PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 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 Interim Pastor Joe Eby, Third Presbyterian Church, Springfield, Illinois. Pastor Eby.
(Prayer by Pastor Joe Eby)
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) Ed Cross, WAND-TV, requests permission to video. Leave is granted. Lisa Yuscius -- Yuscius, excuse me, Blueroomstream.com, requests permission to videotape. Leave is granted. Mr. Secretary, Reading and Approval of the Journal.
Senate Journal of Tuesday, November 29th, 2016.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Madam President, I move to postpone the reading and approval of the Journal just read by the Secretary, pending arrival of the printed transcript.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Senator Hunter moves to approve {sic} the Journals just read by the Secretary. There being no objection, 1 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 so ordered. Mr. Secretary, Resolutions.
Senate Resolution 2458, offered by Senator Haine and all Members. Senate Resolution 2459, offered by Senator Laura Murphy and all Members. Senate Resolutions 2460 and 2461, offered by Senator Harmon and all Members. And Senate Resolution 2463, offered by Senator Clayborne and all Members. They're all death resolutions, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Resolution Consent Calendar.
Senate Resolution 2462, offered by Senator Manar. It is substantive.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 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 concurred with the Senate in the passage of a bill of the following title, to wit: Senate Bill 516. Together with the following amendment which is attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 516. We have received like Messages on Senate Bill 845, with House 2 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Amendment 1; Senate Bill 1367, with House Amendment 1; Senate Bill 1488, with House Amendments 1, 2, and 3; Senate Bill 1673, with House Amendments 1 and 2; and Senate Bill 3337, with House Amendments 1 and 2. Passed the House, as amended, November 30th, 2016. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator McCann, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCANN: Thank you, Madam President. On a point of personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your privilege point. SENATOR McCANN: Thank you, Madam President. I have two separate introductions I'd like to take care of simultaneously, if it's okay with you. First, I'd like to introduce, in the President's Gallery in the center, I have Mrs. Ehrman and Mrs. Reed's fourth grade classes from Waverly Elementary School, which is just a little southwest of here -- of Springfield, and we'd like to welcome them to the State Capitol. I'm honored and privileged to have them as guests today. I also would like to introduce a couple of gentlemen here to my right and my left behind me. They are Dan Ferguson, the owner of the Springfield Jr. Blues, and Tony Zasowski, the Head Coach of the Springfield Jr. Blues. And up here in the President's Gallery on the Republican side, we have the Springfield Jr. Blues. We're very proud of all their hard work and accomplishment. We really take pride in coming together as a community to support this team and we appreciate their investment and their participation. And I hope you'll join me in welcoming here -- 3 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 them here to the Capitol today. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Please rise. Please rise and be welcomed. Congratulations. Glad to have you here. President Cullerton, for what purpose do you rise?
Purposes of an announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement.
I'm very happy to know that some children from a grammar school in my district are here and they're in the gallery, and it's Mount Carmel -- Our Lady of Mount Carmel, located in my district. The teacher's Edward Villaseñor. And it turns out that there is a, I'm told, a couple of young men up there -- Ed Harmening is a former staffer and now a judge and he has, I think, some nephews, Charlie and Ed Harmening, are in the gallery. Is that true? Are Charlie and Ed there? All right. You're waving. All right. Welcome to Springfield.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Nice to have you here. Senator McCarter, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCARTER: Purpose of announcement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement. SENATOR McCARTER: Ladies and Gentlemen, I've -- I've got with me today Donovan Royce McKnight - Isn't that a strong name? Strong name for a fine 4 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 young man - from my district, from O'Fallon. Very close to where I live. He attends Althoff Catholic High School. He's a senior. He is a student ambassador on the varsity tennis team. He's a member on a number of different clubs - Crusaders Against Alcohol and Drugs, member of Crusaders Takes {sic} (Take) Action. And he's the school store accountant. So I -- I guess -- he's taking accounting and his mom asked me if I could help him with accounting and I told him I'm not sure I can remember back that far, but I - - I guess I'd have to -- I -- I could do it if I have to. But he is also very involved in projects like Operation Christmas Child. He's a leader, and that's what we need, is more leaders like this, young people stepping up to -- to serve others. His -- his parents are Gerald and LeVette McKnight, and his mother is up here to my left. And so today I'd like to give a great welcome to Donovan McKnight and his mother. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. Please rise and be welcomed. Senator Noland, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam Chair {sic}. For the purpose of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your introduction, Senator.
Thank you, Madam Chair {sic}. I have with me -- I'm very honored to have with me my successor, Cristina Castro, who hails from the Elgin area, our -- our -- our -- our mutual hometown of Elgin. Cristina's somebody who has earned her own stripes. She's come up the hard way in our -- in our community. She's been long 5 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 a public servant. She began her actual elective public service in 2008 on the Kane County Board. She has worked with Karen McConnaughay on -- Senator McConnaughay on the other side, and you can expect that she will be somebody that will work on both sides of the aisle here and truly be an asset to this Chamber. I'm so proud of her. She's one of the hardest workers I know and one of the smartest people I know as well when it comes to understanding the political process. So I want you all to welcome her here today and to wish her well and to -- to expect her -- her -- her welcoming of your mentorship. And with that, I will turn the reins over to her and ask you to provide her a very warm Senate welcome, if you will, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly, Senator-elect Castro. And you're -- that's not in order. Thank you. But welcome and thanks for adding to our woman number. Thanks, Senator. Senator McConchie, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCONCHIE: Purpose of an introduction.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your purpose. SENATOR McCONCHIE: Yeah, next to me I have - go ahead and stand up - I have a - - a young lady from my district, Ally Khoshabe. She's here serving as my Page today. She's the daughter of Steve and Kendra Khoshabe. Her mom is up the gallery here behind me. She attends Barrington Middle School, where she serves as a student ambassador and a member of the National Junior Honor Society. She's also on the choir and volleyball team. And you're also in soccer and tennis. 6 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 That's -- that's a lot of sports. So she's a very well-rounded young lady, very interested in civic affairs. So I would just ask for the Senate to give a warm welcome. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome, Ally, to the Illinois General Assembly, and welcome in the gallery. Senator Silverstein, for what purpose do you rise?
Purpose for an announcement, Mr. {sic} President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your announcement, Senator.
