SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- A new study concludes that Illinois children are faring better now than 20 years ago but still face problems in education funding and mental health services.
The ``Illinois Kids Count'' report says improvements include a surge in preschool attendance and children covered by public health insurance. The study also reports a sharp decline of children living in foster care.
But Voices for Illinois Children says the state still lags behind the nation in education funding. The group also says mental health services should be improved.
The report draws on data from the census, the state Public Health Department and other sources.
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