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.  

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.

CHICAGO — Last week, State Farm blindsided nearly 1.5 million Illinois homeowners with a decision to increase annual home insurance premiums by 27% – the largest home insurance rate hike in state history, charging consumers hundreds more per year. In response, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement, condemning the company’s decision and pushing for increased transparency for homeowners across the state:

“Hundreds of dollars a year may not mean much to a large corporation like State Farm, but for the hardworking families of Illinois, it’s groceries, child care, medicine and bill payments. A 27% rate hike on homeowners – without transparency – is unacceptable.

“Illinois is one of the only states in the country where insurance companies can raise rates without having to justify them. When nearly one-third of our state is being asked to pay more for their homes each year while getting less in return, we have a responsibility to step in and change that.

“I fully support Governor Pritzker’s call for urgent regulatory and legislative action to bring transparency, fairness and accountability to this industry. Illinois homeowners deserve protection from unchecked decisions and rate hikes that leave them footing the bill, and I remain committed to standing with our residents and fighting for legislative reform.”

CHICAGO — To help boost service, vacationing and business sectors in Chicago, State Senator Robert Peters secured $350,000 in tourism grants for three city organizations.

“Chicago is slowly rebuilding to pre-pandemic tourism rates, seeing over a five percent increase from 2023 to 2024 and topping international visitors at two million for the first time since 2019,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Investments like these are what make these increases in visitors possible – empowering our communities with the resources needed to offer exceptional, well-rounded services, products and experiences to every person who visits our city.”

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, a total of $6.3 million was awarded to 36 grantees through the Route 66 Grant Program, Tourism Attractions Grant Program and Tourism Private Sector Grant Program.