There'll be a Democratic Caucus upon recess, for about one hour in the President's room.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you. Senator Silverstein requests a one-hour Democrat Caucus in President Cullerton's Office immediately following recess. Senator Weaver, for what purpose do you rise?
Yes, matter of personal privilege, please, Madam Chair {sic}.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Yes, Senator, state your privilege.
Thank you, Madam Chair {sic}. I am so honored to have met today this young lady who's our -- my Page. It's Ayanna Gayles. And she's from Quest Charter Academy in Peoria. She enjoys writing, reading, singing, traveling, and volunteering, and is interested in politics, worldwide issues, and helping others. Plans to be a registered nurse and hopes to be a traveling nurse. And along with her, also her -- the Executive Director/Principal 7 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 of Quest Academy is here, Nicole - where are you sitting? There we go - with her daughter Addisyn. It's great to have you here. But if you could welcome them to the Illinois Senate, I'd certainly appreciate that.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois General Assembly. I hope you have an enjoyable experience. Welcome in the gallery. Senator McCann, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR McCANN: Yes, Madam President, thank you. The Senate Republicans request a one-hour caucus upon recess, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate Republicans request a one-hour caucus upon recess. Thank you, Senator. Kelsey Gibbs, WCIA, requests permission to video. Leave is granted. The Senate now stands in recess to the call of the Chair. Senators Silverstein and McCann moves the Senate recess for the purposes of Senate Democrat and Republican Caucus, lasting one hour. Seeing no objection, the motion is granted. The Senate now stands in recess to the call of the Chair. After the Senate Democratic and Republican Caucuses, the Senate will reconvene for the purpose of Floor action. The Senate stands in recess to the call of the Chair. (SENATE STANDS IN RECESS/SENATE RECONVENES)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will come to order. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please turn your Calendars to the order of page 2 for Floor action. We will be going to Senate Bills 3rd Reading on page 2 of 8 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 the Calendar, beginning with Senate Bill 328. Senator Haine. Senator Haine wishes to proceed. He seeks leave of the Body to return Senate Bill 328 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 328. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Haine.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine.
Madam President, this becomes the bill, so if I may just speak on it when it's on 3rd.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Absolutely, Senator. Is there any discussion? All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. On the Order of 3rd, Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 328. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Haine. 9 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016
Thank you, Madam President and Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. This bill is the result of continuing negotiations with the Press Association, the Attorney General's Office, the State's Attorneys Association, and the Sheriffs of Illinois. We passed a bill in -- in May that restricted the privilege of -- granted to citizens under the Freedom of Information Act if these same citizens are incarcerated in a county jail or a prison run by the State of -- of Illinois. And this was hashed out between the Press Association and there was some other groups involved, the State's Attorneys Association, et cetera. Went -- it was hashed out here and in the House. There was an amendment to our bill in the House that - after it passed the Senate to be sent to the Governor - that created concerns by the Press Association, so I filed a motion to reconsider, in effect stopping the bill. We met yesterday morning at length with all the parties and we worked out the language, and that's what this is. It's the same bill minus the controversial Section that the Press Association was concerned was too broad and would restrict FOIA for all persons rather than those incarcerated.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall Senate Bill 328 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 328, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senate Bill 402. Senator Hunter. Senator Hunter seeks leave of the Body to 10 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 return Senate Bill 402 to the Order of 2nd Reading. Leave is granted. On the Order of 2nd Reading is Senate Bill 402. Mr. Secretary, are there any Floor amendments approved for consideration?
Floor Amendment No. 1, offered by Senator Hunter.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
Thank you, Madam President. Senate Bill 402, Amendment 1, it allows the City of Chicago to be able to issue a liquor license to the following establishments, which are located in my district. One of 'em is Revel Motor Row and the other is a -- Pizano Pizza. And I would ask for a favorable vote and to adopt the amendment.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, all those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the amendment is adopted. Are there any further Floor amendments approved for consideration?
No further amendments reported.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 3rd Reading. Senator Hunter, on Senate Bill -- oh, Mr. Secretary, please read the bill.
Senate Bill 402. (Secretary reads title of bill) 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 11 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Thank you. Senator Hunter.
Thank you, Madam President. I would ask for an Aye vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Senator Righter, for what purpose do you rise?
Will the sponsor please yield, briefly, please, Madam President?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) She indicates she will. Senator Righter.
Thank you. Senator Hunter, it's my understanding from a conversation that I had yesterday on this bill that the letters to sign off on it to say it's okay from the surrounding facilities from which the exemption is being granted haven't yet arrived, but they will be in hand before any action is taken to actually issue the licenses. Is that correct?
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hunter.
That was originally -- you were originally correct. However, we have those documents in hand, Senator.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Righter.
Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Any further discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall 12 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Senate Bill 402 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 54 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. Senate Bill 402, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Bennett, for what purpose do you rise?
For a point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you, Madam President. Along with my colleague, Senator Chapin Rose, I'd like to welcome some guests we have in the right gallery here. From the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, we have President Weidner, Laura Weis, Garret Hill, a whole -- basically a "who's who" list of Champaign County commerce up there. So if you'll please all give a welcome to the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, along with other economic development officials.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please rise and be welcomed to the Illinois Senate. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please direct your attention to the Order of House Bills 3rd Reading. On page 2 of the Calendar, House Bills 3rd Reading. House Bill 950. Senator Jones. Senator Jones indicates he -- he wish to proceed. Please read the bill.
House Bill 950. (Secretary reads title of bill) 13 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 3rd Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Jones.
Thank you, Madam President, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate. House Bill 950 is identical to House {sic} Bill 402, Senator Hunter's bill. It allows the City of Chicago to be able to issue a liquor license to the following establishments located within a hundred feet of my -- of a church within my district. Senator Righter, we do have our papers in hand. And I'll be happy to answer any questions. Looking for a favorable vote.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Is there any discussion? Any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, shall House Bill 950 pass. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. House Bill 950, having received the required constitutional majority, is declared passed. Senator Forby, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) State your point, Senator.
