IL HB4880

Prohibits mechanical restraints on youth in care during any transportation services provided or arranged by the Department of Children and Family Services, effective immediately.

Allows soft restraints (cloth material around wrists, ankles, or chest) only with written approval from the Department's Chief Deputy Director of Clinical and Child Services, the Guardianship Administrator, and a physician with a patient relationship with the youth.

Requires a mental health professional known to the youth to accompany the youth during transport when soft restraints are used to ensure physical and emotional well-being.

Mandates notification to the youth's court-appointed attorney and guardian ad litem at least 3 business days before soft restraints are used, and prohibits restraint use for punishment or transporter convenience.

Requires the Department to post annual data on restraint authorizations starting December 1, 2020, including youth age, restraint duration, and placement information, and permits emergency rulemaking to implement the new provisions.