SPRINGFIELD – A measure led by State Senator Dave Koehler to make certain that parents and guardians of students enrolled in special education programs have access to their children’s mental health records has passed the Illinois Senate.

“Parents need reliable access to critical information about their child’s mental health, especially when it comes to special education services,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Passing this bill gives families the tools they need to advocate for their child’s educational and emotional well-being effectively.”

House Bill 2994 would allow parents or guardians of students receiving special education services to access their child’s mental health records regarding services the parent or guardian consented to on the child’s behalf. Additionally, a designated representative of a student who is 18 or older would also have access to these records. This measure strengthens communication and helps close the information gap between families, teachers and school administrators.

 Under current law, parental access to these records can be unclear or limited as students grow older, potentially hindering effective care coordination.

“With this legislation, we’re creating greater transparency between families, schools and care providers,” Koehler said. “It confirms that students will receive consistent and informed support from everyone involved in their education.”

House Bill 2994 passed the Senate on Thursday.