IL SB3119

Creates the Commission on Strengthening Fathers and Families with up to 21 members, chaired by an appointee of the Deputy Governor of Health and Human Services, with at least 50% of members being parents.

Establishes the Strengthening Fathers and Families Initiative to increase awareness of challenges children face without father involvement and identify strategies to overcome barriers to father engagement.

Requires the Commission to develop comprehensive plans promoting father involvement, evaluate State programs and policies related to fatherhood, and make recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly.

Partners with the University of Illinois-Chicago's Lab for Empowerment and Advancement through Dad-Driven Research to conduct research supporting father engagement policies.

Creates the Fatherhood and Family Strengthening Fund in the State treasury to receive grants and contributions, with the Department of Human Services providing staffing support and potential discretionary funding.