SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A bill moving in the state capitol could help ensure foster families have access to a child's full history before an adoption is finalized. 

Sponsors and advocates believe this change will lead to better outcomes for foster youth.

The Healing through History Act could require the state to provide medical, educational, placement and counseling records to families at least 30 days before finalizing an adoption. Sen. Darby Hills (R-Barrington Hills) said the bill also allows former foster youth to access these records once they turn 18.

"These records already exist within the agency's files," Hills said. "This bill simply creates a clear and consistent process so that families can review them in a timely manner."

Hills was inspired to file the bill after talking with a constituent who has adopted three children through the foster care system. Melissa Khamkhounnavong said these records can help families better understand a child's story and support their healing.

"My children have no memories of those early years, and the system that witnessed those years holds the only record of their lives," Khamkhounnavong said. "Yet, families and foster youth are denied access to it."

The plan also states that families should receive information about developmental milestones observed or documented while a child was placed under DCFS care. That information could include the youth's first steps, first words, potty training and other notable progress.

"As a former youth in care, I am just smiling from cheek to cheek," said Sen. Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago). "It's legislation like this that really improves our systems and speaks to the needs of the children."

Senate Bill 2895 passed unanimously out of the Senate Child Welfare Committee last week. The full Senate could vote on the legislation as soon as Tuesday. 

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