Dupage Policy Journal

Heather Brown, a candidate for the Illinois State Senate District 25, has ignited a debate regarding the state’s laws pertaining to the age at which children can be left home alone. Brown expressed her concerns about the legal age being set at 14 in Illinois, pointing out apparent contradictions in regulations that govern young people’s autonomy.

“Not allowed to stay home at 14, but at 13 they can go online to PP and order items, they can change their gender at school without informing their parents,” Brown said on Facebook. “CPS can be called on the parents for not allowing children to do as they please with their bodies ’at school.’”

“But at home, not allowed to be home alone at 14?”

Brown is advocating for a rational discussion on diminishing responsibilities given to teenagers and emphasizes the importance of parental freedom in deciding when their children are mature enough. She questions the inconsistency in age-related regulations, pointing out that while the legal age for smoking and getting tattoos is 21, individuals can go to war and vote at 18. Brown challenges the notion that brains are not fully developed until 21, citing her own experiences of responsibility at age 14, closing a store by herself. According to Brown, there is increasing government control over teenagers and she argues that parents should have the autonomy to determine when their children are mature enough.

Illinois Policy also shared its views on this law via social media. "Is there a more ridiculous law on the books in Illinois?" it questioned on Facebook.

Illinois is distinguished by having the highest legal age for leaving a child home alone in the U.S., applying to those under 14. This strict regulation is embedded in law rather than guidelines as highlighted by Illinois Policy. The state law considers leaving a minor under 14 unsupervised for an unreasonable period as neglect or abuse. Illinois Policy raises concerns about the state's authority to remove a child from a parent without a warrant, based solely on probable cause, particularly affecting low-income families labeled as "unfit."

Brown is an Independent Alderman of West Chicago, known for her seven-year tenure and ability to bridge political divides. Her consistent "No" votes on levies showcase her commitment to fiscal conservatism. According to her website, she opposes water rate increases, reflecting a dedication to responsible financial decisions that prioritize the community’s well-being.

The State Senate District 25 is currently represented by State Sen. Karina Villa (D-West Chicago). The district includes all or parts of Aurora, North Aurora, Batavia, West Chicago, South Elgin, Wayne and Bartavia. Villa is the first Latina to represent District 25 according to her website.