Friday, June 17, 2005

Gov. Blagojevich signs legislation expanding mental health services for children in state care (Illinois) Illinois Governor's Office press release - "Gov. Rod. R. Blagojevich signed legislation today that puts Illinois on the cutting edge of addressing the mental health needs of children in state care and reflects an ongoing commitment to improving services for children. 'The children who come into state custody have been through incredible trauma - from the neglect or abuse that led up to DCFS intervention, to the anxiety and stress of being separated from their families. It’s imperative that our efforts to help these kids includes a comprehensive mental health component,' said Gov. Blagojevich. 'With this law, Illinois is taking an unprecedented step to meet the needs of children in our care - a step that I hope other states will follow. Our investment in these young people’s health and development now will pay off ten-fold as they grow up and become stable, productive adults.'"