Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has signed House Bill 2907, officially enacting the Child Welfare Disclosure to Parents Act. The new law mandates that birth parents must be informed of their rights and have an opportunity to be involved in decisions concerning their children when the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services steps in. Supporters say this measure strengthens family involvement and transparency during child welfare investigations. The act takes effect immediately, aiming to provide families with the information needed to navigate complex child welfare procedures and ensure that parental voices are heard throughout the process.
“This act is about restoring dignity, transparency and trust in the child welfare system,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “By ensuring that birth parents are informed, respected and meaningfully included in decisions about their children, we’re not just changing policy — we’re changing lives. I’m proud to sign legislation that puts compassion and family at the center of our child welfare system.”
A significant change arrives for families engaged with Illinois’ child welfare system as the Child Welfare Disclosure to Parents Act goes into effect. Under this new law, birth parents will now receive detailed information about their rights from their very first contact with DCFS. Notably, parents must be consulted about relative placement options and considered as a placement resource before protective custody decisions are made. The law also guarantees timely visitation and requires parents to help develop their child’s haircare plan. Building on the recent KIND Act, this shift aims to bring greater fairness, respect, and reunification into child welfare practices statewide.
“The Child Welfare Disclosure to Parents Act enhances our ability to keep birth parents informed and actively involved in the care and decisions affecting their children – a critical step in improving outcomes and restoring trust, which is vital to successful family reunification,” said Illinois DCFS Director, Heidi Mueller. “It strengthens our ability to partner with families, building on the foundation laid by the KIND Act to keep children connected to those who love them most. Our thanks to our parents who worked and testified to the importance of this bill, sharing their personal stories, as well as Governor Pritzker and the General Assembly for empowering DCFS to serve families with compassion, clarity and dignity.”
“I want to express my gratitude,” said Shawna P., a member of the DCFS Statewide Parent Advisory Council. “To be here, to be part of this moment, to be part of the work happening in Illinois and to be part of this movement toward real, lasting change.”
