss the team bus to the championship game? Well, we're glad your uncle drove you there. This team also added a number of IHSA records: The most wins in State history - 34; the most points in State history - 2,538; the most field goals - 966; most 3-pointers - something that we Senators know I'm very fond of - 211. The teams they beat heading downstate: Joliet West, Naperville North, Bolingbrook, Oswego, Edwardsville, Homewood-Flossmoor, and Fremd. I want to turn it over to the coach, Joe Kilbride. Just so you know, this is Joe's first year. So the first year head coach wins State. Coach Kilbride, if you'd like to retire, you know, I would fully understand it. But please give a warm welcome to Head Coach Joe Kilbride.
8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 (Remarks and Introductions by Coach Joe Kilbride)
How about a big hand for the Lady Redwings? Leader Lightford back in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McCann, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCANN: …President, for a -- for a point of personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator. SENATOR McCANN: I actually have two points to make. I have two introductions if you -- if you will bear with me. I would like to call your attention in the Republican side of the gallery, we have with us several members of the Illinois Association of Air and Critical Care Transport. These folks -- that's a fancy way of saying these are the folks that fly in on the helicopter, and if you find yourself in a very bad situation, they're going to get you where you need to go in a hurry. They are a vital link in the -- in the chain of care that -- that we provide. And so I would like to introduce those folks that we have with us. They are Matt Adams, Chris Forncrook, Nikole Cain, Robin Duncan, Laura Sawlsville, Bryan Denton, Brandon Thomas, Jason Sukut, Aaron Bradshaw, Danielle Swenson, Scott Hagemann, Larry Thies, and Heather Morse. And so -- I believe here later we're probably going to adopt Senate Resolution 527, which declares tomorrow, the 14th of May, as Police, Firefighter, and First Responder (Appreciation) Day. And so I think it's very appropriate that they are here today. And 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 then I would also like to introduce my Page for the Day. I have Ben Warwick. Ben is a fourth grader at Auburn Middle School. His favorite political figure in history is Theodore Roosevelt. His favorite part of the Capitol is the stained glass in the inner dome. He enjoys tae kwon do, trapshooting, soccer, and piano. And when he grows up, he would like to be a farmer. And his father, Chris, joins us in the gallery as well. I hope you'll join me in welcoming all of our guests to Springfield today. Thank you, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Nice to have you here. Senator Bivins, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you. I have about three announcements -- or three introductions to make, if I could get the attention of the Body, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please lower your voices.
Okay, thank you, Madam -- President. In the gallery over the Democratic side, if you look up there, you might find one of your sheriffs up there. We have numerous sheriffs from the State of Illinois, around the State, and I believe the Executive Director, Greg Sullivan, is up there with them. I don't see him, unless he's around the corner, but please welcome them if you would. 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Please rise. Please rise and be welcomed. Thank you. Welcome. Thank you for your service. Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you rise?
Madam Chairman {sic}, I would also like to recognize, in the group that just stood, the sheriff from LaSalle County, Sheriff Tom Templeton, who this year is the President of the Sheriffs' Association as well. So we'd like a warm Springfield welcome for Sheriff Templeton.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Senator Bivins, for additional announcement.
