IN HB1157

Establishes the select joint commission on child welfare services oversight as a new chapter in Indiana Code 2-5, effective July 1, 2010.

Commission consists of 12 voting members: 6 appointed by the Senate president pro tempore and 6 by the House speaker, with no more than 3 members from the same political party in each chamber.

Chairperson alternates between Senate-appointed member (odd-numbered years) and House-appointed member (even-numbered years) on January 1 through December 31 terms.

Commission responsibilities include evaluating trends in child welfare services, assessing placement and service options statewide, maximizing federal reimbursements, receiving ombudsman reports, and making legislative recommendations.

Commission operates under legislative study committee policies, meets at chairperson's call, requires majority vote for action, receives staff support from legislative services agency, and members receive per diem and travel allowances.