DECATUR, IL… State Rep. Regan Deering (R-Decatur) announced that her legislation strengthening transparency in Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) investigations has been signed into law.
HB 4242 requires DCFS to provide alleged perpetrators with clear, written notification of key information whenever the agency reaches an indicated finding in an abuse or neglect investigation, regardless of whether an administrative appeal has been requested. Under the new law, DCFS must notify individuals of:
- The statement of allegation and the indicated finding
- How long the indicated finding will remain in the State Central Register
- Their right to request an administrative appeal
- The deadline for requesting an administrative appeal
- How to request an administrative appeal
- Their right to request a copy of the investigative file
“I filed this legislation to improve transparency for families, individuals, and DCFS throughout the investigative process,” said Rep. Deering. “It is important that we have clear, workable policies in place for everyone involved. This law ensures that alleged perpetrators understand their rights and responsibilities while providing greater clarity throughout the process. I want to thank DCFS for partnering with me on this legislation and my colleagues for supporting it unanimously. I am grateful it has been signed into law and will provide much-needed transparency.”
HB 4242 passed both chambers unanimously and takes effect on January 1, 2027.
For more information, contact Rep. Deering’s office at (217) 876-1968 or visit RepDeering.com.
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