IL HB5418

Amends the Foster Children's Bill of Rights Act to add six new rights for foster children in Illinois Department of Children and Family Services care.

Requires youth to receive an intake process upon placement that includes education about inappropriate acts of affection, discipline, and punishment, with documentation provided to the child.

Mandates participation in intervention and counseling services after removal from home to assess for traumatic stress, special needs, or mental illness.

Requires monthly home visits (or more frequently as needed) by assigned child welfare specialists to assess well-being, relationships with caregivers, and discipline methods used in the home.

Requires enrollment in independent living services programs prior to leaving foster care with instruction on employment, finances, meals, housing, and life skills development appropriate to the youth's age and developmental level.

Mandates third-party assessment of youth readiness for transition out of foster care based on individual needs, emotional development, and ability to successfully transition to adulthood, regardless of age.