HB48 Summary

• Establishes the Office of the Ombudsman for Child Welfare within the Department of Children's Affairs, headed by a licensed attorney with child welfare and juvenile justice expertise who acts independently.

• Grants the ombudsman authority to receive and investigate complaints affecting child health, safety, welfare or family reunification; access records; inspect facilities; and make recommendations for resolution.

• Prohibits discrimination or retaliation against anyone filing complaints with the ombudsman, establishing violation as a Class C misdemeanor.

• Creates a State Advisory Committee with representatives from the bar association, courts, medical and mental health professions, and child welfare system participants to advise the ombudsman.

• Requires each county to establish a protocol committee chaired by the chief circuit judge with representatives from law enforcement, human resources, district attorney, schools, and health departments to develop procedures for investigating and prosecuting child abuse cases.