Today, I have some of my family here. I would like to introduce them today to everybody. Behind me is my daughter, Lisa. Stand up. And Mike's her husband. We got Mackenzie and her boyfriend, Jeremy. You guys can stand up too. And then the next 14 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 -- next one is just like my kinfolk. She's been running with me for years and I have -- introduced her to you yesterday as my secretary, Christy. She's here today for my -- next to last day, probably, in Springfield or maybe on this Floor. But I wish you -- I wish you'd give them a great hand, because they've been great to me.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois Senate, Senator's family and his secretary. Senator Bennett, for what purpose do you rise?
Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, Senator.
Thank you. Again, I have some more guests here on the -- the right side of the rear gallery. This is my Champaign staff, including my interns for the fall semester. If you'll please stand. My assistant, Michelle Gonzales, along with Kristin Johnson and Cedric Jones. They've worked really hard for me for no pay, but a lot of experience. So, please give them a warm welcome. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Welcome to the Illinois Senate. Keep up the fine work. Senator Hutchinson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. Personal privilege, please.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Please state your point, please.
15 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 So we have heard a number of people say goodbye to staff members and I have the distinct opportunity to say a few words about someone that I've worked very closely with over the last few years of being Chair of the Senate "No Revenue Committee". Owen Irwin has been our number-one person on revenue matters on the Democratic Senate Caucus side and he is a absolutely fantastic young man to work with. I just found out that he'll be leaving us. This is his last Veto Session on this side of the Senate staff side. He'll be moving to the Press Association, so we'll see him around the rail. We'll see him out here. But it is a tremendous loss to those of us who have grown to rely on his expertise and his ability to take really complicated, dry, very boring stuff and make it somehow palatable for us to be able to discuss in committee. So I just wanted to say good luck, Godspeed. I'm so proud of you and I know good things are going to happen. So, thanks, Owen.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Congratulations. Good luck in your future endeavors. Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, to fulfill our responsibilities under Article V, Section 9 of the Constitution, we will now proceed to the Order of Advise and Consent. Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Madam President. I move that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on the appointments set forth in Appointment Messages 259, 266, 271, and 280.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz moves that the Senate resolve itself into Executive Session for the purpose of acting on the Appointment 16 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Messages just read. All those in favor will say Aye. Opposed, Nay. The Ayes have it, and the motion carries. The Senate is resolved into Executive Session. Please turn your Calendars to the order of page 5 for Executive Appointment - Appointment Messages. Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Madam President. I'd like to inform the Senate our printed Calendars have Appointment Message 990253, Alexander Stuart, who was on day sixty today. I want to inform the Body that the appointment has been withdrawn by the Governor.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Thank you, Senator. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message 990259.
Mr. President -- Madam President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following non-salaried appointment: To be a member of the Illinois Workforce Investment Board, Michael Williams.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? The question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the nomination just made. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 0 voting 17 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Nay, 0 voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the nomination. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message 990266.
Madam President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following non-salaried appointment: To be a member and Co-chair of the Financial Reporting Standards Board, Matthew Hower.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the nomination just made. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 55 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the nomination. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message 990271.
Madam President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following non-salaried appointment: To be a member of the Illinois Finance Authority, John Yonover. 18 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the nomination just made. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 53 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay -- no Nay, and 0 voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by a record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the nomination. Mr. Secretary, please read Appointment Message 990280.
Madam President, the Committee on Executive Appointments recommends that the Senate Do Advise and Consent to the following non-salaried appointment: To be a member of the Workforce Investment Board, Margaret Schiemann.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Madam President, I move that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Is there any discussion? Seeing none, the question is, does the Senate advise and consent to the nomination just made. All those in favor will vote Aye. Opposed, Nay. The voting is open. 19 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Have all voted who wish? Take the record. On that question, there are 57 voting Yea, 0 voting Nay, 0 voting Present. A majority of the Senators elected concurring by record vote, the Senate does advise and consent to the nomination. Senator Muñoz. SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Ladies and Gentlemen. I move that the Senate arise from Executive Session.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 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 has arisen from Executive Session. Mr. Secretary, Introduction of Senate Bills.
Senate Bill 3458, offered by Senator Bivins. (Secretary reads title of bill) 1st Reading of the bill.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will stand at ease for a minute to allow the Committee on Assignments to meet. The members of the Committee on Assignments, will you please come to the President's Anteroom immediately? The Senate will stand at ease. Senator… Senator Sullivan in the Chair. (at ease)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR SULLIVAN) Senator Lightford in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) The Senate will come to order. Mr. Secretary, Committee Report.
20 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Senator Clayborne, Chairman of the Committee on Assignments, reports the following Legislative Measures have been assigned: Refer to Education Committee - Motion to Concur on House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 516; refer to State Government and Veterans Affairs Committee - Motion to Concur on House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 845, Motion to Concur on House Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 1367, Motion to Concur on House Amendments 1, 2 and 3 to Senate Bill 1488, Motion to Concur on House Amendments -- House Amendment 1 {sic} (1 and 2) to Senate Bill 3337; re-refer from State Government and Veterans Affairs Committee to Assignments Committee - Senate Resolution 2366 and House Joint Resolution 142; Be Approved for Consideration - House Joint Resolution 163, Motion to Concur with House Amendment 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2884, and Motion to Concur with House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 2924. 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 - Senate Resolution 2366 and House Joint Resolution 142. Signed, Senator James F. Clayborne, Chairman.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Announcements, Lady {sic} and Gentlemen. This evening, the following committees will convene: Education, in Room 400 tonight, at 4:40, in one hour. State Government and Veteran {sic} (Veterans) Affairs, today, 5 p.m. in Room 409. That's State Government Affairs {sic}, 5 p.m., Room 409, and Education at 4:40 in Room 400. Mr. Secretary, Message from the House.
A Message from the House by Mr. Mapes, Clerk. 21 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Mr. President - I am directed to inform the Senate that the House of Representatives has concurred with the Senate in the passage of a bill of the following title, to wit: Senate Bill 565. (Secretary reads title of bill) Together with the following amendments which are attached, in the adoption of which I am instructed to ask the concurrence of the Senate, to wit: House Amendments 1 and 2 to Senate Bill 565. We have received a like Message on Senate Bill 2537, with House Amendments 1 and 2. Passed the House, as amended, November 30th, 2016. Timothy D. Mapes, Clerk of the House.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate, please turn your attention to page 2 of the Calendar, to the bottom of page 2, Secretary's Desk, Resolutions. Senate Resolution 2454. President Cullerton, for what purpose -- Mr. Secretary, please read the resolution.
