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strong protections for wage standards, coal mine safety and occupational health, even if federal laws are weakened or repealed.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 Peters’ bill would also require IDOL to restore any repealed federal occupational safety rules not already covered under state law and would allow legal actions against employers who violate them.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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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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