State Representative Regan Deering of Decatur has advanced legislation aimed at increasing transparency in child abuse and neglect investigations conducted by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

The measure, House Bill 4242, passed unanimously out of the Adoption and Child Welfare Committee and now awaits further consideration by the General Assembly.

If approved, the bill would require DCFS to provide written notification to individuals identified as alleged perpetrators in an investigation. The notice would include details such as the specific allegation and finding, how long the finding will remain on record, and information about the process for requesting an administrative appeal.

It would also outline deadlines for filing an appeal and explain how to obtain a copy of the investigative file, regardless of whether an appeal is pursued.

Deering says the goal of the legislation is to provide clearer information to those involved in investigations and improve understanding of the process.

The bill now moves forward for additional legislative action.