Kendall County Times

Illinois lawmakers are scheduled to return to Springfield for two weeks in October, with the veto session taking place from October 14 to 16 and October 28 to 30. During this period, the General Assembly typically addresses potential overrides of gubernatorial vetoes, but due to the Democratic supermajority, such actions are rare. Instead, legislators are expected to focus on select issues, though significant legislative changes are not anticipated.

State Representative Jed Davis, a Republican representing Illinois' 75th District since 2023 after succeeding David Welter, has raised concerns about the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Davis stated, "Last month, I uncovered a systemic failure inside the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Interns — uncertified and unqualified under Illinois law — have been allowed to investigate families, leading to the removal of children from their homes. Families are paying the price."

He cited state law, explaining, "Illinois statute leaves no room for differing interpretation. The Child Protective Investigator and Child Welfare Specialist Certification Act of 1987 (225 ILCS 420/), along with (20 ILCS 505/21(d)), requires certification before employment in any official investigative capacity. These safeguards exist to protect children, preserve family rights, and ensure only trained, legally certified professionals handle life-altering decisions."

Davis criticized the agency's practices, stating, "DCFS does not have the power to rewrite the law for convenience. For years, the agency has allowed uncertified interns to conduct and carry out abuse and neglect investigations, file legal findings, and initiate family separations. This disregard for the law is both dangerous and unacceptable."

He called on the Pritzker administration to take immediate action by ending the use of uncertified interns in investigations, reviewing all related cases, holding DCFS leadership accountable, and restoring legal compliance within the agency. "No family should be traumatized due to an inexperienced intern inappropriately removing a child from the home," Davis said.

Davis also announced the filing of House Bill 4148, aimed at reintroducing school choice programs in Illinois. "House Bill 4148 gives every Illinois student a real chance at success by opening the door to the school fitting them best—no matter their zip code. Right now, school choice exists only for families who can afford it. Opportunity shouldn’t depend on income. Every student and family who desires a better education should have access to one," Davis said.

He noted that the previous program, the Invest in Kids Act, expired on January 1, 2024, and a bill to extend it was not brought to a vote despite bipartisan support. Davis emphasized the importance of school choice, saying, "Every child has different needs. School choice programs enable families to make the best choice for their individual children, whether through public, private, or homeschooling opportunities. Let’s come together to empower families, promote strong educational programs, and lift up youth from every corner of Illinois."

In addition to legislative updates, Davis’s office is offering free museum passes for up to four people to participating museums in the Chicagoland area. Reservations are required via a request form.

Davis encourages constituents to stay informed about his work through his website and social media, and invites feedback from the community.

For more information about Representative Davis and his work, visit his official website at RepJedDavis.com.