Новый закон Иллинойса распространяет модель центра семейного мира из Рокфорда на весь штат

New Illinois law expands Rockford’s domestic violence resource model statewide The law establishes the framework for other communities to create their own Family Peace Center, following Rockford’s lead. ROCKFORD, Ill. (Rockford News First) - House Bill 4949, known as the Family Justice Centers Act, will allow other Illinois communities to create their own Family Peace Centers, expanding domestic violence resources outside of Rockford. In 2020, Rockford started its Family Peace Center with guidance of domestic violence survivors. It is the only center of its kind in the state. “This legislation will provide a model for other communities across the state to encourage coordination and partnerships that will allow survivors to get the best help possible,” State Senator Steve Stadelman, D-34, said. The goal was to bring all types of domestic violence resources under one roof in a way survivors would feel heard and respected. “The State of Illinois caught up to Rockford and so the Family Justice Center Act House Bill 4949, which I carried, takes what we pioneered right here in Rockford and made it the law of the land,” State Representative Maurice West, D-67, said. The legislation passed unanimously and was signed into law earlier this month. The law establishes the framework for other communities to create their own Family Peace Center, following Rockford’s lead. “Family Justice Centers are across the country. They’re actually internationally recognized as a best practice. Illinois never had one until the City of Rockford opened up our doors and now survivors all across the state, and we see many of them at our own Family Peace Center, but now survivors all across the state will have this framework,” Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara said. “I am so exceptionally proud to say that the framework for this statewide legislation is rooted in the voices of the survivors and their children in this community right here in Rockford, Illinois. It’s a tremendous day for us,” Rockford Family Peace Center executive director Jennifer Cacciapaglia said. Retired judge, Rosemary Collins, spent her career advocating for domestic violence survivors. “It’s a great day for the survivors throughout the state of Illinois. It’s a great day for the City of Rockford and it’s really an important recognition for the hard work,” Collins said. Leaders highlighted her impact as the law was announced but she believes the spotlight belongs on the work still to come. “The impact is incredible. We’ve had thousands of people come to the Family Peace Center here so imagine that this could be available throughout the state,” Collins said. Although the law’s goal is to help survivors, the need continues to go beyond just those facing that scenario. “The more we can do for violence prevention, the better off we are and I do believe this helps with violence prevention. It does help break the chain of violence in our community and that makes all of us safer,” Collins said. Family Peace Centers around the state could bring services for domestic violence, rape crisis, civil legal, and other providers all under one roof. Copyright 2026 Rockford News First. All rights reserved.