Thank you, Madam President. With me today, I have the sheriff -- former Sheriff of Boone County, which is Senator Syverson's district, Sheriff Duane Wirth. He began his law enforcement career as a part-time deputy in 1971 and became a full-time deputy in 1974 and was elected Sheriff of Boone County in 1978. He is a -- graduate of Illinois Police Academy, the FBI National Academy. He ushered in many changes in his years as sheriff, overseeing 9-1-1 services, computerization, and responding to the growing demands of his county, in his office -- and growing from twelve deputies to forty deputies. Sheriff Wirth also found time to be active in his community, belonging to several community organizations. And after forty-three years and ten months serving on the Boone County Sheriff's Office with thirty-six years as sheriff, which makes him the second longest-serving sheriff in the State of Illinois, Sheriff Wirth retired this past December. Also with me -- also 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 with me is Sheriff Elry Faulkner from Johnson County, which is Senator Gary Forby's district. Sheriff Faulkner began his law enforcement career in 1968 with the Vienna Police Department on Halloween night with a borrowed pistol. Believe it or not, back in those days, you -- you did not get the gun; you had to provide your own. Between 1968 and 1974, he worked for the police department and the Johnson County Sheriff's Office. In 1974, he was elected sheriff of Johnson County. On his first day as sheriff, he solved fourteen burglaries. Sheriff Faulkner served as President of the Illinois Sheriffs' Association in 1987 and has served on the board of officers ever since. He was awarded the Medal of Valor by the Illinois Sheriffs' Association for arresting an escaped federal prisoner. After being shot in the chest, Sheriff Faulkner was able to subdue the suspect, but not after also being shot once again in the leg. He also survived a serious crash on duty while transporting a prisoner and another agency, pursuing a suspect -- and that suspect crashed into his squad car, creating multiple injuries for the sheriff. Sheriff Elry Faulkner went on to serve the citizens of Johnson County, retiring this past December, to have served forty-six years with forty years as sheriff, making him the longest-serving sheriff in the history of Illinois. Please join me in honoring these two gentlemen.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. A pleasure to have you. Senator Sullivan, for what purpose do you rise?
…you -- thank you, Madam President. A point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you. It's -- as several sheriffs have been introduced, I also -- Senator Koehler and I have some sheriffs here today. First of all, up on the gallery on our side, Sheriff Jeff Standard from Fulton County. Sheriff, stand up if you would, please. Dave Koehler and I represent Fulton County and appreciate your service. Also, Rick VanBrooker from McDonough County and Brent Fischer from Adams County. I'd like everybody to welcome these fine gentlemen here today as well.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly and thank you for your service. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please direct your attention to the Calendar on the Order of Secretary's Desk, Resolutions, page 34. Secretary's Desk, Resolutions. Senate Resolution 319. Senator Hunter.
I wish to adopt the…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Mr. -- Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 319, offered by Senator Hunter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Thank you, Madam President. I wish to adopt the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there…
13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Senate Resolution 319.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Senator Hutchinson, for what purpose do you rise?
I'm sorry.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Thank you, Madam President. Whereas, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, being incorporated in 1913, is the nation's oldest African-American sorority; the Sorority has never changed their mission to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards, promote unity and friendship among college women, help alleviate problems concerning girls and women in order to improve their social status, maintain a progressive interest in college life, and to be of "Service to All Mankind"; whereas, the 2014 to '18 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated administration, under the dynamic and creative leadership of International President Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, continues to fulfill the service imperative of the organization's founders with the international program "Launching New Dimensions of Service", which focuses on educational enrichment, health promotion, family strengthening, environmental ownership, and global impact.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hutchinson.
Thank you, Madam President. It's so wonderful to see you in the Chair. To the resolution: Illinois is located in the 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 confident, committed, and connected Central Region, which is comprised of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the southeastern portion of Missouri. Two of the Sorority's oldest chapters are located in the Central Region: Beta, which is a Chicago Citywide Chapter, chartered in 1913, and Gamma, the chapter for which I was initiated, at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which was chartered in 1914. The Regional Director of the Central Region is the dynamic Mrs. Kathy A. Walker-Steele. We ask that Mrs. Walker-Steele please stand and be recognized. Now we ask that all the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, please stand and be recognized by the Illinois State Senate. We salute you for the work that you do in your communities to strengthen and support families.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Thank you, Madam President. Be it resolved, by the Senate of the 99th General Assembly of the State of Illinois, that we designate the day of May 13, 2015, as Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in the State of Illinois in honor of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and its work. Thank you very much.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator Hutchinson, Senator Hunter. Welcome ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha to the Illinois State Capitol. I am your sister soror. The question is, shall Senate Resolution 319 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, we will turn our attention to Senate Bills 3rd Reading. 15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Senate Bills 3rd Reading on page 3. We will begin with Senator Haine, on Senate Bill 155. Senator Haine. He indicates he wish to proceed. Please read the gentleman's -- Senator Haine seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 155 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 155. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes, Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Haine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. This -- this bill is an initiative of our distinguished Treasurer and it provides that a U.S. savings bond that has remained unclaimed and unredeemed for five years after its date of maturity is presumed abandoned and shall escheat to the State. All property rights, legal title, and ownership of the bond shall vest solely in the State, and the Treasurer shall commence an action within one hundred and twenty {sic} (one hundred eighty) days after the U.S. savings bond has been presumed abandoned to determine that this bond has in fact escheated to the State. If no person files a claim or appears to substantiate a claim, then that -- again, that bond escheats to the State of Illinois. This is consistent with past practice of -- unclaimed property escheating to the State through the Treasurer.