Senate Resolution 2454. (Secretary reads SR No. 2454)
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) President Cullerton.
Thank you, Madam President. The analysis says that this resolution thanks Senator Gary Forby for his dedicated service to the people of the State of Illinois. I assume that there's going to be Members saying nice things about Senator Forby, so I'd like to reserve my comments to the end for a rebuttal.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 22 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Okay, absolutely. Senator Haine, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
I'm somewhat at a loss for words - this is my seatmate since 2003. First we lose Ed Maloney, now it's Gary, and maybe I'm -- I'm the problem, I don't know. It's clear, knowing Gary Forby and socializing with -- with him over the years, it's clear that the 59th Senate District has sent their best to this Capitol. Gary Forby represents the essential American ethic. He came up as a poor lad. Through his intellectual ability, he made quite a bit of money. He raised a family, children. He devoted his time to improve his county and then he's devoted his time to improve the conditions of his district here, first in the House and then here. He -- his district is one of the poorest in Illinois. It depends upon the State government in many ways for the survival of many families. There is no one more acutely aware of that than Gary Forby. And he devoted I can't tell you how many hours and days to assuring that his people were not left out, that they were given a fair shake in every budget, every capital bill. In fact, he got more than his fair share, 'cause Gary can lose his temper. He's a physical man and there's -- few people in here really want to take him on. He is a -- and -- and I -- I don't know how to describe this, but he is -- despite his demeanor, he is a -- a man of intuitive knowledge of people and the bottom line. He gets the bottom line quicker than anybody I've seen in this Chamber. He 23 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 knows where the money stops and he's there. He's also a man of unquestioned integrity, unquestioned. He has served his people locally and at the State level and his honesty is beyond question. He's a man of his word. When Gary Forby says no, it means no. If people bug him, there could be a word in front of that no. If -- when he says yes, it's yes, and it's yes no matter how much pressure is put on him by Governors or anyone else. He is the essential Senator. He is the essence of -- of -- and the example of what we all should aspire to every day as a Member of a legislative body in the United States of America. Gary Forby, thank you for a being a friend and for being a Member of this Body. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Clayborne, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
You know, it's kind of hard to follow Bill Haine and, you know, I was expecting a little more of a history lesson, Bill Haine, than -- that you usually give and tied into the riots of 1917 in East St. Louis, but you didn't do that. But, I'll -- I'll tell you the Gary Forby that I know. Gary and I sat next to each other and we had all kinds of conversations and -- and, Bill, you're right. If Gary said yes, it was yes, and I -- I -- I don't know another person who was as committed to his word - not taking away from anybody else. Gary knew what was best for his district. He knew what was best for him to make things happen for his district, and as you said, despite whoever challenged him, whether 24 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 it was another Member, a Governor, whoever it was, Gary stuck by his guns, and literally he stuck by his guns. You know, we -- you -- I've been here -- I -- I think there are three people who have been here longer than I have, and -- and you -- you get a chance to meet a lot of people. And, again, not taking away from any -- anyone - I just respected Gary and considered Gary a good friend of mine, and still consider Gary a good friend of mine, a lot of great conversations. But I say this, you know, I was looking up a -- a definition of commitment and - my phone's not working - and -- and I saw that a lot of words I felt described Gary - dedication, devotion, allegiance, loyalty, all reflected who Gary was. But I'll tell you a couple of stories, at least one story. So Gary comes over - you remember this, Gary - Gary comes over and he votes Present on something and -- and Emil Jones comes over to Gary, Gary says, "This is how I voted in the House." And Emil Jones said, "Gary, you're not in the House anymore. This is the Senate - you vote right." And Gary sure enough, being the loyal person he is, he took what the Senator said and -- and filed for a motion to reconsideration {sic} and voted. And I think at that time, Gary, I think you felt free from -- from the House and realized that you could be Senator Gary Forby and I think from that point on, Gary, I think you, at least in the Senate, you became the person that I come -- I came to respect, the person I came to admire. I'll tell you another story. Gary was standing up there and -- and I -- I won't take John's thunder, but Gary was standing up there and he was presenting a bill and he kept saying "fur", the "fur" district and -- and I said what is Gary talking about? And he kept saying "fur" district, "fur" district, so finally I - - I leaned over, I don't know if it was Bill Haine or somebody, I 25 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 said, "What is he saying?" Gary was saying "fire" district. So, we were in -- we were in a committee one time and somebody was getting appointed or something and Gary - yeah, it was an appointment - I don't know if Gary went to school with the guy or -- and -- and he had that twang too and -- and Gary, being the person he said -- he is, Gary said, "He had the same English teacher that I had." So, I -- I -- I just want to say that -- that, Gary, you will be missed. Gary, I always love you and will always love you and appreciate your friendship and appreciate the impact that -- that you had in this General Assembly, and your district should be very proud that you served that district with your heart and with a total commitment to the best that you could provide them. Thanks, Gary.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Holmes, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
I just want to take the time to say goodbye to a dear, dear friend. When I was elected ten years ago, one of the first people I got to meet was Senator Forby. I was newly elected and then Senate President Emil Jones came to me and said, "By the way, Senator, I made you Vice Chair of the Labor Committee." So, that was my introduction to Gary, and I served as his Vice Chair for eight years - and I have to admit, I'm proud to say everything I learned about serving on a committee, I learned from Gary - and that was a committee that was run so well. And people learned, if 26 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 you came to Gary's committee, you darn well had better have the answers to the questions and you darn well have better worked out any disagreements ahead of time, before this man was going to sit there and listen to you. You weren't going to argue a lot in Labor. You were going to work out your bills and come to agreement or you were going to hear from Gary and you'd do it then, because once that man had decided he was done listening, he was done listening and we all knew that. I just want to say I am going to miss you so much, because in this political world, and especially the political environment as -- as it's been lately, we see so many people playing politics and you really don't always know who to believe or when to believe them, and with Gary, what you see is what you get, always has been. You will never meet a man with more integrity. And I'm going to miss you darlin'. Love you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Raoul, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution.
