SR0066 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0066 LRB104 08289 MST 18340 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Parental alienation is recognized as a behavior by a parent or another trusted adult, such as a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or similar figure, that may unintentionally or intentionally disrupt the relationship between a child and a parent; and

WHEREAS, Such behaviors, including disparaging comments about the other parent, restricting contact, discouraging communication, or fostering unfounded fears, can create barriers to a child's emotional and psychological well-being by undermining their relationship with a caregiver; and

WHEREAS, Research by the Parental Alienation Study Group indicates that approximately 3.9 million children in the United States are affected by moderate to severe forms of parental alienation, and studies further show that over 22 million parents in the United States may experience challenges related to parental alienation; and

WHEREAS, Parental alienation is a matter of concern for the mental and emotional health of children and families, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and fostering understanding to address and mitigate such behaviors; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare April 25, 2025 as Parental Alienation Awareness Day in the State of Illinois to encourage increased understanding, prevention, and intervention efforts to support healthy family relationships; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we remain committed to equipping communities, educators, and caregivers with tools to identify and respond to behaviors that may negatively impact family relationships, while promoting the mental health and well-being of children; and be it further

RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution be made available to organizations and individuals dedicated to supporting families and advocating for children's emotional well-being.