SPRINGFIELD — To foster inclusivity and effectiveness, State Senator Robert Peters’ legislation expanding representation and funding flexibility within the Adult Redeploy Illinois Oversight Board was signed into law.

"The Adult Redeploy Illinois program will now be able to better address those they seek to serve," said Peters (D-Chicago). "This new law expands representation to those with firsthand experience in the ARI system to ensure the voices who the ARI board seeks to impact are heard.”

Under Peters’ new law, the ARI board will include representatives from the Illinois Department of Corrections, the Illinois Department of Human Services and the Sangamon and Cook County Adult Probation departments, along with two members who have former firsthand experience with the ARI system. This diversification will enhance the ability of the ARI system to address challenges and implement more equitable solutions. House Bill 4409 will also change the term 'offenders' to 'justice-impacted indivudals' under the Adult Redeploy Illinois program.

Furthermore, the new law will increase flexibility in funding allocation through grant awards, enabling the board to swiftly adapt to emerging needs and support initiatives that improve the outcomes of the ARI framework.

House Bill 4409 goes into immediate effect.