Retirement savings options expanded under Peters’ law

SPRINGFIELD — Saving for retirement will become easier and more flexible for thousands of Illinois workers, thanks to a new law from State Senator Robert Peters that expands access to portable, customizable savings options. 

“Our residents deserve retirement savings options that offer them greater flexibility and control while still prioritizing their financial security,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This law does just that – empowering people to tailor their financial planning, addressing financial vulnerability and promoting equity in retirement savings.”

In 2015, the state created the Illinois Secure Choice Savings Program to address the growing gap in retirement savings for Illinois workers. Nearly 40% of private sector workers in Illinois do not have access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan, leaving many with no way to save for the future. Since its inception, the program has helped over 150,000 participants save more than $200 million for retirement, with more than 25,000 employers offering the program to their workers. 

Peters’ law expands these efforts, as it gives workers more options for retirement savings. By allowing workers to hold both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA, the law offers more flexibility and personalized savings strategies. The law also makes the program more portable, meaning workers can continue contributing to their retirement savings even if they change jobs, without losing track of their funds.

“Financial security during retirement shouldn’t be based on if your employer offers a plan or allows a previous plan to transfer over,” said Peters. “We’re giving residents the support they need to take charge of their financial planning and ensuring employers do their part in closing the financial security gap.”

Senate Bill 1441 was signed into law Friday and takes effect immediately.

New law from Peters strengthens state’s violence prevention efforts

SPRINGFIELD — Community violence prevention programs save lives, but to be effective, they need long-term support and flexibility. Thanks to a new law from State Senator Robert Peters, efforts to curb firearm violence in the state are holding strong by giving organizations more time to access critical resources and improving the way the state coordinates its response.

“We must empower community violence prevention programs with the tools they need to focus on their core mission: saving lives and creating safer areas for our residents to live,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This law continues the momentum we’ve been building to address the root causes of firearm violence and invest in prevention and intervention.”

Peters’ law makes several updates to Illinois’ approach to violence prevention. First, it allows the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention to submit its annual report on an ongoing basis, rather than being locked into a rigid deadline, guaranteeing lawmakers and communities receive the most relevant data. It also extends the filing deadline for non-Medicaid-certified Reimagine Public Safety Act grantees that provide behavioral health services, giving them additional time to obtain certification. Additionally, it delays the awarding of grants by one year, giving applicants time to establish services that are vital for long-term success.

For frontline organizations working to prevent violence, the law allows more stability and a stronger foundation to continue their life-saving work. By removing unnecessary hurdles and making sure support reaches the communities that need it most, Peters’ law ensures Illinois’ most vulnerable neighborhoods have the resources to reduce violence and build safer futures.

“By improving state coordination and expanding access to grants, we’re empowering violence prevention programs with a data-driven, sustainable approach to preventing gun violence – ensuring our residents feel safe in their communities no matter where in the state they live,” said Peters.   

Senate Bill 2280 was signed into law Friday. It goes into effect Jan. 1, 2026.

Peters’ law reinforces DCFS as family support agency

SPRINGFIELD — To reinforce the supportive role of the Department of Children and Family Services, State Senator Robert Peters led a new law to remove the agency’s authority to operate its own law enforcement agency.

“Families who are in need of DCFS’ services are already experiencing hardship – the last thing they need is to be treated like criminals by an agency meant to be offering support,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This law ensures these families receive the respect and care they deserve and that DCFS helps the way it was intended.”

Peters’ law removes the department’s statutory authority to appoint personnel to act as peace officers in counties with more than 500,000 people. Instead, it reaffirms that any law enforcement needs involving DCFS will be handled by local or state police.

For families already navigating difficult situations, the law offers peace of mind and clarity, reinforces trust between communities and DCFS, and reduces chances of escalation.

“We must leave law enforcement functions to existing police agencies so DCFS can refocus on supporting those in need,” said Peters. “This law does just that, allowing us to reinforce trust between our communities and DCFS and avoid unnecessary escalation during sensitive family situations.”

House Bill 1715 was signed into law Friday. It goes into effect immediately.  

Peters highlights $25 million in available pre-apprenticeship program grants

CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters is encouraging community organizations, schools and industry groups to apply for grants through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, which helps open doors for individuals pursuing careers in the construction and building trades.

"Building a broad base of skilled candidates is essential to support our expanding trades sector," said Peters (D-Chicago). "Investment in these initiatives will advance the state’s workforce development and provide opportunities for communities that have historically lacked resources and support."

The latest round of funding includes $25 million to support pre-apprenticeship programs that aim to increase diversity and create pathways for underrepresented groups in the construction industry, including women, veterans and people of color. The program offers comprehensive, tuition-free training and certifications, along with supportive services to help individuals gain entry to apprenticeships and ultimately secure stable, well-paying careers.

Eligible applicants include nonprofits, chambers of commerce, community colleges, technical schools and school districts, among others. Grants will range from $150,000 to $550,000, with applications accepted until Aug. 31.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website.