IL SB0807

Establishes a 5-year "differential response program" beginning January 1, 2010, allowing the Department of Children and Family Services to conduct family assessments instead of full investigations for reports not alleging substantial child endangerment.

Defines "family assessment" as a comprehensive evaluation of child safety, risk of maltreatment, and family strengths that does not determine whether abuse occurred but identifies needed services.

Requires the Department to conduct immediate investigations for reports involving substantial abuse or neglect, and to begin investigations within 24 hours for all other reports.

Allows services to be offered to families after completion of a family assessment under the differential response program, with acceptance being voluntary.

Makes the differential response program permanent on January 1, 2015, upon completion of the 5-year demonstration period, and requires an independent evaluation of the program's effectiveness.