DCFS-SECURE ACT

Provides that the Act may be referred to as the Safeguards to Ensure Continuity and Uphold Rights and Equity (SECURE) Act. Sets forth several legislative findings. Amends the Children and Family Services Act. Adds provisions requiring the Department of Children and Family Services to protect a child from unnecessary and unapproved disclosure of the child's sensitive identity information. Defines "sensitive identity information" to mean personal data that is linked or reasonably linkable to a child or youth and identifies the child's or youth's sexual orientation, as the term is defined in the Illinois Human Rights Act. Contains provisions concerning a child-specific documentation requirement; internal electronic access controls; case plans based on a youth's protected characteristics; caregiver responsibilities; Department, service provider, and caregiver conduct to prevent harmful treatment of youth; protecting access to lawful health care for youth placed outside the State of Illinois; ongoing duty for Illinois-based caseworker contact and monitoring of interstate placement; public transparency and accountability reporting; Inspector General recommendations concerning measures to be taken to remediate harm caused to a youth who experienced harm due to conduct violating the youth's protected characteristic; and other matters. Amends the Child Care Act of 1969. Adds provisions concerning supportive care for youth placed out-of-state; and licensure and contractual compliance. Amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987. Adds provisions concerning the assessment and monitoring of minors in out-of-state placements; direct case management, care, or placement violations; and other matters. Effective immediately.

Status

Passed

Signed or otherwise enacted

Status date

Jul 10, 2026

125 days ago

Current chamber

House of Representatives

Session

2025-2026 Regular Session