NC H12

Expand the foster care ombudsman's authority to participate in all actions under G.S. 7B-906.1 on behalf of foster parents and participate in meetings or court hearings regarding juveniles prior to disposition orders if requested by the parent or juvenile.

Grant the ombudsman access to all case files regarding juveniles in the Department's care if the juvenile is placed with a foster parent at any point.

Authorize the ombudsman to assist pre-adoptive parents or relatives of juveniles with case-related matters if requested.

Require the foster care ombudsman to receive 15 days' notice of review and permanency planning hearings and allow the ombudsman to provide information to the court at such hearings.

Remove the July 1, 2015 expiration date, making the foster care ombudsman program in Gaston County permanent, and repeal Sections 2 and 3 of S.L. 2013-111.