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Peters SB1976SPRINGFIELD — A new law sponsored by State Senator Robert Peters ensures the state maintains strong protections for wage standards, coal mine safety and occupational health, even if federal laws are weakened or repealed.

“Our workers are the backbone of our state, and when things become uncertain at the federal level, it’s our job to ensure their rights are protected,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This law sends a clear message that in Illinois, we fight for working people, and we will not back down.” 

The law prevents the Illinois Department of Labor and Department of Natural Resources from adopting any rules less protective than those in effect under federal law as of April 28, 2025. Peters’ law also requires IDOL to restore any repealed federal occupational safety rules not already covered under state law and allows legal actions against employers who violate them.

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road home programCHICAGO — State Senator Michael E. Hastings joined fellow Senators Patrick Joyce, Paul Faraci, Meg Loughran Cappel, Michael Porfirio and Michael Halpin for a visit to Rush University Medical Center’s acclaimed Road Home Program, announcing a $1 million investment through the Rebuild Illinois Program administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

The grant will be used to expand services that provide critical mental health and transitional support to returning veterans and their families. The Road Home Program—nationally recognized for its innovative approach to treating post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other challenges veterans face—offers specialized, no-cost care to military members and their loved ones.

“This is more than a check—it’s a lifeline,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort), a West Point graduate, Bronze Star recipient, and Iraq War veteran. “The Road Home Program not only helped me through my own struggles as a returning combat veteran, it has been a safe harbor for countless others across Illinois. The staff, the doctors, and the welcoming, nurturing culture of this program are second to none. They deserve more than just a million-dollar investment—they deserve our ongoing commitment and gratitude.”

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Senator Belt

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Christopher Belt’s measure to strengthen prevailing wage rules that will help workers receive higher pay was signed into law on Thursday.

“We don’t want to see the federal government shortchange our workers here in Illinois,” said Belt (D-Swansea).  “Illinois workers who literally build our state shouldn’t be cheated by corporate sleight of hand.”

Currently, Illinois’ prevailing wage law does not apply to federal construction projects that require a prevailing wage determination by the United States Secretary of Labor. Belt’s new law clarifies that workers must receive the highest prevailing wage – whether federal or state – in local public works projects that include federal funding. The goal is to eliminate potential confusion when rates differ and specifically impacts projects under state or local control.

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morrison 081325SPRINGFIELD — Thousands of human trafficking victims have been identified in Illinois in recent years, but authorities estimate the true number of victims to be much higher. To improve how the state handles trafficking cases, a new law sponsored by State Senator Julie Morrison will lead to earlier identification and strengthen support for survivors through better coordination, training and services.

“This law is the result of extensive work among Illinois State Police, state agencies and legislators to close gaps that exist in current processes,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “By breaking down silos between agencies, we can connect survivors to compassionate support faster and make it more difficult for trafficking networks to operate in the state.”

The new law takes a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach to addressing human trafficking. The law builds on recommendations from the Joint Human Trafficking Working Group — created in 2023 with input from over 60 stakeholders and state agencies — and lays out a statewide strategic plan to support trafficking survivors. This includes creating standards of care for medical and legal providers and building a network of accessible services.

 

More Articles …

  1. Sims: The SAFE-T Act is based on risk—not riches
  2. Peters responds to Washington’s bail reform myths, calls for honest leadership
  3. Morrison-led Alicia’s Law strengthens protections against online child exploitation
  4. Governor signs Feigenholtz initiative to remove hurdles for new teachers

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