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.

Peters advocates to advance the rights of those impacted by domestic violence

SPRINGFIELD – To empower survivors of domestic abuse and gender-based violence, State Senator Robert Peters advanced legislation from the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday addressing re-sentencing provisions as it pertains to survivors.

“Survivors ought to have more reasonable protections under the law to help them flee existing dangerous situations and challenge misguided plea deals,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Strengthening legal frameworks for individuals involved in domestic violence situations empower survivors to navigate the justice system and seek protection from abusive environments.”

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