State senator's bills may have impact on Hoffman Estates
Carol Stream Republican state Rep. Randy Ramey's district doesn't cover Hoffman Estates, but he's had a lot to say about the village lately.
Well, he wouldn't have as much to say if I didn't call him on Monday, wanting some clarifications on two bills he had in Springfield.
The first was a bill designed to stymie Cook County Commissioner Larry Suffredin's legislation, which would prevent the Cabela's outdoor superstore from selling guns. Ramey's bill would basically prevent county law from superceding state law. That would allow Cabela's to continue to sell firearms.
"This is something that would put Cabela's out of business," he said. "I know Hoffman Estates encouraged them to build this big store and spend a lot of money."
Ramey said his bill would clarify things, and allow Cabela's and village officials to sleep better at night. Ramey, of course, is the stepson of former state Sen. Pate Philip.
There was also another Ramey bill listed for discussion Monday on the village's committee meeting agenda. That bill would affect the Clean Air Act. Ramey wants to allow businesses to hand out smoking licenses, just like the mayor -- as village liquor commissioner -- awards liquor licenses. The village isn't supporting this bill, as they said it would undo the "even playing field" allowing some bars to allow smoking unfairly, while other businesses suffered from a lack of money from customers who smoke.
Ramey said Chicago would be exempt, who also added that he enjoys an occasional cigar.
"The number of licenses can be limited," he said. "A village could have zero."
House Bill 2184, as the smoking bill is called, appears dead. Ramey was surprised to hear the bill was listed on the Hoffman Estates agenda, and sighed when I told him the village wasn't supporting it. Of course, at Monday's meeting trustees didn't even debate the bill. The board apparently didn't want to relive the process of going through local, county and then finally a state ban all over again.