SPRINGFIELD — A new law from State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton will strengthen protections for children in the foster care system by ensuring individuals with trafficking convictions are barred from serving as foster or adoptive guardians.

“When gaps in the system allow vulnerable children to be placed in harm’s way, it’s our responsibility to make changes,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This legislation came in response to real, troubling situations – not hypotheticals.”

The new law, under House Bill 871, prohibits the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services from placing children in foster or adoptive homes where any household member has a conviction related to human or sex trafficking.

While DCFS policy already disqualified individuals with certain violent felonies from serving as caregivers, there were inconsistencies in how trafficking convictions were treated based on the type of placement or which household member held the conviction. This new law eliminates that ambiguity, ensuring a consistent and comprehensive standard that prioritizes child safety across all placement decisions.

“There should be no gray areas when it comes to finding a secure placement for a child,” said Glowiak Hilton. “This law closes any gaps in current practices to keep children out of dangerous environments.”

House Bill 871 was signed into law Aug. 15 and takes effect immediately.