IL HB2444

Establishes the "Children's Best Interest Act" to prevent unnecessary harm to children caused by parental separation during pre-trial detention or incarceration.

Adds parental status as a mitigating factor in sentencing by creating new factor (18) requiring courts to consider the well-being of a defendant's child or infant, including the parent's breastfeeding status, child's age, educational and medical role, and financial support responsibilities.

Requires defendants to have the right to present a "Family Impact Statement" at sentencing with testimony, written statements, video, and documentation for the court to consider.

Mandates that courts impose sentences allowing parents to continue caring for their children unless the parent poses a significant risk to the community that outweighs harm from parental removal from the family.

Adds factor (19) allowing caregiver status for ill, disabled, or elderly relatives as a mitigating sentencing factor.