SPRINGFIELD — In a major step toward reforming Illinois’ juvenile justice system, a measure from State Senator Robert Peters aims to raise the minimum age at which minors can be detained from 10 to 12 years old, making it clear the state is moving away from harsh detention practices and prioritizing rehabilitation.

“Our juvenile justice system should focus on rehabilitation over punishment,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “By raising the age at which a minor can be detained and emphasizing alternative methods, we’re giving young people a fair chance at reformation without subjecting them to the damaging effects of detention at an early age.”

Under Peters’ measure, arrest would only be used as a last resort and under strict conditions. Minors could only be detained if there is probable cause that they committed a crime and immediate detention is necessary, or if they have repeatedly failed to appear at scheduled hearings.

SPRINGFIELD — On Wednesday, the Senate Revenue Committee held a subject matter hearing on a measure spearheaded by State Senator Robert Peters that would address Illinois’ affordable housing crisis by creating a state-level housing tax credit, unlocking millions in federal funds and driving new private investment in housing development.

“Senate Bill 62 is about building homes, creating jobs and making sure working families across Illinois can afford a place to live,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This is a responsible, proven model that brings everyone to the table – government, private investors and community developers – to deliver the housing our communities urgently need.”

Peters’ measure would establish the Build Illinois Homes Tax Credit, which mirrors the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and helps finance new affordable rental housing. Administered by the Illinois Housing Authority and the Chicago Department of Housing, the credit would be awarded to affordable housing developers who already qualify for the federal LIHTC and are determined to need additional funding to move their projects forward.

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois could reshape the way agencies respond to mental health crises and offer critical services to those in need, thanks to a measure from State Senator Robert Peters that would ensure better coordination, training and accountability in the delivery of behavioral health services.

“Mental health care is public safety,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “We have a responsibility to respond to crises with care, not punishment. That means giving communities the tools, training and coordination they need to support people when it matters most.”

Under Peters’ measure, the implementation deadline of the Community Emergency Services and Support Act would be extended until July 1, 2027, ensuring a more thorough and thoughtful rollout of critical services. The initiative comes at a time when mental health services are under increasing strain, with more people experiencing mental health crises and a heightened demand for accessible care.

In addition to providing a clear roadmap for CESSA implementation, the bill would permit new training for mobile mental health relief teams and an updated data collection structure, transforming how mental health emergencies are handled and offering a strong framework for individuals in crisis and the organizations that serve them.

“This bill isn’t just about extending a deadline – it’s about handling mental health crises effectively and appropriately,” said Peters. “Building a stronger foundation for how we respond to these emergencies ensures every person in crisis is met with dignity, professionalism and the help they need to recover.”

Senate Bill 2500 passed the Senate Wednesday and heads to the House for further consideration.

SPRINGFIELD — Community violence prevention programs save lives, but to be effective, they need long-term support and flexibility. Thanks to a new measure from State Senator Robert Peters, efforts to curb firearm violence in the state would hold strong by giving organizations more time to access critical resources and improving the way the state coordinates its response.

“Ending gun violence requires more than short-term fixes – it demands sustained investment and smart policy,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This measure strengthens the backbone of our ongoing violence prevention efforts, ensuring community organizations can focus on saving lives and creating safer neighborhoods.”

Peters’ measure would make several updates to Illinois’ approach to violence prevention. First, it would allow the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention to submit its annual report on an ongoing basis, rather than being locked into a rigid deadline, guaranteeing lawmakers and communities receive the most relevant data. It would also extend the filing deadline for non-Medicaid-certified Reimagine Public Safety Act grantees that provide behavioral health services, giving them additional time to obtain certification. Additionally, it would delay the awarding of grants by one year, giving applicants time to establish services that are vital for long-term success.

For frontline organizations working to prevent violence, the measure would allow more stability and a stronger foundation to continue their life-saving work. By removing unnecessary hurdles and making sure support reaches the communities that need it most, Peters’ initiative would help Illinois’ most vulnerable neighborhoods have the resources to reduce violence and build safer futures.

“This legislation boils down to making sure local groups have the time, tools and trust they need to stop violence before it starts,” said Peters. “By making these updates, we’re reinforcing our commitment to smart, community-driven solutions to gun violence.”

Senate Bill 2280 passed the Senate Wednesday and heads to the House for further consideration.