SPRINGFIELD — Following the Secretary of Homeland Security’s visit to Illinois, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago), released the following statement condemning the federal administration’s ongoing immigration failures:

“Today’s visit from Secretary Noem is a staged performance meant to distract from the cruelty, chaos and moral failure that have defined this administration’s approach to immigration. Let’s call this what it is: a desperate attempt to shift blame onto the very communities showing the compassion, humanity and responsibility this administration lacks in the face of a humanitarian crisis.

“Illinois is a welcoming state, built on bipartisan state immigration policy, and we say that with pride. We don’t turn our backs on people because of where they were born or what language they speak. While this administration sows fear and division, we in Illinois choose unity, dignity and hope.

“We have watched this administration weaponize immigration to score points and distract from its own inability to lead. We have watched them rip families apart, detain children and treat human beings like political pawns. Now, they want to come to our state and lecture us on how to respond. We reject that entirely.

“Illinois will not apologize for standing with immigrant communities, and we will not be bullied into abandoning the values that define us. This moment demands more than empty visits and rehearsed talking points – it demands action rooted in decency and leaders who see people, not problems.

“Here in Illinois, we choose to move forward. We will to not back down – not now, not ever.”

SPRINGFIELD — In an effort to underline the mission of the Department of Children and Family Services as a support-based agency for vulnerable families, State Senator Robert Peters is spearheading legislation that would remove DCFS’ authority to establish its own peace officer unit.

“Families interacting with DCFS are often in crisis, and the last thing they need is to be treated like suspects,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This measure ensures DCFS is here to help, not to police, restoring clarity and compassion.”

Peters’ measure would remove the department’s statutory authority to appoint personnel to act as peace officers in counties with more than 500,000 people. Instead, it would reaffirm that any law enforcement needs involving DCFS would be handled by local or state police.

SPRINGFIELD — Aiming to tackle Illinois’ low homicide clearance rates, a measure from State Senator Robert Peters demands greater transparency and accountability in law enforcement’s handling of violent crimes, enhancing public oversight and ultimately improving the state’s efforts to solve these critical cases. 

“House Bill 1710 is about building trust and equity in our public safety system,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “When communities can see how cases are handled, it creates accountability – that’s how we begin to close justice gaps.”  

Under the measure, the Illinois State Police would provide a report offering detailed data on homicides and aggravated assaults involving firearms to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority by Sept. 1, 2026, and every four months after. These reports would track key metrics such as arrest numbers, cases referred for prosecution and the reasons why cases remain unsolved, providing a clearer understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement.

CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement regarding U.S. Senator Dick Durbin’s retirement announcement:

“Dick Durbin has served our state and its people with honor and integrity, standing up for what is right above all else. His many accomplishments in Congress have shaped our state and our nation for the better, from fighting for clean air to standing up for immigrant families to delivering major investments in our infrastructure.

“His legacy and leadership are forever etched in Illinois history. I wish him and his family the very best as he completes his term and transitions to a very well-deserved retirement.”