From the Chicago Tribune

Ill. Senate to broadcast sessions over the Internet
The Associated Press
Published August 31, 2004, 3:06 PM CDT

SPRINGFIELD -- Good news for folks who think three C-SPAN channels just isn't enough government: The Illinois Senate plans to start televising its sessions over the Internet.
The Senate is adding a $220,000 video system this fall so the public can watch on the Illinois legislative Web site. It should be ready in time for the Legislature's fall session, which begins Nov. 8.
``It's been in discussion for several months, if not longer,'' Cindy Davidsmeyer, spokeswoman for Senate President Emil Jones, D-Chicago, said Monday ``We went to audio last spring. There was a lot of positive feedback from that.''
The Illinois House begin offering video in 2000, and Davidsmeyer said the Senate received ``a lot of inquiries,'' including from media outlets, about when video of Senate sessions would be available.
Although the system is being installed as state programs are being cut for lack of money, Davidsmeyer said it is worth the cost.
``Any time you open the process, it's worth the expenditure,'' she said. Sen. Larry Bomke, R-Springfield, said he has mixed feelings. He likes the idea of making Senate sessions available to more of the public but is concerned about the cost.
``We're laying people off, and we're spending $220,000 to open the process,'' Bomke said. ``If it came up for a vote, I think it would be very difficult to (support). But if you vote against it, it looks like you are against opening the process.''
The idea of installing cameras did not get a separate vote. Money for the project was included in the state budget passed a month ago.
Talk of making Senate sessions available on the Internet has been around for years, but former Senate President James ``Pate'' Philip, R-Wood Dale, argued the audience would be too limited to make the project worthwhile. Philip retired in 2003.
``Things have changed,'' Davidsmeyer said.
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