SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Robert Peters advanced legislation Wednesday to ban employers from requiring workers to attend meetings regarding political or religious matters.

“The employer-employee relationship should maintain a certain level of objectiveness,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “The use of coercive pressures in mandatory meetings to discuss employer political or religious matters is an over-step of employer power.”

Senate Bill 3649 will prohibit Illinois employers from requiring employees to attend employer-sponsored meetings where the primary purpose is to communicate the employer’s opinions on religious or political matters. Further, the legislation safeguards employees from adverse actions for refusing such employer-sponsored meetings.

The National Labor Relations Board's general counsel issued a memorandum outlining a plan to advocate for mandatory meetings concerning union representation, political opinions and religious matters unlawful under federal labor law. There has been no action following the memorandum, which was issued in 2022.

“With no response from the federal level, Illinois must step in to promote employee-friendly environments,” said Peters. “Labor protections are crucial for safeguarding workers’ rights, ensuring fairness and promoting a healthy workplace.”

Senate Bill 3649 passed the Senate Labor Committee and now awaits further consideration in the Senate.

SPRINGFIELD – To empower survivors of domestic abuse and gender-based violence, State Senator Robert Peters advanced legislation from the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday addressing re-sentencing provisions as it pertains to survivors.

“Survivors ought to have more reasonable protections under the law to help them flee existing dangerous situations and challenge misguided plea deals,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Strengthening legal frameworks for individuals involved in domestic violence situations empower survivors to navigate the justice system and seek protection from abusive environments.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Robert Peters, a dedicated advocate for the rights of crime victims, is spearheading efforts to provide broader support for individuals who have endured the devastating impacts of crime.

“Broadened definitions within the Crime Victims Compensation Program better acknowledge and address the diverse circumstances crime victims face,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “The challenges and circumstances faced by victims are individualized and complex — these expanded definitions will create a more inclusive and compassionate system for ongoing support of those affected by criminal acts.”

SPRINGFIELD – To assist communities in meeting the requirements outlined in the Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act, State Senator Robert Peters is highlighting a fourth funding opportunity for the Lead Service Line Inventory Grant Program announced by the Illinois EPA.

“I urge communities to take advantage of this program to mitigate lead contamination and provide more public health safety,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Communities should have access to clean water and with another round of funding announced, local governments will be able to prioritize their efforts in creating safer water systems.”