SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Dave Koehler’s new law allows parents and guardians to have clear access to the mental health records of students receiving special education services.

“Families deserve straightforward access to essential information that impacts their child’s educational success and mental well-being,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This law ensures parents and caregivers have the tools to understand their child’s mental health needs better, and advocate effectively for their education.”

House Bill 2994 permits 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 will have access to these records. This law strengthens communication and helps close the information gap between families, teachers and school administrators.

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

“This law removes barriers that sometimes leave parents feeling disconnected from their child’s care,” Koehler said. “With better access to these records, parents, educators, and healthcare providers can work more closely to create the supportive educational environments our students deserve.”

House Bill 2994 was signed Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.