HB5257 Summary

• Defines "significant event report" as a written document describing unusual occurrences in the Department of Children and Family Services, child care facilities, or licensed entities, including allegations of abuse, neglect, criminal activity, or incidents with media impact.

• Requires the Department to provide guardians ad litem and attorneys appointed for minors with copies of significant event reports involving the minor within 3 days of the Department learning of the reportable event, or earlier if required by Department rule.

• Expands access to foster home licensing records for guardians ad litem and attorneys representing children in juvenile court proceedings, including information related to licensing complaints and investigations.

• Allows sharing of information about juvenile deaths involving minors under Department care with the juvenile court, State's Attorney, and the minor's attorney.

• Permits re-disclosure of records revealing misconduct by the Department or its employees, and allows parties in juvenile court proceedings to copy and share case files with other litigation parties.