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Lake County Gazette

Monday, November 25, 2024

Illinois DCFS Director Resigns, Calls for Major Changes in Agency to Protect Children in State Care, says McLaughlin

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State Representative Martin McLaughlin (IL) | Representative Martin McLaughlin (R) 52nd District

State Representative Martin McLaughlin (IL) | Representative Martin McLaughlin (R) 52nd District

Illinois DCFS Director Marc Smith has announced his resignation from his post effective December 31, sparking a call for major changes within the agency to better protect children in state care. State Representative Martin McLaughlin emphasized that new leadership alone is not enough to address the deep-seated problems at the agency.

"While new leadership is a first step, it is far from a solution to the deep-seated problems at the agency. Major changes must be made, and quickly, to protect the children in state care," said State Representative McLaughlin.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Illinois House Republicans have introduced legislation aimed at helping the agency, families, and ensuring the safety of children. State Representative McLaughlin highlighted the efforts made by meeting with stakeholders and experts to develop the proposed legislation.

"We've put in the work by meeting with stakeholders and experts. It's time for Speaker Welch to call our legislation for a vote," urged State Representative McLaughlin.

The State Representative emphasized the need to break the cycle of repeating the same mistakes and expecting improvement for the children in state care. Stressing the life and death nature of the issue, State Representative McLaughlin called for immediate action.

"We cannot continue to repeat the same mistakes and expect things to get better for these kids. This is life and death, and we must take action," concluded State Representative McLaughlin.

To find out more about the proposed legislation and the issues at the Illinois DCFS, visit the following links:

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