As of July 1, 2026, child care licensure is managed by the Illinois Department of Early Childhood. For providers, nothing is changing. All licensing representatives and staff remain ready to assist you. If you have questions related to licensure, please reach out to IDEC directly at Questions.IDEC@illinois.gov or your current CCR&R.

Research Review Board

The Research Review Board (RRB) reviews all proposed research involving children and families who receive services from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Research involving DCFS staff, foster parents, grantees and contractors may also require RRB review.

RRB’s review and approval indicates the research adequately protected the rights of human subjects as presented. Also, RRB’s approval does not constitute consent for participation or that participation is granted for youth in care, nor does it constitute access to DCFS data or funding.

For complete DCFS guidelines, please refer to DCFS Rules and Procedures 432: “Protection of the Human Subjects of Research.” IRB organization/university research protocols must also follow the federal policy entitled “Protection of Human Subjects (‘Common Rule’)”, published in 1991 and codified in separate regulations by 15 federal departments and agencies.

Research proposal: medical, non-medical, amendments, extensions and resubmissions

The RRB meets monthly, generally on the fourth Tuesday. To be placed on the RRB meeting agenda, the research proposal must be received no later than one week prior to the scheduled meeting date.

To submit a research proposal for review, download and complete the submission packet. Submit the packet and supporting documentation via email as this allows us to present the proposal in a timely manner. If you are unable to email the proposal, please contact the RRB coordinator at DCFS.RRB@Illinois.gov.

Research Review Board Committee Members

Research Review Board Meeting Schedule