SPRINGFIELD — After the Illinois State Senate advanced House Bill 3438 – a comprehensive piece of legislation aimed at strengthening and stabilizing public transit in Northern Illinois through the creation of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority – State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“The passage of House Bill 3438 is a major win for working people across Northern Illinois. By preventing devastating service cuts and disruptions, it would protect the vital transit options that millions rely on to get to work, school and essential services. At the same time, the bill would lay the foundation for a more stable, rider-focused system that’s safer, more accessible and better coordinated.

SPRINGFIELD — After the Illinois State Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2026 state budget on Saturday, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“At a time when uncertainty at the federal level threatens the well-being of our most vulnerable residents, we in Illinois are choosing to lead with compassion and purpose. This budget prioritizes those most in need by preserving critical human services, increasing access to health care and investing in communities that have long been left behind.

“Equitable access to health care remains a fundamental need, especially for those facing systemic barriers. This budget increases support for services that help keep people healthy and safe – from investments in mental health to delivering vital care in underserved areas of Illinois by bringing total state support for Federally Qualified Health Centers to $40 million.

SPRINGFIELD — To ensure equal justice for all, State Senator Robert Peters advanced legislation that would create the Office of the State Public Defender, an independent office under the state’s Judicial Branch – marking one of the most substantial reforms of Illinois’ public defense system since 1949.

“Every Illinoisan deserves a strong defense, no matter their income,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Instating this new system would ensure real help reaches people who have been left behind in conversations about criminal justice reform for far too long.”

A state public defender is a government-employed lawyer who provides legal representation to individuals accused or convicted of crimes who cannot afford to hire their own attorney. Public defender offices are one of three methods through which states and localities ensure defendants are granted the Sixth and 14^th Amendments right to counsel.

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois survivors of abuse and assault are closer to obtaining a fairer justice system, thanks to a measure sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters.

“Survivors of abuse have already endured unimaginable trauma,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Our justice system should never add to their suffering by silencing them or leaving them behind.”  

Peters’ bill defends victims of domestic abuse, reinforcing their right to be heard. Under the measure, law enforcement would be prohibited from discouraging or attempting to discourage a victim of abuse, neglect, exploitation or sexual assault from filing a police report – holding police accountable and allowing victims to seek justice without fear of being silenced.