Chicago- A measure to make the capitol complex more accessible for visitors with disabilities was signed into law thanks to the efforts of State Senator Robert Peters.

“The Capitol grounds belong to all of the people,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Everyone, regardless of the nature of their disability, should be able to freely move about the capitol and be able to navigate their way through our public spaces.” 

The new law will require the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate to each appoint an accessibility coordinator to work in consultation with the Architect of the Capitol to address accessibility needs for each chamber.

The measure also creates the General Assembly Accessibility Task Force, which will include members appointed by each legislative leader and a chair jointly appointed by the Speaker and the President. The appointees would include individuals who have a disability or advocates for people with disabilities. The task force will examine issues concerning accessibility of the General Assembly to persons with a disability. The task force's recommendations will be due by Dec. 31, 2023.

“I am pleased that we are addressing a critical lack of inclusion in the very center of democracy in this state,” Peters said. “I hope that after the task force completes its recommendations, we are able to make our capitol grounds more accessible to all.”

The measure was signed into law Monday and takes effect immediately.