IL SB0803

Amends the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act to authorize a 5-year "differential response program" beginning January 1, 2010, allowing the Department of Children and Family Services to conduct either family assessments or investigations based on the severity of reported child abuse or neglect.

Requires investigations for reports involving substantial child abuse or neglect, while permitting family assessments for reports not alleging substantial child endangerment; family assessments do not result in indicated reports to the central register.

Mandates the Department conduct family assessments to collect information on child safety, risk of subsequent maltreatment, and family strengths, including details about the child, alleged offender, medical records, and collateral sources.

Provides that the differential response program shall become permanent on July 1, 2016, and requires an independent evaluation to determine whether the program meets established goals.

Requires the Department to send copies of final investigation findings to school district superintendents when reports involve school employees and establishes procedures for school employee investigations to minimize disruption and protect due process rights.