Kane County Reporter

A recent audit from the Illinois Auditor General has found that the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) continues to struggle with longstanding problems. The report noted that 29 out of 34 findings were repeated issues from previous years, highlighting ongoing concerns about how the agency is managed.

Lawmakers have raised concerns that these failures at DCFS put children at risk. There have been tragic cases such as the death of AJ Freund after multiple interactions with DCFS, and more recently, the death of 18-year-old Mackenzi Felmlee, who was also known to the department. These incidents have prompted renewed calls for reform within DCFS.

“These repeated failures are unacceptable. It is well-past time to implement meaningful reforms that hold leadership accountable and better protect children in the agency’s care,” said State Senator Don DeWitte.

The full audit report is available for public review.

In other legislative news, a new law supported by Senator DeWitte aims to help young farmers in Illinois access farmland. Senate Bill 2372 establishes the Farmland Transition Commission within the Illinois Department of Agriculture. The commission will study challenges faced by young farmers aged 25 to 40 and recommend policies to support them as they acquire farmland. This effort seeks to ensure family farms remain viable for future generations by improving access and support for younger farmers.

Senator DeWitte commented on this initiative: “This law brings together policymakers, agricultural leaders, and young farmers to ensure the long-term success of farming in Illinois. By improving access to farmland, the state can help preserve family farms and secure the future of agriculture.”

Individuals interested in serving on the new commission can apply through the Board and Commissions website.

Another legislative measure backed by Senator DeWitte strengthens protections for people with disabilities living in community-based residential settings. House Bill 57 updates existing law so that residents in Community Integrated Living Arrangements (CILAs) have equal rights to receive essential visitors, similar to those living in other state-regulated facilities.

“This change upholds the dignity and independence of individuals with disabilities by guaranteeing equal access to the support they need, regardless of where they live,” said Senator DeWitte.

Several community events are scheduled across Illinois’ 33rd District in coming weeks. These include an ICASH Unclaimed Property Event on August 19 at Gail Borden Public Library District’s South Elgin Branch, as well as Senior Fairs in Carpentersville on September 4, St. Charles on September 16, and Crystal Lake on October 14. Details are available on Senator DeWitte’s website.

DeWitte has represented Illinois’ 33rd Senate District since his election in 2018 as a Republican, succeeding Karen McConnaughay.

https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=102&MemberID=2876