CHICAGO – Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) passed two measures out of the Senate Criminal Law Committee Tuesday that would reform offender sentencing and the way law enforcement officials interrogate minors.

“This is about creating a fairer justice system in the state of Illinois,” said Peters. “If we want to prevent injustice and reduce bias, then we must confront police, courts and correctional institutions when they employ unfair laws and practices.”

Peters’ reforms are contained in two pieces of legislation, Senate Bills 2122 and 2129. Senate Bill 2121 allows state's attorneys to petition the court to reduce an offender's sentence if the state's attorney believes the original sentence no longer advances the interests of justice. Senate Bill 2129 would make oral, written or sign language statements from a minor inadmissible as evidence if the statement was provoked by deceptive practices during the interrogation process.

Both initiatives are led by the Cook County State's Attorney Office (CCSAO).

Read more: Peters seeks reforms to criminal sentencing, interrogation practices

SPRINGFIELD – A new measure sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) would help expand crisis response options across Illinois.

“Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis need appropriate treatment, and a quick and efficient response to a crisis is the most effective way to ensure they get it,” Peters said.

Read more: Peters looks to expand mental health crisis response options

SPRINGFIELD – Building upon a law he sponsored in the previous General Assembly, State Senator Robert Peters’ (D-Chicago) new measure would extend required civics education to the Department of Juvenile Justice.

“Just because a person is incarcerated does not mean they lose the rights that past generations have fought and died to guarantee them,” Peters said. “Folks who are set to be released should learn what their rights are and how to use them once they’re out.”

Read more: Peters wants to extend civics education to Department of Juvenile Justice

SPRINGFIELD – A measure sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) would keep courts from using information shared during restorative justice practices.

Restorative justice practices are measures to prevent trauma and repair harm by bringing together adverse parties and community stakeholders. Use of restorative justice practices are becoming more common in schools, communities, and courts.

“Restorative justice practices are an important alternative means of addressing and dealing with crime, and any information they share can’t be used against them in court,” Peters said. “Restorative justice can’t work when people are constantly on guard against incriminating themselves or creating civil liability.”

Read more: Peters fights to make restorative justice practices more effective