You know, the great thing about a representative democracy is that we're all different, right? And, Gary, you and I are certainly different. My predecessor told me -- gave me advice, he says, "Get to know people, you know, away from the Chamber." And, Gary, you and I have shared a soda pop or two or three together through the years and -- and we've gotten to know one another and, you know, had -- had -- we've had our conversations - could never understand what the heck you were saying, but we've had our 27 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 conversations. You know, we had the pleasure of working on the concealed carry bill together and we had put a lot of time into that. Of course, I didn't vote for it, but we worked on it together and I enjoyed that. As Senator Holmes pointed out, through the years, you -- you -- you -- you work different Members of the Chamber to try to get votes on bills and sometimes you get a -- a "maybe" from some people and sometimes you get a "yes" from some people that you realize aren't really yeses. You were always a straight shooter and I always knew that it would be a "no", even before I asked the question on most of my bills, but at least I knew where you were coming from. Our -- our -- our voting records are -- are -- are -- are quite different and I talked about our differences generally, but most recently you and I have had an opportunity to have personal conversations and you've been tremendously helpful to me and I'm going to miss you, miss just leaning over, being able to have, you know, those conversations that has really helped me along this year. I really appreciate it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Link, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
Well, Gary, we probably come from the farthest points apart in this State than any two people can, and Gary made that very clear to me when I said, "Do you want me to come down to your district and help you?" He said, "Please don't, because they won't 28 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 understand you." So, Gary, I -- I -- I have ordered something for you. I've ordered the transcripts of these proceedings today, so that maybe you could read what I say and then you could understand it. But, you know, Gary and I became friends, a long time, you know. We visited a lot and I've had the privilege of being in Gary's district a couple times. He didn't invite me, somebody else did. And I spoke down - to Franklin County dinner - down there a couple times and got to know the feelings of what they felt about Gary Forby. And, you know, and I thought I was in -- in the company of a very special individual down there, because of the feelings they had for Gary, and I could understand that with the times that we had. But I do have to admit to one thing, Gary, and I think we talked about this. You know, Gary picks on me about my accent and I pick on him about his, and I've had the privilege of presiding over the Senate many of times and every time Gary would have a bill, I wouldn't let him close, and he asked me one time, "Why won't you let me close on my bill?" And I said, "Gary, no one could understand what you were saying in the original part. I didn't want you to screw it up at the end, so I just call it for a vote." And it would pass all the time. So, I have to admit that I did that to Gary, but I always did it because my heart was with you. I know that we are going to miss you, but I know where I'm going to be seeing you at in the future and we will see one another there a lot. So, Gary, the best of wishes and God bless you for being here for us.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Mulroe, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Madam President. 29 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
Gary, I just want to take the time to thank you for your service and the time that, you know, I've got -- been here to get to know you. I enjoyed serving with you on the Labor Committee. I'm going to miss the deer meat and crackers that you've provided on an annual basis. I -- but I also want to just tell a little story about the measure of the man. And I started here in 2010 - it was the Veto of '10, lame duck of '11, a tough time. It -- reminds me of the time that we're going through now. Had a lot of difficult votes - civil unions, abolishing the death penalty, and -- and voting on the -- the temporary income tax increase. And - - and Gray was -- you know, when he decided to vote No, he -- he'd be a No vote for sure, until he learned that I was going to take a Yes vote on one of those decisions, and he came to me and said - you know, I was a young buck here - and said, "You can't do that. I'm -- I'm going to take the vote for you." But I -- I realize, you know, the district that he came from and -- he obviously is from a tough district, but that's -- he was willing to take a district {sic} that probably would've cut your throat, for me. I'll never forget that. I consider you a friend and I'm going to miss you. Thanks, Gar.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Muñoz, for what purpose do you rise? SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator. 30 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 SENATOR MUÑOZ: Thank you. My friend, I have all the same -- sentiments that my colleagues have said on the Floor. I remember when you came here from the House, we weren't on good terms at the time, and - I didn't know - I got caught up in southern politics. I didn't know that they were fighting down south. We had -- some of you that remember Jimmy Rea, I was close to him when I got here and when he left and he appointed one of his own and then Gary ran against 'em, so… When Forby did get here, I said, you know, "Hey, I'm sorry, I didn't know that I was caught up into it." But you know what? First thing he said, "Hey, I understand, you didn't know me, I didn't know you." So, I said, "I look forward to working with you." And, Ladies and Gentlemen, you see what kind of man he is, and ever since then, he never held a grudge and we did work together. Although, when I had my ban on assault weapons, Forby's like, "I can't vote for that." I said, "No, I understand." That -- that's just the kind of gentleman you were, so I appreciate it, my friend. You will definitely be missed here. You know, you're a gentleman, and once we go out we have a good time. Everybody loves you. You tell some great jokes. I wish you all the best, my friend. God bless you. Enjoy your retirement and, most of all, you're going to be getting your paycheck. Wish you the best.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Koehler, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator. 31 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016
Well, Gary, my friend, I -- I really see you as the real deal and I'm going to miss you, 'cause I -- I think that -- especially in our Senate Democrat Downstate Caucus meetings. I learned a lot from you. You had very clear wisdom, very clear perspective on things, and I don't know if you know that that affected, at least me in that way, it did. You know, I grew up in South Dakota and grew up with a lot of people like you, who I really consider salt of the earth, hardworking people. You can just imagine you with a Norwegian accent, that's who I grew up with. But, I -- I know you're going to have -- that's -- that's -- I know that's a stretch. But -- but I -- I so appreciate you and I know you're going to have a -- have a good time with your motorcycles and -- and doing all the things you enjoy doing. But know that you'll be missed in this Chamber.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Hutchinson, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) To the resolution, Senator.
