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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Peters’ measure to improve transparency in violent crime investigations

SPRINGFIELD — Aiming to tackle Illinois’ low homicide clearance rates, a measure from State Senator Robert Peters demands greater transparency and accountability in law enforcement’s handling of violent crimes, enhancing public oversight and ultimately improving the state’s efforts to solve these critical cases. 

“House Bill 1710 is about building trust and equity in our public safety system,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “When communities can see how cases are handled, it creates accountability – that’s how we begin to close justice gaps.”  

Under the measure, the Illinois State Police would provide a report offering detailed data on homicides and aggravated assaults involving firearms to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority by Sept. 1, 2026, and every four months after. These reports would track key metrics such as arrest numbers, cases referred for prosecution and the reasons why cases remain unsolved, providing a clearer understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement.

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Peters releases statement on Senator Durbin’s retirement

CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement regarding U.S. Senator Dick Durbin’s retirement announcement:

“Dick Durbin has served our state and its people with honor and integrity, standing up for what is right above all else. His many accomplishments in Congress have shaped our state and our nation for the better, from fighting for clean air to standing up for immigrant families to delivering major investments in our infrastructure.

“His legacy and leadership are forever etched in Illinois history. I wish him and his family the very best as he completes his term and transitions to a very well-deserved retirement.”

State builds pathway to construction careers with $550,000 investment to HIRE360

CHICAGO — As Illinois doubles down on efforts to grow a skilled construction workforce, State Senator Robert Peters was pleased to help HIRE360 of Cook County secure $550,000 to prepare local residents for careers in the construction and building trades.

“Strong apprenticeships are the foundation of a strong workforce,” said Peters (D-Chicago), chair of the Senate Labor Committee. “This investment will give more Illinoisans the tools they need to start careers in the trades and help meet the demands of a growing industry.”  

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded $19 million in grant funding through the Illinois Works Pre-apprenticeship Program to 38 organizations across the state. The purpose of the funding is to create more pathways for kids to access pre-apprenticeship programs and registered apprenticeships, which provide greater opportunities to secure lifelong careers in the construction trades.

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