IL SB3146

Shifts the differential response program implementation date from January 1, 2010 to January 1, 2015, and changes it from a discretionary "may" to mandatory "shall" for the Department of Children and Family Services.

Reduces the demonstration project period from 5 years to 3 years, with the program becoming permanent on January 1, 2018 (rather than 2015).

Requires the independent evaluator to collect data on the differential response program and mandates the Department submit annual reports to the General Assembly and Governor beginning March 31, 2016, with a final report by March 31, 2018.

Mandates the Department adopt necessary administrative rules for program execution, changing this requirement from discretionary to mandatory.

Allows the Department to conduct family assessments (comprehensive safety and risk evaluations without determining guilt) for reports not alleging substantial child endangerment, while requiring full investigations for serious abuse or neglect allegations.