Springfield - Illinois students will soon have more options to protect themselves from falling behind on debt after a measure supported by State Senator Robert Peters became law.

“Student debt has become a systemic issue for our young people and for the economy as a whole,” said Peters (D- Chicago). “As students seek jobs following graduation, it’s important that their debt does not hold them back from opportunities.”

The new law, formerly known as SB 3032, prohibits Illinois higher education institutions from withholding a student's transcript as a means of collecting past-due student debt owed to the institution. Additionally, the measure prevents institutions from withholding a student’s official transcript from a current or potential employer as a means of collecting a student's past debt.

Springfield - A measure to establish a plan for renewable recycling in Illinois, supported by Senator Robert Peters was signed into law.

“As we look to establish green energy sources, we also need to make sure we’re phasing out old technology in a safe and responsible manner,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Expanding renewable recycling in Illinois will both save taxpayers money and ensure that our new investments in clear energy such as solar panels do not become a hazard to the environment.”

The new law, formerly known as Senate Bill 3790, establishes a Renewable Energy Component Recycling Task Force. The Recycling Task Force must investigate options for recycling and other end-of-life methods for renewable generation components and energy storage devices. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency must provide technical, administrative, and research support to this Task Force. The Task Force will then submit a report of its findings to the General Assembly by July 1, 2025.

Springfield- Youth in the care of the Department of Children and Family Services are one step closer to receiving the financial resources they need to be ready for adulthood thanks to a measure championed by State Senator Robert Peters

“I’m pleased that we are taking this step to ensure that the state will be proactive at helping youth in care build a strong future during their final years of care,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “We need to do all we can to ensure that they have access to a financial head start before they have to live on their own.”

The new law, formerly known as SB 3470, will require DCFS to save or invest a minimum percentage of a youth's benefits once they reach the age of 14. This will ensure that when DCFS no longer serves as the financial representative of  the youth, they will have some money to help them transition into a successful adult life.

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.