SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Senate unanimously passed a plan Wednesday to help ensure foster families have access to a child's full history before an adoption is finalized.
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.
It also allows former foster youth to access these records once they turn 18.
"It's about helping a child understand where they came from and give parents the tools to help them move forward," said Sen. Darby Hills (R-Barrington Hills).
The legislation 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 child's first steps, first words, potty training and other notable progress.
Senate Bill 2895 now moves the House for further consideration.Â
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