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 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 is adopted. Senator, this is the amendment. 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 Senate Bill 155. Senator Haine. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 155. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, this is the bill. What I read to you became the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. Is there any discussion? Senator Oberweis, for what purpose do you rise?
Question of the sponsor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Sponsor indicates he will yield. Senator Oberweis.
Senator, do these bonds continue to earn interest even after maturity?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 No, sir.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Oberweis.
Are you sure about that?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Would the Senator repeat the question, please?
My question is whether those bonds continue to earn interest after maturity, because most U.S. government bonds do continue to earn interest after maturity, and as a result, sometimes owners of those bonds will fail to cash them in for several years after maturity because they are continuing to accrue interest.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine. Senator Haine.
Senator Oberweis, I'm being told that some do and some don't collect interest after the date.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Oberweis.
My question then is, if, of course, the bonds are continuing to accrue interest, it's possible that people still wish to own those bonds, but may not have cashed them in for that reason?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Yeah, Madam, I'm going to pull this out of the record and we'll get some answers here.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senate Bill 155, out of the record. Senator Link in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Continuing on 3rd Reading, page 5 of the Calendar, Senate Bill 220. Senator McCann. Senator McCann -- Senator McCann seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 220 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 220. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes, Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator McCann.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McCann, on your amendment. SENATOR McCANN: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the -- of the Chamber. Amendment No. 2 simply attaches a sunset date of January 1st, 2017, to the underlying legislation, which allows for a more expeditious hiring of educators at the Illinois Schools for the Deaf and the -- and Visually Impaired.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported. 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 220. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 220. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator McCann, on your bill. SENATOR McCANN: …you -- thank you, again, Mr. President. Again, Senate Bill 220 essentially comes to us from the Schools for the Deaf and Visually Impaired in Jacksonville, which I'm proud to -- to represent. And these -- the schools have asked the -- for the ability to have more expeditious hiring in the process and that's what this bill allows for.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 220 pass. 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 54 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Bill 220, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Now on page 11 is Senate Bill 626. Senator Muñoz. Senator Muñoz. Now on page 12 of the printed Calendar is Senate Bill 806. Senator Kotowski. Mr. -- Senator Kotowski seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 806 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 806. Are there -- Mr. Secretary, 20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 are there any amendments approved for consideration?
Yes, Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Kotowski.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Kotowski, on your amendment.
Like to speak to the amendment upon its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 806 pass. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 806. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 806. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Before we go on, could it -- could we keep the noise down? We are on final action on these bills. Please keep the noise down. Senator Kotowski.
Thank you, Mr. President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Senate Bill 806 is a bill that is a negotiated bill. We 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 worked with the community colleges and the four-year universities on a piece of legislation that would create the Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act, a joint transfer program between Illinois community colleges and public universities in an effort to simplify the transfer process for community college students wanting to continue their education at a State university.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Murphy, for what purpose do you rise?
