Metro East Sun

Springfield, IL – Yesterday, the Illinois House of Representatives passed HB 4350, the Child Abuse Notice Act, co-sponsored by State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Cahokia Heights). The legislation aims to raise awareness about child abuse and provide resources for reporting such abuse.

"As a father and a legislator, ensuring the safety and well-being of our children is paramount to me," expressed Rep. Schmidt. He added, "HB 4350 is an important step in empowering children to recognize and report abuse. The bill also supports businesses and establishments by giving them the tools they need to help prevent and address these unspeakable acts."

HB 4350 mandates certain businesses and establishments, including day care centers, schools, hospitals, hotels, motels, and body piercing establishments, to prominently display a notice developed by the Department of Children and Family Services. This notice will provide information on identifying physical and sexual abuse and instructions on how to report it.

The Act requires the Department of Children and Family Services, in collaboration with an accredited Children’s Advocacy Center, to develop a model notice within six months of the Act’s effective date. The notice will be available for download on the Department’s website and provided upon request to eligible businesses and schools. Moreover, the notice must be printed in English, Spanish, and another widely spoken language in the county where the establishment is located.

HB 4350 now proceeds to the Illinois Senate for further consideration. Rep. Schmidt represents the 114th District in Illinois.

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