HB 5665

Abstract

Amends the Children and Family Services Act. Provides that each child who comes into the care and custody of the Department of Children and Family Services is fully entitled to participate in appropriate extracurricular, enrichment, cultural, and social activities in a manner that allows that child to participate in his or her community to the fullest extent possible. Requires caregivers to use the reasonable and prudent parent standard in determining whether to give permission for a child in out-of-home care to participate in appropriate extracurricular, enrichment, cultural, and social activities. Requires caregivers to consider certain factors when using the reasonable and prudent parent standard, including: (i) the child's age, maturity, and developmental level to promote the overall health, safety, and best interests of the child; and (ii) the importance and fundamental value of encouraging the child's emotional and developmental growth gained through participation in activities in his or her community. Provides that a caregiver is not liable for harm caused to a child in out-of-home care who participates in an activity approved by the caregiver. Grants the Department rulemaking authority. Effective immediately.