To the bill, Mr. President. I just want to commend -- I want to commend the sponsor for his work on this. I think this is -- is -- really gives a lot of comfort to our community college students as they move forward with their -- their baccalaureate career. I think this is the right step for taxpayers in this State and I encourage everybody to support this bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 806 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Bill 806, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Now on page 18, Senate Bill 1745. Senator Althoff. Senator Althoff seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 1745 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 1745. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Althoff.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Althoff, on your amendment.
The amendment becomes the bill and I'll discuss it on 3rd, Mr. President. And… And might I ask to move to adopt it, please, sir?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Amendment 2 to House {sic} Bill 1745 be adopted. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 1745. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 1745. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Althoff, on your bill.
Again, I thank you for the courtesy, Mr. President. This bill actually amends the County {sic} (Counties) Code and it resembles the Municipal Code language regarding sole source procurement for counties. It provides for purchases of -- of and 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 contracts for supplies, materials, parts, or equipment that are only available from a single source and are not subject to competitive bidding.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 1745 pass. 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 48 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Bill 1745, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. On page 20 of the printed Calendar is House Bill 1004. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 1004. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Could -- could we keep the noise down? This is final action on this bill. Senator Jones, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate -- Senate. In the City of Chicago, the HIV and AIDS epidemic is a health crisis for African-Americans. At all stages of HIV and AIDS, from infection with HIV to death with AIDS, African-Americans are disproportionately affected compared to members of other races and ethnicities. African-Americans represent only fourteen percent of the U.S. population, but account for almost half of all new HIV infections in the United States per year, as well as more than one-third of all people living with HIV in our nation. Now, 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 in 2011, men accounted for over sixty percent of the estimated one thousand new HIV infections among adult adolescent African- Americans in the City of Chicago. The estimated rate of new HIV infections for African-American men was seven times that of white men, twice of Latino men, and three times of African-American women. Most racial-ethnic groups in Chicago experience a decrease in the number of annual HIV and AIDS diagnoses. Black men account for fifty percent of all AIDS diagnoses, while white and Hispanic represent thirteen and twenty-one percent of those diagnoses. Now in my district, such as Roseland and the Pullman area, have the highest density of HIV and AIDS victims in the City of Chicago. Ladies and Gentlemen, we have an epidemic on our hands. Extending the sunset of HIV and AIDS Response Fund is a -- pivotal in our fight against this deadly disease. I hope you will take this information in consideration and vote in favor of this measure. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 1004 pass. 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 53 Ayes, no Nays, none voting Present. Senate Bill -- House Bill 1004, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Jones, for what purpose do you rise?
…you -- thank you, Mr. President. Purpose of introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your introduction. 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015
In the President's Gallery - please stand - I have Marc Loveless, Mike O'Connor from the Coalition (for) Justice and Respect with a group. He's representing the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the Westside Area AIDS Project, with the Harm Reduction and Prison Coalition. These are advocates of the African-American community which have been overwhelmingly affected by this devastating disease and have been instrumental in this landmark legislation, along with Representative La Shawn Ford in the House. Please give them a warm -- represent a warm Springfield welcoming.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield. Senator Morrison, for what purpose do you rise?
For the purpose of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your introduction.
I'm very pleased to have with me the person that keeps my office running when we're all down in Springfield. You all know how important it is to have your district office responsive and accessible. Joe Piasecki is my chief of staff and he's here in Springfield for two days. Please help me welcome him.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield. With leave of the Body, we'll go to page 21, House Bill 220. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 220. (Secretary reads title of bill) 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. We will now go back to page 5, Senate Bills 3rd Reading, Senate Bill 226. Senator Lightford seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 226 to the Order of 2nd Reading for the purposes of an amendment. Leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 226. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes, Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Lightford.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford, on your amendment.
Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. Floor Amendment 2, we made some technical changes that I'd be happy to share with you on 3rd. Can you adopt it, please, Mr. President?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 226 be adopted. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 226. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Senate Bill 226. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford, on your bill.
