IL HB6207

Changes criminal penalties for knowingly and willfully violating child abuse reporting requirements under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act from misdemeanor to felony levels.

First violation becomes a Class 4 felony instead of a Class A misdemeanor; second or subsequent violation becomes a Class 3 felony instead of a Class 4 felony.

If violation occurs as part of a plan or scheme to prevent discovery of abuse or neglect by authorities to protect persons from arrest or prosecution, first violation is a Class 3 felony and second or subsequent violation is a Class 2 felony.

Maintains existing reporting requirements for mandated reporters including physicians, teachers, social workers, law enforcement, clergy, and other professionals who encounter suspected child abuse or neglect.

Preserves clergy privilege under Section 8-803 of the Code of Civil Procedure while requiring other professionals to report regardless of professional confidentiality privileges.