So, everyone said long, wonderful, flowery things and I'm sitting here watching Gary and I see him trying not to cry, and he's not doing it, not -- not doing it, and, like Kwame said, you didn't die, you're here. We love you and we want to make sure that you give flowers to people while you can give flowers to people and they can hear how you really feel about them. So I'm going to tell you what I'm going to miss. I'm going to miss the 32 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 deer meat and crackers, 'cause it was always right when I was starving. I'd come here and I had meeting after meeting and there was never anything to eat and there'd be, right there on that -- on the top of his desk, the -- the best summer sausage. And I'm going to miss in committee how you just cut people off, like "you're done", in the -- people would be in the -- I mean, he wasn't -- he didn't cut off your mic, it was like, "you're done", and if -- if he -- he had decided that you were going to be done, you're just going to be done, and everybody knew it and that was after he said, "Senator Hutchins", "Senator Lighfor". But most of all, when people would come in and there'd be like a long list of people who were for it or against it and he'd say, "Well, we got the list of the opponents and the noponents." And I thought that made so much sense, 'cause "noponents" are people who are going to say no. And he just said, "You got the 'opponents' and the 'noponents' and I don't want to hear from the 'noponents'. Where are the 'noponents' in here? You're done." So the essence of this is that we're just going to miss you. This place is different 'cause you're here and it's going to be different when you're not here. So, I think all of us hope that when we leave, that we leave fond memories with the people that, you know, are still going to be here and that people don't forget who you were when you're not walking on the Floor anymore. So, I see you trying not to cry, just know that we love you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Senator Rezin, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Madam President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 33 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 To the resolution, Senator.
I concur with the last speaker, Senator Hutchinson. I have been in many of your committees and we all could learn from you on how you run your committees. If there's any opposition, the bill doesn't get called. So have it figured out if you want your bill called and moved, so we appreciate that. We represent -- actually our districts are very similar - downstate districts, hard, blue- collar, working families. We agree more often than we disagree on many topics and I appreciate that. There are -- I had the opportunity last night to go to your party, your going-away party at -- at Kelly's. Boy are you loved. You had so many people there. I don't know if it was family or friends, or if it was just open bar and free booze, I'm not quite sure, but there was a lot of people there and got to meet some of them, your family in town, and, you know, great people. And we -- we spoke a little bit and I know that, clearly, you're going to miss this place and we are going to miss you as well. You and, I think, Senator Luechtefeld were responsible for recommending that I needed to sit on the Sportsmen's Caucus. I don't know why, but thank you for that. I guess I'm now the secretary of the Sportsmen's Caucus, which is unusual, and you are the only Senator that has ever offered me a ride on the back of your motorcycle, so there you go - I'll still take a rain check for that. Again, the best of luck to you -- best of luck to you. You truly are somebody that we can sit down, have a good conversation with and -- have a good conversation with and consider our friend on the Floor as well. So the best of luck to you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) 34 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 Senator Sandoval, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Madam President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) Resolution.
(Remarks in Spanish), Gary Forby. That's thank you. Southern Illinois, the real Southern boy's talking, south of the Rio Grande, brother. Gary, I just want to say thank you. You know, in my years here, I've been here sixteen years now, going on -- on eighteen, and much of that has been shared with you and we've shared many a committee together. Listen, you're a guy after my own heart and I'm going to miss you, simply because there ain't too many people like you and me, who tell it like it is, straight talkin'. We're not backslapping politicians who talk a lot of bullshit. We just call it the way it is and that's the way we take care of business, and that's what this place is missing sometimes. That's what politics is missing, 'cause there's a lot of backslapping bullshit, smack talking, but there ain't too many people like Gary Forby. And, you know, I can appreciate that, I can appreciate that. When you have these -- these -- these ceremonies, you -- you always find out interesting antics about people who've spent time together and I spent a lot of time with Gary Forby. People would never think that this city boy from the southwest side of Chicago, from -- born of illegal alien parents from Mexico, across the river, would ever spend any time with Gary Forby. For the last sixteen years, and the last ten years, Gary Forby's been my "padrino", that's godfather, 'cause I've been the adopted Senator for Franklin County for the last sixteen years and 35 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 I've spent many -- many a year -- I go down to Franklin County -- whether it's Benton or Thompsonville or Ewing or Christopher. I -- I -- when I go down to Franklin County, I don't even stay at hotels anymore, I stay at people's homes. I stay at farmers' homes and it's all because of Gary Forby. Gary Forby is the guy that welcomed me when I first came down to Franklin County, whether it was putting my ass on a combine or visiting a Mennonite farm or checking out a turkey farm or shoveling shit in some pig farm, he was -- he -- he's the guy that embraced me and showed me around town. Gary, I'll never forget that. Those are life experiences that I will always -- I obviously think about all the time and I share with my kids and my grandkids. And that's what -- and that's what -- that's the richness of life to come across people like you who are inspirational and are just humans, loving human being. From this big boy to -- to you, love ya. Thanks, Gary.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LIGHTFORD) We do have a language decorum. I know Gary brings out those BS words, but we don't want to use 'em on the Floor. Senator Link, in the Chair.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Trotter, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you very much, Mr. President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the resolution.
I just want to say, it's -- it's -- it's un-American. It's un-American. You know, for those that were here a few years past, that's what our good colleague got up and said about my good helmet 36 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 bill, that -- that it was un-American and how dare I bring that to this -- to this holy, this sanctimous -- sanctimonious Floor. It's -- it's just unconscionable that anyone, and especially a Senator, would bring a helmet bill, which takes away the rights of good Americans who want the freedom to ride their motorcycle with their hair blowing if they wants to. So I got thirteen votes on that bill. So he singlehandedly killed my bill and I've had a lot of successes down here in the Legislature, been here a long time, and I've -- and I've had many failures too, but that was the first time I'd ever been called un-American. Now -- and I -- you know, and -- and I understand Forby, unlike maybe many of you here. I happen to be from that other county he represents and that is Alexander County. I actually was born in Cairo, Illinois, so in essence, he's my people's Senator, and -- so -- and I've had calls to many times go down to Cairo, Illinois, and to Alexander County and -- and actually witness the relationship he has with his constituents. I've been to church with the good Forby and they knew him in the church, didn't know me that well, but they knew him in the church. I've stood in the mud with him when Cairo, Illinois, and Alexander County flooded. We were down there and - - and stood in sinkholes and -- and so I personally know of his work ethic down there, and was at a NAACP meeting, where they were honoring me as "homeboy done good" - you know, moved up north and did pretty good - and -- and who comes in and steals my thunder, but Senator Forby. And they let me know that they have a Senator. They -- they love me, you know, again "homeboy done good", but they had Senator Forby. I mean, believe me, I -- I -- I appreciate you, because you appreciate everyone in your community and you have demonstrated to -- to -- to us, all of us, and especially to 37 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 me, what it is, what -- what is the quintessential Senator down here. It's not the language you speak, but it's the actions that you make and the bills that you pass that enhances the quality of life for those people that have entrusted you for service. So I -- I thank you. I'm certainly going to miss you. And -- and I guess I've left out, I do ride a motorcycle too, so we -- we've had conversations about a lot of things. I've enjoyed 'em all and I expect we're going to continue those. Just 'cause you're not here in this Body, I still expect you to stay in touch with us and -- and give us your leadership. Thank you very much, my friend.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Leader Radogno, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. To the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the resolution.
