Bill > HB0871

This bill amends the Children and Family Services Act and the Child Care Act of 1969 to enhance protections for children in foster care and relative placements. Specifically, the bill mandates that final approval for placement with a foster, adoptive, or relative caregiver shall not be granted if a background check reveals a felony conviction for human trafficking or sex trafficking. The legislation requires the Department of Children and Family Services to develop new standards for certified relative caregiver homes by July 1, 2025, with standards that are less restrictive than traditional foster care licensing requirements. The bill also introduces provisions to support relative caregivers, including immediate foster care maintenance payments, assistance with home safety modifications, and support services. Additionally, the bill requires the department to provide orientation and support for relative caregivers, create complaint procedures, and ensure that relative caregivers have access to resources and support. The changes aim to streamline the process for placing children with relatives, provide financial and practical support to those caregivers, and maintain strict background check requirements to ensure child safety. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=871&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104