IL SB1845

Amends the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act to allow the Department of Children and Family Services to implement a "differential response program" that determines whether to conduct a family assessment or investigation based on the severity of reported child abuse or neglect.

Requires the Department to conduct investigations for reports involving substantial child abuse or neglect, but allows family assessments for reports without substantial endangerment allegations, focusing on child safety, risk assessment, and family needs rather than determining fault.

Mandates the Department arrange for independent evaluation of any differential response program for at least the first 3 years of implementation and submit a report to the General Assembly by January 15, 2018 on implementation progress and recommendations.

Clarifies that cases determined to receive family assessment responses shall not be reported to the central register of abuse and neglect reports, and allows cases to be converted to investigations if substantial abuse or neglect is discovered at any time.

Maintains existing procedures for investigations of school employee abuse allegations and religious institution notifications, and preserves the Department's 24/7 capability to receive reports of suspected child abuse or neglect.