IL HB5097

Requires every case plan for youth in care to include a Haircare Plan developed in consultation with the youth, parents, caregivers, and facility staff that addresses haircare steps to preserve the youth's connection to race, culture, gender, religion, and identity.

Mandates the Haircare Plan address necessary haircare steps during emergency and health situations and document the youth's haircare desires, with reviews at case plan reviews and monthly visits.

Requires the Department to develop training and resources for caregivers and child care facility staff on culturally competent haircare by June 1, 2025, and adopt implementing rules by the same date.

Adds to foster parent rights the right to receive timely training necessary to meet the haircare needs of children in their care.

Adds to foster parent responsibilities the responsibility to provide haircare that preserves the child's desired connection to the child's race, culture, gender, religion, and identity.