House Adoption & Child Welfare Committee Democrats Respond to DCFS Director Resignation Announcement

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – House Democrats on the House Adoption & Child Welfare Committee, led by state Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, issued the following statement Thursday after Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) Director Marc Smith announced his intention to step down at the end of the year.

“Our state government has no higher duty than to protect the children of Illinois. Throughout his tenure as Director of DCFS, Marc Smith has consistently expressed his compassion for the children and families that he serves. Although the Department continues to face serious challenges, we want to thank Director Smith for his years of service and his sincere dedication to Illinois families.

“Going forward, our Committee will continue to demand accountability from DCFS leadership. Working together, we must find new and effective strategies to improve this agency and ensure that all of the children in our care receive the advocacy and protection they deserve.”

Members of the House Adoption & Child Welfare Committee include state Rep. Kimberly du Buclet, D-Chicago, state Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, state Rep. Margaret Croke, D-Chicago, state Rep. Norma Hernandez, D-Melrose Park, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, state Rep. Suzanne Ness, D-Crystal Lake, and state Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago.