DeKALB – The Student Government Association proposed a bill to allow senators to speak to the press and Speaker Manny Corpuz expressed disappointment in senators at Friday’s meeting.

During the meeting, speaker Manny Corpuz introduced Bill SB56008, which would allow senators to speak to the press with certain restrictions.

“I would like to inform the general members of this organization that, as it stands right now, we were only covered by a blanket statement listed in the responsibilities of the speaker,” Corpuz said. “You guys are represented by me. I’m adding this (Bill SB56008) now so that allows you guys to speak to the press not on behalf of SGA, but on just your own behalf, and to convey your own questions, comments or concerns.”

This bill will be voted on during the next SGA meeting.

Speaker Corpuz and Vice President Innis attend SGA intercollegiate panel 

During one Office of the Speaker report, Corpuz announced that he and Vice President James Innis attended a collegiate panel with the representatives of other Student Government Associations in Illinois.

“This past Monday, Speaker Corpez and I attended the intercollegiate panel attended by representatives of student governments in this state, such as the University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign, Illinois State University and DePaul University, as well as Harper College and Elmhurst University,” Innis said. “We have discussed various topics such as community impact, which is fruitful and will help us better lead the NIU team.”

Innis expressed a desire to host another SGA panel event with other colleges and universities after the success of this one.

Corpuz expressed his disappointment in his senators

In another Speaker report, Corpuz said he is disappointed in senators for their lack of commitment and initiative.

“It is not just requirement for you to be there, but also a way that you guys can genuinely affect the student body. Moving forward, I’m expecting active participation in members and a general idea of the direction that the committees are working towards,” Corpuz said.

At its last meeting, Corpuz expressed similar sentiments toward the lack of work done by the senatorial staff.

Newly-confirmed student organizations

SGA confirmed three new organizations in Bill SR56011 with a vote of 13-0-0. The new organizations are Delta Phi Delta Dance Fraternity Inc. Theta Chapter, Economic Student Association and Gamma Theta Upsilon: Iota Gamma Chapter.

SGA senate meetings are open to the public and held at 4 p.m. Fridays, with locations posted in the senate’s agendas. SGA minutes and intent-to-speak forms are available on Huskie Hub.