IN HB1307

Requires the Department of Child Services Ombudsman office to employ technical experts and other employees (changed from permissive "may" to mandatory "shall"), effective July 1, 2026

Mandates the ombudsman office to receive, investigate, and attempt to resolve complaints alleging DCS failed to protect children's physical or mental health, safety, or follow laws and policies (previously discretionary)

Requires local child protection teams to assist in investigations when requested by the ombudsman, with a different team assisting if the original team was involved in the initial investigation

Mandates the ombudsman to recommend corrective actions when complaints have merit or investigations reveal problems, including that agencies modify actions, alter policies, or provide further explanations

Requires the ombudsman to take various actions to secure children's legal rights, including public education programs, periodic policy reviews, and evaluation of the child protection system's effectiveness