IL SB0191

Extends wardship eligibility in juvenile court cases from age 19 to age 21, removing the automatic termination provision and allowing courts to consider eight additional factors when determining whether to terminate wardship for minors over 18.

Adds Section 5-711 to the Juvenile Court Act establishing a hearing process within 14 days when Family Support Program services are approved for minors in Department of Children and Family Services guardianship, allowing courts to return minors to parental custody with services or maintain guardianship.

Allows minors to remain eligible for Individual Care Grants if placed in temporary custody or guardianship of the Department when a Family Support Program application was pending or under review, provided they meet other eligibility criteria.

Expands reinstatement of wardship procedures to allow petitions prior to a minor's 21st birthday (previously 18th birthday) for cases closed due to age or emancipation under the Emancipation of Minors Act.

Requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to adopt rules implementing these changes by July 1, 2019, and mandates expedited review processes for applications to prevent service disruptions during program transitions.