Senate committee hears Peters’ plans to invest in community healing and youth empowerment across Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — On Wednesday, the Senate Health and Human Services Appropriations Committee held a subject matter hearing for two measures sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters aimed at delivering community-driven responses to youth violence and trauma by investing nearly $10 million in programs that use sports and healing-centered support to reach Illinois’ most vulnerable communities. 

“We know sport is more than a game – it’s a life-changing tool that keeps young people safe, connected and on a positive path,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Senate Bill 64 would ensure we’re investing in proven strategies that uplift youth and prevent violence where it’s needed most.”

Senate Bill 64 would distribute $5.5 million to the Illinois Department of Human Services for a grant to Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, an organization supporting more than 300 programs in over 40 countries and territories – each using the power of sport to support young people from underserved communities. Through the grant, Laureus would continue to oversee a statewide grant program supporting organizations in low-density residential neighborhoods that leverage sport as a tool for youth development and violence prevention.

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Peters measure protects workers, strengthens workplace safety

SPRINGFIELD — In an effort to safeguard workers’ rights and workplace safety regulations, State Senator Robert Peters is spearheading a measure that would ensure the state maintains strong protections for wage standards, coal mine safety and occupational health, even if federal laws are weakened or repealed.

“No one should have to worry about losing vital workplace protections due to shifting politics,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This measure locks in strong worker protections while maintaining the state’s status as a leader in workplace safety and workers’ rights.”

The measure would prevent the Illinois Department of Labor and Department of Natural Resources from adopting any rules less protective than those in effect under federal law as of April 28, 2025. Peters’ bill would also require IDOL to restore any repealed federal occupational safety rules not already covered under state law and would allow legal actions against employers who violate them.

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‘We will not back down’: Peters condemns DHS Secretary’s visit, defends Illinois welcoming values

SPRINGFIELD — Following the Secretary of Homeland Security’s visit to Illinois, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago), released the following statement condemning the federal administration’s ongoing immigration failures:

“Today’s visit from Secretary Noem is a staged performance meant to distract from the cruelty, chaos and moral failure that have defined this administration’s approach to immigration. Let’s call this what it is: a desperate attempt to shift blame onto the very communities showing the compassion, humanity and responsibility this administration lacks in the face of a humanitarian crisis.

“Illinois is a welcoming state, built on bipartisan state immigration policy, and we say that with pride. We don’t turn our backs on people because of where they were born or what language they speak. While this administration sows fear and division, we in Illinois choose unity, dignity and hope.

“We have watched this administration weaponize immigration to score points and distract from its own inability to lead. We have watched them rip families apart, detain children and treat human beings like political pawns. Now, they want to come to our state and lecture us on how to respond. We reject that entirely.

“Illinois will not apologize for standing with immigrant communities, and we will not be bullied into abandoning the values that define us. This moment demands more than empty visits and rehearsed talking points – it demands action rooted in decency and leaders who see people, not problems.

“Here in Illinois, we choose to move forward. We will to not back down – not now, not ever.”

Peters’ bill seeks to reinforce DCFS as family support agency

SPRINGFIELD — In an effort to underline the mission of the Department of Children and Family Services as a support-based agency for vulnerable families, State Senator Robert Peters is spearheading legislation that would remove DCFS’ authority to establish its own peace officer unit.

“Families interacting with DCFS are often in crisis, and the last thing they need is to be treated like suspects,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This measure ensures DCFS is here to help, not to police, restoring clarity and compassion.”

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

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