Insurance Crisis Threatens Illinois Foster Agencies

SPRINGFIELD — Rising insurance costs and reduced liability coverage are putting Illinois foster care agencies at risk of closure, forcing staff cuts and limiting services for vulnerable children. With insurers pulling back after large lawsuit payouts and no legal cap on damages, some agencies say they may not survive. If closures occur, children would return to the already overburdened state system. Proposed state legislation offering temporary legal protections has stalled, and advocates are now calling for a national solution.