Changes Penalties for Parenting Time Interference
Illinois · HB5821 · Introduced Oct 14, 2026
Why it matters
Parents who keep a child from court-ordered visits could face felony charges, not just small fines, in the cases listed. Repeat offenders and those who take a child out of state would face the most serious charges.
What it does
- Keeps a $500 fine for a first or second violation of visitation interference
- Makes it a Class 4 felony with 2 or more prior convictions
- Makes it a Class 4 felony if a child is taken out of Illinois against a court order
- Gives a defense if the person reasonably believed the child faced imminent physical harm
Introduced
Next: committee review
- Introduceddone
- Committeecurrent step
- Housenot yet
- Senatenot yet
- Governornot yet
About this bill
Would make repeated or out-of-state visitation interference a Class 4 felony, instead of only a petty offense with a $500 fine. Penalties apply to parents who hide a child in violation of a court order.
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Family law advocates would likely say tougher penalties discourage parents from blocking court-ordered visits. Taking a child out of state could be treated more seriously.
💬 The case against
Some defense attorneys would likely say felony charges are too harsh for family disputes. They may also argue the bill adds little to existing criminal penalties.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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