Thank you, Mr. President. Senate Bill -- 226, as amended, is a bill that has no opposition at all. It passed out of committee on a leave attendance roll call. It requires the State Board of Ed to work with school districts to inform all students with developmental disabilities and their parents and guardians about the PUNS database. It requires DHS and ISBE to develop and implement a training program for preadmission screening and independent service agencies to train and provide resources for caseworkers in every public school in the State to register eligible students with the PUNS list. What I found, Mr. President, is that there was a disconnect with the information going out to the families who have young adults who qualify for the PUNS list. We're hoping that this will fill that hole or fill that gap and more parents will be able to be eligible, notified, and have their child on the waiting list to get assistance for the PUNS list. I'd be happy to answer questions.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Senator Rose, for what purpose do you rise?
I do have a question. Is…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) She indicates she will yield. 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015
Senator, thank you for bringing forth the PUNS issue. This was something that came up at a hearing that the Senate had, oh, a year and a half or so ago, a year ago, that -- there was a subsequent resolution that I was the -- the sponsor on. We do have one question and -- because, really, this should be as easy as simply referring people to a website, where you go sign up for PUNS or at least can get information about how to sign up for PUNS. So, you had put -- in the committee, there was a comment that this was subject to appropriation; however, that's at the beginning of section {sic} (subsection) (c). We're not entirely sure that it applies to the rest of your bill. So the question would be for legislative intent, your -- is it your intent to make it subject to appropriation, the entire bill? Correct? Not…
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford.
No problem, Senator. Absolutely. The entire bill can be subject to appropriation. I thank you for your support over -- with the issue for the last year and a half and Senator Kotowski as well. We had a group from both agencies involved in the negotiation. And I apologize for misspeaking. I think Senator Luechtefeld may have voted No in committee because of the issue of the funding.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Rose.
First of all, I appreciate the correction, 'cause that was going to be my second question. But it would be nice if you would 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 clarify that in the House sometime in the next couple weeks. I know we're running out of time. But I appreciate the clarification on the record and, frankly, I think it may be even easier than what's in this bill, because really all we need to do is refer these parents. Just take thirty seconds, say, "Hey, you have an eligible child, go to the website for the State of Illinois, download the information and get your application in." It's very important they do it soon. It's very important they do it early. But I appreciate your willingness to put that on the intent for the record. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any further discussion? Senator Lightford, to close.
Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, the bill did start as a resolution. The advocates thought that that was too watered down. They really needed the support to make sure that eligible families who have children with developmental disabilities get the support that they need and just be informed of the opportunities to get the support. I will definitely make sure the House makes the adjustment at -- requiring it's subject to appropriation. And I ask for an Aye vote, sir.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) The question is, shall Senate Bill 226 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 40 Ayes, 8 Nays, none voting Present. Senate Bill 226, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Manar, for what purpose do you rise? 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015
Thank you, Mr. President. For a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
With me today -- I have three guests that I would like to introduce that have joined -- joined us here today in the Senate in Springfield. First is Lydia Fulton, who's become a regular face here. She is visiting us, shadowing Pam Weber, who is up in the gallery, and she came first earlier this spring working for the Extension Office representing Staunton High School, where she is a freshman. So I want to start with her. Number two is my cousin, Corey Barnes, who is a resident of Dorsey and is a seventh grader at Lincoln Middle School in Edwardsville. And then, finally, I would like to introduce my niece, Emily Manar, who is a seventh grader at Bunker Hill. So I join to -- welcome them to the Senate today. They're enjoying their day and I would like to ask them to rise to be recognized. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield. Senator LaHood, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR LaHOOD: Thank you, Mr. President. For purposes of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your introduction. SENATOR LaHOOD: Thanks, Mr. President. I actually have two Pages today from Dunlap Valley Middle School. First one is Jared Weeks. Jared is thirteen years old, an eighth grader at Dunlap Middle School. He's 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 interested in computers, computer science, politics, current events, and he enjoys baseball, reading and boating. His future plans include graduating from high school and college and majoring in radiology. And my second Page is Jack Disharoon. Jack is fourteen years old, also a eighth grader at Dunlap Valley Middle School. He's interested in sports and politics, and he enjoys baseball, tennis, running and fishing. And his future plans include becoming a lawyer and a politician. I'd like the Senate to give 'em both a warm Springfield welcome. