IL SR0489

Encourages Illinois State Board of Education, Department of Human Services, Administrative Office of the Courts, and Department of Corrections to educate employees about detrimental impacts of childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on brain development and lifelong outcomes.

Recognizes that exposure to abuse, neglect, domestic violence, parental mental illness, substance abuse, and other traumatic events can impair children's ability to learn, develop coping skills, and form healthy relationships.

Documents that trauma survivors face increased risks of academic failure, unemployment, substance addiction, mental illness, suicide, shortened life expectancy by up to 20 years, and intergenerational trauma and poverty.

Calls for implementation of evidence-based trauma interventions, including trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, to build resilience and help survivors recover and reach their full potential.

Directs that copies of the resolution be sent to state agencies and nonprofit contractors providing services to vulnerable children and adults.