I listened carefully as the resolution was read and all the accolades that you've received so far today and I agree with them, every one of them. It's a little awkward for me to say, I know that when the Senate President enumerates the ways one can leave this Chamber that we had somewhat of a hand in that. But I want you to know that -- you know, obviously politics is a team sport and that was game time and you didn't make it easy for us, that's for darn sure. I got to know your district pretty well, much better than I would've liked to. But personally you will definitely be missed. You were an effective representative for your district. The other thing I'm going to miss about you, though, is that you're really a true character and we haven't -- 38 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 we don't have very many of those anymore. I kind of feel bad that when you hear about people from years ago that did crazy things and had stories about themselves. We're all so straitlaced now and the media's watching us all the time, so there's not a lot of that. Now, many people have mentioned your unique articulation and that certainly is something that we'll always remember about you. And anytime anyone even comes close, we'll think about Gary Forby in that. I've also heard a lot of stories. I kind of actually hope that some of them are not all true, but even if a fraction of them are, then you definitely do qualify for being a character and we certainly all enjoyed you for that. With that, I just -- I know that we'll be down in your district again. We have one of the largest events we have on this side of aisle in your district. You've come to it before and I've enjoyed meeting you in the bar there and you're always welcome. You can be my guest. I hope you won't be a stranger around here, but if you are, I look forward to seeing you down at Rend Lake again soon and have certainly enjoyed the opportunity to get to know you. Thank you.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Lightford, for what purpose do you rise?
To the resolution, Mr. President.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the resolution.
Well, Senator Forby, I've got to tell you, after serving with Senator Woolard and then you came over, I thought what a different guy they've sent from downstate Illinois. I want to thank you for 39 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 voting against all of my bills. And -- yeah, I -- yeah, we -- we -- we had that genuine, you vote against me, I vote against you. But I've got to tell you, it brought out the best in me. It made me work harder and I finally begged you enough to vote for a minimum wage increase, and when you did that, I don't remember what election that was, the commercial came out and the first thing your commercial did was said, "I voted for the minimum wage." I thought I was going to fall flat on my face. I thought, I begged him to do that for a very long time. But after all the years and the differences, you taught me through that the geographical differences that we have, the difference in constituencies that we have. But serving as the Education Chairman, I saw that a lot of your kids had the same things that my kids had and what your kids were missing and what my kids were missing. So I think that I share with you that I advocated for your kids this entire time that we've served in the Legislature. And something happened one day, you voted against my bill and then you apologized for it. In a nice way you said, "Senator Lightford, I'm sorry for voting against your bill." And that was it and I thought, thank you. After ten years of voting against my bills with no explanation, I thought we had a bright sunny day and from then on I was invited to ride on the back of the motorcycle, Senator Rezin. So, there is a trend here. Gary likes what Gary likes. But I've got to tell you, Gary, I'm going to miss you. I'm extremely fond of you. I am so glad that we developed a -- a kinship for one another outside of the differences in our votes. I actually adore you and the way you have handled everything that you've done. Your accent, it took me a while to really understand what it was that you were saying, but I actually understand every single thing that you say. 40 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 So I'm going to miss you. Took me about eleven years to do that. But I'm going to miss seeing you there, talking to you, miss coming down for that other contest that I never made it for, but I'll be down for that one too - I like purple. So, Gary, please don't be a stranger to us. You're a -- you're -- you're a fabric in our - - in -- in our -- in our way of being in the Legislature. I -- I really do miss you already. God bless you and enjoy your family and your retirement.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) Senator Sullivan, for what purpose do you rise?
Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to speak to the resolution.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) To the resolution.
So, the best part of this job in my opinion is talking to young people, especially back home in my district. I just enjoy it. They're just enthusiastic and -- and I always talk when I -- when I begin a discussion with -- especially with young people, I always talk about the diversity of the State of Illinois, how diverse this State is. And I'll use the example of, you know, Senator Forby, your district and my district, the geographic size of our district, and I'll tell my -- the students, I'll say, now I have -- there's about five or -- five to six thousand square miles in my Senate district -- in our Senate district, and I -- and I'll say, and the smallest Senate district in the State of Illinois is about six square miles, which happens to be President Cullerton's district. So I'll -- I'll use that to -- to try to 41 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 show the diversity of this State and then I'll talk about how the -- the State of Illinois is four hundred miles, nearly, from tip -- one tip to the northern edge of it and how that's a -- you know, six-hour drive and how diverse it is in between. And I'll talk about all the different backgrounds of the fifty-nine legislators that are down here and where we came from and how we got here and some -- some are attorneys and some are educators and some might -- I always loved to talk about Lou Viverito, and he was a barber, and John O. Jones, and he ran a trucking company, and Napoleon Harris, you know, he was a professional football player, and just talk about the diversity of this -- of this Chamber and the diversity of the State of Illinois. Gary Forby, you represent the greatest example of the diversity of this State in my opinion. You have been the strongest advocate for southern Illinois and for your district. How many times have we heard as we've all -- stood up here and talked about how -- how unwavering you are in your commitment and how hard that you work for your district and -- and just how you've fought, literally sometimes you fought for the things that you believed in. And I tell you what, that's a -- that's a great, great reputation to have. You can see how the people in this Chamber and certainly in the -- in southern Illinois respect you; they thank you for your hard work and your dedication. I would be remiss if I didn't talk about your wonderful family, you know, just the great, great people that you have that -- and that's -- that is a reflection on you as well and what type of a person that you are. So, let me just close by saying, Gary, thank you for your friendship. Thanks for your hard work. It's not goodbye, it's we'll -- we'll catch you down the road. He also offered me a ride on the motorcycle, but I never took it. I've 42 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 heard too many stories. Gary, best of luck to you and your family. Thank you for your hard work.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) President Cullerton, for what purpose do you rise?
