New Peters law ends criminal background disclosure on certain licensing applications

SPRINGFIELD – Recognizing the humanity of individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, State Senator Robert Peters championed a new law that will end the requirement of disclosing criminal background information in certain license applications.

“There’s no need to disclose criminal background information when it can’t be used against an applicant for licensure,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Once individuals impacted by the justice system disclose this information, they often face discrimination despite rectifying their mistakes.”

Under previous law, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation would consider mitigating factors and evidence of rehabilitation contained in an applicant's record after finding that the applicant for a license, certificate, or registration was previously convicted of a felony or misdemeanor.

Peters’ law forbids inquiry into criminal history by IDFPR if the licensing statute states that criminal history cannot be used against an applicant. With this new prohibition, IDFPR would only need to perform a mitigating factor analysis in limited circumstances.

“One of the goals of the justice system is to rehabilitate individuals, not blacklist them once they are released from detention centers,” Peters said. “Second chances are given endlessly to those without justice system involvement. This same opportunity should be extended to everyone seeking to improve their lives and the community around them without judgement.”

House Bill 2826 was signed into law Friday.

New Peters law allows previously incarcerated individuals more employment opportunities

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Robert Peters spearheaded a new law helping those previously convicted of a felony seek an occupational license to perform non-gaming related services at a casino.

“Individuals impacted by the justice system often have a hard time seeking worthwhile employment opportunities when transitioning back into society,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “These individuals have served their time and should be able to move on with their lives. There are many non-gaming jobs within casinos, such as hospitality related positions. Connecting this vulnerable community with these good paying union jobs, will empower folks to become financially secure and stimulate the growth of safe communities.”

Senate Bill 1462 removes a prohibition on issuing occupational licenses to perform functions in a casino that do not involve gaming to individuals with felony convictions. The law also allows the Illinois Gaming Board to consider an applicant’s criminal record, reputation, associations and activities that could potentially threaten the integrity of the gaming institution.

“Instead of thinking about this as simplifying the application process, this new law should be viewed as a way to increase public safety,” said Peters. “People that make a good living are less likely to do something to sabotage their success.”

Senate Bill 1462 was signed into law Friday.

Shred Event August 19!

On Aug.19 from 10:30-12:30 p.m. my office will co-host a back to school event alongside IL State Representative Kim du Buclet - 5th, Commissioner Bill Lowry, Cook County - 3rd District, and Alderman Lamont J. Robinson at Insight Hospital, located at 2525 S. Prairie Ave.

Back to School Event

On August 16 from 3-6 p.m. my office will co-host a back to school event alongside State Representative Kam Buckner, Commissioner Bill Lowry, Cook County - 3rd District and Alderman Lamont J. Robinson at Ellis Park, located at 3520 S. Cottage Grove. The event will take place rain or shine! Register here: http://www.illinois26.com/.../free-2nd-annual-back-to....