Peters advances bill to inform domestic violence survivors of housing rights

• sb 3652
• Housing Rights

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Robert Peters passed legislation through the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday to help more survivors of domestic and sexual violence know their rights and options for safe housing.

“This legislation will help more survivors understand their housing rights in Illinois,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “By ensuring tenants are aware of their rights, we are empowering them to access the support they need.”

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Peters introduces fast-track to Montessori educator certification in Illinois

• Montessori
• Education
• SB 2689

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Robert Peters is aiming to make it easier for teachers pursuing careers in Montessori education in Illinois with new legislation.

“Montessori teaching is a valuable educational model,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “By addressing challenges that prospective Montessori educators face, this legislation makes their careers more accessible and creates a more supportive environment for those interested in teaching in Montessori schools.”

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Peters pushes for more fair and supportive justice system for young individuals

• Juvenile Justice
• Criminal Justice
• SB 3463

SPRINGFIELD — To streamline expungement proceedings, State Senator Robert Peters advanced a measure out of the Senate Special Committee on Criminal Law and Public Safety on Wednesday making record expungement a smoother process for youth involved with the juvenile court systems.

“Our aim is to empower youth with the means to move beyond their mistakes and reintegrate into society successfully,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Senate Bill 3463 not only promotes efficiency but also ensures that our legal system is just and considerate of the unique challenges faced by young individuals.”

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Peters’ bill banning employer-led political and religious meetings passes committee

• Labor
• SB 3649

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Robert Peters advanced legislation Wednesday to ban employers from requiring workers to attend meetings regarding political or religious matters.

“The employer-employee relationship should maintain a certain level of objectiveness,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “The use of coercive pressures in mandatory meetings to discuss employer political or religious matters is an over-step of employer power.”

Senate Bill 3649 will prohibit Illinois employers from requiring employees to attend employer-sponsored meetings where the primary purpose is to communicate the employer’s opinions on religious or political matters. Further, the legislation safeguards employees from adverse actions for refusing such employer-sponsored meetings.

The National Labor Relations Board's general counsel issued a memorandum outlining a plan to advocate for mandatory meetings concerning union representation, political opinions and religious matters unlawful under federal labor law. There has been no action following the memorandum, which was issued in 2022.

“With no response from the federal level, Illinois must step in to promote employee-friendly environments,” said Peters. “Labor protections are crucial for safeguarding workers’ rights, ensuring fairness and promoting a healthy workplace.”

Senate Bill 3649 passed the Senate Labor Committee and now awaits further consideration in the Senate.