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Welcome to Springfield. With leave of the Body, we'll go to page 11, Senate Bill 626. Senator Muñoz seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 626 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Seeing no objection, leave is granted. Now on the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 626. Mr. Secretary, have there been any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes, Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Muñoz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, on your amendment. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President. The Amendment 1 was a shell bill and then we're going to have another amendment after that, which I can explain. And I ask for its adoption.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 626 be adopted. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment is 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 adopted. Mr. Secretary, are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Yes, Floor Amendment No. 2, offered by Senator Muñoz.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, on Floor Amendment No. 2. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President. I ask for its adoption. Amendment 2 becomes the bill, which I will explain on 3rd Reading.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion on the amendment? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it. The amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. Now on the Order of 3rd Reading is Senate Bill 626. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 626. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Muñoz, on your bill. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. 626 creates a new provision in the Vehicle Code regarding the maximum liability for costs incurred due to damage or theft to a 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 rental car with a MSRP of more than fifty thousand. The amendment provides that the total liability for damage to a rental car is either (a) the actual and reasonable cost of repairs or (b) forty thousand, which is less. If the car is stolen, the maximum liability is kept at forty thousand. I know of no opposition to the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, Senate Bill -- Senate Bill 626 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 Ayes, no Nays, 1 voting Present. Senate Bill 626, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. 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. (at ease) Senator Hastings, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
I have a great honor to introduce a great bunch of young men and young women that have traveled from the great City of Chicago down to Springfield. We have the seventh grade class from Paul Cuffee School. If we'd have them please rise in the President's Gallery and give them a warm Springfield welcome.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Welcome to Springfield. Senator Harmon, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. For purposes of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your introduction.
Thank you, Mr. President. And I'm honored to be joined on the Floor today by three special guests. They are affiliated with the De La Salle Institute's Tolton Adult Education Center. The organizers of -- or the faculty on the -- the Center are my fellow parishioners at Saint Giles in Oak Park. But we have three guests who came down to receive Spotlight on Achievement Awards from Secretary of State Jesse White this morning. So I'm joined on the Floor by RoseMary Sullivan, a volunteer teacher. Please stand on up. She's a constituent of Senator Sandoval. Venetta Hunt, a student, who is a constituent of Senator Van Pelt. And Carina Reyes-Carranza, a student, a constituent of Senator Muñoz. I'm delighted that they could join me here on the Floor today, with our guests in the gallery, up in the President's Gallery. And I'd ask you all to join me in welcoming them to -- to the Senate and congratulating them on their award today. Thank you, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Congratulations and welcome to Springfield. Mr. Secretary, Committee Reports.
Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 40th Legislative Day 5/13/2015 Refer to Agriculture Committee - Committee Amendment 3 to House Bill 3674; refer to Environment and Conservation Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 3240; refer to Executive Committee - Floor Amendment 3 to House Bill 220; refer to Licensed Activities and Pensions Committee - Committee Amendment 2 to House Bill 1424; refer to State Government and Veterans Affairs Committee - Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 3389, Committee Amendment 1 to House Joint Resolution 10, and Committee Amendment 1 to Senate Resolution 517. Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-8 (b-1), the following amendments will remain in the Committee on Assignments: Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 220, Floor Amendment 2 to House Bill 220, Committee Amendment 1 to House Bill 229, and Floor Amendment 1 to House Bill 2477. Signed, Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) On page 30 of the Calendar, we'll go to House -- House Bill 3599. Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
House Bill 3599. (Secretary reads title of bill) 2nd Reading of the bill. No committee or Floor amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) 3rd Reading. There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned till the hour of 12 noon on the 14th day of May 2015. The Senate stands adjourned. 36