So I got some stories. In 2008, Gary was running -- running for election -- re-election and it was a really tough, close race, and I was running for President of the Senate. And Senator Clayborne, here, my seatmate, was running for President of the Senate. We were running against each other. So I hired a plane and I flew all the way down to Marion, just me on the plane and the pilots, to meet Gary at the airport. And I walked in, sat down with Gary, and I said, "Gary, I have a check here for you for your campaign, hope it helps." It was a hundred thousand dollars. He said, "Thank you." I said, "You know, Gary, I'm running for President of the Senate." He said, "Yeah, I'm going -- I'm voting for Clayborne." I said -- I said -- I said, "Could -- could you -- could -- could you -- could you wait like -- could you give me a few -- couple -- a minute maybe? You could just sit there and talk about something else." Just right up front. So, to say Gary's to the point… Now, he -- he -- by the way, that wasn't a real expensive campaign. This last election was a real expensive campaign. If Senator Radogno and I would've not spent the money on those campaigns and given it to the people who live in that poor district down there, that'd be one of the richest districts, 'cause it's unbelievable. Something's happening in Paducah. Kentucky's getting a lot of money. It's unfortunate, but that's what happened this time too. Now, there's been some mention of Gary's, you know, accent, if you want to call it that. I, like 43 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 you guys, it takes a while, but then I've been here a long time. And I went down to Gary's fundraiser - love doing that every year - Rend Lake, after going to Du Quoin and Carbondale, and I was real proud of myself, 'cause I told everybody assembled there, his constituents, I said, "I've been here so long that I feel like I'm bilingual." I'm bilingual; I can understand Gary Forby and I can talk to him, and the emcees get up and said, "How do you -- how do you know whether they can even understand you, though?" I said, "Oh, good point. I've been coming down here giving these speeches and nobody's been understanding what I've been talking about." Now, I'm glad that Senator Trotter talked about that -- that helmet bill, because this is for real, Donne. I had a friend of mine from my district up in the gallery, first time in Springfield, happened to be in Springfield and they witnessed that debate and afterwards they came back to my office and -- and I said, "How do you like Springfield?" And they said, "Oh, great. There was this great debate on this motorcycle helmet law", says, "You know that -- that guy that spoke against it and killed the bill?" I said, "Yeah, Forby?" He said -- I swear to God, he said, "Is he from Illinois?" I said, "Well, he has to be. He's -- he's a State Senator. He's sitting on the Floor." So, there's the perception maybe that Gary wasn't -- because people couldn't understand him sometimes, he wasn't articulate. You would not believe, if you haven't -- and I know some of my colleagues have done this, you've gone to his fundraiser in Rend Lake. He gets up and gives the most articulate, passionate talk and speech about working people and his experiences, which are varied, and he understands those people better than anybody. There's no one that could speak for hard-working people and the concerns they have and the needs that 44 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 they have with unbelievable passion. And I -- I swear to God, the first time I was there I was just -- I was in awe and that's one of the reasons why I -- I like -- have liked to go back to -- to that -- that area. So, as we like to say, when these things happen, there's a -- a number of ways of leaving here. You can retire. You can lose an election. Or you can die and leave that way. So, Gary, it's not the best way of leaving, but it's not the worst way of leaving. And I'll say this, I think that the people in your district have no idea how much they're going to miss you, no idea. And I think it's going to become probably apparent, you know, when we get into -- I wish your successor well, but I don't think they're going to fully appreciate all that you have done for 'em and all that you have done for us and we're all going to miss you. Thank you for your service.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) All those in favor of the resolution, please stand and rise. The Ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senator Forby, for what purpose may you rise?
Point of personal privilege.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) State your point.
I want to go back -- first thing, I want to thank everybody. It's really appreciated. And, you know, this is sixteen years that's -- been unbelievable for me. There's not a day up here I don't learn something new. I mean, I -- when you come to Springfield, you're up here -- I -- I know every day I come in I'm going to learn something new and I've been that. And each one -- 45 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 every one of yous in the place has done -- helped me done that. I couldn't have done it by myself. I really appreciate it and I'll never forget none of yous. Both sides of the aisle have been good to me. You know, you can talk about one side, the other side this, but, you know, you all been good to me, every one of you, and I appreciate it. Sometimes we don't just agree, but, you know what, we got along and that's the way it's supposed to be. I want to see it get back that way. It's not the same as was ten or fifteen years ago when I first came and that's -- that was a really, really good time. I'm not saying this is not a really, really good time, but it was a lot better. And I've -- you know, one of my goals when I leave here, I would love to see -- get that done again and this is what it's all about. This is why you get something done in the State of Illinois and we need something done now. And you've heard from everybody, from kids, seniors, everybody, you know, we need help. That's what I tried to do when I came to Springfield and I want you to keep that help going. I'd like everybody to get closer -- closer together. We all want the same thing, the bottom line, when it gets down to it. So, we can get that job done and I don't have to be here when that happens, but I'd like to hear about it. And, John, three ways of leaving, you said. You know, there was three winners in my district this time - the people in my district won, the person running against me won, and Gary Forby won. There was no losers in my election - we all won. So, that's the way I want to go out, as a winner, and I want my people to be a winner. I want every -- and every one of you guys in this place are winners too. There's no doubt about it or you wouldn't be here. And I'll never forget you. I don't know what I'm going to do. There's a lot of stories and a lot of stuff 46 STATE OF ILLINOIS 99th GENERAL ASSEMBLY REGULAR SESSION SENATE TRANSCRIPT 132nd Legislative Day 11/30/2016 and I'm sure there's something out there I haven't done yet. I'm going to look for that. I'm going to look for that. So, anyway, thank you. I appreciate it. And my family, you know, they're wonderful. Bill Haine's next to me, James Clayborne, Cunningham - I mean, it's just been unbelievable. Terry Link, you're fantastic - still don't understand what you're saying, but you're fantastic. I will see you in Florida. Thank you everybody. I appreciate it.
PRESIDING OFFICER: (SENATOR LINK) I just have one announcement. If we can all hear one announcement. Energy and Public Utilities will meet at 8:30 a.m. tomorrow, December 1st. Energy and Public Utilities, 8:30 a.m. tomorrow, December 1st, Room 400. There being no further business to come before the Senate, the Senate stands adjourned until 11 a.m. on the 1st day of December 2016. The Senate stands adjourned. 47