CA AB317

Establishes the Office of the State Foster Care Ombudsperson as an autonomous entity within the State Department of Social Services to resolve complaints from foster children related to their care, placement, or services.

Expands the definition of "foster care" to include voluntary placements, juvenile court-ordered placements, and placements by governmental entities in licensed or approved residential facilities.

Requires the ombudsperson to operate independently without control or supervision by the Director of Social Services and prohibits removal from office for exercising independence and discretion in performing duties.

Grants the ombudsperson authority to establish policies and procedures for receiving complaints, conducting investigations, and accessing premises and records of state/local agencies and licensed children's residential facilities.

Provides legal protections for the ombudsperson and staff by prohibiting compelled testimony, deposition, or disclosure of records in judicial or administrative proceedings and granting immunity when exercising investigative and complaint resolution functions.