SPRINGFIELD, IL… State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur) passed legislation out of the Adoption and Child Welfare Committee that works to improve transparency in child abuse and neglect investigations conducted by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
The bill, HB 4242, requires DCFS to include written notification to the alleged perpetrator in an investigation on six items, regardless of whether an administrative appeal has been requested. Those items include:
- A statement of allegation and the indicated finding
- The length of time the indicated finding will be maintained in the State Central Register
- A notice of the right to request an administrative appeal of the finding
- The period of time for when an administrative appeal must be requested
- How to request an administrative appeal
- A notice of the request for a copy of the investigative file and how to request it, regardless of whether an administrative appeal was requested
“I filed this bill to help families navigate the uncertainty of allegations from DCFS by requiring the agency to provide clarity and support, but also to reinforce the integrity of the processes of investigations,” began Rep. Deering. “Families facing uncertainty need guidance and requiring them to maneuver multiple steps and more red tape only further burdens them and deteriorates trust in the process. Investigations of child abuse and neglect are crucial, but we need to ensure that we offer support where we can.”
Deering said her initiative behind filing the bill and working diligently with DCFS is to help promote fairness and transparency, while ensuring due process.
“This legislation represents a step towards establishing a more accountable state agency, while prioritizing transparency, fairness, and the well-being of children and families,” continued Rep. Deering. “Filing legislation such as HB 4242 means choosing to not remain complacent when a policy is no longer working, and I greatly appreciate the effort from DCFS on this measure.”
The bill passed the committee unanimously and awaits further action. To follow along, visit ilga.gov.
With any questions, contact Rep. Deering at (217) 876-1968 or visit RepDeering.com.
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