Legislature Creates Department of Early Childhood, Improves Early Childhood Education and Care

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A measure to create a new Department of Early Childhood to streamline and optimize early childhood care and education was passed by the House and signed into law last week.

“With this legislation, we will be able to provide quality education to our youngest minds and help ease the burden on hardworking families,” said Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch. “As a state, we must make it easier for families to access these important services and provide resources that meet the diverse needs of children across Illinois. Thanks to the advocacy of many, we will be able to do that with the creation of this state agency.” 

“Consolidating vital responsibilities under the banner of the Department of Early Childhood is a milestone for the future of Illinois’ kids,” said Rep. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, the House sponsor of the proposal. “For families facing low-income challenges, for single-parent families, for families with kids who need extra support; I’m confident this law will prove transformative.”

The Department of Early Childhood will take on various responsibilities currently handled by the Department of Human Services, the Department of Child and Family Services, and the Illinois State Board of Education. Those include day care licensing, early intervention, home visits, Smart Start child care and Early Childhood Construction grants. SB 1 has the backing of Metropolitan Family Services, Illinois Action for Children, the Latino Policy Forum and the Governor’s office.

It passed both houses with strong bipartisan support and was signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker.

“The impact progress like this can have will be felt both in immediate short-term relief for working parents and in sustainable long-term reshaping of childcare burdens for Illinoisans who are just starting families,” Canty said. “Building a stronger future for our community starts with our children, and this is the first step.”