Gov. Pritzker Taps Juvenile Justice Veteran as New Illinois DCFS Chief

Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Heidi Mueller, the current director of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, as the next director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), effective February 1. Mueller is recognized for her transformative work in juvenile justice and is expected to bring her expertise to improve the state's child welfare system. The outgoing director, Marc Smith, faced criticism for issues such as children sleeping in DCFS offices due to a lack of placement options. Mueller's appointment is part of the state's ongoing efforts to strengthen support for vulnerable children and families.