SB 983 Summary

• Establishes the children's ombudsman as an autonomous entity within the legislative council rather than under the executive branch.

• Transfers appointment authority for the children's ombudsman from the governor to the legislative council, which must appoint a qualified individual.

• Maintains the ombudsman's responsibility for investigating actions of the Department of Human Services, child placing agencies, and child caring institutions regarding children's protective services and foster/adoptive care.

• Grandfathers the current children's ombudsman serving on the effective date to remain in office at the pleasure of the legislative council.