Children trapped within guardianship battles may soon remain with a named caretaker versus bouncing from one home to the next, thanks to a new Senate-approved measure.

“Children need stability to thrive.  Adults shouldn’t be able to move kids from state to state without proper notification and due process,” said State Senator Mattie Hunter, a career advocate for youth rights.

Hunter’s new measure expands on last year’s law. Children cannot be removed from Illinois unless guardians provide the address of the youth’s proposed home, the date and reason for removal to the child’s parent within three days.

The plan gained support from the Families & Children’s AIDS Network, Cabrini Green Legal Aid, the Family Defense Center and several advocates.

Senate Bill 786 passed the Senate with strong support. It now goes to the House for further consideration.