SPRINGFIELD — Illinois is on its way to improving public trust in law enforcement and tackling low homicide clearance rates, thanks to a law sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters that goes into effect Jan. 1.

“House Bill 1710 takes much-needed steps toward more effective public safety by helping identify where major gaps in our justice system are,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “If we want to foster trust and cooperation between local law enforcement and our communities, we must ensure our system is transparent and actually works for our residents.”

Under Peters’ law, the Illinois State Police will 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 will 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.

SPRINGFIELD — More survivors of domestic abuse will be aware of their housing rights and resources, thanks to a law from State Senator Robert Peters that takes effect on Jan. 1.

“Access to safe housing is a primary need of domestic violence survivors, acting as a critical component for victims’ long-term safety and stability,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Senate Bill 3652 is just a small step toward ensuring survivors have the support they need to reclaim their freedom.”

Peters’ law mandates the Illinois Department of Human Rights to develop a concise overview detailing housing rights and procedures for survivors of domestic or sexual violence and their household members. The bill covers early lease termination, safety lock installation and housing protections and mandates property owners must furnish this summary to each tenant upon lease signing or face fines of up to $2,000 for non-compliance.

SPRINGFIELD — A new law from State Senator Robert Peters will raise the minimum age at which minors can be detained and limit detention in certain situations where the minor is not charged with a violent crime, making it clear the state is prioritizing rehabilitation and addressing the root causes of delinquent behavior.

“We must work together to tackle the underlying issues that are exacerbating delinquency in our neighborhoods – whether those are social, economic, familial or a mix of all,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “We have an obligation to protect the well-being of all individuals, and we do that by breaking the cycles of violence and trauma that are causing young people to engage in any level of criminal activity.”

Peters’ law makes numerous improvements to Illinois’ juvenile justice system. First, it raises the age at which a minor may be detained from 10 years old to 12 years old in 2026 and then to 13 years old – in some situations – in 2027. Under the law, arrest will be used only as a last resort and under strict conditions, and minors will be detained only if there is probable cause to believe they are delinquent and that immediate and urgent detention is necessary, or if they have repeatedly failed to appear at scheduled hearings.

CHICAGO — To equip residents, businesses and families with the information, tools and collective strategies needed to respond to federal immigration tactics, State Senator Robert Peters is joining South Side electeds and community organizations at a solidarity training Saturday.

“No matter your status, you have rights in Illinois,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “From asking questions to when to stay silent, knowing your rights can protect you if approached by ICE.”

The training will be Saturday, Nov. 8 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Hyde Park Neighborhood Club, located at 5480 S. Kenwood Ave., Chicago, IL 60615. Peters will co-host the event in collaboration with State Representative Kam Buckner, State Representative Kimberly Dubuclet, 4th Ward Alderman Lamont J. Robinson, 5th Ward Alderman Desmon Yancy, Illinois ACLU and the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. The neighbors of the Kenwood-Hyde Park-Woodlawn Rapid Response will also assist with community building initiatives at the event.