IL HB4499

Creates the Tortious Interference with Parent-Child Relationship Act, establishing a new civil cause of action in Illinois when a third party's tortious conduct harms, prevents, or terminates a parent-child relationship.

Allows parents and children to independently sue for damages including loss of society, companionship, consortium, emotional distress, mental anguish, and economic loss resulting from nonfatal injuries.

Responds to the Illinois Supreme Court's 2025 decision in Hulsh v. Hulsh, which declined to recognize a common law tort for interference with parent-child relationships and deferred to the legislature.

Permits punitive damages when the defendant's conduct demonstrated reckless disregard for the rights of the parent or child.

Applies retroactively to all conduct occurring on or after January 1, 1980, and takes effect immediately upon becoming law.