Critics say CHA work rule might violate child-welfare law

Critics of the Chicago Housing Authority say a proposed work requirement for residents of public housing might violate a state child-welfare law.

Under a plan set for a vote later this month, most adults living in public housing could face eviction if they do not begin looking for work or attend school.

CHA critics say the proposal flies in the face of Illinois' Wrongs to Children Act. The law says state or local government agencies cannot force a single parent of any child under 6 to work if the job would "unreasonably interfere" with child-care responsibilities.

A spokesman for the CHA said the work requirement would not violate the law because the housing agency is prepared to provide subsidized day care for parents who need it.