SPRINGFIELD — To further protect children in state care from being placed in dangerous home environments, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton advanced legislation that would expand the list of individuals prohibited from taking on the care of a child in foster or adoptive capacities.

“Children under state care have already endured hardship, including the loss of their familiar living situation,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This legislation aims to close dangerous loopholes to ensure their placements are as safe and stable as possible.”

House Bill 871 would prohibit the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services from placing a child in a foster or adoptive home with an individual who has a record of human or sex trafficking.

Current law already prevents placements with individuals convicted of certain violent felonies, but the law’s application varies depending on the type of placement and who in the household has the conviction. Glowiak Hilton’s bill would close any gaps in interpretation by making it clear that human and sex trafficking convictions disqualify someone from receiving final placement approval, regardless of the placement type.

“Illinois has strong protections on the books, and this measure builds on the state’s commitment to safeguarding children from dangerous individuals,” said Glowiak Hilton. “By removing any ambiguity in the law, we are taking a necessary step to ensure every child in care is protected to the fullest extent.”

House Bill 871 passed the Senate Child Welfare Committee on Tuesday.